Viv&eacute;re on Dorcas, a project by BEKL, offers an exclusive collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments at a luxury South Melbourne address.

The 36 upscale residences soar 20-storeys above one of Melbourne&rsquo;s most sought-after locations, South Melbourne, delivering a melting pot of caf&eacute;s, cultural offerings, gardens and boutiques.

Designed in collaboration between Plus Architect&rsquo;s director-architect Jessica Liew and interior designer Ivona Golubovic, Viv&eacute;re&rsquo;s stately sculptural fa&ccedil;ade is a true calling for new residents.

&ldquo;Each moment of this development, externally and internally, expresses an architectural confidence that always keeps the occupants&rsquo; enjoyment of the building and their new home in mind&rdquo;, Liew said.

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Plus Architecture notes that the fa&ccedil;ade&rsquo;s open spaces and recesses presented a creative opportunity to introduce an art installation that masterfully sits between two existing towers.

&ldquo;And the mirror-clad capsule between the three stacked segments contains hotel rooms of Voco South Melbourne and is designed to look like it&rsquo;s suspended in mid-air,&rdquo; Liew explains.

Distinguished by elegant curves and segments, the tower celebrates the urban landscape of its South Melbourne location in its fa&ccedil;ade.

With a subtle nod to historic Melbourne, the lower podium level is clad in bluestone which extends into the commercial lobby.

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Architectural solutions carry over into the interior design story with curated spaces and apartments and a neutral aesthetic that is interspersed with uniquely detailed elements.

Golubovic combines artful design with opulence, with bespoke kitchens featuring ample storage, V-Zug appliances, and a Verde Riviera Quartzite kitchen island.

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A thoughtfully-designed retreat, statement bathrooms include hidden storage, chrome faucets and finishes, full unglazed tiling in Verde and ambient lighting.

Mosaic tiling to walls and floors paired with a frameless shower adds immediate intimacy, while the square bench basin adds contrast to the streamlined walls of the room.

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Residences feature considered floorplans with open-plan living spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows and abundant light.

Apartments also present private balconies that offer an elevated living experience, with panoramic views of the streets, neighbouring buildings, and an expansive open sky.

BEKL managing director, Katherine Liu, admits she is thrilled to partner with Plus Architecture, having established a long-standing partnership following multiple collaborations to date.

&ldquo;We are excited to work with Plus Architecture in producing another innovative property for residents and guests of Melbourne to enjoy&rdquo;, Liu said.

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The luxury development also includes a well-equipped in-house gym, premium room services and a sociable restaurant and bar.

Construction is due to commence in the fourth quarter of 2022, with completion scheduled for January 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108979]

Designed in collaboration between Plus Architect’s director-architect Jessica Liew and interior designer Ivona Golubovic, Vivére’s stately sculptural façade is a true calling for new residents

max.kwok_55688

Inside Vivére on Dorcas: Behind the sculptural façade at the new South Melbourne apartment development

As Melbourne continues to emerge stronger out of lockdown, JWLand are seeing increased enquiry activity at their green-laden Ivanhoe apartment and townhouse development, The Grounds.

Buyers are more and more attracted to green spaces within their residences, which The Grounds offers in spades.

JWLand Marketing Manager&nbsp;Nick Babic said the project has been particularly in demand with downsizers.

&quot;They&#39;ve been attracted to the low maintenance living, which enables a lock up and leave lifestyle and encourages travel now the borders are starting to reopen,&quot; Babic says.

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Babic also notes the downsizers have been keen on The Grounds for the quality fixtures and fitting put together by the team across each apartment and townhouse.

&quot;They&#39;re downsizing, not downgrading,&quot; Babic added.

JWLand has put an&nbsp;emphasis on community and the environment at The Grounds, with more than half of the grounds being green spaces.

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At the established suburb of Ivanhoe puts residents in the heart of one of Melbourne&#39;s most sought-after suburbs, just 15 minutes from the CBD and on the doorstep of the ever-popular Upper Heidelberg Road.

The Grounds comprises an exclusive collection of three apartment buildings, Wilfred, Wamba and The Boulevard.

At the centre of the precinct is the sprawling Central Park, stretching into a network of gardens and out into the nearby Ivanhoe and Chelsworth Parks.

&nbsp;

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There is also the Oak Terraces, located off Cedric Street, offering a small collection of townhomes.

Townhomes optimise aspect and outdoor space where living zones are filled with natural light and genuine connection to their leafy environment.

The open design is generously scaled to easily adapt from a relaxed living space to a luxurious entertainer.

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Comfort and warmth are achieved through a controlled neutral palette and wide timber floorboards underfoot.

The two-level homes feature independent entries, outdoor terraces to both levels and a lockable garage for two cars.

Fa&ccedil;ades of brickwork, textural concrete render and blackened metals establish a timeless identity with material elements inspired by the grand homes of Ivanhoe East.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5806]

Buyer enquiry on the 116 residences have picked up steam since Melbourne's lockdown ended

Demand rises for Ivanhoe apartments and townhouses at The Grounds

The partnership between Aria Land and Blueways Group has led to a suite of new Nedlands apartment developments with Rivean Residences proving to be the most popular so far.

Construction is underway at Rivean, which is already over 50 per cent sold. Completion of the 28 Giorgi-designed apartments is slated for 2023.

Urban sat down with Blueways Development Manager, Paul Simpson to get some insider information on the popular Perth development

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Max Kwok: Rivean Residences is a cooperative effort between Blueways and AriaLand. What strengths do each party bring that add value to the project?

Paul Simpson: Blueways brings its property development experience in Melbourne and substantial capital strength, whilst Aria Land contributes its expertise experience in Perth, where it has established a track record of the development of highly regarded and awarded high-end residential developments.

MK: What are the highlights of Rivean and what is attracting buyers to the project?

PS: Rivean&rsquo;s architects are Giorgi, with whom Aria Land has collaborated in the development of what are considered Perth&rsquo;s most exclusive residential projects, Ten Bellevue and Echelon, which were both awarded HIA Australian Apartment of the Year and WA Apartment of the Year. Giorgi&rsquo;s name is highly regarded in Perth, and has been an attraction to buyers, most of whom emanate from Perth&rsquo;s western suburbs, where Giorgi&rsquo;s architecture is best known and sought after.

Rivean is at the river-end of Broadway, and enjoys wonderful vistas ranging from Kings Park, the CBD and over the Swan River. These views have proven a great attraction to buyers, in addition to the amenity of the Broadway caf&eacute; and retail strip, and the nearby UWA and Queen Elizabeth Medical Centre.

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MK: What were the goals you set out for the architect team at Giorgi?

PS: A contemporary outcome was sought, with clean lines. The balustrade glazing is frameless, to lighten the fa&ccedil;ade, which features planters on various floors and building corners. Giorgi was asked to provide oversized two and three bedroom residences, including two top-floor penthouses. The foliage is designed to be viewed from both inside and outside the development, to further fit in to the leafy Nedlands environment.

The development was also designed to cater for those who may want to work from home, and so most apartments enjoy studies or study nooks, whilst the ground floor features a Business Hub. The residents&rsquo; parking bays and storerooms are also over-sized, which differentiates the development to all others on offer.

MK: Where have buyers for Rivean come from, and who is the development appealing to?

PS: The development is designed for down-sizers, primarily local residents moving from a larger, older home, typical of Nedlands and adjacent suburbs. The proximity to UWA and the QEII Medical Centre has also attracted interest from academics and the medical profession.&nbsp;

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However, this being the first development in Nedlands under the recently introduced town planning allowing residential buildings of 6 levels in small pockets of the suburb, many of Rivean&rsquo;s apartments are only half the price of a typical Nedlands house. This has provided an entry to the aspirational buyer, who was previously precluded from the western suburbs market due to the house pricing reflecting its exclusivity.

MK: How does Rivean Residences stand out compared to your other upcoming Perth projects?

PS: Most of our other developments also entail a number one bedroom/study apartments, particularly those closer to the UWA and Medical Centre. Rivean residences are larger on average, both internally and in terms of balcony or terrace size. The gym facilities are larger, and the number of residences is fewer, adding to Rivean&rsquo;s exclusivity. Being closer to the river, its views are also sought after.

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MK: Were there any challenges during the development process that had to be overcome? How did you handle the lockdowns?

PS: The merits of the architecture and new living opportunities of lock and leave, no maintenance accommodation won the approval for our four Nedlands developments and was achieved over a six month period.&nbsp;

The speed of the sales uptake has supported the recent town planning changes; Rivean and our other developments in Nedlands are satisfying a home sector which previously didn&rsquo;t exist. The approval process wasn&rsquo;t affected by COVID, as WA has been fortunate in avoiding the long lockdowns of other states. COVID did, however, allow us to include design features in our apartments, such as a separate study or desk space to accommodate working from home, the new normal following COVID.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=95299]

Construction is underway at Rivean, which is already over 50 per cent sold. Completion of the 28 Giorgi-designed apartments is slated for 2023

How Nedlands apartment development, Rivean Residences, was planned: Five minutes with Blueways Development Manager Paul Simpson

A boutique collection of 12 townhouses in the heart of Reservoir is catering to families, with extensive native landscapes and an established family-oriented community.

Ramley Residence, delivered by Monolith Projects, showcases contemporary and sophisticated design that blends into the natural surrounds of one of Reservoir&rsquo;s parklands pockets.

The vibrant community is underpinned by outstanding proximity to infrastructure and amenities.

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Full of large green spaces, the home is close to trails and reserves including Edwards Lake, Darebin Creek Trail and Bundoora Park, perfect for a barbeque and capturing city views from the top of Mount Cooper.

Spoilt by this abundance of parklands, Reservoir is home to an active community enjoying lifestyle offerings, shopping and dining, and a major health and medical precinct.

The three-bedroom, two-bathroom homes, which begin from $638,000, are carefully crafted to deliver refined and luxurious residences.

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Celebrating contemporary living, the refined homes boast intelligent floorplans, seamless outdoor connections, and abundant light.

Residents can enjoy and a bespoke living experience thanks to chic designer kitchens, private gardens and open-plan living spaces.

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Each home is introduced by an inviting separate lounge and is equipped with European appliances, timber highlights and entertaining areas.

Finely articulated through softly muted tones and finishes, which are inspired by nature, bring serenity into the multi-living homes and reference back to the natural landscapes of Reservoir.

The homes let families and upsizers escape the hustle and bustle of inner-city life with an abundance of community spaces available to promote an active and connected lifestyle.

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Melbourne&rsquo;s most diverse park, Bundoora Park, delivers over 180-hectares to unwind with family and friends; it is home to a popular children&rsquo;s farm, much-loved playgrounds and barbeque areas for family gatherings.

Nearby a selection of quality government schools and Catholic schools, Reservoir is rich in choices of education for your children &ndash; from early learning through to university.

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The suburb is serviced by the Mernda train line and boasts four train stations of its own. The main hub, Reservoir Station, has recently undergone a sky rail transformation.

Ramley Residence is expected to reach completion later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=27801]

Full of large green spaces, the home is close to trails and reserves including Edwards Lake, Darebin Creek Trail and Bundoora Park 

Reservoir townhouse development Ramley Residences set in the heart of nature

Quartz Apartments is an exclusive, new boutique development in Sydney&rsquo;s south-west suburb of Belmore, offering a limited release to the market.

Delivered by Pheonix Builders, Quartz&nbsp;boasts the rare opportunity to purchase a brand new, architecturally-designed apartment in Belmore.

Completed last year, the development features 35 generous oversized units in one and two-bedroom configurations, as well as four retail offerings on the ground floor.

Centrally located in heart of Belmore&rsquo;s shops and caf&eacute;s, the boutique block has been designed to incorporate the natural surrounds through open living spaces and timber flooring.

<img alt="" height="1187" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/belmore2.jpg" width="2096" />

Each residence has been developed using star-rated products and materials with a focus on sustainable features, such as natural airflow.

Interiors boast thoughtfully considered finishes and fittings, floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and a well-appointed kitchen.

Situated 14-kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, Belmore is within walking distance to great food, interesting cultures, a sense of history and fantastic transport options.

Quartz Apartments is located only 200-metres from the Belmore railway station, while the Canterbury Leagues Club and RSL are only metres away.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6694 project_image_fid=24912]

A great selection of schools is also close by, including the top-performing Al Noori Muslim School, All Saints Grammar and St Joseph&#39;s Primary School.

&ldquo;Food and family are intertwined in Belmore,&rdquo; the project marketing reads.

Many family-run restaurants can be found within the postcode, from Chinese, Lebanese, Greek, Thai and Italian, all available on the vibrant Burwood Road.

The development will make a great new home for first home buyers or investors looking to invest in a fast-growing suburb.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=6694]

Quartz Apartments is an exclusive, new boutique development in Sydney’s south-west suburb of Belmore, offering a limited release to the market

Quartz brings rare new apartments to Belmore in Sydney’s south-west 

With over 75% of the apartments on offer at The Mill, Southport sold, just a quarter of the 27 apartments remain.

Delivered by boutique property development group, Property Solutions, led by developer Fabio Rossi, the Mill boasts spacious, light-filled apartments nestled within a leafy landscape.

Expansive floorplans feature two bedrooms and two bathrooms, with refined finishes and high-quality fittings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7435 project_image_fid=153965]

Designed by BDA Architecture, the apartments have been positioned to take in the prevailing breezes and captivating views, while a private outdoor garden room provides the best in indoor-outdoor living.

Kitchens feature elegant inclusions, such as stone benchtops, 2-pak joinery and integrated European appliances.

The homes also feature lift access, timber flooring, air conditioning and one car space with generous separate storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7435 project_image_fid=153966]

With lift access to the rooftop, residents can enjoy the Mill&rsquo;s private terrace, complete with alfresco dining areas and barbeque facilities.

The Mill holds an enviable position in the vibrant suburb of Southport, inviting residents to enjoy the most of Gold Coast living.

Located in its heart, the development is within close walking distance to shopping, lifestyle amenities and employment opportunities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7435 project_image_fid=153963]

Residents can enjoy being close by Australia Fair, Harbour Town and Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, or the new $550 million integrated master-planned community taking shape at Queen Street Village.

Once complete, it will feature an urban village with retail, dining and entertainment, as well as commercial office space, a medical centre and cinema.

Prestigious schools are also within reach, including St Hilda&rsquo;s School, the Southport School, Griffith University and Gold Coast TAFE.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7435 project_image_fid=153967]

This month Mayor Tom Tate said the Gold Coast&#39;s population could reach one million by 2036 &mdash; five years earlier than&nbsp;expected, providing incentive for investors to purchase a property in the growing urban area.

The City Council has committed $11&nbsp;million to subsidise new bus routes, while $25 billion has been invested in infrastructure to transform the region into a globally competitive city.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=7435]

Delivered by boutique property development group, Property Solutions, led by developer Fabio Rossi, the Mill boasts spacious, light-filled apartments nestled within a leafy landscape

Over 75% sold at Southport apartment development, The Mill

Developer Cedar W​oods has announced the launch of a new luxury project in Melbourne following an increase in demand for off t​he plan townhomes close to the CBD.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Located in the city-fringe suburb of North Melbourne, 88 Lev​e​​son encompasses 15 three and four-bedroom townhomes, each with private outdoor&nbsp;entertaining space.&nbsp;

The project mirrors Cedar Woods&rsquo; ethos to deliver quality projects that meet buyer demands, chief operating officer Patrick Archer says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8945 project_image_fid=178920]

&ldquo;In every project we undertake, our primary focus is developing in areas with access to&nbsp;amenity, creating quality homes, and building community, which are all evident in our latest North Melbourne project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&ldquo;When considering off t​he plan, purchasers need to feel confident and secure in the&nbsp;outcome of their new home and 88 Leve​son provides that clear vision in a convenient location, only two kilometres from the city,&rdquo; Archer said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pre-launch enquiry has indicated the project will be highly sought after, with the volume of enquiry &ldquo;outstanding&rdquo; at the pre-release phase.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8945 project_image_fid=178922]

&ldquo;This is a result of the lack of off t​​he plan townhome opportunities within inner Melbourne&nbsp;and the current dearth of residential listings,&rdquo; said Marsha​ll White&rsquo;s Mark Dayman.&nbsp;

Designed by Genton, 88 Le​veson caters to the design-savvy buyer with a striking brick fa&ccedil;ade that references the industrial history of the site.

The interiors, curated by Adele Bates, features high-quality modern amenity including Miele appliances and Signorino&nbsp;stone and have been designed for liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8945 project_image_fid=178921]

&ldquo;The industrial nature of the architecture and local character is seamlessly integrated and&nbsp;juxtaposed with fine design elements carried harmoniously through the homes. The interiors are imbued with a sense of huma​n scale and tactility through fine attention to detail, function,&nbsp;and materiality,&rdquo; Bates said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

88 Lev​eson is only a short distance from the historic Errol Street and within walking distance&nbsp;of Queen Victoria Market, University of Melbourne and the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct.&nbsp;

Its location makes it highly desirable to a range of purchasers, particularly&nbsp;professionals working in the nearby employment precincts.

Construction is anticipated to commence in 2022.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=8945]

<h2 style="margin-left: 0.4pt;">Other projects by Cedar Woods</h2>

The national developer Cedar Woods has also been developing other projects in Melbourne, such as the 64-hectare masterplanned community, Mason Quarter.

Located in Melbourne&rsquo;s northern growth corridor, only 25-kilometres from the CBD, Mason Quarter incorporates 800 dwellings, two schools and community facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=99962 project_image_fid=160813]

Land lots within this community are selling now, with 294sqm that boast 10.5-metre frontage available from just $316,000,

The community will offer the opportunity for people to craft their ideal lifestyle in beautiful, natural surrounds with a 7.9-hectare conservation reserve and over 30 distributed tree reserves with majestic river red gums on site.

Mason Quarter is conveniently located within walking distance of the future Wollert town&nbsp;centre and a range of existing infrastructure and public amenity.

The project mirrors Cedar Woods’ ethos to deliver quality projects that meet buyer demands, chief operating officer Patrick Archer explains

Cedar Woods launch boutique North Melbourne townhouse development, 88 Leveson

First home buyers seeking the suburban comfort of Melbourne&rsquo;s east and strong neighbourhood amenities are embracing the newest townhouse development in Blackburn, Ascend.

Framed by Blackburn&rsquo;s leafy streets, Ascend presents a boutique collection of two, three and four-bedroom townhomes close to abundant lifestyle amenities.

The development makes the most of urban life and natural charm, embracing natural bushland and lakeside views of the nearby Blackburn Lake Sanctuary.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108704 project_image_fid=179869]

Local residents are encouraged to take advantage of these neighbourhood offerings, including the various walking trails that wind through the nearby Blacks Walk Reserve and Gardiners Creek.

Box Hill Gardens sits just five minutes from the property, where families can enjoy a picnic or barbeque under shady trees, explore playgrounds and utilise the outdoor sports courts and running tracks.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108704 project_image_fid=179866]

Box Hill and Wattle Park Golf Clubs are located within close proximity to Ascend, primed for a relaxing game of golf, while nearby gyms bring fitness classes and wellness close to home.

The project is also primed to benefit from convenient transport options, major shopping centres and dining and recreational opportunities on offer.

Melbourne CBD is a simple 30-minute commute away via the M3, with train services from Blackburn station and local buses connecting residents to surrounding suburbs. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108704 project_image_fid=179865]

Accessible shopping options include Laburnum Village, Box Hill Centrum and the eateries that dot South Parade.

According to SQM Research, Blackburn has seen home values grow 6.9 per cent per annum over the past 10 years, stronger than the Melbourne average of 5.6 per cent.

The suburb sits within the highly desired Box Hill school zone, which includes one of Melbourne&rsquo;s most prized public schools, Box Hill High School, and others including Our Lady of Sion College, Blackburn and Laburnum Primary Schools.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108704 project_image_fid=179867]

Deakin University&rsquo;s nearby Burwood campus is also close by, while Monash University is just a 20-minute drive away.

Carefully considered living spaces exude an immediate sense of belonging thanks to white walls and warm-toned flooring.

Spacious open-plan living and dining areas flow through to large balconies, completing the full indoor-outdoor experience and the ideal space for casual living or entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108704 project_image_fid=179868]

Designed by Jesse Ant Architects, the project features high-quality finishes, charming cabinetry, stone benchtops and a sleek splashback.

Stunning minimalism delivers contemporary elegance to townhomes, with soft grey flooring, chrome tapware and a lustrous central island bench providing a casual extension of the formal dining area.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108704]

Framed by Blackburn’s leafy streets, Ascend presents a boutique collection of two, three and four-bedroom townhomes close to abundant lifestyle amenities

An address in the heart of abundant Blackburn amenity: Why first home buyers love Ascend

The Property Council of Australia has announced the important role the property industry will play in achieving net zero as NSW decarbonises its economy.

NSW director Luke Achterstraat said as NSW invests $4.8 million in speeding up the transformation of the state&rsquo;s built environment towards net zero emissions, buildings can provide some of the least cost abatement opportunities in the economy.&nbsp;

<blockquote>
&ldquo;Accelerating Australia&rsquo;s transition to sustainable housing could both protect the home building sector, as well as spur growth in delivering more than half a billion dollars of additional investment in the construction industry by 2030 and create over 7,000 new jobs,&rdquo; Achterstraat said.
</blockquote>

Effectively, this would also save Australians $600 million on their energy bills.&nbsp;

According to the Property Council, upgrading the energy efficiency of Australia&rsquo;s commercial buildings would not only stimulate economic activity through inputs of local labour, it would also deliver an estimated $12 billion in energy savings between 2016 and 2030.

&ldquo;Since efficient buildings are also healthier and more productive, gains in staff productivity are likely to dwarf the benefits in energy savings.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7149 project_image_fid=175541]

According to the <a href="https://arena.gov.au/renewable-energy/renewables-in-buildings/">Australian Renewable Energy Agency</a> (ARENA), buildings account for more than half of the nation&rsquo;s electricity consumption and are a major driver of &lsquo;peak demand&rsquo;.

An additional 2019 study revealed that the construction, operation and maintenance of buildings account for almost a <a href="https://theconversation.com/buildings-produce-25-of-australias-emissions-what-will-it-take-to-make-them-green-and-wholl-pay-105652">quarter of greenhouse gas emissions</a> in Australia.

&ldquo;We encourage the NSW State Government to leverage the unique opportunity the built environment offers to dramatically reduce carbon emissions in highly cost effective ways that will also stimulate the economy,&rdquo; Achterstraat said.&nbsp;

&ldquo;As Australia heads towards a low emissions economy, governments must provide a clear pathway of policies that give certainty to industry and create economic opportunities for Australian businesses.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7758 project_image_fid=150461]

Other key industry bodies, including the&nbsp;Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), are also encouraging the government to make use of the largely untapped emissions reduction opportunities available within the sector.&nbsp;

GBCA CEO Davina Rooney&nbsp;Australia&rsquo;s property sector is already&nbsp;leading the way in carbon reduction&nbsp;and making commitments at COP26 can help the Australian Government build on this work.&nbsp;

Facilitating the transition of Australia&rsquo;s building sector towards an economy for the future is critical in improving and sustaining the future liveability, productivity and sustainability of our communities and cities.

Achterstraat concluded: &ldquo;With the right policy frameworks in place, we can minimise the costs of a transition&nbsp;to net zero emissions and create economic opportunities across all parts of industry, from sole traders and homeowners to large businesses.&rdquo;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Buildings account for more than half of the nation’s electricity consumption and are a major driver of ‘peak demand’

Property industry to play a pivotal role in the race to net zero, says Property Council

Nestled in Pakenham, Altius is a boutique community only minutes from the township, providing a calm and peaceful retreat for first home buyers.

Developed by Creation Homes, Altius is located amongst an enviable mix of recreation, shopping, dining and entertainment.

Pakenham provides a fresh start to new residents, with amenities including the historically significant Winjeel&rsquo;s trail, the local Bunyip State Park, and the bustling local markets that feature fresh produce, unique artwork and craftware.

The heart of the Dandenong Ranges is just a 40-minute drive away, with cafes, antique shops, wineries and an abundance of bike and walking tracks.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28891 project_image_fid=155538]

Boasting a collection of 33 residences in three and four-bedroom configurations, Altius features lots ranging in size from 322sqm to 608sqm.

&ldquo;Everything you need for comfortable living is at your fingertips&rdquo;, the project marketing reads, with privacy, community and a sense of peace and tranquillity at the forefront the project&rsquo;s design.

First home buyers and growing families alike have plenty of choice with a great range of house and land packages offering an affordable contemporary home design.

The developers also require just a 10 per cent deposit until the completion of the home.

Urban takes a look at three configurations on offer at Altius.

1. Coventry 165

<img alt="" height="564" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-10-25_at_5.10.55_pm.png" width="940" />

Available at Lot 28 of the Altius collection, Coventry 165 is a single-storey detached home.

Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a laundry, this spacious layout lies on a 475sqm lot with an internal area of 167.55sqm.

Homebuyers can choose between four fa&ccedil;ade options - Callista, Classic, Coastal or Plantation - to bring a unique style to their property.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28891 project_image_fid=155536]

The home is listed for $585,640 and includes a walk-in robe in the main bedroom, open-plan living, dining and kitchen and a two-car garage.

2. Wynyard 181

<img alt="" height="576" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-10-25_at_5.10.24_pm.png" width="1034" />

This large four-bedroom, two-bathroom property in Pakenham is ideal for family living.

Sitting on a 532sqm lot, Wynyard 181 is another single-storey home at Altius that offers four fa&ccedil;ade options, a master-bedroom with ensuite and walk-in robe, and a two-car garage.

Like all homes at the Cardinia Estate, Wynyard 181 comes finished with premium inclusions, including flooring, stainless steel appliances, LED downlights and a six-star energy rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28891 project_image_fid=155537]

With an internal area of 183.33sqm, the spacious configuration at Lot 13 is available for families or investors at an affordable price of $612,640.

3. Gladstone 200

<img alt="" height="564" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-10-25_at_5.10.55_pm_0.png" width="940" />

As the largest configuration still available at Altius, Gladstone 200 provides the necessary room for entertaining family and friends.

The development features an internal area of 202.8sqm and sits on a 547sqm lot, which includes site works, front and rear landscaping, driveway and fencing.

Located at Lot 30, the four-bedroom, two-bathroom home includes a laundry, alfresco dining area, open-plan living kitchen and dining, a study and two-car garage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28891 project_image_fid=155540]

The full turn-key home is listed for $631,640, and similarly allows residents the choice between four fa&ccedil;ade options.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=28891]

Urban takes a look at three configurations on offer at Altius at Cardinia Estate

Pakenham townhouse development Altius offering buyers a number of floorplans

National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

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Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<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/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

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After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<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/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Max Kwok

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