<html><body>
A lack of a park or garden may be present, but developers are finding ways to add green features to their developments in high-density environments. 
The Block in Melbourne’s inner city suburb South Melbourne is the latest development to throw its support behind a greener environment and is incorporating vertical gardens on its exterior.
The supplier of the vertical gardens (pictured below) is Florafelt.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/07/blockjuly10one.jpg" width="470" height="350" alt="blockjuly10one">
The nylon felt is stapled to a plastic sign board and plant roots grow into the moist felt.
In the neighbouring suburb of Southbank, the apartment complex <a href="https://www.triptychliving.com/project-features/facade/" target="_blank">Triptych</a> boasts a 187-square-metre living wall, rising from level two to six above the Kavanagh Street entrance.
The wall includes 43 species of plants and grasses, selected to withstand the unpredictable Melbourne climate.
The gardens were grown off-site by gardening firm Fytogreen.
The inside lobbies of Triptych also feature vertical gardens.
<a href="https://www.elmapartments.com.au/home" target="_blank">Elm</a> Apartments on Dorcas Street in Southbank feature two vertical gardens with a combined total of 40 square metres.
The external garden comprises 20 species and the internal vertical garden features 17 special.
Another Southbank building to be a green building is <a href="https://www.habitatsouthbank.com.au/" target="_blank">Habitat</a>, featuring a three-storey vertical garden.
Habitat will include a total of 47 apartments across levels five to 33 and is a joint venture between Vicland developers and Rothelowman architects.
The largest vertical garden on a development in the southern hemisphere will be at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/platinum-at-southbank-secures-200-odd-sales-ahead-of-official-launch-platinum-salvoproperty/2013052361602">Platinum</a> in Southbank.
Rising from its third level, the seven-storey vertical garden will both conceal and naturally ventilate parking for 265 cars and storage units.
Tract Landscaping have designed a vertical garden for apartments and townhouses in <a href="https://www.clarasouthyarra.com.au/theapartments/pages/park-garden_verticalgardens" target="_blank">Clara</a>, South Yarra.
The garden wall acts as a backdrop to the courtyards and stretches around to the entrance.
Clara is a collaboration between R. Corporation, Jackson Clements Burrows Architects, Tract Landscaping and Jodhi Meares.
Property Observer has reported on <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/hanging-gardens-of-the-world/2011062350586" target="_blank">vertical gardens worldwide</a> and <a href="/news">One Central Park development's hanging gardens</a> in Sydney.
</body></html>

ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

Melbourne gets more high rise garden walls with Florafelt greening The Block Sky High

<html><body>
Construction on Mirvac’s Yarra Point tower in the waterfront precinct Yarra’s Edge is now complete, with 90% of residential apartments sold totalling over $150 million in sales.
The 31-level tower consists of 201 apartments in the sixth apartment tower within the Yarra Edge precinct.
A limited number of one, two and three-bedroom apartments and Sky Residences remain, starting from $595,000 to $1.4 million.
“We are pleased to announce that construction is complete at our luxurious waterfront address, a continuation of Yarra Point’s success story to date,” says John Carfi, chief executive officer of Mirvac Residential.
Construction on the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/docklands-development-yarra-point-three-quarters-sold-as-mirvac-says-the-price-is-right/2011110252174" target="_blank">$191 million development</a> was completed a month ahead of schedule.
“We expect to see this momentum at Yarra Point to continue over the coming months now that our prospective purchasers can see for themselves the degree of space, quality and craftsmanship in our remaining apartments,” says Carfi.
The tower features one, two and three-bedroom apartments ranging in size from 55 square metres to 214 square metres.
The tower features a two-level lobby - acting as an extension of the outdoors - with mature trees, succulents and bluestone.
Residents will also have use of a 300-square-metre rooftop garden, lounge, gymnasium and a business centre.
Property Observer recently <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/mirvac-s-yarra-point-comes-alive-with-oly-san-francisco-mirvac/2013052661437" target="_blank">reported</a> on the styling of a 31st floor sky residence with furnishings from Oly San Francisco.
Construction has commenced on Mirvac’s seventh residential tower at the waterfront precinct, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/half-of-apartments-in-mirvacs-array-development-in-docklands-sold/2013021459351" target="_blank">Array</a>.
The $218 million Array development offers a range of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments and is now 65% sold.
Marketing of the 39-storey development commenced in September 2012, with apartments priced from $520,000 for a one-bedroom apartment to $7 million for a penthouse.
The development is due to be completed in 2016, with first settlements occurring in mid-2015.
Mirvac have also launched a <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/nothing-backward-about-mirvac-s-black-label-loyalty-offering-at-array/2013030359620" target="_blank">project-specific brand loyalty-royalty scheme</a> for their returning or new clientele.
</body></html>

Mirvac's Yarra Point tower 90% sold as construction completed

<html><body>
One of the latest developments to hit Essendon is BPM’s $50 million Collins and Queen development.
Located on the corner of Collins and Queen Street, the development offers 111 apartments across two buildings.
Rothelowman is behind the architectural design of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.collinsandqueen.com.au/index">Collins and Queen</a>, offering a balance between slick and raw, rough and refined, urban and sophisticated.
The apartment interiors will feature rustic, natural materials to create an elegant industrial feel.
One-bedroom apartments start from $325,000 and two-bedroom apartments start from $489,000.
One and two-bedroom apartments range in size from 52 square metres to 84 square metres.
There is no price indication yet for the three-bedders.
Residents will have access to a communal garden, designed by Zenith Concepts and a Bocce court.
Stage one – featuring 63 apartments – launched two weeks ago and 30 apartments have since sold.
The median apartment price in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Essendon</a> is $420,000, with a 32.3% increase in the past five years, according to RP Data.
Construction is scheduled to start early next year with completion scheduled for the second half of 2015.
You can watch the Collins and Queen video here:
{qtube vid:=y5-cfIzZffY}
</body></html>

Collins and Queen development launches in Essendon

An original circa 1920s Queenslander - once the wedding gift for a local landowner&#39;s daughter - has been listed for sale.

The home last sold in August 2010 for $1,775,000 and prior to that, in February 2003 for $1,295,000.

The 2,023 square metre property at 47 Ruthven Street in Corinda features five bedrooms, three bathrooms, tennis court and a swimming pool.

It boasts original features including stained glass windows, bay seat windows and a large wrap-around-verandah.

Listing agent McGrath Estate Agents says there has been a much&nbsp;interest in the property.

As for&nbsp;price indication, they offer the proforma response that it will be a reflection of the market audience.

The median house price in <a href="/news">Corinda</a> is $529,000 with an annual reduction of 15%, according to RP Data.

A wedding gift Corinda Queenslander trophy home listing

<html><body>
Australand’s latest release in the masterplanned community Discovery Point is proving popular, with 75% of apartments now sold in the latest building Summit.
Discovery Point is located 10 kilometres from the Sydney CBD in Wolli Creek.
The 21-level residential building Summit (pictured above) features one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and will sit above a retail precinct and piazza-style village squire.
One-bedroom apartments are now completely sold out.
Two-bedroom apartments are available from $615,000 to $810,000.
Three-bedroom apartments are available from $815,000 to $1,235,000.
“The outstanding sales to date are a clear reflection of the strong demand that we continue to experience at Discovery Point,” says Australand New South Wales residential division general manager Nigel Edgar.
“Buyers are responding in great numbers to the well-designed apartments in a friendly well positioned community they can call home.
“The popularity of Summit is heightened by the impressive views if offers over the community’s parklands, across the river to the Sydney city skyline and out to Botany Bay,” says Edgar.
The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/sydney-discovery-point-development-launches-fifth-stage-after-previous-successes/2011102351974" target="_blank">first five stages of Discovery Point are completely sold out</a>, with apartments still available in the Watervue release.
Upon completion, Discovery Point will include 1,800 apartments.
Property Observer <a href="/news">reported</a> on the recent marketing campaign for Summit, which presented their offerings to an international audience through easy Chinese translation.
</body></html>

Strong sales at Summit at Discovery Point

<html><body>
Langton, a six-bedroom Queenslander style home in Greenslopes is on the market for the first time in 50 years.
Featuring a steeply pitched roof, classic wrap-around verandah and decorative gables, Langton is an example of a bygone era.
Langton is perched atop one of Greenslopes' highest hills at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-greenslopes-114147583" target="_blank"> 8-12 Henzell Terrace</a>, only six kilometres from the Brisbane CBD.
Situated on 1,821 square metres, the property features three bathrooms and has recently been divided into three flats.
The property boasts original brick open fireplace, bay windows seats, ornate ceilings and floor to ceiling stained glass windows.
The potential buyer has the option to restore Langton back into a family residence.
The median house price in <a href="/news">Greenslopes</a> is $577,500, according to RP Data.
The most expensive sale in Greenslopes was for a four-bedroom home at 5 Soden Street in December 2012.
Located on 1,012 square metres, the property sold for $2,775,000.
The most expensive sale on Henzell Terrace was a five-bedroom 1920 home at 18 Henzell Terrace, which sold in August 2006 for $1.32 million having been purchased in 1988 for $270,000.
Langton is due to go under the hammer on July 21 through <a href="https://spinksco.com.au/property-listings/8-12-henzell-terrace-greenslopes" target="_blank">Rachel Spinks of Spinks and Co Residential Consultancy.</a>
</body></html>

Greenslopes Queenslander home, Langton listed for first time in 50 years

<html><body>
A rural retreat with landscaped rose gardens in Point Leo was this week’s most expensive sale, selling for $3,657,000 on July 4, according to RP Data.
Located at 3785 Frankston Flinders Road, the limestone and timber residence includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
The master wing boasts a private lounge, ensuite, gymnasium and dressing room.
The property also features barrel-vaulted ceilings, a Tuscan-inspired alfresco courtyard and an outdoor kitchen.
The 10.61-hectare property boasts a boutique orchard and a tennis court with a summerhouse and offers views across Western Port Bay to Phillip Island.
The home was built in the mid-1980s and was purchased by the Hannan family in 1998 who expanded and opened the house through renovations. The property last traded at $830,000.
It was listed in April last year for $4 million.
The property was listed with Meg Pell of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rtedgar.com.au/?pagecall=property&amp;propertyID=1820879&amp;agentID=2448&amp;realestate=3785_Frankston_Flinders_Road_POINT_LEO_VIC_3916&amp;propertyStatus=SoldRented&amp;showGoBack=true">R T Edgar Flinders</a>.
The top 10 most expensive sales of the week are:
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/3785_frankston-flinders_road_point_leo_vic_3916/12541585">3785 Frankston-Flinders Road, Point Leo, VIC, 3916</a>, three-bedroom house, sold on July 4 by R T Edgar Flinders for $3.657 million
 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/1403/61-69_macquarie_street_sydney_nsw_2000/6611387">1403/61 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000</a>, three-bedroom unit, sold on July 4 by Morton &amp; Morton Sydney for $3.6 million
 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/2/39-43a_milson_road_cremorne_point_nsw_2090/2004415">2/39 Milson Road, Cremorne Point, NSW, 2090</a>, three-bedroom unit, sold on July 3 by L J Hooker Mosman/Neutral Bay for $3.2 million
 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/105_ocean_street_woollahra_nsw_2025/7740592">105 Ocean Street, Woollahra, NSW, 2025</a>, four-bedroom house, sold on July 5 by GoodyerDonnelley Real Estate for $2.92 million
 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/5_kidston_street_ascot_qld_4007/2681419">5 Kidston Street, Ascot, QLD, 4007</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on July 6 by Ray White Ascot for $2.56 million
 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/59_kangaroo_point_road_kangaroo_point_nsw_2224/3186739">59 Kangaroo Point Road, Kangaroo Point, NSW, 2224</a>, four-bedroom house, sold on July 2 by Fans Realty for $2.5 million
 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/7b_park_lane_claremont_wa_6010/15921585">7b Park Lane, Claremont, WA, 6010</a>, three-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on July 6 by Vitale Fine Properties Peppermint Grove for $2.5 million
 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/4/11_elamang_avenue_kirribilli_nsw_2061/3433017">4/11 Elamang Avenue, Kirribilli, NSW, 2061</a>, two-bedroom unit, sold at auction on July 6 by Ray White Lower North Shore for $2.3 million
 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/31a_links_road_bowral_nsw_2576/1571506">31a Links Road, Bowral, NSW, 2576</a>, six-bedroom house, sold on July 5 by Campbell Jones Property Bowral for $2.2 million
 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/18_carranya_road_riverview_nsw_2066/5864058">18 Carranya Road, Riverview, NSW, 2066</a>, five-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on July 6 by Belle Property Lane Cove for $2.185 million
</body></html>

Point Leo rural retreat most expensive sale of the week: RP Data

<html><body>
Construction has officially begun on Anka Property Group’s $200 million Union Balmain development in Sydney’s Rozelle.
The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/anka-s-union-balmain-sells-60-of-apartments-at-launch/2013041060285" target="_blank">launch kicked off in April this year </a>and the 202-apartment development is now 80% sold, according to Ben Stewart of CBRE.
Anka has joined forces with architects Turner Studio and interior designers SJB with plans to deliver a five-star, green star development, in the hopes of minimising its carbon footprint.
One-bedroom apartments range in size from 58 square metres to 113 square metres and have a starting price of $625,000.
Two-bedroom apartments range in size from 86 square metres to 147 square metres and start from $860,000.
Three-bedroom apartments range in size from 115 to 249 square metres and start from $1,095,000.
The three-building, six-storey complex will feature a residents-only rooftop park with a communal vegetable garden and BBQ areas.
The development has an expected completion date of early 2015.
</body></html>

Construction begins on the now 80% sold Union Balmain

<html><body>
Sydney couple Madi and Jarrod’s apartment in The Block Sky High is the latest to kick start its marketing campaign.
The South Melbourne property is listed through <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.bigginscott.com.au/property/details/11671">Biggin and Scott Richmond</a>.
“We are very confident that Madi and Jarrod will go very well,” says listing agent Russell Cambridge.
“Their apartment has all the same benefits as the top floor, a great outlook, views and heaps of light.”
The Park Street apartment features three bedrooms and five-bathrooms – including his and hers in the master suite.
The couple won the spare bedroom and ensuite room week, scoring 29-and-a-half out of 30 for their “bright citrus Scandinavian modern fresh” palette.
The potential buyer will also have use of the communal rooftop terrace, including BBQs and an outdoor cinema.
Cambridge says he has been pleasantly surprised as there have been a couple of strong enquiries, particularly from the empty nester age group.
In terms of price guide, Cambridge said it was too hard to tell at this point.
“It’s The Block, anything can happen,” says Cambridge.
The Block Sky High <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/the-block-trophy-penthouse-listed-for-%2413-million-plus/2013062762725">penthouse is listed for $1.3 million plus</a> and<a target="_blank" href="/news"> level one</a> is advised as $1.2 million plus.
Biggin and Scott are using the marketing campaign and exposure of the show to shine light on the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.heartkids.org.au/">Heart Kids charity.</a>
“We believe this is a great opportunity to give our wonderful charity Heart Kids exposure through the show.
“We are co-branding ourselves with Heart Kids on most of our marketing,” says Cambridge.
Russell Cambridge and Sam Davenport have the listing.
</body></html>

The Block Madi and Jarrod's apartment attracting strong interest

<html><body>
Guillaume Brahimi will be closing the doors to his top-tier restaurant Bennelong at the iconic Sydney Opera House at the end of year.
The shift comes as Brahimi’s lease expires at the end of the year and he did not submit a tender by Tuesday night due to apparent conflicting directions.
The French-born chef has owned and run the Bennelong site for 12 years and planned to submit a tender, until he saw the Opera House Trust was looking for a “welcoming food and beverage venue” to be open seven days a week.
Although Brahimi operates bistros in Perth and Melbourne, his Bennelong restaurant is a fine dining venue.
Guillaume at Bennelong serves contemporary Australian cuisine with a classical French influence.
“That’s not what I do,” Brahimi said to The Australian Financial Review.
“It’s an iconic spot, the Opera House deserves a fine dining restaurant.
“We worked hard for 12 years to create a special experience, Bennelong for me, is a fine dining venue,” says Brahimi.
Brahimi secured the contract to run the Bennelong restaurant in 2001 and gave it a major overhaul.
Sydney Opera House commercial director David Watson says the trust is required to conduct a public tender for their expiring food and beverage contracts in line with the NSW Government procurement policy.
Watson says it’s also an opportunity to ensure greater diversity, more price points and dining experiences that are open more often to cater to the 8.2 million visitors annually.
Brahimi said his future plans would be announced in the coming months.
Brahimi lives by the Sydney Habour with his wife and children.
</body></html>

Guillaume Brahimi to close doors at Bennelong as Opera House seeks bistro-style cafe and restaurant

For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Joel Robinson

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]

The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

Nicola Trotman

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News