<html><body>
The television renovation stress series The Block will be back in 2014 for its eighth series.
Contestant couples are now being sought.
No details are being given as to the location or timing of the series.
"Do you think you have what it takes to compete on The Block?
"Could you spend weeks living in your unrenovated homes? Could you juggle renovating new rooms each week with competing in Scott and Shelley's challenges (all while surviving your neighbours' pranks)?
"Well, you're exactly who we're after."
The Block is looking for "enthusiastic, motivated, hardworking and fun-loving teams of two."
<a target="_blank" href="https://homes.ninemsn.com.au/theblock/updates/8679020/apply-now-the-block-2014">Participants must be aged between 18 and 65, and while previous home renovation experience is an asset, it is not required from both partners</a>.
Successful couples will not be able to work during the shoot period.
It says to email to register interest to <a target="_blank" href="mailto:apply@mcgregorcasting.com">apply@mcgregorcasting.com</a>.
Sunday night's ratings saw The Block Sky High as the most watched program with 1.65 million viewers in the five city metro data collected by OzTam.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

The Block back in 2014 - as peak ratings hover around 1.65 million viewers

Jake Barton&#39;s house on the Channel 7 Packed to the Rafters series has recently been sold in Beverley Park, the Sydney suburb.

The cottage, 48 Ferry Avenue (pictured below) with enclosed verandah,&nbsp;sold post-auction last month for&nbsp;$785,000 through PRD Ramsgate Beach agent Lisa Sherry.

{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june25jakes]}

Advertised as &quot;an exceptional opportunity to purchase in one of Beverley Park&#39;s premier streets,&quot; the&nbsp;original&nbsp;brick home was&nbsp;billed as having potential to be&nbsp;redeveloped.

&quot;<a href="https://www.prdbn.com.au/displayproperty?c=26487&amp;t=r&amp;o=74" target="_blank">This is your chance to buy one of the houses used for filming in Australia&#39;s iconic TV shows Packed to the Rafters,</a>&quot; the marketing added. <a href="/news">The suburb has an $830,000 median house price</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It&#39;s listing coincided with the television series no longer needing the home locations, given there will be fresh story lines in any eventual return to the screen after the sixth series finale.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29042]

Of course last December&nbsp;- promoted by its listing agents as packed with possibilities -&nbsp;the almost nondescript Concord cottage that&#39;s been home base for&nbsp;most of the Packed to the Rafters clan&nbsp;was passed in at&nbsp;auction, at a time when&nbsp;the&nbsp;television future was subject to unconfirmed speculation.

The three-bedroom Sydney inner-west house, which had been&nbsp;leased for several years by Channel 7, (pictured below) passed in on a $1.2 million vendor bid after proceedings began at $1 million.

{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2012/12/dec10rafters]}

The keenest&nbsp;auction party wanted to bulldoze the California bungalow&nbsp;and replace it with something contemporary.

It had previously&nbsp;sold for $1 million in 2006. A check by Property Observer indicates&nbsp;it&nbsp;hasn&#39;t been sold since offered late last year.

It&#39;s now being renovated and might hit the market again on completion presumably through&nbsp;Time Realty Five Dock agents Adam Scappatura and Frank Settineri.

Packed To The Rafters premiered on Seven in August 2008 and has often been the Tuesday night highest rating show.

The series follows the lives and challenges confronting the Rafter family, headed by the parents Julie (Rebecca Gibney) and Dave (Erik Thomson).

Channel 7&nbsp;initially took a three-year rental on the Rafter family home on Riverview Street and kept it vacant. Its 2008 asking rental was $600 a week through Dean Kalos Real Estate.

The small rustic home has been freshly painted and the grass is fake &ndash; so that it always looks green.

Property Observer has noted Riverview Street, <a href="/news">Concord</a>, seemingly isn&#39;t the equivalent of Melbourne&#39;s Ramsay Street, the Neighbours location in <a href="/news">Vermont South&#39;s</a> Pin Oak Court.

<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/neighbours-fanatic-buys-second-ramsay-street-house/2013030359679" target="_blank">In March an expatriate Neighbours fanatic living in the UK paid $867,000 to secure his second &#39;Ramsay Street&#39; house</a>.

Jake's Beverley Park house sold, but the Packed to the Rafters family home in Concord didn't sell in actuality

<html><body>
A five-bedroom property boasting a 42.5-metre ocean frontage listed with $7 million-plus hopes sold after weekend auction negotiations.
The price has not been disclosed but its understood its bettered the previous $6.9 million record set when an oceanfront Major Street property was sold in 2010 by Jeremy Philips to neurosurgeon Ralph Mobbs and his wife Lisa. Located on Gordon Avenue in Coogee, the vast 2,304-square-block hosts a two-level home with views over Gordon’s Bay.
 The $7 million property features a tennis court and a separate self-contained guest accommodation.
Last sold in December 2001 for $4,258,000, Bethwyn Richards and James Dack of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-coogee-nsw-2034/166113/?searchID=29144610">McGrath Edgecliff</a> apparently secured the weekend sale.
The median house price in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Coogee</a> is $1,612,500 according to RP Data.
The $7 million sale was the home of Chum Darvall, the former head of Deutsche Bank and his wife, Belinda Darvall sold for $7 million. Its 2001 sale which also set the suburb record was by the property developer David Boyer and his wife, Marilyn.
The over-all Sydney clearance rate was 74.7%, according to Australian Property Monitors, up from 52.2% the same weekend last year.
Fairfax Media's Australian Property Monitors senior economist Andrew Wilson said the market was “holding its own”, but could improve especially in the prestige end of the market.
“We still really don’t have any signs of a significant lift in activity in the prestige market in ­Sydney,” he said, blaming sharemarket concerns.
“We still lack that prosperity?effect,” he told Fairfax Media.
Dr Wilson said Sydney prestige was not selling well in the $3?million to $5?million range.
 
<img height="57" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/trophyhomesstrapone.jpg" alt="trophyhomesstrapone">
</body></html>

A $7 million Coogee oceanfront the whisper quiet weekend trophy home sale

<html><body>
The former Aboriginal leader Geoff Clark inadvertently bid at a commercial property auction on Friday.
It was for a Warrnambool pub, the iconic Cally.
But he meant just to order a beer at the 3pm Caledonian Hotel onsite auction which was conducted by the hotel broker T. J. Board and Ray White Warrnambool.
It was the fourth Warrnambool hotel on the market over the past year or so, following the listing of the Victoria Hotel, Gallery Nightclub and Shamrock Hotel.
When <a target="_blank" href="https://www.tjboard.com.au/hotel/cally-hotel/">the Cally</a> (pictured below) was initially listed last year there were $2 million price indications for the Fairy Street offering.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june24callyhotel]}
The Victoria Hotel freehold reportedly sold for about $2.25 million, the Gallery for about the same, while the Shamrock was sold for development.
The auctioneer at Friday's auction for the Caledonian Hotel took a bid of $1.25 million from Geoff Clark after opening the auction with a vendor bid.
The auctioneer had jestingly suggested that if nobodywas going to bid, "we all may as well go inside for a beer". It was then that Mr Clark put his hand up.
Another attendee in the crowd put in a subsequent $1.3 million bid and the pub was knocked down to him.
Getting the required signature from the top bidder proved problematic so the broker Terry Board sought out Mr Clark to test his ongoing interest after the purchase fell through.
When the agents contacted Mr Clark to determine if he was still interested in the property, they discovered Mr Clark's bid had been recorded in error.
The Weekend Australian published concerns that the bankrupted Mr Clark could have been a bidder.  
The family hotel, offering good food and beer with a TAB, was listed by Damian Gleeson who has been there two decades having initially bought the Cally in conjunction with Denis and Andrew O’Brien of Geelong and Bruce Wright of Warrnambool, rship until he took sole ownership a few years later.
Before the latest auction, Terry Board said there had been a number of interested parties who expressed an interest, but their offers were below expectations.
“We think it should bring at least $1.5 million,” he told the Warranbool Standard.
“It’s a prime bit of real estate in a central position still bringing in good money as a hotel.
“The residual value is in its potential. A future owner could look to build about 30 double-storey units at the rear.”
</body></html>

The former Aboriginal leader Geoff Clark's almost costly beer - bid $1.25 million for a hotel in Warrnambool

<html><body>
Despite hesitant buyer pre-auction manoeuvring, the injured Wests Tigers champion Braith Anasta and his actor wife Jodi Gordon secured $1,855,000 when their four-bedroom, two-bathroom Clovelly home went to weekend auction.

Initially <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/braith-anasta-and-jodi-gordon-list-clovelly-home-weststigers/2013060261856">more than $1.8 million </a>was being suggested for the two-storey semi, but the agents then adjusted their marketing to $1.7 million plus.
Agents hoped the lowering of the price guide would introduce stronger competition in the lead-up to the auction.
It was bought for $1,805,000 in 2011 by Anasta, so the sale price represents a loss after expenses including $84,000 purchase stamp duty.
It had sold previously at $1.76 million in 2009.
RP Data gives Clovelly's median house price as $1.365 million, down 9.8% over the past year.
Its down 3.8% over the past five years, according to RP Data.
Its purchase by Anaasta was funded when the then Sydney Roosters captain sold a Malabar investment property for $1.32 million in early 2011.
It sold through his estate agent brother Damon Anasta at McGrath Coogee inconjunction with his colleague, Mark McPherson.
Its initial price hopes were based on a Winchester Road semi that sold recently at $1.85 million.
<a target="_blank" href="/news">The average discounting required of private treaty vendors is typically around 10% to secure a sale</a>.
</body></html>

Braith Anasta and Jodi Gordon escape Clovelly downturn with $1,855,000 sale

<html><body>
There are some 432 properties scheduled to go under the hammer across Sydney this wet weekend.
"This once again is solidly higher than last year’s total of 371 auctions over the same weekend and is another indication of rising seller confidence in the market," says Dr Andrew Wilson, the senior economist at Australian Property Monitors says.
Last weekend clearance rate sat at 76.9% with 11 properties over $2 million last weekend - which was the best result so far this year for the subdued prestige market - including that record setting $2.58 million Redfern terrace on almost 400 square metres that was $330,000 over reserve.
Dr Wilson said Sydney's median house price for auction sales was 1.1% higher, and apartments 0.6% during April and May, compared with the February and March period this year.
The inner west is the most active suburban region with 67 properties followed by the upper north shore with 57, the city and east with 53 auctions and Sydney’s south with 47 auctions.
Ashfield, with seven offerings, is the most popular suburb for auctions this weekend, followed by Bronte in the east, Eastwood and Ryde, and Bankstown each with six auctions.
The offerings include 23 Brown Street, Bronte which is a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-bronte-nsw-2024/185093">three bedroom Neeson Murcutt-designed semi </a>which comes with $1.9 million plus hopes.
Making the most of the northern light, the main living areas boasts double-height ceiling and there's a separate lounge room with gas fireplace near the decking.
There are about 50 Sydney properties marketed with fireplaces for auction today.
Property Observer recently listed a few of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/nine-of-the-most-alluring-fireplaces-as-we-face-a-cold-and-wet-winter/2013061361132" target="_blank">the more impressive or stately fireplaces among recent listings and sales</a>. 
</body></html>

Sydney weekend auctions stay above 400 listings with Ashfield the busiest

<html><body>
A South Yarra property owned by Grant Copley, managing director of footy card seller Select Australia, sold before its scheduled weekend auction for $1,546,000.
The sale of the double-fronted Victorian on Argo Street was handled by James McCormack and Dean Gilbert of Marshall White.
The house was bought from the current Sydney Swans coach John Longmire in 2001. The double-fronted Victorian had been pitched to potential buyers at $650,000-plus by Marshall White with Longmire securing $865,000.
It had sold for $410,000 in 1997. The 291 square metre property features three bedrooms, a sitting room or study with open fireplace and one bathroom.  The house also has a paved courtyard with covered BBQ terrace and secure off street parking.
The auction clearance rate of 71% came from 681 results reported to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria. Vendor bids were prominent, accounting for 102 of the 197 properties that were passed in. A further 58 results were still to be reported.
</body></html>

Grant Copley secures $1,546,000 for his South Yarra property

<html><body>
The full floor, three bedroom, plus study apartment of the Adelaide policewomen twins,  Alisa and Lysandra, has been the first of the five apartments on The Block Sky High to be marketed.
Its been listed through CBD agents, Dingle Partners.
"It features a stylish yet effortlessly functional open plan design which has been architecturally crafted to capture glorious year-round northern sunlight," the marketing of Anton Wongtrakun and Rochelle Wilson says.
They are hoping the deluxe boutique apartment woud be "ideal for executive inner city living." 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.millionplus.com.au/property/residential/level-1-142-park-street-south-melbourne/807451">There is no price guidance</a> on the millionplus.com.au ad, but <a target="_blank" href="https://www.thehomepage.com.au/news/the-twins-apartment-from-the-block-sky-high-listed/">thehomepage</a> have advised the guidance is $1.2 million plus which is well below the show's indicaton of expectations upwards of $1.5 million and for the penthouse $2 million. 
It says there are "meticulously appointed interiors of luxurious harmony enjoy a smooth transition to the sumptuous alfresco entertaining area set against a city backdrop. From the lobby, an internal lift affords exclusive access to the elegant foyer, which establishes a contemporary tone using soft downlights, neutral decor and a satin timber finish. "Hardwood floors sweep into a spacious family and dining area, both with leafy parkland views. French doors provide a seamless flow to the huge enclosed north-facing terrace, framed in glass louvres. This covered entertaining area incorporates Heatstrip panels, Hanging Egg Chairs and a wall-to-wall stainless steel kitchen with a large gas barbeque and drinks fridge. 
"The superb entertainers' kitchen is an exquisite work of art with crafted joinery and a quality collection of features including a double door integrated fridge, 2 ovens, a microwave and coffee machine all in an ergonomic layout with a breathtaking solid concrete island bench and walk in butlers pantry - the quintessential cooks kitchen with full breakfast bar."
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Agents have also been revealed for the penthouse, though without any marketing yet</a>.
<form name="aspnetForm" method="post" action="https://ninemsn.domain.com.au/ore/Public/Gallery/Photo.aspx?adid=2010529908&amp;pic=1&amp;mode=Buy&amp;st=1" id="aspnetForm" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 13px; text-align: center;"> </form>
</body></html>

Dingle Partners list 1/142 Park Street, South Melbourne - Alisa and Lysandra's Block Sky High apartment

<html><body>
Hockingstuart have secured the selling rights to the Block Sky High penthouse.
It's the one redesigned by Trixie and Johnno.
The agency have just begun collecting names <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hstheblock.com.au">via a competition</a> (pictured below) to possibly attract buyer interest. Not much more is given away by way of its likely late July auction countdown details.
<img alt="blockjune21one" height="300" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/blockjune21one.jpg">
<img alt="blockjune21two" height="216" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/blockjune21two.jpg">
The prize is an exclusive inspection with Trixie and Johnno followed by a night's accommodation for two in the exclusive Regent Suite at the luxurious Westin, Melbourne on Saturday 13th July 2013. Includes breakfast at Allegro restaurant.
On a serious note, the renovation stress show has signalled $2 million hopes for the Park Street, South Melbourne offering.
Hockingstuart agents Kendall Bares and David Wood have the listing after David Wood gave advice on the floorplan early in the series.
Dingle Partners have listed the first floor apartment, <a target="_blank" href="/news">known as 1/142 Park Street</a>, which is Alisa and Lysandra's apartment.
On the television viewing front, twice this week House Rules on Channel 7 outrated the Block, with last night's audience being 1.219 million for House Rules against 1.174 million for the Block and 827,000 for the Block Sky High Unlocked. It was House Rules biggest gap since the two series have been on air.
The seventh series of the Block <a href="/news">returned to South Melbourne</a> but with whole floor apartments rather than terraces which were featured in the early 2012 series.
</body></html>

The Block Sky High South Melbourne apartment auction marketing begins - with a competition: Title Tattle

<html><body>
The Point Piper apartment of the former swimsuit model Jodhi Meares was passed in on a $2 million vendor bid at its recent Laing+Simmons Double Bay auction.
The founder of the Tigerlily label bought the Wolseley Road apartment <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/texan-billioniare-jim-clark-and-model-kristy-hintze-kristyhinze1-list-point-piper-harbourfront-bolthole-titletattle/2013052461631">for $1.23 million in 2004 </a>after her marriage to the tycoon James Packer ended.
The two-bedroom unit in the historic Danmark block comes with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.lsdb.com.au/pol/property/search.asp?f_PropertyID=1984575&amp;f_AgentID=448&amp;xsl=448&amp;f_st=1">a $2.05 million asking price</a> through D'Leanne Lewis of Laing+Simmons Double Bay.
It comes with separate living and dining rooms, two bathrooms and a sunroom and garden terrace.
</body></html>

No bid for Jodhi Meares' Point Piper pad

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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&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

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News