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The total capital improved value of residential property across Victoria rose 11% between the 2010 and 2012 valuations, according to the latest data from the Victorian Valuer-General.
There was a 12% increase in rural property, a 9% increase in commercial property and a 7%, the Valuer-General Victoria boss Robert Marsh said.
The City of Melbourne, including Docklands, recorded the highest rise in values among Victoria’s 79 municipalitie,s with CBD investors now possibly facing higher land tax bills.
In 2012, the total capital improved value of the Melbourne municipality properties was $74.6 billion - compared with $65.5 billion in 2010 and $53.9 billion in 2008.
Boroondara recorded the second highest value of private property, with $71.8 billion, followed by Stonnington with $57.8 billion, Mornington Peninsula with $57.8 billion and Monash with $45.9 billion.
The lowest total valuations were recorded in Hindmarsh, with $1.04 billion.
The value of private property in Victoria now sits at $1.39 trillion, according to the latest data from Valuer-General Victoria.
The figure compares with $1.3 trillion in 2010, reflecting a 6.3% overall jump.
The total percentage rise is not necessarily reflective of the actual increase of existing property, as it has been also influenced by the fiscal outlay on new property developments and subdivided housing estates.
In Victoria’s biennial revaluation all private property was revalued by councils as of January 1, 2012, covering a total of 2.7 million residential, industrial, commercial and rural properties.
The data shows the rate of growth has slowed from the 2010 revaluation, when there was a 14.7% increase in value, and an 18.4% increase in 2008.
2012 – $1.392 trillion up 6.3%
2010 – $1.304 trillion up 14.7%
2008 – $1.112 trillion up 18.4%
2006 – $907 billion
The biggest increase in value was recorded in Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander, where the total value of private property increased by 13.8% for both municipalities up from $8.5 billion in 2010 to $9.8 billion in 2012 for Macedon Ranges and from $3 billion in 2010 to $3.5 billion in 2012 for Mount Alexander.
Melton was next biggest rise with a 13.5% increase from $15.9 billion to $18.4 billion along with Yarra Ranges also with a 13.5% increase from $25.4 billion to $29.3 billion.
"These increases in value were mainly due to a larger number of assessments in these municipalities as a result of new housing developments," the Valuer-General noted.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Melbourne investors face likely higher land tax bills as CBD values double statewide 6.3% overall rise

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The fallen coal tycoon Ric Stowe has failed in his bid to keep Devereaux Farm, the 2,470-hectare farm on the outskirts of Perth.
Ric Stowe had hoped to keep the property despite his indebtedness following the Griffin Group collapse in 2010 with debts in excess of $1 billion.
In July <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/ric-stowe-still-seeking-to-retain-devereux-farm/2012073155791">he expressed continued hope that he would do a deal with the receivers</a>.
A May 2011 auction for the Bullsbrook property was abandoned on the morning of  the auction, after the PPB Advisory receivers concluded they were likely to recoup more money from a sale to Mr Stowe than an auction in a flat property market.
Jones Lang LaSalle and Garland International have now been appointed to sell Devereaux Farm with a November 30 tender deadline.
Industry sources told the Australian Financial Review that the current valuation of the property is close to one-third of its former $70 million price tag, although the property has been well maintained.
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Ric Stowe's Devereaux Farm listed again

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There's a bit of the working-class man still left in Jimmy Barnes. But he has offloaded one of his industrial warehouse premises, and the other is under offer.
Barnes, who formed his band Cold Chisel on the industrial outskirts of Adelaide, until recently owned three warehouses in the Botany industrial precinct.
His first acquisition was in 2004, when he spent $1.6 million on a 490-square-metre holding that conveniently had a recording studio and residential premises.
He then expanded his holding by 1,470 square metres – envisaged eventually to be for his extended entourage – with two nearby purchases opposite parkland.
The latest sale recouped $1.175 million for the 773 -square-metre Daniel Street warehouse, which cost $1,155,000 in 2009.
It was under contract initially in April but has now exchanged and settled through Steve Pappas, at Firmstone Properties.
The adjoining Daniel Street warehouse (pictured below), which also cost $1.155 million in 2009, is under offer, with its advertising having ceasing, according to RP Data.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/barneswarehouse.jpg">
Both the warehouses had the potential for residential conversion, but are understood to be set to continue as warehousing.

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Jimmy Barnes finds buyer for one of his Botany investment warehouses

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With a disclosed $750,000 reserve price and 14 contract requests, the weekend auction of a striking modern home at Gisborne seems set to ignite.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/115-outlook-lane-gisborne/Property-Details-buy-residential-4406745">115 Outlook Lane</a> house, with views of Mount Macdeon, is scheduled for October 6 through Julian Davies at Keatings Real Estate.
Set above Jacksons Creek, the 1.7-hectare holding was bought in late 2007 for $340,000 by Kate and Ollie Luciano.
There are views from every room, with floor-to-ceiling glass along the entire length of the semicircular design.
The Lucianos took a sketch made on butcher's paper to the architect Design Edge, who came up with a structure designed as a series of 12 wedge-shaped segments, each supported by a framework of high-strength steel columns and beams and spanned by extra-thick laminated glass panels.
Each glass panel is a sliding door.
Its floor is polished concrete with underfloor heating.
"We wanted a home that looked as if it had landed like a pod on the earth, but which, because it is so transparent, also has a sense of being at one with the land," Kate Luciano told The Age.
They have fenced the property and planted Manchurian pears around the perimeter.
"Signature design on a sensational canvas," is how listing agent Julian Davies describes the property.
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Gisborne's transparent contemporary semicircular pod home listing

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 A Lavender Bay, Milsons Point apartment was the week's top seller, according to RP Data. The 11th-floor, three-bedroom, two-bathroom unit is set in the Mirvac-built Latitude complex with views across Sydney Harbour. Nigel Mukhi at McGrath was the selling agent. The 189-square-metre apartment last sold at $2.98 million in 2006.
The second place getter in <a href="/news">Seaforth</a> represented a 40% discount to its last sale price.  
1. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/1102-55-lavender-street-milsons-point-nsw-2061/myrp-490?propertyId=4300169">1102/55 Lavender Street, Milsons Point, NSW, 2061</a>, three-bedroom unit, sold on September 26 by McGrath Estate Agents for $3.3 million
2. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/13-old-sydney-road-seaforth-nsw-2092/myrp-490?propertyId=6142816">13 Old Sydney Road, Seaforth, NSW, 2092</a>, five-bedroom house, sold after auction on September 26 by Raine &amp; Horne Neutral Bay for $3.05 million
3. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/22-bellevue-parade-north-curl-curl-nsw-2099/myrp-490?propertyId=4962191">22 Bellevue Parade, North Curl Curl, NSW, 2099</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 29 by Smyth Estate Agents Freshwater for $2.59 million
4. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/46-lyons-street-cottesloe-wa-6011/myrp-490?propertyId=11946260">46 Lyons Street, Cottesloe, WA, 6011</a>, five-bedroom house, sold after auction on September 26 by Acton Cottesloe for $2.5 million
5. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/11-edgecliffe-avenue-south-coogee-nsw-2034/myrp-490?propertyId=6254864">11 Edgecliffe Avenue, South Coogee, NSW, 2034</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 29 by Century 21 Coastline Properties for $2.45 million
6. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/3-agnes-street-strathfield-nsw-2135/myrp-490?propertyId=6476096">3 Agnes Street, Strathfield, NSW, 2135</a>, six-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 29 by Georges Ellis &amp; Company Strathfield for $2.255 million
7. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/46-hunter-street-lewisham-nsw-2049/myrp-490?propertyId=3729386">46 Hunter Street, Lewisham, NSW, 2049</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 29 by Pilcher Residential for $2.225 million
8. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/45-lauderdale-avenue-fairlight-nsw-2094/myrp-490?propertyId=2306839">45 Lauderdale Avenue, Fairlight, NSW, 2094</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 26 by McGrath Estate Agents for $2.1 million
9. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/29-kingston-street-haberfield-nsw-2045/myrp-490?propertyId=2777976">29 Kingston Street, Haberfield, NSW, 2045</a>, three-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on September 29 by McGrath Estate Agents for $1.83 million
10. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/72-abuklea-road-eastwood-nsw-2122/myrp-490?propertyId=2205145">72 Abuklea Road, Eastwood, NSW, 2122</a>, five-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on September 29 by McGrath Estate Agents for $1.7 million 
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Lavender Bay tops RP Data top 10 sales of the week

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The Princeton, Double Bay penthouse of the late interior design doyen Leslie Walford has been listed for sale with $4.5 million-plus hopes through Christies International agent Ken Jacobs.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2012/09/oct3penthouse]}
It's been listed by Walford's partner, Colin Davies.
<a href="https://www.kenjacobs.com.au/570519/" target="_blank">The penthouse </a> with 279-square-metre garden terracing sits atop the 1939 Art Deco building with northerly views across the harbour to Manly.
The interiors showcase the tastes of Walford, who retired just five years ago after an international career spanning five decades. It was built with polished timber floorboards, high vaulted ceilings, ornate cornices, curved bay windows and french doors.
More Princeton penthouse photos on page 2
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
With illness triggering postponement of his regular trip to<a href="/news"> his Galle, Sri Lanka retreat</a>, Walford <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/interior-designer-leslie-walford-who-heralded-the-push-away-from-drab-interiors-to-be-buried-next-week/2012021753429">died in February, aged 85</a>.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2012/09/oct3penthouse2]}
Title Tattle seems to recall the initial Double Bay purchase cost $125,000 in 1975 from Sabrina Van der Linden.
The apartment, which comes with 500 square metres of space, was consolidated with another purchase in 1978 from the photographer Ann Riddell.
It comes with double parking.
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A peek into three decades of Leslie Walford's private Double Bay designs

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It's always wise to have a sales brochure handy!
Iwan Sunito, the Crown Group property developer chief, while in New York recently was able to present Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono with a glossy brochure for V by Crown, his Parramatta resort-style hotel, residential, retail and office complex, which is due for completion in 2014. 
Sunito attended a New York gala dinner, with the Indonesian president later describing the speech  as "very impressive."  As for New York, he tweeted "NY is Global and Epic ! A unit facing central park can be sold up to $100 Million. I mean one unit and not one building ! Lol"
<div class="context"></div>
Crown's V by Crown $300 million “vertical village” was officially launched in June.
 
<a href="https://twitter.com/Crown_Group" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/crowntweet.jpg"></a>
The V by Crown project on Macquarie Street has been selling for the past few months, with construction of the 27-storey tower – set to be Parramatta’s tallest building – beginning in April. The V project features 50 studios (from 40 square metres) priced from $350,000; 70 one-bed-plus-study apartments (from 50 square metres) from $399,000; 260 two-bedroom apartments, which include two studies, (from 80 square metres) from $500,000; and 50 three-bedroom units (from 100 square metres) from $600,000.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/stamp-duty-handout-expiry-helps-sell-out-first-stage-of-v-development-in-parramatta/2012061855159" target="_blank">The tower </a>was designed by architects Allen Jack + Cottier, with interior spaces designed by Japanese/Australian architect Koichi Takada. 
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Crown Group boss Iwan Sunito finds it's handy to have a brochure when meeting world leaders: Tweet of the day

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Declining enrolments have triggered the listing of the 1.6-hectare site of the Sydney Adventist College in Strathfield.
It's been operating since 1953 at the campus which will close at the end of the year. The property was transferred from the Tein family for £250 to the Australasian Conference Association.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/strathfield.jpg">
The Albert Road college was originally built to cater to 550 students, but enrolments have declined to 146 as families have moved to the outer suburbs.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/strathfield1.jpg">
The college's junior campus in Auburn will remain open.
The school had become economically unsustainable as there had been a steady decline in enrolments over the past 20 years.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/strathfield2.jpg">
"This situation and the uncertain economic climate have forced us to make some very difficult decisions," President of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Greater Sydney, Pastor Michael Worker, told the News Ltd local paper in July.
The site's current zoning of special uses (school) is set to attract interest from other private schools, universities, private colleges and religious groups such as Scientology and the Hare Krishna.
It is currently leased in part to Australian Catholic University. The gross rental has been $182,000 per annum. 
It's possible interest could also come from aged-care interests along with residential developers, as the draft Strathfield local environment plan, which was exhibited earlier this year, proposes low-density R2 residential.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/strathfield3.jpg">
Offers are due October 25 through Colliers International agents Jonathon Canavan and Phillip Bradac.
The substantial parcel of land has high school facilities, a large auditorium providing indoor sports courts/gym, stage and seating for some 1,000 to 1200 people.
There are administration offices, numerous specialty teaching areas, laboratories, wood works, metal work and other arts and crafts areas, a library, canteen, two tennis / basketball courts, a sports field, car parking and two freestanding homes.
Local agents suggest it should be worth at least $1000 a square metre, especially with the current improvements on the site.
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Shifting demographics trigger Sydney Adventist College, Strathfield site listing

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Artist Tim Storrier and his wife, Janet, have listed their historic rural Bathurst estate, as well as their Double Bay pad.
They hope to get $8 million from the two offerings.
Blackdown, the Storriers' Bathurst estate, cost $2.5 million in 2008 when bought from the hair care product pioneer Anton Starling, who'd sought more than $3.5 million.
The 56-hectare property is four kilometres from the Bathurst city centre, at Eglinton.
The house was built for commissariat storekeeper Thomas Hawkins, his wife, Elizabeth, and their eight children after a land grant by Governor Thomas Brisbane.
Thomas  Hawkins, a former British naval officer, had been appointed commissarial storekeeper at Bathurst in 1822.
Hawkins has spent 18 days to get across the Blue Mountains to Bathurst, where he selected the holding on the Macquarie River.
The Ian Stapleton-renovated homestead comes with tennis court, pool, dressage arena, stable complex, and a recently constructed artist's studio in its grounds.
Blackdown is listed with $4 million-plus hopes through Bill Bridges of Ballard Property Group and James Thompson of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homehound.com.au/90+eleven+mile+drive+bathurst+nsw+2795/20579368/">The Professionals Bathurst</a>.
The Storriers' Double Bay residence has been in Janet's family since 1966 when the Holt Street property was bought by her parents, Meyer and Stephanie Marshall.
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Tim Storrier lists Blackdown at Bathurst with $4 million-plus hopes

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Gorphwysfa, the 1905 St Kilda West Edwardian terrace, has been listed for the first time in three decades.
Set at the beach end of tree-lined Mary Street, the three-bedroom, four-bathroom terrace has been renovated to a lavish style.
There's coffered ceilings, marble master bathroom, internal atrium garden and lighted glass entertainment wet bar.
There's a fourth bedroom studio apartment and rooftop garden above the separate double garage.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-st+kilda+west-111634227">Karl Gillon and Ranko Cvjeticanin at Buxton Albert Park</a> are letting buyers know that currently they have buyer interest above $2 million well before the October 27 auction.
It last traded at $124,000 in 1982. 
Mary Street’s shaded pavements and richly detailed 19th and early 20th-century properties prompted its selection by The Age earlier this year as St Kilda West's best street. Loch and York streets rated second and third place.
It's suggested being quiet, cool and elegant, Mary Street captured the feel of old St Kilda when wealthy Melburnians built mansions along the bay and the suburb was a playground for the rich.
Fountain Terrace, one of the street’s most significant properties, is a boutique hotel at 28 Mary Street.
Sales have included a two-storey, four-bedroom terrace for $1.61 million in March last year; and a three-bedroom, two-storey residence, which sold for $2.22 million in February 2011.
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Gorphwysfa, the lavishly styled Edwardian St Kilda West terrace, listed

ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.

The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.

They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."

The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.

Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" />

The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.

"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."

The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.

Joel Robinson

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.

Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.

The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" />

Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.

As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."

Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" />

The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.

As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.

Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" />

The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.

Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.

Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.

Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage

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.

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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.

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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.

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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."

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&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."

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&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.

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Jonathan Chancellor

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