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Tennis player Lleyton Hewitt has relisted his long-vacant $3 million West Lakes house in Adelaide.
The home in Adelaide’s west is listed through <a href="https://www.harcourts.com.au/Property/534402/SSM081008/29-Martin-Court" target="_blank">Harcourts Aqua agent Steve von der Borch</a> who last had its marketing in 2011.
Hewitt’s parents Glynn and Cherilyn Hewitt gave permission to upload interior photos of the 29 Martin Court property as part of the marketing.
“We’re not selling a secret anymore and we can make a bit of noise about it, so we’ve put it up online and will put it up on an international website and very likely it will form part of what we’ll take to China for a property exhibition in Shanghai in December,” Mr von der Borch told the local paper.
Hewitt bought the West Lakes home on its 801 square metre block in 2003 for $3.2 million.
It has been vacant for most of the time since with Hewitt and his wife Bec having no plans to return to the luxury home.
They live in Nassau, in the Bahamas, with their three children — Ava, Cruz and Mia. They retain homes at Kenthurst and Palm Beach in Sydney. Their St Kilda Road, Melbourne apartment on the 19th floor of Yve is quietly for sale.
The hometown Adelaide property was first listed in November 2008 with a $2.95 million to $3.24 million price range.
Mr von der Borch said the original asking price had not changed.
The home with 700 square metres of living space has five bedrooms, four bathrooms, an indoor lap pool, spa, and sauna area with mural, rock wall water feature.
RP Data puts the West Lakes median house price at $620,000.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/10/02/west-lakes-oct-2-floorplan-big.gif" title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox"><img src="/images/stories/2013/10/02/west-lakes-oct-2-floorplan-small.gif"></a>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Lleyton Hewitt’s West Lakes mansion in Adelaide back on market at $3 million 

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Is it de rigueur to hang chandeliers in a garage?
<img src="/images/stories/2013/09/06/HE-SAID-WORDS.jpg" alt="HE-SAID-WORDS" width="132" height="30"><img src="/images/stories/2013/09/06/NO.jpg" alt="NO" width="55" height="30"><img src="/images/stories/2013/09/06/jc-silhouette-5.jpg" alt="jc-silhouette-5" width="165" height="248" style="float: right;">
Hanging chandeliers in a garage is a wasteful and unnecessary Marie-Antoinette style of extravagance that should be discouraged. Gathering dust in a corner is okay, but sparkling overhead is a silly notion.
Even the late Liberace, who was the king of gaudy over-the-top interior décor, didn’t hang crystal confections in the garage of his cheap Palm Springs home.
No bloke will honestly want the garage space turned, even rarely, into a ballroom. Imagine having to get the oil spill stains off the floor before the big night.
A garage with chandeliers is almost as ridiculous as chandeliers in a chook shed.
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="https://st.houzz.com/simgs/c2f10f3100357a9f_3-5369/traditional-garage-and-shed.jpg" width="210" height="320" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">Photo: Lindsay von Hagel, Houzz
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<img src="/images/stories/2013/09/06/mb-silhouette-4.jpg" alt="mb-silhouette-4" width="165" height="248" style="float: left;">
<img src="/images/stories/2013/09/06/SHE-SAID-WORDS.jpg" alt="SHE-SAID-WORDS" width="149" height="30"><img src="/images/stories/2013/09/06/YES.jpg" alt="YES" width="55" height="30">
Why not? It’s frivolous and fun. As interior designer Garth Barnett says “if you can you afford it, you can have it”.
But be warned hanging chandeliers in the garage will only work in some homes. But certainly for instance, the Gold Coast hinterland mansion which sold recently for $7.2 million,<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/bellagio-la-villa-the-grand-gold-coast-mansion-sells-at-72-million/2013092465239" target="_blank"> Bellagio La Villa</a>. This vast 10-bedroom residence has a five-car garage festooned with gilt and glass chandeliers (pictured below). Given the sumptuous décor throughout the rest of the house, these garage light fittings seem appropriate.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/09/27/tallebudgera-sept-27-one.jpg" alt="tallebudgera-sept-27-one" width="470" height="240">
A champion of chandeliers is the renowned international designer, Iain Halliday, who often allows the uniqueness of Venetian or Baccarat crystal to make a lighting statement within a contemporary inner city interior.
While his use of glamorous chandeliers usually is confined to living and dining spaces, garages could be next if he turns his attentions to projects in the NSW Southern Highlands. Perhaps even horse stables!
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Chandeliers hanging in the garage? He Said/She Said

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Charltons, the charming restored 120 year cottage on a protected hillside overlooking 58 acres in the Byron Bay hinterland, has been listed by the Designer Boys, Gav and Waz.
The home (pictured below) combines an original 120 year old Northern River’s farmhouse trucked to the property which underwent extensive renovations and a contemporary extension completed in late 2010.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/09/27/byron2]} <a href="https://www.uniqueestates.com.au/Homes/Detail.aspx?id=ue329&amp;wlid=b598392c-ab97-4d95-a322-0339bda6c8bf" target="_blank">It has been listed through Nicolette van Wijngaarden at Unique Estates Australia</a> who is seeking offers of $3.1 million plus.
It was 2007 when Warren Sonin and and Gavin Atkins, stars of the first series of Channel 9 reality TV show The Block, spent $610,000 for their 24 hectare holding after the duo secured $1.775 million for their two-bedroom Bondi penthouse.
They created a four bedroom house with hinterland vistas set 152 metres above sea level, about 22 minutes drive from the Byron township.
The master bedroom features Ralph Lauren fabrics, a four poster bed, a fire place, double sided Hettich fitted robing and a spacious ensuite complete with Italian alligator skin look tiles, double rainwater head showers and matching vanities. Another bathroom comes with a deep soaker bath, double shower and vanity finished with Italian stingray skin look tiles. The main living, dining and kitchen space feature a Jetmaster fireplace, a built-in retractable plasma TV, hand made ‘Little People’ pendant light; a Smeg kitchen complete with coffee machine, plate warmer, microwave, steamer, oven, wine fridge, dishwasher, wok hob and a five burner gas cooktop.
There's also a butler’s pantry with a second much larger wine fridge. There is spacious outdoor seating and a dining deck which overlooks the pool with plantings by Secret Gardens of Sydney.
The property comes with a vegetable garden, fruit orchard, two spring fed creeks which meet at the bottom of the land and a registered bore.
There is also a two bedroom, two bathroom guest studio away from the main house. The main house has a 290 square metres internal space and the guest residence has 155 square metres.
In 2007 there were 20 sales at Federal with prices ranging from $415,000 to $1.7 million. So far this year there have been just the six sales from $450,000 for a 2000 square metre property to $1 million for a four bedrom house on 8200 square metres.
There have been 14 sales above $1 million since 2007 with four of them being above $2 million. The priciest was the $4 million purchase  in 2011 by the Lane family of  Amelika, the hinterland property designed by architect Sharon Fraser in the white-box architectural style on a 10-hectare holding.
 
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" alt="flagtitletat" width="25" height="34" style="font-size: 14px; margin: 5px; float: left;">
Down in Melbourne Josh and Jenna - contestants of the 2011 Richmond series of the Block - have <a href="https://www.jasstephens.com.au/?pagecall=property&amp;propertyID=2474114" target="_blank">listed their Maidstone cottage</a>.
Marketed as a sophisticated and stylish period beauty, the three bedroom cottage (pictured below) is tipped to fetch $470,000 plus. That's around the suburb's $487,000 current median house price, according to RP Data.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/09/23/maid]}
Its listed for October 19 auction through Branko Lemaic at Jas H Stephens who says the Mitchell Street place as been re-stumped, re-wired, re-plumbed and re-roofed. It too comes with wide hallway, soaring ceilings, designer decking, plantation shutters and American Oak flooring. 
Oh not quite the same as the designer boys had hoop pine floors.
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Designer Boys, Gav and Waz list Charltons, their Byron Bay hinterland retreat at $3.1 million plus

Margaret White, the retiring principal of Kambala Girls&rsquo; School in Rose Bay, and her husband James have sold their Vaucluse bungalow.

It fetched&nbsp;$2.7 million post-auction&nbsp;through <a href="https://bradfieldcleary.com.au/3834252/22-Ray-Avenue-Vaucluse" target="_blank">BradfieldCleary agents Bob Guth and Michael Rowles</a>.

Margaret White has been principal of the&nbsp;private school for the past 14 years.

The&nbsp;couple bought the 563 square metre Ray Avenue property for $2.13 million in 2006.

The large three bedroom 1920s Californian Bungalow underwent renovations&nbsp;five years ago. It has approved Bruce Stafford plans for a second storey addition to capture harbour views.

The sale accorded with the suburb&#39;s current $2.78 million median house price which is <a href="/news">up 3% in the past year, but down 13% over the past five years,</a> according to RP Data.

&nbsp;

Kambala's retiring principal sells Vaucluse bungalow 

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The Reserve Bank of Australia has advised property investors to be “realistic” about price rises in their forecast new era of slower price growth.
The long-run future growth in dwelling prices might be more in line with income growth rather that hot to trot.
The RBA noted increases in investor activity had been evident in the recent pick-up in Sydney housing price growth which had been accompanied by reports of sale prices exceeding price guidance and valuations by wide margins.
It added the increase in housing market activity was not surprising given reductions in interest rates.
"However, it is important that those purchasing property maintain realistic expectations of future dwelling price growth; in contrast to the decades leading up to the crisis – when dwelling prices grew rapidly in response to disinflation and financial deregulation – long-run future growth in dwelling prices might be expected to be more in line with income growth."
Another words temper the current rush of buyers into the property market which is creating pockets of price silliness.
It noted the increase in investor activity in New South Wales appeared to have been particularly sharp with investor housing loan approvals accounting for around 40% of the value of loan approvals in NSW, a share last recorded in 2004.
The percentage dominance had coincided with the decline in first home buyer activity which has dropped from well below normal levels given the redirection of government subsidies away from established to new homes.
Just whether the RBA's worldly warnings are duly noted and ignored by the investor market will be worth watching, especially as landlords are facing a reduction in rental returns given the shifting sands of supply and demand.
It could be argued the market is already doing the RBA's work with Residex reporting Sydney unit rents are down 3.85% in the year to August from $520 a week to $500.
Melbourne unit rentals were down 6% to $385 a week. And Canberra's unit rentals fell 12% over the year to $425 a week. Brisbane's rents down 6% to $375 a week. Perth's weekly rent of $430 a week was off by 8% according to Residex.
Nationally unit rents fell over the past year by 5.8% to $400 a week, while house rents were steady at $405 a week.  
Ofcourse much goes to the intent of the investors. Australia already has 1.7 million investors, most of whom have just the one investment property, and with some two thirds negative gearers. 
Jonathan Mott, the UBS banking analyst, issued an interesting advisory note yesterday titled, Investment Property – Speculators, spivs and tax dodgers?
He went on to say an overly high proportion of investment properties are purchased for expected capital gains (speculation) and tax minimisation (tax dodgers), rather than for rental income as seen in other countries.
Mott suggests the extraordinary leverage of Australian property investors is either the result of a national aversion to paying tax or a greater culture of speculation than other Anglosphere nations.
He says the significant growth in negatively geared investment property over the last 20 years should be of concern.
"While unemployment is low, investment property owners can afford to carry the negative cash flow, especially as they are rewarded with the ability to split the costs with the Government and they anticipate future capital returns."
Mott then posed the question: "But what happens if the unemployment rate rises further?"
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RBA warns investors not to rush in as Sydney unit rents start falling anyway

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Fashionista Lisa Ho's four bedroom Randwick residence, Silverton - passed in at recent auction at $2,675,000 - has since been sold for about $2.9 million.
It had $3 million plus hopes prior to its auction through McGrath agent Adrian Bo.
The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-randwick-nsw-2031/190360" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">626 square metre Dutruc Street property </a>was initially listed in 2011 with $4.5 million plus expectations.
Lisa Ho bought the freestanding, circa-1884 Italianate residence in 2010 for $4 million directly from interior designer Ros Palmer who had bought the property in 1985 for $266,000.
RP Data puts the median <a href="/news">Randwick</a> house price at $1.43 million, which is down 3.4% over the past year, but up 9.9% over the past five years.
The Dutruc Street sale price is very close to that at 45 Govett Street which sold last week.
It was an 1890s house on a smaller 416 square metre property sold through Alexander Phillips at GoodyerDonnelly for $2,915,000.  It was advertised at $2.5 million plus for the prior three weeks.
The Govett Street property last sold in 1992 at $660,000 and before that at $162,500 in 1979. 
For what Randwick lacks in the sand and surf of its neighbouring rival suburbs, it certainly makes up for it with the bigger family size homes on family size blocks.
Its most recent highest house price was $3.57 million when swim school operators Daniella and Anthony Goodridge bought a three level five bedroom contemporary home with a few period features from its early days.
It sat on an 800 square metre block with mosaic salt water pool (pictured below).
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/2013/09/26/randiwck_0000_1.jpg.jpg" alt="randiwck_0000_1.jpg" width="470" height="311">
Silverton, Lisa Ho’s four-bedroom freestanding property in Randwick's sought-after northern precinct, was listed in mid-2011 after a strong sale on the same street. 
Earlswood, the 1890s residence on 792 square metres, had sold in September 2010 at $4.3 million. The imposing Victorian boom-era house was built for the commissioner for stamp duty, Richard Johnson.
Its grandeur included original ceilings by decorator Augusto Lorenzini along with decorative stained glass windows. Lorenzini, born in Rome in 1852, arrived in Australia in 1883 after working in London and Paris as a decorative artist. His works included the reliefs on the Pitt Street facade of the GPO.
Earlswood's restoration was undertaken by the Leal family after they paid $780,000 in 1991. They sold it in 1991 for $1.6 million.
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Lisa Ho secures $2.9 million Randwick sale

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Businessman Russell Small has sold his record-seeking Brighton residence offering, Kinane, but not for its desired record price.
The sale, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.jpdixon.com.au/sale/house/2-kinane-street-brighton">recorded last Friday</a>, came two years after its listing. It has been suggested by Fairfax Media the sale was $10 million plus through J P Dixon. 
The prestige sale followed the decision to slice off an 825-square-metre building block from the Kinane estate. The 825-square-metre Esplanade parcel was then listed with $4 million hopes and sold earlier this year at $2.8 million to Ivanka Babic of the Melbourne suburb of Brooklyn. 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/kinaneblock2.jpg">
The Kinane estate was listed in August 2011 with $20 million hopes.
It sold on 2,400 square metres, set on the corner of The Esplanade and Kinane Street.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/kinane.jpg">
Fronted by Canary Island palms, the landmark Max Beck-built residence had been extensively renovated since it last sold for a record $11.2 million in 2006.
It was listed by businessman Russell Small, who retired in 2010 from the board of the telecom and utilities industry services provider Service Stream, and his partner, Belinda Ding.
After its 1988 completion by the then Becton chief, the locals dubbed it the Brighton Town Hall because of its imposing size and prominent position on almost an entire block of the Esplanade.
The six-bedroom four level house, with views over Port Phillip Bay, comes with an internal lift and garaging for nine cars.
It comes with bespoke interiors conceived by designer Kalef Alaton.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by a majestic foyer decked in Italian Riviera limestone and white marble flooring. There’s Abadela timber panelling from Africa in adjacent rooms.
There are four living domains, formal and informal dining rooms and a 1,200-bottle cellar.
The Brighton record remains on Glyndon Avenue at $15.6 million for a 2009 beachfront reserve mansion sale which was also briefly listed for sale in 2011 with $20 million hopes.
Estate agent Jonathan Dixon of JP Dixon confirmed in June 2013 that retired cricketer Shane Warne's Brighton home, Kilkerran was officially on the market with an <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.jpdixon.com.au/view.php?OID=5632107">asking price believed to be around $15 million</a>.
The agency was also involved in the March 2013 sale of another brighton listing to the retired Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting and his wife, Rianna of the Shandford Estate, a 1920s Edwardian seven-bedroom house on 1890 square metres with tennis court and a private laneway to the nearby beach.
It was bought on March 6 having last sold at $2.7 million in 1999. It was sold reportedly for around $10 million by private treaty having $12 million expectations by the vendor, Jeffrey Hunter, whose company Hunter Products supplies toys, sporting and leisure equipment to Australian retailers.
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Brighton's mega-mansion and pseudo town hall, Kinane finally sells

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The grandest of hinterland listings on the Gold Coast, the Tallebudgera estate, Bellagio La Villa, has been sold for $7.2 million, juts a little more than its land acquisition price.
Its the matrimonial home of the horse racing enthusiast and property developer Paul Sweeney and his wife, Viki Farrar.
It was listed for January auction as a court-ordered separation sale, when there was a $5 million bid for the house on 17 hectares.
Set some seven minutes' drive from Burleigh Heads in the hinterland, the main 13 hectare land holding cost $5 million in 2006. All up the couple consolidated another 21 hectares which is being sold off by estate agents in three lots at a total $4.3 million asking price.
They reputedly spent $8 million constructing their dream residence - a 2,546-square-metres mansion of amazing proportions.
The Sweeneys founded Coral Homes in 1990 after moving from Mayfield West, near Maitland in New South Wales, with the company rapidly expanding to become one of the largest residential developers in Queensland.
Bellagio La Villa, the Sweeneys' luxury home featured 10 ensuited bedrooms, plus multiple living areas, a library, media and music rooms, a gym, and indoor pool and spa.
There was also a five-car garage-cum-ballroom. It sold through<a href="https://ultraproperties.com.au/lot-1-2-3-tallebudgera-creek-road/" target="_blank"> Kevin Carlin of Ultra Properties </a>to a Gold Coast based Chinese-born businessman who has manufacturing and property development interests in China.
Separate to the house sale, the buyer is also securing the furniture believed to be adding another $1 million to the deal.
The marketing described it as the most gracious and elegant horse estates in the region. And there is some evidence to back up that claim as Southern Lord, a Group 1-winning thoroughbred, was born and raised there.
Property Observer gleans the district's previous highest sale was $3.066 million when a 21 hectare holding sold in 2009. 
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Bellagio La Villa, the grand Gold Coast hinterland mansion sells at $7.2 million

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Sydney's most affordable property reported sold over the weekend was a three bedroom, one bathroom townhouse unit at Blacktown.
The 4/86 Eggleton Street property sold for $331,000 through Harcourts Unlimited Blacktown agent Andrew Chrysanthou, according to Australian Property Monitors.
It was bought by an owner occupier, but had been leased at $380 a week, so the sale price reflected around a 6% yield. The rent didn't reflect much change on its asking rental of two years ago.
It last sold at $270,000 in 2007, so reflected 3% annual growth over the past six years.
And at that it fared better than Sydney’s overall price growth as over the last eight years Sydney property prices have increased by an average 2.7% per annum, which is identical to the average 2.7% inflation rate over the same period.
<a href="/news">RP Data says the median Blacktown unit has risen 27% over the past five years to $318,000</a>. 
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Blacktown had Sydney's cheapest weekend offering 

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So now Residex, one of the big property data analysts, puts Sydney's annual growth at 9.3%.
It's for the year to August, the most recent and also the highest annual figure yet.
But neither boom or bubble is the Residex interpretation.
There's no doubting parts of Sydney has its foot on the price pedal. Especially the professional buying class in the inner west.
And the inner west and greater Sydney are merely returning to their typical role of being the engine room of the country when it comes to price growth.
Residex's John Edwards says it seems likely that Sydney will again lead other capital city markets into a period of "moderate to strong growth."
Sydney's annual 9.3% capital growth takes the house median to $729,000.
Darwin is the next in terms of price growth, up 5% to a $572,000 median house price.
Perth slots into third place with 4% house price growth to a $506,000 median value.
Brisbane secured a 3.1% annual price growth to a $443,000 median house price.
Melbourne's $561,000 median followed subdued 1.3% price growth.
Adelaide's annual growth to August was 1.1% to its $392,000 house median. 
Canberra, with the third highest capital city house median of $531,000, had mild 0.2% annual growth.
Hobart was the laggard with its 0.1% growth taking the median to $352,000, according to Residex.
Edwards noted it was worth remembering that for the year ending June 2010, Sydney house price growth was 17%; growth for the year ending July 2002 was 23% and growth in 1989 was 38%.
"Lower interest rates and, more importantly, improved consumer sentiment has caused a rebound in house prices," says Residex's John Edwards.
The Sydney market was "not a boom market and there is no “bubble” forming," he added.
The Residex prior boom comparison accords with the recent analysis by AMP Capital's Shane Oliver who looked as the percentage gain in key economic indicators 18 months after the first rate cut for the current and last three interest rate cutting cycles that started in July 1996, February 2001 and September 2008.
Oliver's RP Data/Rismark analysis found house prices up 13% in the 1996 period; 30% in the 2001-2002 period; and 11% in the post -gfc period of 2008. Oliver notes the current cycle has so far seen a 1.9% fillip.
Today the RBA noted the increase in property activity, particularly in NSW, was expected given this latest round of reductions in interest rates.
"Over the past year or so there has been an increase in property market activity.
"This is not surprising given the reductions in interest rates.
"The pick-up in demand, which has been sharper in New South Wales and from investors more generally, has been associated with recent increases in housing prices. It is important that those purchasing property do so with realistic expectations of future dwelling price growth," it noted in its bi-annual Financial Stability Review.
The RBA went on to say Australian households continue to show more prudence in managing their finances than a decade ago.
"The higher rate of saving and slower pace of credit growth have been in place for some time now, although surveys of households suggest that their risk appetite has increased a little, as would be expected in an environment of low interest rates and recovering asset prices.
"The risk profile of new household borrowing remains reasonably sound and indicators of household financial stress are low.
"The continued high rate of excess repayments on home loans is consistent with low rates of financial stress among households with mortgages," the RBA suggested.
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Sydney's 2013 price growth mild compared to past three booms

Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

<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/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]

For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

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As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

Joel Robinson

Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.

Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.

Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.

<img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" />

The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.

The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.

At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.

Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.

Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

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&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

Kew has long been regarded as one of Melbourne's premier residential suburbs. It's a location defined by its grand period homes, leafy streets and some of the city's most prestigious schools, yet it has often sat just outside the spotlight cast on neighbouring Hawthorn and Camberwell.

Increasingly, however, buyers are recognising that Kew offers much of what draws people to those suburbs, with a quieter residential setting, exceptional amenity and long-term owner-occupier appeal.

Within a few minutes' walk, residents can access Kew Junction, one of Melbourne's most established village centres. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, boutique retailers and everyday services are all on the doorstep, with local favourites including Centonove, Adeney Milk Bar Cafe, and Frank &amp; Harri creating the type of walkable lifestyle that has become increasingly difficult to find in Melbourne's inner east. Beyond the immediate neighbourhood, Glenferrie Road's renowned shopping and dining precinct in Hawthorn and the retail, dining and entertainment offerings of Camberwell Junction are both just a short drive or tram ride away.

The suburb is equally well connected. Tram routes 48 and 109 provide direct access to the CBD, while High Street and Cotham Road connect residents to the wider inner east.&nbsp;Nearby access to the Eastern Freeway also places the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne Airport within easy reach, adding another layer of convenience for weekend travel.&nbsp;It's a rare combination of connectivity and tranquillity, where quiet residential streets sit just moments from some of Melbourne's most established shopping and lifestyle precincts.

For families, Kew remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held addresses. Carey Baptist Grammar School, Xavier College, Methodist Ladies' College, Trinity Grammar, Ruyton Girls' School and Genazzano FCJ College are all nearby, while the Yarra River parklands, walking trails and sporting clubs provide another layer of lifestyle appeal.

It's within this established pocket that developer Ricdanic is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wimba-ave-kew-9-11-wimba-avenue-kew-vic-3101">Wimba Ave</a>, a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings named after its location on the tree-lined Wimba Avenue,&nbsp;within one of Kew's most prestigious pockets where homes have been known to sell up to and above $8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=354809]

The residences prioritise the space that buyers are increasingly searching for but struggling to find in established suburbs. Living areas extend beyond five metres in width, ceiling heights range from three to five metres, and apartments open onto private gardens averaging around 125 sqm. Selected residences also feature balconies of approximately 60 sqm, while premium inclusions include Miele appliances, double-glazed windows, EV readiness, fully electric systems and a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.

Architect Chris Idle says opportunities to deliver homes of this scale within established suburbs have become increasingly uncommon.

"There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs," he says. "To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The architecture draws on Kew's established character through the use of handmade Krause bricks, while landscaping by John Patrick introduces 23 plant species, including nine native varieties, creating an environment which focuses just as much on nature as it does the building.

Construction on Wimba Ave is well underway by renowned high-end builder Sinjen, with completion expected in late 2027. Prices start from $2.22 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

The enduring appeal of Kew's tree-lined streets and village lifestyle

"For me, it's the location." That was the first thing Chris pointed to when reflecting on why he and his wife Marita decided to purchase at Candela Ivanhoe, the under-construction new apartment development by Salter Brothers in the heart of the north-eastern M​elb​ourne​ suburb. ​

"We've lived here before… everything is here," Chris said.

"Our doctor is around the corner, there's dentists, pilates, everything we need, restaurants, fast food places, two train stations, Ivanhoe and Darebin, both in walking distance. You don't need anything else."

<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/X8K0Bozug7A?si=Puwc6vx_ZO0qQZF8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Just 10 kilometres from Melbo​urn​e's CBD, Ivanhoe combines direct city connectivity with the amenity of an established village community. Residents have access to highly regarded schools, expansive parklands, public transport, and a thriving retail and hospitality precinct centred around Upper Heidelberg Road, all within a neighbourhood that has retained its leafy character despite its proximity to the city.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Candela Ivanhoe</a> sits within the heart of this established landscape, positioned just moments from Ivanhoe Village and within walking distance of many of the suburb's most sought-after amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=364553]

From Candela, residents can access cafés, grocers, wine bars, restaurants and essential services on foot, while Ivanhoe Station and Darebin Station provide direct connectivity across Mel​bour​ne. The development is also surrounded by some of the suburb's best-known lifestyle destinations, including Pinkie, Laurent, Enni, Docasa and Woodfire Pizza e Cucina, alongside Ivanhoe Plaza, Woolworths, pharmacies and specialty retailers.

Green space is another defining feature of the suburb. Darebin Parklands, Ivanhoe Park, Nellie Ibbot Park and the Yarra River trail network provide extensive opportunities for recreation, while Ivanhoe Golf Course and Ivanhoe Tennis Club continue to underpin the area's long-established lifestyle appeal.

The suburb's education offering further strengthens demand. Ivanhoe Grammar School, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Mary Immaculate Primary School and Ivanhoe Primary School have helped establish the area as one of Melbou​​rne's most sought-after schooling precincts, attracting families and downsizers alike who want to remain connected to the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357510]

While location was the priority for Marita and Chris, the project itself also needed to meet their expectations.

"Whilst location was paramount, I was also looking at design of the environment and Candela ticked every box," Marita said.

"We're just thrilled with our choice."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=336455]

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>, Candela Ivanhoe has been designed to complement its village setting, with an emphasis on generous floorplans, natural light and practical everyday living.

Residents will have access to a range of shared amenities, including a communal rooftop garden and dedicated residential lounge, complemented by a ground-floor café and lifestyle wellbeing centre, helping foster the sense of community already emerging among future owners.

That approach has resonated strongly with the market. More than 90 per cent of purchasers at Candela Ivanhoe are owner-occupiers, with buyers ranging from downsizers and second-home buyers to young families and first home buyers, creating a genuinely multi-generational community of grandparents, parents and children. It reflects a broader shift across Melbo​​urne's apartment market, where buyers are increasingly prioritising neighbourhood quality, lifestyle amenity and long-term liveability.

Currently under construction by Ironside, Candela Ivanhoe comprises 58 apartments. Candela Ivanhoe is scheduled for completion in the coming months, and residents can move in from September. One to four bedroom residences, prices from $649,000 and limited opportunities remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Jonathan Chancellor

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