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

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sunland-group">Sunland Group</a> has officially lodged plans for its first Gold Coast apartment project since the departure of the Abedian family from the company three years ago, unveiling a new high-rise proposal for a prominent Broadbeach corner site on Old Burleigh Road.

The application was submitted by an entity directed by Tom Jamieson, stepson of longtime Sunland leader Soheil Abedian, and Riaz Rezvanipour, brother-in-law of Sahba Abedian, Soheil’s son.

Sunland acquired the 1,283 sqm site on the corner of Old Burleigh Road and Armrick Avenue for $9.5 million late last year and is now seeking approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-101-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">42-storey tower with 81 apartments</a>.

<img alt="First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fea2946d-90ee-4cfc-babe-2a8ad5db2cb6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers.png?VersionId=BV0fihJw31nDIQ8ozY_h3GbS8mxDyhnm" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, the proposed tower at 99-101 Old Burleigh Road would deliver a predominantly larger-format apartment mix aimed at the owner-occupier market. Plans include 17 two-bedroom apartments, 55 three-bedroom apartments, and nine four-bedroom residences across 35 residential levels.

The development also incorporates three basement levels, four podium parking levels, two levels of communal recreation facilities, and rooftop plant and equipment. A total of 189 car spaces are proposed, significantly exceeding the 90 spaces required under the planning scheme.

The architecture adopts a sculpted, curvilinear form, with deep wraparound balconies and integrated landscaping intended to soften the tower’s vertical expression. The planning report states the building’s “slender footprint/form provides a complimentary yet varied built form within the local streetscape” and contributes to “a varied, yet ordered skyline.”

Contreras Earl noted in its Architectural Statement that from the early stages, the project addressed a fundamental challenge: how to accommodate the required residential yield while avoiding the conventional model of a tower sitting on a rigid, fully resolved parking podium.

“The most direct response would have been to consolidate parking into a singular, flat podium and extrude a repetitive tower above,” the statement said. “While efficient, this approach would result in a consolidated built form with limited engagement with the surrounding landscape and public realm.”

Instead, the conventional podium model was “deliberately rejected”. The architects described the base of the building as “a landscaped architectural condition where structure, planting and circulation are integrated”.

“Rather than presenting a continuous built mass, the base of the building is articulated through a series of concrete planter elements that organise the podium into a fragmented system,” the statement said. “This approach reduces the perceived bulk of the lower levels while establishing a more permeable interface with the streetscape and adjacent open space.”

<img alt="Sunland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="923fad8d-c960-4527-8fbe-975cf1ddf88d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%2010.32.03%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=pngwb0hYOIUpq9vDw6F2EsOiVuHF3DiX" />

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The site sits within the High Density Residential Zone and inside the City of Gold Coast’s unrestricted “HX” building height area, where the planning framework anticipates intensified residential development tied to the expanding light rail corridor. The planning report notes the area is undergoing “transition toward more intense development forms” given its proximity to Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and high-frequency public transport infrastructure.

Positioned directly opposite Broadbeach Park and within walking distance of Florida Gardens light rail station, the development would sit among a rapidly evolving stretch of Old Burleigh Road that has become one of the Gold Coast’s most active apartment development corridors.

The application joins a growing pipeline of luxury residential projects reshaping Broadbeach, including nearby developments by 5Point Projects, Polycell, and Graya.

The planning report argues the project contributes toward the Gold Coast’s long-term housing targets under the South East Queensland Regional Plan, which forecasts the need for more than 100,000 additional high-rise dwellings across the city by 2046.

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The Abedian family departed Sunland Group in late 2023, ending a four-decade association with the company, and subsequently established the private development firm Abedian &amp; Co. The group is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/greenmount-residences-cnr-hill-street-and-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Greenmount Residences</a> at Rainbow Bay and recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/18-mary-avenue-14-18-mary-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">18 Mary Avenue</a> in Broadbeach.
</section>

Joel Robinson

First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach new apartment market with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans

The Minns Labor Government has established the new Bays West Delivery Authority to lead the development&nbsp;of the Bays West Precinct and Blackwattle Bay Precinct.&nbsp;

The Authority is charged with creating Sydney’s newest precinct, a thriving, connected, sustainable hub with White Bay Power Station as its cultural heart. Its vision is to build on the area’s natural, cultural and industrial history to shape a vibrant new neighbourhood.

The precinct will deliver up to 8,500 well-located homes, including a minimum of 10 per cent affordable and essential worker homes. Combine new housing with public open space, opening public access to the waterfront for the first time in more than 100 years, while retaining important deep-water facilities to support Sydney’s working harbour.

Located just minutes from the Sydney CBD and connected to a world-class metro, ferry, walking and cycling links, the Bays West precinct will rebalance housing growth towards well-serviced inner-city locations and help tackle the state’s housing crisis.

The Bays West Delivery Authority,&nbsp;an agency of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, will report to the NSW Minister for Lands and Property who already has oversight of major precinct renewal projects including at Blackwattle Bay and Barangaroo.

As part of the broader Bays West transformation, the Minns Government recently announced that a proposal from Lendlease to redevelop part of the Bays West Precinct has progressed to Stage 2 of the NSW Government’s unsolicited proposals process.

<img alt="Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ed71eb9-d8e8-4fa7-b9d1-de4531dcf2f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%209.42.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=IDryFIbped9SNDg72LEN_EecvhUsOPvp" />

The Minns Labor Government has also confirmed the Bays West precinct will have a new suburb name. This will be the first major suburb built in close proximity to Sydney’s CBD in decades and will encompass the area currently being referred to as Bays West, including Glebe Island and the White Bay Power Station. Served by a new Metro station just five minutes from the CBD, it will become one of the most populous suburbs in the Inner West and one of Sydney’s premier cultural destinations.

An early works program is taking shape, which&nbsp;includes the first stages of an international design competition.&nbsp;

The aim of the Bays West&nbsp;International&nbsp;Design Competition is to&nbsp;ensure design excellence is embedded in the project from the start. The competition will deliver an&nbsp;urban framework that defines the character, ambition and long-term identity of&nbsp;this&nbsp;former industrial precinct as it transitions to a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable residential&nbsp;neighbourhood.

The competition will be led by the Bays West Delivery Authority in partnership with Government Architect NSW.&nbsp;

It will launch with an invitation for a global Expressions of Interest, before moving to an invitation-only stage that will be assessed by a panel that&nbsp;will provide advice to Cabinet who will select a winner.

Premier of NSW, Chris Minns said the establishment of the new Authority is the first step in transforming the Bays West precinct into a vibrant, livable suburb minutes from the Sydney CBD and two stops from Hunter St Station on the Metro West line.

“The Authority will deliver well-located homes close to the heart of the city and integrate the new precinct with Blackwattle Bay and the new Sydney Fish Market.

“This is a generational opportunity to build a new suburb on the city’s edge and open the harbour foreshore to the public for the first time in a century.”&nbsp;

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the new Bays West Delivery Authority established by the Minns Government will turbocharge the development of Sydney’s newest suburb.

“The Authority is working at a record pace to deliver an international design competition, planning pathways and a financial model so that this development benefits Sydney with well-designed homes in a central location, close to public transport, jobs, entertainment and essential services.

“If we want Sydney to stay liveable and affordable, we need to be bold about using underutilised government-owned land to deliver homes for the future while making sure essential working harbour functions can be accommodated.”

Bays West Delivery Authority established to "turbocharge" Sydney’s newest suburb

Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

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Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

Max Kwok

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