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A four-bedroom Victorian Terrace - part of the circa 1883 Dorset Terrace in East Melbourne - is this week’s most expensive sale, selling under the hammer for $3.81 million, according to RP Data.
Located at 114 Hotham Street, the two-storey 19th century terrace property was home to Roy Armfield, the former chairman of the Scientific Advisory Board at Mars Inc in the US, and his wife Rowena.
Armfield purchased the home in 2001 and has since restored it.
Situated on 331 square metres, the property features polished floorboards throughout, two bathrooms and a central courtyard.
Guy Angwin of James Buyers Advocate says there were two registered bidders at the September 14 auction and a crowd of around 120 people.
The property was listed with Paul Caine of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.caine.com.au/1029956/">Caine Real Estate East Melbourne</a>.
The median house price in <a target="_blank" href="/news">East Melbourne</a> is $2,492,500, a 59.5% change in the past five years, according to RP Data.
Most expensive sales:
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/114_hotham_street_east_melbourne_vic_3002/10875155">114 Hotham Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002,</a> four-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 14 by Caine Real Estate East Melbourne for $3.81 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/88_queens_park_road_queens_park_nsw_2022/5705775">88 Queens Park Road, Queens Park, NSW, 2022,</a> four-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on September 10 by GoodyerDonnelley Real Estate for $3.5 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/111_brighton_boulevard_north_bondi_nsw_2026/4952801">111 Brighton Boulevard, North Bondi, NSW, 2026,</a> three-bedroom house, sold on September 14 by Black Lifestyle Property for $3.5 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/12_coonil_crescent_malvern_vic_3144/11575692">12 Coonil Crescent, Malvern, VIC, 3144,</a> six-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 14 by Jellis Craig Bennison Mackinnon Armadale for $3.425 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/31_fairweather_street_bellevue_hill_nsw_2023/1369408">31 Fairweather Street, Bellevue Hill, NSW, 2023,</a> four-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 10 by Laing + Simmons Bondi Junction for $3.226 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/2_elphinstone_street_cabarita_nsw_2137/1665526">2 Elphinstone Street, Cabarita, NSW, 2137,</a> five-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 14 by Haus Real Estate Strathfield for $2.942 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/61_wilson_street_princes_hill_vic_3054/12650190">61 Wilson Street, Carlton North, VIC, 3054,</a> four-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 14 by Nelson Alexander Carlton North for $2.92 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/45_govett_street_randwick_nsw_2031/5754464">45 Govett Street, Randwick, NSW, 2031,</a> four-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on September 14 by GoodyerDonnelley Real Estate for $2.915 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/20_clifton_street_richmond_vic_3121/12731473">20 Clifton Street, Richmond, VIC, 3121,</a> three-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 14 by Jellis Craig Bennison Mackinnon South Yarra for $2.88 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/21_namoi_road_northbridge_nsw_2063/5070457">21 Namoi Road, Northbridge, NSW, 2063,</a> four-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on September 14 by L J Hooker Northbridge for $2.715 million
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ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

East Melbourne 19th century terrace sells for $3.81 million under the hammer: RP Data

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LEO, a six level boutique apartment complex by Kokoda Property in Hawthorn East is now 75% sold.
Located on Camberwell Road, the development features 89 one- and two-bedroom apartments with interiors by Belle Magazine’s Interior Designers of the Year, Hecker Guthrie.
“We have been overwhelmed with purchasers who are eager to be one of the first to secure an apartment in this blue chip location,” says Kokoda Property sales and marketing manager Sam Tucker.
“LEO delivers a designer lifestyle at an affordable price so we have no doubt this project will sell out in record time.
“Our business model at Kokoda Property is simple: deliver beautiful apartment projects in blue-chip locations surrounded by existing amenity and transport options,” says Tucker.
Apartments feature Scandinavian styling and boast bespoke timber cabinetry, Miele appliances, timber flooring and marble bench tops, as well as 2.7-metre high ceilings.
One-bedroom apartments range in size from 41 square metres to 70 square metres, with remaining apartments priced from $379,000.
Two-bedroom apartments range in size from 62 square metres to 124 square metres, with remaining apartments priced from $569,000.
Buyers will also have the choice of powder-coated black, gold or stainless steel tapware.
Designed by Artisan Architects, the lobby features exposed concrete flooring, timber wall panelling, pendant lighting features and a private gymnasium.
“LEO is the epitome of style and elegance in a highly desirable pocket of Melbourne so we are confident it will appeal to a broad range of buyers,” says Tucker.
The development has attracted a mix of buyers, from local first home owners to downsizers and local investors. 
LEO has a scheduled completion date of mid-2015.
The median apartment price in <a href="/news">Hawthorn East</a> is $499,000, a 6.7% change in the past five years, according to RP Data.
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Hawthorn East's LEO development now 75% sold

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Sebel hotel (pictured below) will grace NewQuay’s waterfront promenade, following the signing of an agreement between Accor and hotel developer and investor MAB Corporation. 
<img alt="sebel_sept_13_one" height="313" width="470" src="/images/stories/Nicolas_Uploads/sebel_sept_13_one.jpg">
It will be the first new build Sebel hotel in Australia since 2009 but will join Accor’s portfolio of 16 Sebel hotels and apartments across Australia and New Zealand.
The $60 million hotel development is designed by McBridge Charles Ryan architects and will feature 96 self-contained studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments across seven levels.
Guest facilities include a private lounge, cinema, library, reading room, business centre and a private dining room with a kitchen and bar.
Guests will also have use to the 25-metre indoor pool, rooftop garden and tennis court.
“The arrival of a new upscale apartment product will be a key development for Melbourne,” says chief operating officer Accor Pacific Simon McGrath.
“The growth opportunities for serviced apartments have steadily been on the ride over the past 15 years, and, what is different about Sebel is that is has invested extensively in giving a premium apartment experience to provide guests with the facilities and freedom they desire, particularly for those in the long-stay category.
McGrath says the hotel will cater to solo business travellers, as well as leisure travellers who seek an independent and self-sufficient stay.
The hotel is set to open on October 4.
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Sebel Hotel to open in Dockland's waterfront precinct 

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Some 50% of apartments have sold in the boutique apartment development Vélo in Northbridge, with the rest expected to be snapped up at the launch this weekend, following the change in government.
Developed by local developers Baltinas Made and designed by Baltinas Architecture, the $32 million boutique apartment development features 61 apartments.
“Since the election result came through, buyers that have been sitting on the fence for weeks have been calling us chasing properties to invest in,” says MLG Realty director Cindy Lee.
“The reaction has been amazing – there has been a surge in confidence from the change of government and buyers are also citing record low interest rates as a huge factor for hem.
“Given all of that and Northbridge’s potential for great growth, we suspect Vélo will sell out soon after its public launch this week,” says Lee.
Interest has been particularly strong for one-bedroom apartments, with interest from singles, couples and investors.
One-bedroom apartments start from $385,000 and two-bedroom apartments start from $535,000.
Apartments feature winter garden balconies, rooftop water harvesting technology and solar panels and a ground level bar and café.
The median apartment price in <a href="/news">Northbridge</a> is $506,500, a 0.3% change in the past five years, according to RP Data.</body></html>

Change in government gives WA buyers a boost of confidence

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Property Observer has compiled a list of the top five developments of the past year, from eye-catching designs and sky high towers to bustling master planned communities.
<img alt="poll-results-sept-16" height="308" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/09/16/poll-results-sept-16.jpg">
Send your reasoning to <a href="mailto:%20ntrotman@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">ntrotman@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
For more information on the developments, see below.
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1) First on the list is Koichi Takada-designed <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/skye-by-crown-set-to-become-north-sydney-icon-skye-crown/2013052361500" target="_blank">Skye by Crown</a> in North Sydney.
The 20-storey residential complex will feature a bronze coloured veil exterior and the 232 apartments will feature glass facades, balconies and winter gardens.
The standout feature is the 25-metre rooftop infinity edge pool, boasting panoramic views.
Apartments range in price from $499,000 to $2 million plus.
“The infinity pool on top of the architecture creates an illusion of floating above the city skyline,” says Takada.
“You feel like you’re on a remote island in a five star resort,” says Takada.
Crown Group chief executive Iwan Sunito says Crown’s vision for the development is to create an icon in the heart of North Sydney.
All three penthouses in the Skye by Crown development in North Sydney have sold, with the most expensive one selling for $3.5 million.
Construction is scheduled to start in late 2013.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/09/13/north]}
 
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2) Located on St Kilda Road, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/st-kilda-s-tallest-building-stk-apartments-snapped-up-ahead-of-official-launch/2013090564603" target="_blank">Caydon’s $200 million S.T.K development</a> also makes it onto the list – marketed as St Kilda’s tallest building.
The 26-level building, made up of two structures within one façade, will house one and two-bedroom apartments, as well as two-bedroom dual level rooftop terraces.
Apartments range in price from $380,000 to $842,000 and townhouses range in price from $645,000 to $820,000.
Designed by Eades and Bergman, apartments will feature textured splashbacks, marble finishes, satin chrome fixtures and timber flooring.
Construction is scheduled to commence early next year, with an expected completion date of late 2015.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/09/03/sept3st]}
 
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3) Third on the list is <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/construction-on-meriton-s-infinity-reaches-new-heights/2013072962914" target="_blank">Meriton’s Infinity development</a> in Brisbane, featuring 549 apartments across 81 levels.
At 262 metres tall, Infinity will be the tallest tower in the Brisbane CBD.
Apartments range in price from $498,000 to $984,000 and boasts floor to ceiling windows and freestanding baths.
Infinity is adopting the latest in elevator technology; a traffic management system to group people who are travelling to the same floors, therefore reducing the number of intermediate stops in between.
Construction is scheduled for completion in late 2013.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/07/july30brisbane]}
 
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4) Next on the list is the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/olympic-park-australia-towers-launches-stage-two-after-stage-one-sells-fast-out-of-the-starting-blocks/2012040354146" target="_blank">Sydney Olympic Park development</a>, a joint venture by Ecove and SOPA (Sydney Olympic Park Authority).
Located on Australia Avenue, the development features 823 apartments across three towers – Australia Towers, ATII and One Australia Avenue.
The towers are designed by Bates Smart and will feature an elliptical shape, inspired by the iconic geometry of the nearby stadia.
Olympic Park is the sporting and entertainment heart of Sydney, with more than 5,000 events held at Blaxland Riverside Park in the suburb every year.
Around 14,000 people are forecast to be living at Sydney Olympic Park by 2030.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/07/july17australiatower]}
 
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5) Last but not least, Lend Lease’s wooden <a href="/news">Forte development</a> in Melbourne’s Docklands slots into fifth place for its unique design.
Forte is the tallest timber building in the world, claiming the title from the eight-storey apartment block Stadthaus, Murray Grove, in London.
The $11 million timber tower comprises approximately 760 panels, measuring up to 16.5 metres by three metres, shipped from Austria.
Timber developments are around 30% faster to build.
Prices in the tower start at $424,000 for one-bedroom apartments and $579,000 for two-bedroom apartments.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/09/13/forte]}
Property Observer followed the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/forte-scaffolding-comes-down-unwrapping-the-world-s-tallest-timber-building/2012121958596" target="_blank">construction through a series of photos</a>.
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A sight for sore eyes: The top developments of the past year

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More than $234 million worth of apartments have sold in the first two releases of Mirvac’s $350 million luxury residential precinct Waterfront Newstead. 
Located two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD in the Newstead Riverpark community, the 10.6-hectare site will feature six residential precincts once complete, accommodating over 1,000 residents.
Construction on the first release, Pier, began in 2009 with construction starting on the second release, Park, in 2010.
Pier features three- and four-bedroom apartments priced from $2.35 million and Park features two- and three-bedroom apartments priced from $650,000.
A luxury penthouse in the Pier development sold for over $14 million, a Brisbane property record.
“Newstead Riverpark is already becoming a vibrant new community and destination," says Mirvac’s Queensland development director apartments Brett Robinson.
“Across our various stages, Mirvac will offer a variety of apartments to accommodate the diverse mix of residents the precinct will attract - from young professionals through to empty nesters and retirees.
“Pier boasts absolute premium three and four bedroom apartments, right on the riverfront, with the finest of fittings and finishes and an on-site concierge, adding to the luxury and convenience available and making it an extremely rare residential offering,” says Robinson.
Mirvac’s Waterfront Newstead community will take around 15 years to complete.
The residential community will be part of the larger scale Newstead Riverpark, which will feature FKP’s $1.1 billion Gasworks development.
Upon completion, the Gasworks development will include seven buildings offering 17,000 square metres of retail, 103,500 square metres of commercial space and around 750 residential apartments.
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Mirvac secures $234 million in sales at Waterfront Newstead, including $14 million penthouse sale

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Regional towns Karratha, Derby and Moranbah are forecast to boom once again after undergoing price corrections following an unsustainable growth period, according to Crawford Property Group (CPG).
CPG group director Ryan Crawford says these three towns have all the elements of property markets under pressure.
“The recent correction means investors now have the opportunity to buy in low, maximise capital growth and still take advantage of yields of at least 8%.
“With commodity prices strengthening and the federal election having renewed investor and business confidence, we expect these markets to rebound strongly,” says Crawford.
Karratha, one of the largest towns in the north of Western Australia, is part of the WA government’s Pilbara Cities vision to increase the town’s resident population by 250% by 2035.
“Karratha’s house prices have remained flat over the last two quarters after a 20% retraction over the previous 12 months, indicating that the market is bottoming out.
“Increasing leasing activity has stabilised rents, and yields remain well above the national average at around 9% to 10%.
“With discounts available, investors have the opportunity to access these markets at low prices, generate instant income and maximise capital growth,” says Crawford.
Karratha will include Chevron’s $US52 billion Gorgon gas project, one of the world’s largest natural gas projects, which is currently under construction.
The expansion of Woodside’s Pluto LNG project from one train to two is also on the table.
“These two projects alone are expected to sustain housing demand over the long term as the resident workforce grows,” says Crawford.
Crawford says Derby, located in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, is one of the tightest property markets in Australia.
“It’s suffering chronic accommodation shortages, not only from flow effects of the commodities boom but from its unique role as a correctional and administrative centre.
“Derby has a historically low vacancy rate and investors have an attractive opportunity to secure a three to five year Western Australia Department of Housing lease.
“While new residential development has increased the supply of housing in Derby recently, the town is locked by tidal mud flats and Native Title which restricts the amount of land available for future development,” says Crawford.
Derby has four major mining projects planned for the area, totaling $1.6 billion and requiring more than 700 workers.
The median house price in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Derby</a> is $565,000, a 52.7% change in the past five years, according to RP Data.
Crawford says Moranbah, the number one mining town in Queensland, is expected to repeat its historical growth patterns as it reaches the end of its current cycle.
The major resource companies are moving ahead, spending more than $13 billion and creating more than 3,000 permanent jobs.
“The growing workforce and the town’s limited land availability due to surrounding mining leases, will once again increase pressure on housing supply.
“Investors can secure brand new homes with high tenant appeal at attractive prices ahead of the projected influx of workers.
“Well-located properties featuring a high quality finish are estimated to achieve positive cash flow returns of 8% per annum in today’s market,” says Crawford.
The median house price in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Moranbah</a> is $640,000, a 80.8% change in the past five years, according to RP Data.
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Rebounding regional areas identified: Karratha, Derby and Moranbah

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A property on Reserve Road in Cheltenham, currently leased to ONYX café restaurant and bar, is scheduled to go under the hammer for the first time with a $1.1 million plus guide. 
The 203-square-metre building at 12/238 Reserve Road is currently tenanted on a five year + five year + five year lease, with an income of $77,500 per annum – a 7.05% rental yield.
The property was initially listed for $1.3 million but listing agent Charles Cini says the agency wanted to take a different approach and scheduled it for auction.
The vendor has owned the property for five years.
It is scheduled to go to auction on September 18 through Charles Cini, Jarrod Moran and John Nockles of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cva.net.au/property/8819/sale/12-328-reserve-road/cheltenham-vic-3192/investment-(retail-hotel-leisure)">CVA Property Consultants</a>.
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Cheltenham's ONYX café restaurant building to go under the hammer

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Crown Group’s final stage of it’s Top Ryde City Living development, Viva by Crown, had a successful launch day with 100% of initial Sydney released apartments snapped up within the first two hours.
The August 31 launch saw the release of 60 apartments, with 32 apartments released to Sydney buyers, totaling more than $30 million in Sydney sales.
More than 80% of the initial release is now sold, with more than $4 million worth of apartments sold at the launch in China.
Crown Group director of sales and marketing Adam Sparkes says the exceptionally strong sales at launch can be attributed to a combination of the excellent investment opportunity offered and an increasing demand for off-the-plan apartments from trusted developers in Sydney.
“Property investors are becoming increasingly financially-savvy.
“Buyers recognize the rare investment opportunity at Viva by Crown. It is located close to shops and transport with stunning views and five-star resort style facilities,” says Sparkes.
Project sales manager Roy Marcellus says Viva by Crown is perfect for both downsizers and investors.
“Our buyers see the value in investing in a development which is truly unique.
“There is nothing like Viva by Crown in the market,” says Marcellus.
One-bedroom apartments in Viva by Crown start from $495,000 and two-bedroom apartments start from $790,000.
More than 90% of the first four stages of the Top Ryde City Living development are sold.
Top Ryde City Living was named the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/crown-s-top-ryde-city-wins-udia-award-for-high-density-living/2013073163729" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">best high-density development</a> by UDIA NSW in July and recently took out the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/crown-s-top-ryde-city-wins-most-sought-after-urban-development-prize/2013091064928?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=news">most sought after urban development award</a> - the Presidents Award.
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Viva by Crown's Sydney launch a sell out in first two hours

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Three eager buyers are camping out at the Berwick Waters sale office in eager anticipation for the release of Waterbloom this Saturday.
Berwick Waters – an estate by Australand and Mondous Property Australia – is made up of two precincts, Heritage Hills and Waterfront.
Waterbloom is located directly opposite the water and includes six blocks ranging from $323,000 to $426,000.
The blocks will be sold on a first come, first serve basis on Saturday, with purchasers required to pay a 10% deposit.
The blocks range from 505 square metres to 747 squares and are targeted at second and fourth home-buyers, according to Bianca Ellis, Berwick Waters estate manager.
The 310-hectare Berwick Waters estate boasts extensive wetlands, shared walking and bike trails and will be complemented by three proposed state schools and a town centre.
The previous release – Macumba - has now released its second stage in the Heritage Hills precinct, comprising of 14 lots.
Berwick Waters is Clyde North's newest community, located 50 kilometres southeast of the Melbourne CBD.
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Buyers set up camp in anticipation for latest Berwick Waters release this weekend

Perth’s new apartment market recorded its strongest quarter of sales since Q4 2021, with 412 apartments sold in Q1 2026 and a record quarterly sold value of $537 million, according to Urbis’ latest Apartment Essentials results.

Urbis said the March quarter result reflects strong, highly product‑specific demand across both ends of the market, from more attainable projects delivering at scale, through to premium stock being absorbed by equity‑rich downsizers.&nbsp;

David Cresp, Partner at Urbis, said the key story in Perth is not demand, it is the market’s ability to convert demand into delivered housing.&nbsp;

“This is the strongest sales quarter since Q4 2021, and it reinforces that demand in Perth is real and it’s local,” David Cresp said. “But the task now is delivery, turning that demand into projects that can actually be built and completed.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=302785]

<h2>Affordable product leads, premium demand remains resilient</h2>

Sales in Q1 were led by more affordable projects, with The Boulevard (SKS Group) recording 115 sales in the quarter, the presentation noting this is only the second time a single project has surpassed 100 quarterly sales. The project was able to offer more affordable housing product right next to a train station.&nbsp;

Palmyra West (Finbar) also delivered strong results with 28 sales in Q1, following 84 sales in Q4, with an average price of under $800,000, underscoring depth of demand for well‑located, attainable new stock.&nbsp;

At the premium end, Urbis said downsizer demand is continuing, with the results highlighting Romeo (Applecross, Finbar) recording 75 sales and reaching almost 50% sold in one quarter.

Jual (Shenton Park, Celsius Property) also posted a strong quarter with 28 sales, reaching 39% sold in one quarter.

Urbis noted that Perth apartment demand is not speculative, not investor‑led, and not uniform, describing it as localised, often equity‑driven and highly product‑specific, a pattern reflected in the polarisation between strong “attainable” performers and premium downsizer product.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148957 project_image_fid=364102]

<h2>Prices underpinned by costs, and the delivery risk is growing</h2>

Urbis said pricing pressure is cost not demand‑driven: construction costs and delivery risk are now a central constraint, with the results noting build costs remain elevated and volatile, and that energy, fuel and labour uncertainty weigh on feasibility.

David Cresp said a growing challenge for private Build‑to‑Sell developers is simply securing a builder in the current environment.

“Developers are really feeling the pressure from a building market that was operating at capacity and securing a builder is challenging,” David Cresp said, adding that even where a builder can be secured, “trying to get to the price that makes the development financially viable is incredibly challenging in the current market.”&nbsp;

Urbis’ broader WA commentary also notes that industry remains at or above capacity with lot and housing creation, and that many builders are limiting new sales to manage stretched workforces and fixed‑price contract pressures, conditions that flow directly into apartment feasibility and delivery timing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108869 project_image_fid=317905]

<h2>Supply: improving later, but still constrained, and Perth lags eastern benchmarks</h2>

While near‑term supply remains constrained, Urbis’ forecast shows completions lifting “Supply is forecast to be back above 1,500 apartments per annum for the first time since 2019”, with 1,775 completions forecast for 2026, and volumes remaining above that level over the following years.&nbsp;

Looking further ahead, completions are forecast to reach 2,500 in 2028, with the report noting 32% of that total is social/affordable, reflecting the role of government‑supported delivery in rebuilding the pipeline.&nbsp;

However, Urbis said Perth remains behind comparable markets on pipeline scale. In a national comparison of projects under construction, the report shows under construction Perth Build‑to‑Sell (BTS) at 3,446 apartments versus the Gold Coast at 7,922. Mr Cresp said “The challenge for Perth is how to we grow the delivery pipeline”.

Urbis’ conclusion is that Perth’s market is increasingly defined by product discipline and delivery certainty, with the research identifying “delivery certainty is key” and calling out builder risk and procurement models as core success factors, alongside “timing and staging”.&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Perth apartment sales hit strongest pace since late 2021 as builder capacity tightens

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sammut-developments">Sammut Group</a> has secured development approval for its latest Brisbane apartment project, marking the Sydney developer’s next step in expanding its Queensland pipeline following the success of its debut Gold Coast development, Coast.

The approved project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/44-glen-road-toowong-qld-4066">44 Glen Road, </a><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> will deliver a 15-storey riverfront apartment building with 42 residences, significantly increasing the scale of the site’s previous approval for a smaller luxury scheme. Designed by Bureau^proberts, the development will comprise a mix of predominantly four-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments positioned to maximise Brisbane River and city views.

Sammut Director Julian Sammut said the group had been actively searching Brisbane for several years before identifying Toowong as the right fit.

“Brisbane was the right step for Sammut,” Sammut said.

“With the success of Coast we thought we should definitely look to do more in Queensland alone. We then pushed up to look at Brisbane. We've been looking for I'd say two to three years actually and it was hard to find the right location.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.14%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dYAVIL7qdcGA8ojvkslSrLjczXFejSSx" />

Sammut said suburbs including New Farm and Teneriffe were considered before the group ultimately focused on Toowong due to its strong downsizer demographic and limited supply of developable riverfront land.

The site was acquired off-market after what Sammut described as a lengthy negotiation and planning process, with the developer pursuing an uplift to the original approval.

“We are DA approved now which is very exciting,” Sammut said.

“We've had our change approval come through and we've obviously doubled the height, 15 storeys plus rooftop. We've got 42 amazing apartments that are going to be coming to market soon.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ohkRkY0dIZlqdfME2EZePsCQavRiBadE" />

Bureau^proberts said the design responds to Toowong’s evolving urban character, balancing contemporary apartment living with the area’s established residential identity.

“A place where traditional Queensland living has taken place for centuries; Toowong is seeing a shift of contemporary influence, commercial and retail hubs mixed with well-considered residential offerings – all the while maintaining its character and charm,” the architect noted in planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council.

The architecture practice said the project’s form was shaped by its riverfront setting, flood considerations, neighbouring building scales, and view corridors.

“They said the mix of four and two-bedroom apartments capture the ‘fundamental qualities of Queenslander living,’ translated into the context of a contemporary subtropical building.”

The development sits just off Coronation Drive within walking distance of Toowong’s retail precinct and the upgraded Regatta ferry terminal, while also benefiting from proximity to the incoming green bridge connection to West End. Sammut said the accessibility and amenity offering were central to the site’s appeal.

The approval adds to growing residential activity along the Toowong riverfront, joining nearby projects including Consolidated Properties’ Monarch Residences and Spyre Group’s ARC Residences.

Sammut secures approval for debut Brisbane apartment development in Toowong

Developer Lanevick is heading back into Sydney’s apartment market after focusing more heavily on the luxury townhouse and terrace sector in recent years.

Lanevick, founded and directed by Steve Maroun, is expecting to receive approval in the coming months for a new apartment development in Gladesville, with the aim to launch it to the market later this year.

The 51-apartment project, designed by Studio Johnston, will comprise a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments positioned toward the Hunters Hill downsizer market.

“Traditionally it’s been difficult for people in that market to downsize because there just hasn’t been the right product available,” Maroun said.

“We’re targeting buyers who might have 30 to 40 per cent of their house value sitting in the bank after downsizing.

“They still want good spacious entertaining areas, they still want quality design, but they also want flexibility and the ability to enjoy life a bit more after working hard for a long time.”

The project sits near Boronia Park and within close proximity to the Parramatta River foreshore, an area Maroun says offers more of a Hunters Hill lifestyle than a traditional apartment precinct.

“From a lifestyle perspective, it’s really more Hunters Hill than Gladesville,” Maroun said. “You’re close to the foreshore, close to parklands, and still connected back into the village precinct.”

From level four and above, apartments will capture water views&nbsp;toward Sydney Harbour. Communal amenity will include rooftop entertaining areas, wellness spaces, and a gym tailored toward owner-occupier buyers.

“We’ve really designed these apartments around that buyer coming from the Hunters Hill LGA and what they’re actually looking for in their next chapter.”

The proposed development has also been designed to respond to the changing character of the broader Gladesville town centre, where a growing number of mixed-use and residential proposals are expected to emerge over the coming years.

“Gladesville presented a rare opportunity to deliver a genuinely design-led residential project within an evolving lifestyle precinct, just moments from the growing Gladesville town centre, and we’ve approached the project with a strong focus on architecture, liveability and long-term community value,” Maroun said.

Maroun said Lanevick saw a first-mover advantage within the precinct as planning controls continue to evolve to accommodate greater housing density.

“We think there’s a real opportunity there that hasn’t really been serviced properly yet,” he said.

“There’s going to be a broader evolution of the whole Gladesville village precinct over time, particularly with more activation and mixed-use outcomes.”

The Venus Street proposal will include a commercial and retail component at ground level designed to contribute to that evolving streetscape activation.

“A big part of the thinking was how do you activate that area properly and create more vibrancy and amenity, which is what Hunters Hill has been looking for,” Maroun said.

Lanevick’s focus since 2020 has largely been on smaller-scale luxury townhouse and terrace developments. The developer recently completed Royale Randwick, also designed by Studio Johnston, where prices reached $3.65 million. The project was featured in the UDIA NSW 2026 Professional Development Prospectus and was also named a finalist for Development of the Year.

&nbsp;

Lanevick to cater for Hunters Hill downsizers with new Gladesville apartment development

Property developer One Living, backed by former Macquarie banker turned investment manager Chris Green’s investment firm, has unveiled plans to bring more institutional capital into housing to help address the national supply crisis.

The New York-based investor has focused his firm, GreenPoint Partners, on addressing the supply shortage hitting middle market housing in Australia.

It is backing the new One Living business to develop more than 1000 units along the eastern seaboard. The new firm is starting with a development on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, with around 140 apartments planned. They are eyeing off more sites across the city.

With cost pressures rising in the industry, One Living’s model is to be a vertically integrated developer-builder, so it can respond directly to the housing gap by removing the cost inefficiencies embedded in traditional residential delivery.

“We are building a platform designed to operate at scale and starting in a market where there’s a clear need for quality, attainable housing,” One Living joint managing director Joseph Scuderi said.

“It’s that missing middle – it’s that attainable end of housing… that’s what most Australians invest into and what Australians can actually afford.”

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="798dfa93-4941-4db6-a696-31e9dc18e81c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.31.50%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=mKBqi5C_DmeiXS.AtJkcR8LQIxqCqmFi" />

GreenPoint Partners brings years of experience assembling and scaling real estate operating businesses across major markets. And Green sees a big opportunity in Australia.

“For its size, sophistication and importance to the community, Australia’s living sector has remained largely under-institutionalised, which represents significant opportunity,” Green said. “GreenPoint identified that gap, assembled the right team, and is backing One Living to build a platform that is aligned to market needs.”

Green said being a builder-developer would give the company the capacity and flexibility it required to deliver reasonably-priced homes.

“We want it to be at that attainable level; not super high end luxury but at that attainable level,” he said.

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74a5344a-4b26-4d4a-ada3-056b1220be77" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.32.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=vY8hXHO4reBMdO8ZXMWCNtGZJofUPQ3j" />

&nbsp;

One Living will undertake a component of affordable housing in its schemes, which it will own and operate, and it could also run build-to-rent on some sites.

Green praised local policy settings.

“The NSW government is being very supportive, strategic and pragmatic in terms of how do we generate more supply of housing,” he said. “We think it’s actually positive for development and the bit that’s been lacking at that attainable level is that it’s lots of relatively small private developers, whereas we want to create an institutional platform.”

One Living is also&nbsp;looking at high-density projects and could take on more institutional funding in the future.

“The way we will be able to achieve economies of scale is through size,” Green added.

One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition

It's been several years since there's been an opportunity to buy a brand new townhome in Melbourne's coastal suburb of Mordialloc. Even apartment developments in recent times have been few and far between in the area.

Local developer LDS Property identified the gap in new housing, securing a site on White Street, directly opposite&nbsp;Woodlands Golf Club Mordialloc. They've recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/wm-residences-mordialloc-102-white-street-mordialloc-vic-3195">WM Residences</a>, just 13 townhouses which they have already started building.

Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson, who is selling WM Residences, says the townhouses x that perfect middle ground be

"Mordialloc residents have had limited options to downsize within the suburb, often forcing them to look elsewhere despite long-standing ties to the area," Thompson says.

"With very little comparable new supply coming to market, projects like WM Residences are well placed, particularly as buyers look to capitalise on current conditions amid constrained supply."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6109]

The development, designed by regarded architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a>,&nbsp;adopts a deliberately restrained architectural approach, focusing on simplicity, durability and liveability rather than overt design gestures.

The boutique scale is central to the offering. With only 13 three-bedroom residences, each home is configured to prioritise functional layouts and everyday use, supported by private terraces and secure two-car garages.

Ewert Leaf’s design response leans into a calm, neutral material palette. Interiors are defined by oak flooring, white walls and soft finishes, creating a consistent and understated backdrop. The approach avoids trend-driven detailing in favour of longevity, with an emphasis on natural light and spatial clarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6110]

Beyond aesthetics, the homes are designed to meet contemporary performance expectations. Each residence targets a minimum 6-star energy rating, incorporating double glazing, comprehensive insulation and all-electric Bosch appliances.

The project’s location supports a walkable coastal lifestyle, sitting within close proximity to Mordialloc’s foreshore, Main Street retail strip and the train station. Local cafés and dining venues, including Suburbia Deli and Hendriks Café, are within a short walk, reinforcing the area’s established neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6116]

While <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mordialloc-vic-3195">Mordialloc</a> is often defined by its beach and pier, the project taps into other areas of day to day living, offering easy access to local food, casual dining and transport, rather than positioning itself purely as a lifestyle retreat.

WM Residences reflects a continued trend across Melbourne’s coastal suburbs towards smaller-scale, design-led townhouse developments, particularly on infill sites where proximity to amenity is already established.

With construction commenced prior to its market entry, the project aligns with a growing preference among buyers for developments with visible progress and defined delivery timeframes.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134646]

Nicola Trotman

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