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The iconic <a href="/new-apartments/sydney-house-194-204-pitt-street-sydney">City Tattersalls Club</a> in central Sydney has been given the seal of approval by the Central Sydney Planning Committee to undergo Stage 1 of redevelopment.

The building that is almost 125 years old, falls within a significant heritage overlay, meaning that the heritage façade will be thoughtfully preserved, with an additional modern tower planned to be seamlessly integrated within the site.

Developer <a href="/developers/icd-property">ICD Property</a> has worked closely with architecture firm <a href="/architects/fjmt">fjmt</a> to ensure the design carefully reflects the heritage of the site and surrounding area.

<blockquote>
“This is a site of great significance with three interconnected heritage buildings and a series of beautiful interiors which can be restored to their original grandeur. It has been a home to the club since 1891. Now after working closely with the City, ICD and the Club we have a vision that will restore and reinvigorate the heritage buildings and give new life to this historic club and this important place in our City.”
</blockquote>

Richard Francis-Jones, fjmt Design Director

After overcoming previous permit hurdles, the newly acquired approval has granted permission for the developer to rejuvenate the entire clubhouse – including retail, restaurants, hotel and club reception, as well as an including a brand-new events space, premium co-working space, health and wellbeing facilities, and more.

<blockquote>
“Not only will our work breathe life back into this site, but we hope that it will contribute heavily to the surrounding CBD streetscape, alongside the upcoming redevelopment of the neighbouring David Jones site by Scentre Group and CBUS and introduction of a new tram network on nearby George Street.”
</blockquote>

Matthew Khoo, ICD Property Managing Director

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/city_tattersalls_club_-_hero_-_rev_c_-_with_note.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="City Tattersalls Club render"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="850" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/city_tattersalls_club_-_hero_-_rev_c_-_with_note.jpg?itok=6sVctF0j" title="City Tattersalls Club render" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>City Tattersalls Club render</figcaption></figure>The plans also show scope for a new 49-storey tower comprising of around 246 residential apartments and a 100-room hotel above the historic site.

<blockquote>
“We are excited to be part of Sydney’s growth, contributing a development that will greatly enhance the CBD by including an activated ground floor, home to a number of businesses and amenities that will bring people together and give back to the local streetscape.”
</blockquote>

Located at 194-204 Pitt Street, the prime location makes this development a highly sought-after development project and is a very unique residential and hotel opportunity for all parties involved.

ICD Property is currently collaborating with fjmt to create an exciting design competition process which will commence in 2020. The competition will see a prestigious line-up of architects vying for the job to design the City Tattersalls Club.

<blockquote>
“City Tattersalls Club’s rejuvenated premises will be a modern multi-purpose facility for inner-city residents and a tremendous new base from which the Club can continue to serve the city and its many thousands of members well into a second century.”
</blockquote>

Patrick Campion, City Tattersalls Club Chairman
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Olivia Round

Sydney’s City Tattersalls Club gains approval for redevelopment

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The eagerly awaited <a href="/new-apartments/parramatta-nsw">Parramatta</a> development <a href="/buildings/west-village-88-church-street-parramatta">West Village</a> celebrated its grand topping out ceremony on Tuesday, reaching a towering 40-levels. The construction milestone was commended by Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer, who joined the <a href="/developers/ecoworld-international">EcoWorld International</a> and <a href="/builders/parkview">Parkview</a> management teams in a ceremonial tree planting.

<blockquote>
“West Village is our first Australian project to top out and it was an honour to celebrate the occasion alongside Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer. We have always held the view that Parramatta would be the next growth area for Sydney due to its central geographical location in New South Wales and its excellent infrastructure and amenities.”
</blockquote>

Yap Foo Leong, CEO of EcoWorld International Australia

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/datoteowleongecoworld-tansriliewkeesinecoworld-bobdwyerlordmayor-tonytoumaparkview-yapfooleongecoworld.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dato Teow Leong (EcoWorld), Tan Sri Liew Kee Sin (EcoWorld), Bob Dwyer (LordMayor), Tony Touma (Parkview), Yap Foo Leong (Ecoworld)"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/datoteowleongecoworld-tansriliewkeesinecoworld-bobdwyerlordmayor-tonytoumaparkview-yapfooleongecoworld.jpg?itok=iQRm6zw8" title="Dato Teow Leong (EcoWorld), Tan Sri Liew Kee Sin (EcoWorld), Bob Dwyer (LordMayor), Tony Touma (Parkview), Yap Foo Leong (Ecoworld)" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Dato Teow Leong (EcoWorld), Tan Sri Liew Kee Sin (EcoWorld), Bob Dwyer (LordMayor), Tony Touma (Parkview), Yap Foo Leong (Ecoworld)</figcaption></figure>Designed by award-winning architecture firm <a href="/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, with grounds by celebrity landscape architect Miles Baldwin, West Village has been a success among buyers with a 95% sale rate.

The tower features 398 luxury, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, which rise from a vibrant ground-floor retail precinct. Encompassed in a façade of elegant glazing, each apartment boasts ample natural light, grand balconies and stunning views across Parramatta.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/westvillage_home_greenspaces_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Village alfresco dining precinct. Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="595" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westvillage_home_greenspaces_01.jpg?itok=N-VwA6ql" title="West Village alfresco dining precinct. Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Village alfresco dining precinct. Image supplied.</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/westvillageparamatta_s030_int_penthouse-1030x686.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Village apartment. Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westvillageparamatta_s030_int_penthouse-1030x686.jpg?itok=E7zcutO-" title="West Village apartment. Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Village apartment. Image supplied.</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/westvillage_home_rooftopgarden_02-v1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Village resident garden podium. Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="595" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westvillage_home_rooftopgarden_02-v1.jpg?itok=RV1N5hZU" title="West Village resident garden podium. Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Village resident garden podium. Image supplied.</figcaption></figure>Atop the tower is a tranquil rooftop Skydeck and garden terrace, giving residents a space to relax and unwind. Other amenities include barbeque facilities, virtual golf simulator, a piano room and an on-site supermarket.

<blockquote>
“Parramatta truly suits our hallmark for rolling out quality developments in prime locations that can cater to the local needs of the residents and the success West Village has experienced confirms the prediction that Parramatta is set to become the new CBD.”
</blockquote>

Yap Foo Leong, CEO of EcoWorld International Australia

Situated in the heart of Parramatta’s growing urban village West Village sits alongside skyscrapers such as Altitude, Skyrise and the soon to be completed 4 Parramatta Square. The enviable location has been a hit among buyers who have been drawn to the area due to the prolific infrastructure projects set to commence within the area to cater to Parramatta’s growing population.

West Village is EcoWorld International’s first Australian project, with Yarra One in Melbourne also currently under construction and set to top out by February 2020.
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Parramatta’s West Village tops out at 40 levels

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Imagine being able to explore your new apartment, move your furniture around, and change the entire design palette at the click of a button. Thanks to the innovative technology of Virtual Reality (VR) and the talented team behind BVN REAL, apartment floorplans are being brought to life, with several buyers already trialing the product.

The cutting-edge new VR production studio named BVN REAL is a subsidiary business of <a href="/architects/bvn-architecture">award-winning architectural design firm BVN</a> and is led by creative director Barry Dineen and a team of highly skilled Game Developer Designers, 3D Visualisation Artists, VR Experience Developers, and Experience Designers. The product took four years to build and has already won the coveted 'Unreal Award' in 2018 (prior to the public launch) as well as receiving two other nominations in The AEC Excellence Awards.

<blockquote>
“Right now, people need to interpret, imagine, and visualise their future home using architectural drawings, plans, and 3D renders of the space. With VR they can actually step into their future for themselves and feel what it is like to be there. 

Our VR experiences give people the confidence to know that what they are seeing is exactly what they are going to get. It’s building trust and reducing the risk involved in one of the biggest purchases of buyers lives.”
</blockquote>

Barry Dineen, Creative Director at BVN REAL 

<div class="intrinsic">
<div class="intrinsic-inner">
<iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" id="yui_3_17_2_1_1573710549547_74" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/312440113?app_id=122963&amp;wmode=opaque" width="650"></iframe>
</div>
</div>

BVN REAL creative director Barry Dineen humbly acknowledged that although previous iterations of the technology were not taken to immediately, perseverance and user research led the team to focus in on how people authentically engage with VR.

<blockquote>
“The result is a powerfully immersive experience designed expressly for human interaction. A lot of developers and sales teams have dismissed VR because they tried a VR experience that was not designed with human behaviour at its core. When they try BVN REAL’s experiences there is an “ah-ha” moment where they see the true potential for VR for themselves.”
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/bvn_real_immersive.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Users experiencing VR in the studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bvn_real_immersive.jpg?itok=1y6l8TwQ" title="Users experiencing VR in the studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Users experiencing VR in the studio</figcaption></figure>INTUITIVE FEATURES INTEGRATED WITHIN BVN REAL

<ol>
<li>Users can instantly move between different apartment configurations and floorplans to compare options on offer</li>
	<li>Users have the ability to configure the space in real-time
	<blockquote>
	“Our experiences allow them to try out different materials and finishes options, change out furniture and fittings to their taste, or even strip it back to the empty shell so that they can get a better feeling for the space itself.”
	</blockquote>

	Barry Dineen, Creative Director at BVN REAL
	</li>
	<li>A realistic sunlight system enables users to experience the property at all times of the day</li>
	<li>All elements of the apartments virtually function the way they would in real life
	<blockquote>
	“A major goal of any VR experience is presence – feeling like you are actually in that place. When a user tries to turn on a tap and the tap does nothing, they are reminded that they are in a virtual environment. 

	We want the technology to disappear so that they can truly appreciate the design of a space. At first adding running taps felt like a novelty but over time we have grown to realise the importance of reacting to people’s input.”
	</blockquote>

	Barry Dineen, Creative Director at BVN REAL

	<ol></ol>
</li>
	<li>BVN REAL experiences are often ‘multiplayer’ because people feel more relaxed and comfortable when sharing the virtual experience with another real person. Currently, an avatar is used to represent those in the VR simulation with you
	<blockquote>
	“Realistically not many people are buying apartments on their own so we are trying to replicate what would happen if the apartment already existed. People walk around together a discuss the features and amenities. What really amazes us in our VR experiences is how many important conversations happen in the bathroom - even when the VR is situated on the 83rd floor of Sydney’s highest residential building with amazing views over the city.”
	</blockquote>

	Barry Dineen, Creative Director at BVN REAL

	<ol></ol>
</li>
	<li>Sales agents can join in at any stage to answer any questions live from within the VR simulation</li>
</ol>
HOW VR CAN PROVIDE TRANSPARENCY IN THE OFF-THE-PLAN MARKET

In concurrence with Barry Dineen’s sentiment about VR giving buyers the ability to see a home before they buy it, BVN Co-CEO Neil Logan explains that it also helps provide more transparency and helps advocate for better built outcomes.

<blockquote>
“VR has radically changed the way we communicate design. What was once opaque to many is now transparent and easily digestible. It has facilitated better understanding of design intent and has provided the opportunity for better built outcomes. 

We are proud to make this service available to broader markets. In doing this we believe that we are contributing to the design of a better future”.
</blockquote>

BVN co-CEO Neil Logan

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/penthouse_hero.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Penthouse apart VR "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="426" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penthouse_hero.jpg?itok=GpWjXi6N" title="Penthouse apart VR " width="680"></a>

<figcaption>Penthouse apart VR</figcaption></figure>WHAT’S INVOLVED IN THE PRODUCTION OF A VIRTUAL WALKTHROUGH

A typical 3-bedroom apartment takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks to develop. Often architects will use BIM to build their designs in 3D, making it easier to prepare each design component for the gaming software used to create the virtual reality experience (BVN REAL use Unreal Engine from Epic Games).

Designers will also supply the BVN REAL team with imagery of the fixtures, finishes, and furniture, which will be used to populate the VR design.

<div class="intrinsic">
<iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" id="yui_3_17_2_1_1573710532178_74" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/355499775?app_id=122963&amp;wmode=opaque" title="Convene VR" width="736"></iframe>
</div>

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE OF BVN REAL LOOK LIKE?

Virtual Reality’s capabilities extend far beyond unbuilt architecture. Not only is BVN REAL exploring VR within our current reality, but also within purely virtual worlds that will never exist in our own. In the past, the team has created Makerspaces which allow school students to build and launch full-size rockets.

<div class="intrinsic">
<iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" id="yui_3_17_2_1_1573710534038_74" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/343358323?app_id=122963&amp;wmode=opaque" title="MakerspaceX" width="736"></iframe>
</div>

Creative Director Barry has grand ideas for the future of BVN REAL, such as developing the world’s largest museum/gallery.

<blockquote>
“I really want to develop the worlds biggest museum/gallery as a virtual place that people can visit that allows us to do things and see things that we could never do or see in the real world – and it would be accessible to everyone.”
</blockquote>

Barry Dineen, Creative Director at BVN REAL 

We look forward to following the progress of BVN REAL’s exciting future developments with the VR architecture space.

 

<div class="rtecenter">BVN IN THE NEWS</div>

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<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/upcycling-australia-why-demolish-when-you-can-re-polish">Upcycling Australia: Why demolish when you can re-polish?</a></div>

<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/parramatta-suburb-guide-highlighting-new-developments-in-sydneys-second-cbd">Suburb Guide: Parramatta's boom rundown</a></div>

<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/new-photos-latest-construction-update-of-7-qld-projects">NEW PHOTOS: Latest construction update of 7 QLD projects</a></div>
</body></html>

Introducing BVN REAL: Off-the-plan virtual reality house viewings are here

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Saving up a house deposit can take years, and over those years property prices are likely to rise with inflation – making many first home buyers feel like they're chasing shifting goalposts. Do you buy with a smaller deposit and secure a cheaper property? Or do you grow your nest egg and buy your home a few years down the track? What if you could freeze time and buy at an agreed purchase price today, giving you a set goal to work towards?

Thanks to <a href="/news/introducing-the-assemble-model-a-new-pathway-to-apartment-buying-and-ownership">housing models like Assemble</a>, this concept is becoming a reality.

<h2 class="rtecenter">ASSEMBLE launches rent-with-an-option-to-buy model in Australia</h2>

<a href="/developers/assemble">Assemble</a> is a housing model that aims to <a href="/news/first-home-buyers-camp-overnight-to-secure-affordable-property-in-geelong">disrupt the property unaffordability cycle</a> by providing more attainable housing finance options, and essentially giving first home buyers the independence and <a href="/guides">confidence</a> needed to enter the property market. The Assemble team, led by managing director Kris Daff, identified a problem – out of reach house prices and insecure lease tenure. Four years ago, Assemble began researching North American and Western European co-operative development models and decided to launch their own rent-with-an-option-to-buy model in Australia.

<blockquote>
“We’ve all watched the housing market become out of reach for many Australians with no option other than the traditional rental market. It’s unusual for renters to be offered leases longer than 12 months; this means many renters are moving every 12 months, which is an incredibly disruptive and stressful living situation.”
</blockquote>

Kris Daff, Assemble Managing Director

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/macaulay_rd_slider_1-2_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Assemble's 393 Macaulay Road, Kensington"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="383" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/macaulay_rd_slider_1-2_0.jpg?itok=MmzGEo10" title="Assemble's 393 Macaulay Road, Kensington" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Assemble's <a href="/buildings/38-albermarle-st-393-macaulay-road-kensington">393 Macaulay Road, Kensington</a></figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/macaulay_rd_slider_10.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Assemble's 393 Macaulay Road, Kensington"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="383" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/macaulay_rd_slider_10.png?itok=WGdCgyx8" title="Assemble's 393 Macaulay Road, Kensington" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Assemble's <a href="/buildings/38-albermarle-st-393-macaulay-road-kensington">393 Macaulay Road, Kensington</a></figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-13_at_3.14.20_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Assemble's 393 Macaulay Road, Kensington"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="190" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-13_at_3.14.20_pm.png?itok=n2iZsfhX" title="Assemble's 393 Macaulay Road, Kensington" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Assemble's <a href="/buildings/38-albermarle-st-393-macaulay-road-kensington">393 Macaulay Road, Kensington</a></figcaption></figure><h2 class="rtecenter">How does the Assemble model work?</h2>

Residents of an Assemble property will be given a secure grace period to decide whether they would like to purchase their home upon lease maturity. If the resident does not wish to buy, they can still get their bond back like a typical lease agreement. However, if they wish to proceed with the sale, then they can secure their home for the sale price agreed to at the beginning of the tenancy – meaning any value increase over the construction and lease period it the buyer’s own financial gain.

<blockquote>
“The purchase price is fixed today, so residents know what they can purchase the apartment for in seven years. Given inflation, construction cost increases and property history, we believe our prices are conservative. Even if the property market only increases 4% over that time, residents can expect to be paying 20% less than market averages at the time of purchase.”
</blockquote>

Kris Daff, Assemble Managing Director

<h2 class="rtecenter">Tenure certainty a key catalyst behind homeownership</h2>

One of the key drivers for owner-occupier buyers to secure property is for the sense of stability it provides. It can be difficult to secure a rental for longer than a 12-month period, making it especially difficult for families with children who attend the local school to constantly relocate, and sometimes property maintenance can suffer if neglected by an unattentive landlord, making the home unpleasant to live in.

<blockquote>
“We strongly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to access stable housing. The stability and certainty of a long-term lease enables residents to stay in one place for a long period, to make connections and establish a network. Things some people take for granted like getting to know the local GP, getting children into schools and making long term friends are more possible when people are provided with tenure certainty.”
</blockquote>

Kris Daff, Assemble Managing Director

While buying a home is not an option for a lot of renters in Australia due to the high cost of living and financial stability, rent-to-own options can provide a smoother transition into homeownership even for those who have written off buying in the current property market completely.

<h2 class="rtecenter">Assemble enabled first home buyers Fenella and Lee to break into the property market</h2>

CASE STUDY

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ap_stories_323_web.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lee Johnston and Fenella McGowan. Photo: Tom Ross."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ap_stories_323_web.jpg?itok=ZmLtRMNK" title="Lee Johnston and Fenella McGowan. Photo: Tom Ross." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lee Johnston and Fenella McGowan. Photo: Tom Ross.</figcaption></figure>First home buyers Fenella McGowan and her husband Lee Johnston had been encouraged to explore the option of 'rent-with-an-option-to-buy' by two friends who had already bought into the model. Fenella explained that unless they had looked into this opportunity, they couldn’t have afforded to buy into the current market.

<blockquote>
“[Assemble] seemed like the only way my husband could break in to the market to be honest! We were finding saving for an unknown really difficult, especially when you continually see the market prices rise. It can be really demotivating. This gave us the opportunity to lock in a space, in a suburb we love with the knowledge of how much exactly we need to save.”
</blockquote>

Fenella McGowan, Assemble property buyer

The couple already lives in <a href="/developments/kensington-vic-3031">Kensington</a> and wanted to remain in the area, so when they heard about Assemble’s new development, they decided to jump at the opportunity and were glad they did.

<blockquote>
“Both my husband and I are looking forward to finally owning a space of our own… I’m actually possibly most excited about having a bath! There’s also the added luxury of being able to build up close relationships with your neighbours – something of which can be a little harder when you’re in a stand-alone home. Especially considering we’re expecting our first child; we feel really positive about the added level of security in that sense.”
</blockquote>

Fenella McGowan, Assemble property buyer

<h2 class="rtecenter">What added benefits do Assemble homes offer buyers?</h2>

1. Financial security

Assemble has worked closely with ANZ to assess the mortgage serviceability of their homes, catering to a household income of $60,000 and upwards – and are also committed to providing at least 70% affordable housing to low- and moderate-income earners.

Buyers will also receive free financial coaching to buyers and explore the possibility of bulk buying discounts for expenses such as energy, data, and groceries with the goal of reducing household expenses by approximately 20%.

2. Ability to customise your home

Even during the rental period, residents will have the freedom to customise their home and won’t need permission for superficial improvements such as interior painting or installing a cat/dog door.

3. Outstanding sustainability credentials

Assemble projects have a goal to achieve a minimum 7-7.5 star NatHERs rating across all developments. Each project also adopts several passive design principles including orientation, shading, cross-flow ventilation and external circulation, green roofs and communal open space.

4. Emphasis on communal space

Assemble has practical community spaces such as workshops, a lending library, edible gardens, laundry and clotheslines, flexible communal rooms with a kitchen, dog washing facilities and kids play areas.

5. Assemble are planning for the future

Assemble Managing Director Kris Daff explains that the team is highly dedicated to future-proofing their properties by negotiating extended warranties and maintenance obligations with suppliers and contractors.

<blockquote>
“We ensure the materials we choose are not only beautiful in their design but are also durable, age well and are responsibly sourced.”
</blockquote>

Kris Daff, Assemble Managing Director

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/fieldwork_roseneath_ctatjana-plitt_57a9392.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Assemble's 122 Roseneath Street, Clifton Hill"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fieldwork_roseneath_ctatjana-plitt_57a9392.jpg?itok=NbHQL9i3" title="Assemble's 122 Roseneath Street, Clifton Hill" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Assemble's <a href="/buildings/122-roseneath-st-122-roseneath-street-clifton-hill">122 Roseneath Street, Clifton Hill</a></figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/fieldwork_roseneath_ctatjana-plitt_57a8844.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Assemble's 122 Roseneath Street, Clifton Hill"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fieldwork_roseneath_ctatjana-plitt_57a8844.jpg?itok=FQzT2Qeo" title="Assemble's 122 Roseneath Street, Clifton Hill" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Assemble's <a href="/buildings/122-roseneath-st-122-roseneath-street-clifton-hill">122 Roseneath Street, Clifton Hill</a></figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/fieldwork_roseneath_ctatjana-plitt_57a9223-1_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Assemble's 122 Roseneath Street, Clifton Hill"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fieldwork_roseneath_ctatjana-plitt_57a9223-1_0.jpg?itok=Fav3tsKK" title="Assemble's 122 Roseneath Street, Clifton Hill" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Assemble's <a href="/buildings/122-roseneath-st-122-roseneath-street-clifton-hill">122 Roseneath Street, Clifton Hill</a></figcaption></figure>Lead image: Assemble property buyers, Fenella McGowan and Lee Johnston. Photo: Tom Ross.
</body></html>

Rent with an option to buy: The housing model helping first home buyers into the property market

<html><body>
Developer <a href="/developers/ceerose">Ceerose</a> has announced the completion of their dual-tower, luxury development <a href="/buildings/atelier-32-jarrett-street-leichhardt">Atelier</a> in Sydney's thriving suburb of Leichhardt, as well as launching into the final phase of sales of the project’s premium apartments.

<blockquote>
"We pride ourselves on building extraordinary timeless masterpieces that residents from all generations are very proud to call home. Atelier is an exemplary piece of contemporary architecture that is now standing as a legacy development which fuses with Leichhardt’s rich tapestry and authentic charm. Ceerose is incredibly proud of our third iconic project that seamlessly melds an old heritage building with new modern architecture into Sydney village living."
</blockquote>

Edward Doueihi, Managing Director of Ceerose

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/web_dusk-12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/web_dusk-12.jpg?itok=K_4QWWYV" title="Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image supplied.</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/tpaa5651_e02_jarrett_st_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image credit: Ceerose"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="402" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tpaa5651_e02_jarrett_st_1.jpg?itok=yTiXDhFQ" title="Image credit: Ceerose" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image credit: Ceerose</figcaption></figure>Designed by renowned architect <a href="/architects/giles-tribe-architects">Giles Tribe Architects</a> the <a href="/developments/leichhardt-nsw-2040">Leichhardt</a> development features two separate towers of five and six-storeys high, connected by a landscaped communal courtyard. The development also seamlessly integrates the existing Gina’s Bakery façade within the modern design.

<blockquote>
"A zinc and terracade facade against traditional brick render gives an innovative, distinctive and rhythmic appearance to Atelier, and compliments the industrial heritage of the area. Gina’s Bakery façade has been retained with the shed and chimney reinstated and integrated into the façade."
</blockquote>

Danny Yeung, Architect at Giles Tribe Architects

Atelier’s luxury apartment interiors feature bespoke fixtures and fittings and boast stunning city views. Each kitchen includes luxurious timber finishes, Smeg appliances, tiled splashbacks, and custom-made cupboard joinery. The central courtyard encourages light to flow into each apartment as well as inspiring community and relaxation.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/web_apartment_1-5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="416" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/web_apartment_1-5.jpg?itok=K5Pvub8U" title="Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image supplied.</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/web_apartment_2-10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/web_apartment_2-10.jpg?itok=lF3ZcjO1" title="Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image supplied.</figcaption></figure>Located at 32 Jarrett Street, Atelier’s neighbouring Parramatta Road corridor is due for a mega $123 million rejuvenation and will see the creation of village-style urban plazas, express bus lanes, and cycleways – adding significant value to the Leichhardt area. Atelier is also within walking distance to Parramatta Road and Norton Street’s shopping precinct with cafes, restaurants and retail stores as well as several schools and universities, including Sydney University and the University of Technology.

<blockquote>
"Atelier is the only completed well-appointed new luxurious building available in the Leichhardt area. There are only a limited number of opportunities left for discerning purchasers to buy one of these beautiful residences."
</blockquote>

Tim Rees, Senior Director for CBRE Residential Projects and head sales agent for Atelier

<iframe frameborder="0" height="500" src="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/leichhardt-nsw?embeddable=list-map" width="100%"></iframe>
</body></html>

Leichhardt’s 'Atelier' completes construction and launches final sales phase

<html><body>
Victoria’s first home buyers are venturing further afield to secure their first lot of Australian soil – with many setting their sights on the burgeoning municipality of Geelong. A new residential development situated between central Geelong and the Surf Coast has caught the attention of first home buyers due to its uniquely affordable pricepoint. By 4 pm last Friday, prospective buyers were setting up camp at <a href="/new-townhouses/harriott-townhomes-armstrong-creek">Harriott Armstrong Creek</a> in order to place an early offer on their dream section first thing Saturday morning.

First home buyer Jesse White, a 22-year-old travel agent from East Geelong, was among the many buyers who camped onsite and secured one of the sought after sections.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/halcyon_jessewhite.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="First home buyer Jesse White. Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/halcyon_jessewhite.jpg?itok=8CqSv0_v" title="First home buyer Jesse White. Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>First home buyer Jesse White. Image supplied.</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
“There’s a lot of demand for reasonably priced land in a good location such as this so I was willing to camp out so I wouldn’t miss out. It’s a large growth area and it’s an exciting opportunity to have this as my first property purchase.”
</blockquote>

The residential precinct is being delivered by <a href="/developers/jinding">Jinding Developments</a> in partnership with Yolk Property Group and landowners the Harkness family. Currently, only a small collection of sections have been released, with 75% of sales contracted within the first hour.

It is likely that the rollout of remaining sections will also be staggered with further releases being brought to market as required.

Jinding Developments managing director Liz Ronson explains that first home buyer confidence is on the rise thanks to Harriott Armstrong Creek’s competitive price-point.

<blockquote>
“The sales results from our first weekend ultimately show the confidence in the Armstrong Creek housing market and its growing popularity as an ideal place to live for first home buyers. We are pleased we can offer this lifestyle at such an affordable entry point and are overwhelmed by the commitment of those who camped overnight to make sure they secured their lot.”
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/halcyon_lizronson.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Halcyon sales commence. Image supplied."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/halcyon_lizronson.jpg?itok=KIZX1Dn_" title="Halcyon sales commence. Image supplied." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sales commence. Image supplied.</figcaption></figure><h2>
OVERVIEW OF THE HARRIOTT ARMSTRONG CREEK PRECINCT
</h2>

<ul>
<li>The first stage of land lots varied in size with prices ranging from $199,000 for 221 square metres to $299,000 for 512 square metres</li>
	<li>The land is situated on 94-hectares just 10 kilometres from Geelong CBD</li>
	<li>Harriott Armstrong Creek is surrounded by natural wetlands, and close to existing shops, public transport, schools, and restaurants</li>
	<li>An elevated community park will boast stunning views of Sparrovale wetlands</li>
</ul>
<div class="rtecenter"> </div>

<div class="rtecenter">Read more: <a href="/news/new-housing-development-aims-to-cater-to-significant-population-growth-anticipated-for-geelong">New housing development aims to cater to significant population growth anticipated for Geelong</a></div>
</body></html>

First home buyers camp overnight to secure affordable property in Geelong

<html><body>
Each year over 1.2 million Sydney residents visit the city’s nine library branches, borrowing more than 1.3 million items. To accommodate the strong demand for library services, The City of Sydney and <a href="/developers/lendlease-development">Lendlease</a> have recently unveiled a brand new $10 million library as part of the $3.4 billion redevelopment of Darling Harbour. The official opening ceremony was celebrated by hundreds of attendees, including Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore.

<blockquote>
“I’m proud of the City’s collaboration with Lendlease, and very excited to open such a beautiful and creative new library inside this spectacular building. I’m certain that Darling Square Library will quickly become the community’s living room, open for everyone to enjoy.”
</blockquote>

Lord Mayor Clover Moore

The new library is located over two floors of The Exchange building and replaces the former Haymarket library.

Designed by BVN with the exterior shell by Japanese architecture firm Kengo Kuma, the new building is four times larger than its previous counterpart and will meet the needs of the approximate 4,200 residents and 3,000 office workers.

<blockquote>
“We are delighted to see the building already full and being embraced by the community from the minute it opened its doors. The space is designed to make people feel welcome and connected to one another and their community, to support the library’s ongoing programs and to enable continual adaption.”
</blockquote>

Abbie Galvin, BVN Principal

Darling Square Library will also house a collection of more than 30,000 items (including an Asian literature collection), bookable meeting rooms, intuitive digital technology, workspaces, public computers with free wifi, children’s area (with bilingual rhyme-time and story-time sessions) and a 200 square metre Ideas Lab for hands-on workshops and events.

<blockquote>
“More than ever, libraries are being recognised as cultural destinations alongside museums and galleries, and in a time of rapid population growth, they provide much needed space for people to connect, learn and relax.”
</blockquote>

Lord Mayor Clover Moore

Over the past 5 years, the City has invested over $114 million in new library collections, technology, infrastructure and operations. Currently, library members have access to a collection of over 400,000 books, CDs and DVDs and courses, including the award-winning Late Night Library programmes.

Lead image: Darling Square Library courtesy of The City of Sydney
</body></html>

City of Sydney and Lendlease open state-of-the-art Darling Square Library

<html><body>
If you’re on the search for a new apartment or townhouse, you may have discovered that many designs feature elegant floor to ceiling windows, spacious open plan living and branded appliances. As these quality uplift features become normalised, it’s the more unique features which really give a home a point of difference.

Here are a few apartment trends which have caught our attention lately.

<h2>1. Creative paint palettes</h2>

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="366" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-08_at_4.41.25_pm.png?itok=xHJmtNgX" title="Interior colour scheme options" width="580"><figcaption>Interior colour scheme options</figcaption></figure>It's common for apartment interior designers to place a significant importance on creating elegant, practical and customisable spaces. While a neutral light/dark scheme option is enough for many buyers, giving the choice of a more daring or unique colour palette can instantly make an apartment more homely. It’s refreshing to see Lucent Group’s The Stewart Collective development include vibrant ruby reds, sea blues and canary yellows in their colour scheme options.

<h2>2. Focus on non-toxic materials</h2>

<figure><a href="/new-townhouses/shelley-st"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="364" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shelley-st-37-39-shelley-street-richmond-e850d1861e9471f0dda41520e23beef1.jpg?itok=llSiLNR6" title="Shelley St" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Shelley St</figcaption></figure>As the property development industry becomes more conscious of environmental sustainability and resident wellness, more developers are opting for low-voc/non-toxic building materials, to ensure the long-term safety of the building’s residents in years to come. Oz Property has implemented this strategy within their Shelley St townhomes by only choosing materials which contain low VOCs*.

*Volatile Organic Compounds

<h2>3. On-site supermarkets</h2>

<figure><a href="/buildings/yg-riverside-king-arthur-terraces-28-ortive-street-yeerongpilly"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="348" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/play_market_2000x1200_v2.jpg?itok=bK4hspI3" title="Yeerongpilly Green shopping precinct" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Yeerongpilly Green shopping precinct</figcaption></figure>In a competitive property market, amenity offerings can be a key deal-breaker for a lot of buyers. If a developer decides to include highly practical amenities such as an on-site supermarket, this is not only a considerable value addition for buyers, but also a great way of giving back to the broader community. Developments such as Consolidated Properties Group’s Yeerongpilly Green boast a vibrant retail and dining precinct as well as a Woolworths supermarket, which cultivates both a thriving community and ease of convenience. 

<h2>4. Thoughtfully curated relax zones</h2>

<figure><a href="/buildings/encore-broadbeach-36-britannia-avenue-broadbeach"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="645" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-08_at_4.38.46_pm.png?itok=3fvzLbBV" title="Encore Broadbeach" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Encore Broadbeach</figcaption></figure>The modern world is fast paced, so being able to find a private, relaxing zone to be amongst nature and unwind is a great way to alleviate stress and boost morale. Many modern apartments have reimagined the traditional on-site pool and created recreation and relaxation spaces filled with verdant greenery, ample shade, comfortable lounge seating, kitchens to prepare a meal and resort style infinity pools. Elements like Encore Broadbeach’s poolside cushioned seating nook, or West Village’s indoor-outdoor flow library and private outdoor spa, show a sense of creativity and add a unique selling point to the development. 

<figure><a href="/buildings/arcadia-north-gallery-west-village-west-end-21-mollison-street-west-end-qld-4101"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="229" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-08_at_4.37.56_pm.png?itok=NeIvYxtL" title="West Village" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Village</figcaption></figure> 

<figure><a href="/buildings/arcadia-north-gallery-west-village-west-end-21-mollison-street-west-end-qld-4101"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="361" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-08_at_4.37.48_pm.png?itok=bUBjGAYY" title="West Village" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Village</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

Reimagining the norm of apartment design

Just an hour&rsquo;s drive out of Melbourne CBD you&rsquo;ll discover some of Victoria&rsquo;s most picturesque bays. Mornington Peninsula is quickly becoming an attractive option for owner-occupiers looking for a seaside property, close to established amenity, with easy access to the city. <a href="/developers/buildcap">Buildcap&rsquo;s</a> exciting new development Sonnet is the latest addition to the stunning bay area of Martha&rsquo;s Cove, which is located at the base of the iconic Mount Martha, south-east of Melbourne CBD.

<blockquote>
&ldquo;Each residence not only offers premium design and exceptional amenities, but also an enviable location along one of the Australia&rsquo;s most picturesque regions, making these homes a one-in-a-lifetime purchase.&rdquo;
</blockquote>

Stuart Biggs, Buildcap Director

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25950]

The 14 townhomes will be comprised of three and four-bedroom, multi-storey units which have been meticulously designed by WallaceBrice to encapsulate the beauty of the surrounding coastal landscape.

Each home is positioned to enjoy spectacular marina views, with landscaped outdoor living spaces for residents to embrace the tranquillity of waterfront living year-round. Buyers also have the option to include a private outdoor pool.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95292]

Sonnet&rsquo;s townhome interiors feature open-plan, light-filled living spaces, complete with a neutral tonal palette, Caesarstone benchtops and Smeg appliances. Every master bedroom boasts an elegant ensuite bathroom and palatial walk-in wardrobe, for added luxury and practicality. All bathrooms include oversized showers, integrated storage and a freestanding bath.

The exterior cladding is made up of robust materials including concrete and Dromana sandstone, specifically chosen to handle the coastal conditions, and gracefully age with weathering.

Sonnet is conveniently located near some of Victoria&rsquo;s best schools, wineries, yacht clubs and shops.

<blockquote>
&ldquo;The Martha Cove area is now abundant in its offering with a number of contemporary restaurants and cafes, public parks and cycling paths. It is establishing itself a true community lifestyle and residents really will have everything at their doorstep.&rdquo;
</blockquote>

Stuart Biggs, Buildcap Director

<h2>SONNET RENDERS</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.53.07_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="View from the marina."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="894" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.53.07_pm.png?itok=KpHJJyGZ" title="View from the marina." width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>View from the marina.</figcaption>
</figure>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.53.15_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Sonnet kitchen version 1."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="426" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.53.15_pm.png?itok=hzXAFBwo" title="Sonnet kitchen version 1." width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Sonnet kitchen version 1.</figcaption>
</figure>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.53.27_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Sonnet kitchen version 2."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="426" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.53.27_pm.png?itok=t5CiZKDH" title="Sonnet kitchen version 2." width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Sonnet kitchen version 2.</figcaption>
</figure>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.52.58_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Martha Cove marina."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="527" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.52.58_pm.png?itok=S22UXVIC" title="Martha Cove marina." width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Martha Cove marina.</figcaption>
</figure>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.53.42_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Sonnet apartment bedroom."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="644" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.53.42_pm.png?itok=o71oXEXw" title="Sonnet apartment bedroom." width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Sonnet apartment bedroom.</figcaption>
</figure>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.53.50_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Sonnet apartment bathroom."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="516" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.53.50_pm.png?itok=fdXiadJH" title="Sonnet apartment bathroom." width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Sonnet apartment bathroom.</figcaption>
</figure>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.53.58_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Sonnet apartment walk-in wardrobe."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="737" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-11-07_at_12.53.58_pm.png?itok=0cw5aKfu" title="Sonnet apartment walk-in wardrobe." width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Sonnet apartment walk-in wardrobe.</figcaption>
</figure>

<h2>SONNET SITE PLAN</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sonnet-min.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="285" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sonnet-min.png?itok=oq9iMf7t" width="580" /></a></figure>

<div class="rtecenter">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="rtecenter">Homes are priced from $1.75 to $1.99 million.</div>

Interested to learn more about Sonnet? Leave a question in the comments section below.

Images supplied.

Victoria’s Martha Cove is set to welcome 14 new luxury townhomes

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While it’s common knowledge that Melbourne’s population is undergoing <a href="http://worldpopulationreview.com/world-cities/melbourne-population/">exponential growth</a> that is likely to continue into the next decade, <a href="https://www.udiavic.com.au/RDI">recent statistics</a> reveal that the rising population and demand for housing in Greater Geelong is exceeding the population growth rate of Melbourne city. The Greater Geelong area will require an additional 2,900 new homes to be built, posing a unique opportunity for developers to enter a burgeoning market and accommodate this demand.

<a href="http://www.jindingau.com/developments/">Jinding Australia</a>, in partnership with <a href="/developers/yolk-property-group">Yolk Property Group</a>, will see a brand new 94-hectare development take shape in Armstrong Creek by mid-2020. The new residential community will be only 10 kilometres from Geelong CBD and connects to the landmark Lake Connware Wetland, which boasts a thriving ecosystem of wildlife. 

The project, coined <a href="/new-townhouses/harriott-townhomes-armstrong-creek">Halcyon Armstrong Creek</a> will provide brand new off-the-plan properties for approximately 1,800 residents, reaching a development completion value of over $178 million. Halcyon Armstrong Creek will also include 1.9 hectares of passive open space and parks, in addition to waterways, conservation areas and walking trails.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cgi03_aerial_r4_artist_impression.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cgi03_aerial_r4_artist_impression.jpg?itok=0Tjzh4x5" title="Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image supplied</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
“Armstrong Creek is already home to existing amenity and schools and is fast becoming a destination for families to settle. We have already had strong enquiry prior to the release of stage one lots. We are excited to be delivering our first project in regional Victoria as one that focuses on complementing the existing natural surrounds.” 
</blockquote>

Liz Ronson, Jinding Developments Managing Director

Halcyon Armstrong Creek is the latest addition to the <a href="/developers/jinding">Jinding Development</a> pipeline, following existing sites in Junction Village, Sunbury and Wollert.
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New housing development aims to cater to significant population growth anticipated for Geelong

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

Joel Robinson

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

The long-planned transformation of Brisbane's historic Shafston Estate has taken another major step, with Capella Hotel Group announced as the luxury hospitality partner behind what will become Brisbane's first branded residences.

The project, to be known as Capella Residences Brisbane, is being delivered by Verso Projects at the landmark Kangaroo Point riverfront estate, with completion targeted for 2029.

The announcement follows a series of planning changes to the project over recent years. The site was originally approved in 2023 for a 15-level, 37-apartment development designed by Rothelowman for Burgundy Group before Verso Projects took over the 10,070 sqm riverfront holding and lodged revised plans with Kerry Hill Architects to increase the development to a 25-level tower with 51 apartments.

The latest announcement confirms Capella Hotel Group will bring its branded residential offering to the project, marking just the second Capella Residences development globally after Seoul, and the group's first branded residential project in Australia.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/23-castlebar-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Castlebar Street development</a> will centre around the restoration of the heritage-listed Shafston House, one of Brisbane's oldest residences, originally constructed in 1851 by Reverend Robert Creyke as a single-storey cottage known as Ravenscott.

<img alt="Capella" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b9f4ce5-638f-4d6b-8082-3ca7e4b75fca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-09%20at%207.20.41%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=f7aeqsW_DzOJI4FymWb3lD8NptSfsP7q" />

Capella said the project aligns with its focus on heritage-led developments, with the Brisbane estate combining the restored historic residence with a new luxury apartment tower and hospitality-inspired resident amenities.

Residents will have access to the Capella Living Room, a concierge-led communal space inspired by the group's luxury hotels, alongside landscaped gardens, six swimming pools, wellness and recreation facilities.

The broader estate will also include two riverfront homes, a six-berth private marina, porte cochère arrival experience, secure basement parking and a new section of public riverwalk along the Brisbane River frontage.

The heritage Postal Depot Building will also be retained and repurposed as a guest house, in line with the revised development plans.

The project represents another evolution for the site, which Kerry Hill Architects previously described as a rare opportunity to restore one of Brisbane's most significant heritage estates while creating a new benchmark for apartment living.

"The Shafston Estate provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to restore one of Brisbane's finest heritage precincts and to reinstate residential use as a unique site perched on the edge of Kangaroo Point," Kerry Hill Architects said in its Urban Context Report accompanying the planning submission.

"The project will celebrate excellence in sub-tropical residential design, setting a new benchmark for vertical living in Brisbane."

Verso Projects, which now has an $8.5 billion development pipeline spanning more than 6,000 dwellings across apartments, townhouses, retail and commercial projects, said the partnership with Capella would elevate the development beyond a traditional residential project.

"We feel honoured to be restoring Shafston Estate to its former glory, elevating it to new heights of luxury and excellence underpinned by Capella's distinctive service ethos and design philosophy, and making it a standout landmark in Brisbane," Verso Projects CEO Steve Laffey said.

"By partnering with Capella, globally recognised for its refined approach to luxury hospitality and deep respect for cultural and historical context, we will elevate this project beyond a residential offering into a world-class destination."

Capella Hotel Group President Roland Fasel said Brisbane's emergence as a global city made it the right location for the company's Australian residential debut.

"Brisbane is a city on the cusp of something remarkable, and Capella Residences is our commitment to being part of that story," Fasel said.

"The Capella residential experience is more than luxury. It is about a sense of belonging to a place with deep meaning."

Private appointments have now opened for the project, with a display suite expected to open in late 2026 ahead of the planned 2029 completion.

Capella to launch Brisbane's first branded residences at Shafston House, Kangaroo Point

Lewis Land's latest apartment release within its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan is targeting one of the Gold Coast's fastest-growing buyer groups, with almost a third of apartments at Solis priced below $1 million.

The seven-storey building at Biggera Waters will comprise 91 apartments, including 24 one-bedroom residences starting from $778,000, a price point Lewis Land says is aimed squarely at first home buyers struggling to enter the Gold Coast market.

<img alt="Harbour Shires" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e7486e37-22f6-4c92-b212-9b0622070b8f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-08%20at%209.09.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=W8MJwJUCf6HkIyl_EVSksnd.QI6MZryY" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/lewis-land-group">Lewis Land</a> Head of Development Michael Long said the developer deliberately allocated a significant proportion of the project to more affordable apartment types.

"First home buyers have been priced out of many parts of the Gold Coast, and we saw a clear opportunity to address this and play our part in a longer-term housing solution," Long said.

"That's why 24 of the 91 apartments being delivered at Solis have been designed and priced for the city's next generation of homeowners, quality one-bedroom apartments, half of which include an additional multipurpose room to maximise space and flexibility.

"This approach places 30 per cent of apartments in Solis under $1 million, and with close proximity to Harbour Town's future light rail extension connecting residents to the city's major employment and knowledge hubs, it's a win for buyers looking to secure their first property."

<img alt="Sores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="550526d3-73ba-4710-9739-c5f4294a30ef" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-08%20at%209.09.29%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=cQQdXHt9wS0UXwZEm5Py5bH_3kAmzyhu" />

Designed by BDA Architecture, Solis will deliver a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with residences ranging up to 232 sqm. Apartments feature generous balconies and contemporary finishes, while residents will have access to Harbour Shores' lagoon pool, clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga studio and sauna.

The focus on first home buyers resonated with purchaser Holly Humphreys, who said she and her boyfriend spent more than a year searching for their first property before shifting their attention from houses to apartments.

"We fell in love with the first house we bid on and got our hopes up, but after repeated knockbacks we learned not to get too attached," Humphreys said.

"We offered at the high end of price guides, but sales kept going even higher. That's where we really struggled and we needed to re-evaluate our budget and our expectations. Standalone houses were off the table, and we pivoted to apartments and townhouses."

Humphreys said it was encouraging to see developers recognising the growing demand from first home buyers.

"There's a growing number of young buyers looking to enter the market earlier because they understand that getting in now can make a real difference as prices continue to rise," she said.

"It's fantastic to see a developer recognise this and then actively take measures to deliver an apartment with us in mind."

Solis is the first development planned within the second stage of the Harbour Shores masterplan, with early works expected to commence in September 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land targets first home buyers at latest Harbour Shores release, Solis

Luxury apartment developer Abadeen has recorded $19.25 million in apartment sales across two of its Lower North Shore developments in the lead-up to the end of the financial year, headlined by the sale of a $6.75 million penthouse at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/koyo-crows-nest-5-rodborough-avenue-crows-nest-nsw-2065">KOYO in Crows Nest.</a>

The transactions also included the sale of a newly completed three-bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences in Cremorne</a> for $6.35 million, with the residence selling shortly after the project's first public inspections following completion.

The sales come as completed, owner-occupier-focused apartments continue to attract strong demand across Sydney's Lower North Shore, particularly from buyers looking for certainty and immediate occupancy.

The penthouse at KOYO spans 491 sqm across a single level and was designed by architect Koichi Takada. The development is one of Abadeen's flagship boutique projects in Crows Nest.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=370093]

Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said buyer activity lifted noticeably in the lead-up to the end of the financial year.

"We saw a clear increase in enquiry levels, inspection numbers and buyer engagement across our completed projects leading into the end of the financial year," Brown said.

"Buyers have become far more decisive over the past six months. The combination of improving confidence, limited supply and the ability to physically inspect completed residences is creating strong competition for premium apartments in the best locations."

Brown says the&nbsp;response to Park Residences following completion has been particularly strong.

"Buyers want certainty and are responding positively to the opportunity to walk through a finished product, inspect the quality firsthand and move in immediately," Brown suggested.

"Projects such as Park Residences and KOYO demonstrate that when the product is exceptional and the location is irreplaceable, buyers are prepared to act quickly."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=370116]

Abadeen CEO Joe Tack said quality continued to differentiate projects in the current market.

"Today's buyers are incredibly discerning," Tack said.

"They are seeking larger floorplans, premium finishes, walkability, lifestyle amenity and confidence in the developer delivering the project. Well-designed boutique developments continue to outperform because they offer something genuinely difficult to replace.

"The enquiry we are seeing across our completed and recently completed Lower North Shore portfolio is very encouraging, and we expect this momentum to continue into spring."

The sales follow increased enquiry across Abadeen's Lower North Shore portfolio which also includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/northcote-collective-naremburn-2-northcote-street-naremburn-nsw-2065">Northcote Collective in Naremburn</a> which also completed recently.

Olivia Round

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