Melbourne apartment values are approaching a $600,000 median after posting further one per cent gains across April, according to property data firm CoreLogic.

The gains followed a 2.1 per cent jump over March and 1.2 per cent across February, taking their rolling quarterly growth to four per cent.

Apartment values in the Victorian capital have been rising since October. They started the year with a $577,206 median. Now the median is at $599,234.

The main gains across the last six months or so across the country&nbsp;have been found in the housing&nbsp;sector, which is expected to taper off as the growth has been deemed &quot;unsustainable.&quot;

And that growth is likely to give a shot in the arm to the more affordable apartment sector.

CoreLogic&#39;s&nbsp;research director, Tim Lawless, says the pace of capital gains in the housing market could slow further over the coming months as inventory levels rise and affordability constraints dampen&nbsp;demand.

&ldquo;The slowdown in housing value appreciation is unsurprising given the rapid rate of growth seen over the past six months, especially in the context of subdued wages growth. With housing prices rising faster than incomes, it&rsquo;s likely price sensitive sectors of the market, such as first home buyers and lower income households, are finding it harder to save for a deposit and transactional costs.&rdquo;

&quot;There is already some evidence of fewer first time buyers in the market, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics reporting a -4.0% fall in the value of first home buyer home loans through February, the first drop since May last year.

<h2>Melbourne apartments and townhouses to secure at less than the growing median</h2>

Melbourne Grand

Price - Two bedroom apartments for $569,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3490 project_image_fid=93147]

One of Melbourne&#39;s most recently completed towers is the $470 million Melbourne Grand, developed by Central Equity.

They had Multiplex deliver the 58 level high-rise apartment building which won the 2020 HIA Victorian Apartment Complex of the Year award.

High-profile architects Guilford Bell + Graham Fisher designed the 646 apartment block at 560 Lonsdale Street, standing some 200 metres above street level.

One bedroom apartments are priced from $489,000, two beds from $569,000 and three bedroom apartments from $869,000.

Sky Garden, Glen Waverley 
 
Price - One bedroom apartments from $498,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2881 project_image_fid=148829]

Developed by Golden Age, Sky Garden is the latest mixed-use development in Melbourne&rsquo;s Glen Waverley.

Featuring over 4,000 sqm of internal and external facilities, the development boasts an affordable&nbsp;entry price of just $498,000.

Features include a sky garden, private cinema, gym, heated lap pool and private library.

Apartment values in the Victorian capital have been rising since October



Joel Robinson

May 2021: How did Melbourne apartment values perform over April?

Habitat Development Group have all-but secured a sell out of their $83 million Maroochydore project Market Lane, with just&nbsp;the penthouse&nbsp;yet to sell.

The two tower development, rising 12 and 14 levels, is located at the Mundoo&nbsp;Boulevard entrance to the new CBD, currently being developed on the former Horton Park Golf Course&nbsp;which the Sunshine Coast Council acquired in 2015.

In partnership with SunCentral Maroochydore and Walker Corporation, the new CBD, to be known as The Bright City, will home 160,000 sqm of commercial and retail space and 4,000 residential apartments when completed in the next 15 to 20 years.

The Market Lane apartments were pitched at owner-occupiers, with no studio or one bedroom units on offer. There are 146 two and three bedroom apartments.

The stand out resident amenity is the 600 sqm ground floor resort pool area which features a 25 metre pool modelled on the Delano Beach Club pool in South Beach Miami.

There&#39;s also a 330 sqm rooftop terrace that spans the entire room and has barbecue and dining facilities,&nbsp;as well as a dedicated area for yoga. On the top level is also a 115 sqm private dining room with views of the Maroochy River.

Market Lane also has six SOHO townhomes, short for&nbsp;Small Office Home Office. They&#39;re made up of a ground floor which is zoned for commercial and two levels above which homes three bedrooms and an open plan kitchen, living and dining space.

Habitat are soon to launch their new apartment development in the precinct, The Corso.

<img alt="" height="373" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/the_corso_residences_-_habitat_-_renders-page-010.jpeg" width="662" />

The new $94 million development, the Corso Residences, will include two towers, one 15-storey tower offering 116 apartments, including seven penthouses, and an eight-storey tower, comprising 42 apartments and 715sqm of retail space.

Designed by Sunshine Coast-based K Architecture, the project will include a large resort pool on the ground floor and a communal terrace on level four connecting the two towers.

Maroochydore's newest CBD tower Market Lane nearly sold out

The local developer FORME are set for their fifth luxury beachfront Gold Coast project.

They've submitted plans to the City of Gold Coast council for a 17 level tower of just 30 apartments, designed by the renowned architect Koichi Takada.

It's the second time FORME have engaged Takada to design, after huge success with their other nearby Burleigh Heads developments Norfolk.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=99968 project_image_fid=159160]

"Since the scaffold dropped at Norfolk, the building has quickly become an icon" FORME managing director David Calvisi says, with the architecture flooding social media. Even the popular beach photographer&nbsp;Aquabumps have prints available of the iconic facade.

"Norfolk has been a great success and it was important we carried the key elements of its success, mainly via the architecture, through the design at 96 The Esplanade", Calvisi added.

The&nbsp;new&nbsp;development&nbsp;will home 23 half-floor apartments of around 220 sqm, as well as three full-floor residences with around 440 sqm of space.

<a href="/new-apartments/isabel-by-mosaic-96-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="768" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/burleigh_2_0.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Crowning the tower will be a special&nbsp;two level penthouse. Across its 790 sqm floor plate will be a gym, library, theatre and private rooftop pool.

The layouts of all of the apartments have been designed to maximise the views and take in natural light. The open plan living areas typically have bene oriented east to face the ocean, with more private spaces located at the rear of the building.

The Melbourne-based MIM Design is handling the interiors.

<a data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" href="/new-apartments/isabel-by-mosaic-96-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads"><img alt="" height="768" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/p02.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

The Sydney-based Takada, who is rarely seen on boutique projects,&nbsp;said 96 Esplanade has been the work of the same team as Norfolk on an equally amazing waterfront site.

“Nature inspired architecture and organic curves are designed to maximise views to the ocean and light, capturing the beauty of the Gold Coast and the essence of coastal living," Takada said.

“A simple and elegant design that is all about celebrating and maximising your connection with nature.The magical experience on this site is the direct connection to the water and the sky – like air, the design features are thin and light, almost invisible.

“The balconies float above the beach, reflecting the soft ripples of the waves below. Expansive balconies celebrate an outdoor lifestyle and open style living. Composed of materials that reference nature, the design is inspired by ripples on water that dissipate over time.”

They've submitted plans to the City of Gold Coast council for a 17 level tower of just 30 apartments, designed by the renowned architect Koichi Takada.

Tower reveal: Burleigh Heads set for new Koichi Takada apartment tower by FORME

Inspired by its onsite heritage, Lendlease has launched a boutique Richmond townhouse project, Gramercy Terraces at the site of the former Nine Network studio in Bendigo Street, Richmond.&nbsp;

This Saturday 1 May from 10am, visitors and potential purchasers are invited to the Gramercy Terraces grand opening event. The day will include an onsite market with produce from the local area, as well as an opportunity to tour the new display and learn about the local history of the area from Richmond and Burnley Historical Society.

Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy a coffee from Friends of Mine Cafe and pastries from Swan Street Bakery and Patisserie. The Ugly Duckling wine bar will host a wine and cheese tasting later in the day. Richmond Candle Co will also be showcasing its locally inspired scented creations.

While being treated to a G&amp;T, visitors will have the opportunity to chat with a sales representative and learn more about the stylish appliance inclusions from luxury retailer Miele. There will also be a musical performance by the Stiletto Sisters from the Melbourne Recital Centre&rsquo;s Local Heroes Series in the Richmond Community Learning Centre at 2.30pm as well as face painting and sweet treats for the little ones.

The Richmond &amp; Burley Historical Society will be taking attendees through the history of Bendigo Street, including its time as home to the Wertheim Piano Factory. Wertheim was the brand of choice for a number of famous performers including Dame Nellie Melba. Around 18,000 pianos were manufactured at the site before the onset of the great depression in 1935. More recently the building had been home to the Nine Network studio, who vacated in 2010.

<img alt="" height="1067" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gramercy_2.jpg" width="1600" />

The three and four bedroom freehold townhomes, designed by award-winning architects Bates Smart are priced from $1.85 million.

Every aspect of Gramercy Terraces is an ode to elegance and for intuitive living. Each townhome has been designed for natural light to flood in, whether through the extensive sky-lights or the full voids which allow the light to cascade through the central staircase creating a spacious transition throughout the levels of these homes. The outdoor areas also offer a tranquil respite in the hum of the city, where you can relax in your lush private garden or gathering on your rooftop terrace to take in the views.&nbsp;

<img alt="" height="681" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/grace_4.jpg" width="1600" />

The event kicks off at 10am until 4pm. For more information on Gramercy Terraces, visit gramercyterraces.com.au or call Andrew on 0407 270 083.&nbsp;

Gramercy Terraces Grand Opening&nbsp;

Saturday 1 May. 10am - 4pm.&nbsp;

Gramercy Terraces Display

2B/32 Bendigo Street, Richmond VIC 3121

&nbsp;

The day will include an onsite market with produce from the local area, as well as an opportunity to tour the new display

Lendlease to launch Gramercy Terraces Richmond this weekend

Residents at Seafarers, a new luxury Northbank development, get access to substantial&nbsp;luxury amenities&nbsp;thanks to a collaboration with&nbsp;1 Hotel that form Melbourne&#39;s first-ever hotel-branded residences.

Located on the final piece of Melbourne&#39;s original waterfront,&nbsp;Seafarers will integrate luxury residences and&nbsp;luxury hotel amenities, management and services. Everything from valet parking and concierge, to personal shopping and pantry stocking.

There will be a dedicated team of over 140 staff, with the aim of developer Riverlee to create a home life of pure, effortless simplicity.

David Lee, development director at Riverlee, says Seafarers, being Melbourne&rsquo;s first international hotel-branded residences, is&nbsp;a&nbsp;completely&nbsp;new level of quality, lifestyle and convenience.

&quot;Imagine the comfort, control and permanence of your own home, complemented by the dedicated staff, elite amenities and immaculately maintained surrounds of a world-class, five-star hotel,&quot; Lee told Urban.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173916]

&quot;There is truly nothing like Seafarers in the market at the moment with&nbsp;the service and amenity offering the first of its kind in Melbourne.&quot;

Lee says that, beyond quality, product and amenity, people are seeking a higher level of convenience that is linked with their home.

&quot;The demand for convenience is only increasing and will continue to&nbsp;be of great importance well&nbsp;after the pandemic,&quot; Lee added.

&quot;Seafarers offers this lifestyle,&nbsp;with 140 support staff from 1 Hotel available to truly offer ease of living. The services include valet parking, concierge, personal shopping, pantry stocking, pet care and botanical care in addition to business services for those working from home.&quot;

Lee says, prior to enquiry, not many buyers really understood the hotel-branded residence concept until they had the chance to see and hear it from the team.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173927]

He says however once&nbsp;they understood it, it was seen as really&nbsp;one of the things that sets Seafarers apart.

&quot;A large portion of our buyers are executives and business owners who live notoriously busy lives. The services and amenities have been curated by Riverlee and 1 Hotel to cater to every need to give people time to spend on the things they love.

&quot;Other buyers include frequent travellers, young families and downsizers who also seek a seamless life with everything at their fingertips.

&quot;It&rsquo;s also perfect for those who like to entertain with private dining rooms available, as well as relaxation with our pool, spa and wellness facilities. We absolutely expect our purchasers to be making the most of the amenity and services available to them.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173942]

Designed by Fender Katsalidis, the Melbourne fringe project in Northbank also features a library, dining and lounge space, as well as&nbsp;the lush surrounds of its&nbsp;elevated outdoor garden, Riverview Terrace.

Architecture and interior design firm Carr Design created the apartments to maximise external views, space and natural light, with interiors including reflective surfaces, natural and concealed doors.

Boasting uniquely large floorplans, Seafarers&rsquo; residences are situated on levels nine to 18 of the building, which is an inspired reimagining of the heritage-protected Goods Shed 5.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173915]

Not only does it deliver five-star hotel amenities, but it also boasts&nbsp;convenient access&nbsp;to a number of nearby restaurants, caf&eacute;s, markets and some of the best educational facilities and universities in Melbourne.

The development is expected to reach completion in 2024.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=97028]

Below features a full list of the 1 Hotel &amp; Homes owners&#39; privileges available at Seafarers:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>24-hour concierge, mail collection and access control</li>
	<li>Valet parking and bellman services</li>
	<li>On-demand maintenance</li>
	<li>Eco-conscious housekeeping and linen services</li>
	<li>Personal shopping and delivery services</li>
	<li>Babysitting</li>
	<li>In-home pet services</li>
	<li>Botanical care</li>
	<li>Local organic grocery shopping</li>
	<li>Private catering private chef</li>
	<li>In-room dining</li>
	<li>Residential signing privileges and direct billing services at signature restaurant and hotel bars</li>
	<li>Business services, including a fully-equipped business centre</li>
	<li>A curated selection of spa treatments</li>
	<li>Indoor heated pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steamroom</li>
	<li>Personal trainer and full-service fitness centre</li>
	<li>Priority status for hotel reservations across 1 Hotels, globally&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=27728]

"There is truly nothing like Seafarers in the market at the moment with the service and amenity offering the first of its kind in Melbourne."

What extra luxuries Seafarers residents get as part of 1 Hotel partnership

R&amp;F Property Australia&#39;s Footscray development Live City is set to breathe new life in to Ballarat Road.

The are&nbsp;rejuvenating&nbsp;the historic 1900s industrial complex of the old Kinnears Ropeworks&nbsp;and converting it in to its own masterplanned community.

It will home eight apartment towers when completed in between six to eight years, as well as retail and commercial precinct.

Stage one, the first residential tower,&nbsp;has recently been completed.&nbsp;The 14 level tower&nbsp;has been designed by Elenberg Fraser and homes 208 apartments which&nbsp;start from $468,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3565 project_image_fid=68184]

R&amp;F are set to take advantage of the wider transformation&nbsp;Footscray has undergone over recent years.

The suburb, around six kilometres west&nbsp;of the Melbourne CBD,&nbsp;has&nbsp;gone from a gritty and rundown area&nbsp;to become an eclectic sought-after suburb for its cafe culture, student hub and connectivity to the Melbourne CBD.

Subtle hints to its industrial past remains, whether it&#39;s through the residential conversion of its factory buildings or commercial conversion of former warehouses.

Infrastructure surrounding the suburb has contributed to its gentrification. But some existing infrastructure plays a big part in its connectivity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3565 project_image_fid=76040]

Take the tram route 82,&nbsp;one of the last surviving historic routes from the historic Footscray tram network. That runs&nbsp;from the corner of Leeds and Irving Street&nbsp;to Moonee Ponds junction.

It runs via the $1.5 billion Western Hospital and Maribyrnong&#39;s High Point Shopping Centre. There are two tram stops literally on Live City&#39;s doorstep, as well as two&nbsp;bus stops.

Getting around town is also set to become even easier for residents of Live City, with news that train services will be running to the Melbourne CBD every two minutes during peak times from Footscray Station.

<a href="/buildings/live-city-124-188-ballarat-road-footscray"><img alt="" height="862" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/live_city_location.jpg" width="1600" /></a>

The suburb is popular among students and young professionals, with Footscray Park, the largest of VIC University&#39;s campuses a stones throw from Live City.

That features world class sports science facilities, state of the art lecture theatres and aquatic and fitness centres. The adjacent parklands also meet Flemington Racecourse.

Footscray&#39;s large indoor&nbsp;market&nbsp;is a popular haunt for those seeking the freshest fruit, veg, meat and seafood. There&#39;s also a number of retail outlets in the Irving Street block.&nbsp;

Over the last five or so years the suburb, just six kilometres north of Melbourne, has been undergoing its own transformation



Footscray Walking Tour: What's within walking distance of Live City?

Despite its prime location on the sought-after Chapel Street, residents of the completed 661 Chapel Street in South Yarra will feel they don&#39;t have to leave the development to exercise or socialise.

661 Chapel Street is the first Australian project of the Malaysian-based developer Gamuda Land, who made it a focus to offer their residents the best in onsite facilities.

Local architecture firm Bird de le Coeur designed the 30 level building of just 116 apartments.

The hotel-feel&nbsp;of 661 Chapel starts from the private porte-cochere entry, where the concierge is located.&nbsp;Behind the concierge is a meet and greet-style break out room with seating and dining facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=600 project_image_fid=140800]

Also the ground level is a grand library and music corner, as well as private dining rooms and board rooms.

There&#39;s further dining rooms on level six, where the majority of the hotel-style facilities are located.

The most impressive is the 25 metre indoor/outdoor lap pool, which is accompanied by a sun deck, sauna and a steam room.

<a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra"><img alt="" height="947" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661_chapel_st_pool.jpg" width="1600" /></a>

Level six also features a mini theatre room, lounge, gym and a wine cellar.

Entry level is from $546,000&nbsp;for a one bed apartment, $798,000 for two bedrooms and $1,841,000 for the three bedroom apartments. 
 
<a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra"><img alt="" height="972" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661_chapel_theatre.jpg" width="1600" /></a>

The hotel-feel of 661 Chapel starts from the private porte-cochere entry, where the concierge is located



Why would you leave? 661 Chapel St offers residents health and social amenities

Port Lane is the latest development from the Melbourne developer ID_Land.

The townhome project of 122&nbsp;residences&nbsp;draws on its beachside location just minutes from the Sandridge Beach&nbsp;sand.

The three bedroom, two bathroom homes, designed by Rothelowman with interiors from Hecker Guthrie, start from $1,025,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89720 project_image_fid=147504]

It&#39;s the location of Port Lane that has buyers, particularly owner-occupiers, quickly interested.

The development at 201 Williamstown Road takes prime position in the sought-after suburb of Port Melbourne, less than five minute walk to the Port Melbourne dog beach.

It&#39;s slightly further stroll to Port Melbourne Pier, or a shorter cycle on the Bay Trail along the beach.

<a href="/new-townhouses/port-lane-201-williamstown-road-port-melbourne"><img alt="" height="1129" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/port_lane_aerial_1.jpg" width="1600" /></a>

There&#39;s immediate access to public transport. The tram takes 20 minutes to reach the CBD.

Within walking distance is the popular Greg &amp; Bliss, the coffee pitstop by day and cocktail bar by night, as well as as all-day breakfast served at Station St Trading Co and&nbsp;Portofino inspired fine dining&nbsp;at Ciao Cielo.

Port Lane is also&nbsp;a short walk down Williamstown Road to the beating heart of Southbank.

Further afield, Port Lane provides convenient&nbsp;access over the Westgate Bridge to get out of Melbourne and head down to the Bellarine Peninsula.

About the developer

Listed amongst Urban&rsquo;s list of 10 developers to watch in Victoria this year, ID_Land delivers high-quality communities of varied scale and complexity, and Port Lane is no exception.

Founded in 2009, the group competes against the industry&rsquo;s leading players and boasts a diverse development pipeline in excess of $2 billion.

The townhome project of 122 residences draws on its beachside location just minutes from the Sandridge Beach sand.

Walking tour: What's within walking distance from Port Melbourne's Port Lane townhomes?

One Coburg Quarter is the newest development by the Melbourne-based property developer Future Estate.

The contemporary eight level&nbsp;building is being constructed on the&nbsp;historic site was once the Pentridge Prison, with the heritage bluestone walls used by renowned architecture firm Rothelowman as part of the facade.

The residential tower homes just 125 one and two bedroom apartments, priced from $351,000.

The&nbsp;multi-faceted masterplan has been designed with the community in mind.

A European-style central square complemented by a new high street, offering an exciting range of restaurants, cafes, bars, retailers and public spaces will form the civic and cultural focal point.

Urban has taken a look at five reasons why One Coburg Quarter should be on a buyer&#39;s shortlist.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=144842]

1. The Developer

Future Estate has been developing property since 2009 when it was founded by its managing director Ben Anderson.

Currently they have two Bundoora projects, Botanic at Parc Vue, the 407 apartment block, and Parc Vue Bundoora, neighbouring Bundoora Park.&nbsp;

Future Estate prides themselves on a more &#39;full circle&#39; approach to property and its management, rather than the typical development only approach.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=28884]

Future Estate then seeks to maintain ownership of specific, strategic assets once developed, and then manages the real estate requirements as each project reaches completion.

Such management services include owners corporation, building manager and concierge services, hotels and serviced apartments and hospitality venues.

2. The Architect

One Coburg Quarter has been designed by the renowned architecture firm Rothelowman.&nbsp;

They call 1851-built Pentridge Prison a stunning Australian treasure due to its bluestone construction which has held for for 170 years.

&quot;Echoing the rhythm and language of the historical prison structures, One Coburg Quarter is inspired by the past, yet designed for tomorrow&quot;, Rothelowman note.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=144846]

It was inspired by the unique character of Coburg and a reverence for historic mixed-use precincts in New York City and London.

&quot;Coburg Quarter will have a village feel in an urban context. It will be a natural extension of Melbourne&rsquo;s celebrated northern suburbs such as Brunswick, Northcote and Fitzroy.&quot;

3.&nbsp; The Location

Coburg has long been admired for its multicultural heritage, and culture of community and family. With Sydney Road at its heart, the suburb has gentrified considerably in recent times, however, still very much retains its heritage and relaxed atmosphere. A short stroll down Sydney Road illustrates a community and village vibe that can&rsquo;t be matched in Melbourne.

Rated a 9/10 for walkability, everything is within close reach in Coburg. From up-to-the-minute cafes, restaurants, bars and nightlife, to quality basic amenity such as supermarkets, One Coburg Quarter has it all within walking distance. But delve deeper and you&rsquo;ll find little gems such as the weekly farmer&rsquo;s market at Coburg Primary School and Mediterranean Wholesalers, a wonderful continental market.

Coburg lies within a transport &lsquo;hot spot&rsquo;, offering residents multiple ways of moving around Melbourne. Just a 30-minute tram ride from the CBD, Coburg is also serviced by trains and buses, making it a cinch to get around. If driving is your thing, Sydney road is a major arterial in the north, connecting Coburg to the CBD and neighbouring northern suburbs. What&rsquo;s more, Coburg is a mere 20-minute drive from Melbourne&rsquo;s Tullamarine Airport.

4. The Apartments

On offer are a selection of one and two-bedroom floorplans, each with state-of-the-art kitchens featuring&nbsp;mirrored splashbacks, integrated appliances and four-burner gas hobs, as well as&nbsp;Matte black tapware and minimalist sinks.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=144840]

The living areas feature pale timber flooring and are filled with plenty of natural light.

The bathrooms also exude style &ndash; with matte black fittings, integrated vanity storage and LED lighting.

5. The Amenities

Residents at One Coburg Quarter will enjoy communal indoor lounge and dining areas that open to an outdoor rooftop terrace with landscaped plans, outdoor seating and a barbecue.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783 project_image_fid=144843]

The terrace will have a panoramic view of the Melbourne skyline.

Want to know more?&nbsp;Check out the <a href="/news/vic/display-tour-one-coburg-quarter-by-future-estate-in-coburg-vic">display tour here</a>.

&nbsp;

One Coburg Quarter is the newest development by the Melbourne-based property developer Future Estate.

Why One Coburg Quarter should be on a buyer's shortlist

Australia&#39;s inflation, a key metric in the RBA&#39;s future interest rate calls, rose 0.6 per cent over the March quarter, according to data released by the ABS.

The consumer price index (CPI)&nbsp;came in materially lower than what was forecasted across markets and broadly in line with the RBA&#39;s below market expectation.

Westpac was forecasting a one per cent lift in the CPI, with AMP Capital forecasting a 0.9 per cent rise.

The RBA&nbsp;say they will not increase the cash rate until actual inflation is sustainably within the two to three per cent range.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728]

For this to occur, wages growth will have to be materially higher than it is currently, which&nbsp;will require significant gains in employment and a return to a tight labour market, the RBA noted at its April board meeting.

The latest results will unlikely change the RBA&#39;s thinking that rates won&#39;t move until 2024 at the earliest.

CPI was 1.1 per cent up annually, compared to the forecasted 1.4 per cent.

New dwelling prices declined 0.1 per cent over the quarter, namely due to the impact of the Federal Government&#39;s HomeBuilder grant and similar grants by Western Australian and Tasmania state governments.

&quot;Without the offset from these grants, the price of new dwelling would have risen, reflecting increases in materials and labour prices in response to strong demand&quot;, head of prices statistics at the&nbsp;ABS&nbsp;Michelle&nbsp;Marquardt said.

&nbsp;

The consumer price index (CPI) came in materially lower than what was forecasted across markets



RBA unlikely to advance interest rate moves after lower than expected inflation figures

One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

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fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

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FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292863]

It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]

The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
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First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

Joel Robinson

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