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Charter Hall has just been granted approval by the City of Melbourne to commence demolition of the building which currently stands at 555 Collins Street. The approval follows the lodgement of the proposal of a $1.5 billion redevelopment last month. The prominent corner section is one of the last of its kind in the area, spanning 4,620 square meters of prime real estate on Collins Street. A commercial tower designed by Cox Architecture and Gensler is on the cards and will draw on extensive research to produce revolutionary workspaces, utilising modern technology and human-centric design.

<blockquote>
“We are looking at the project from a people-first point of view and leading with humanistic design, ensuring that the human experience is at the heart of every design decision that we make. Key to this approach is our appointment of both Cox Architecture and Gensler. Together, our expertise will allow us to create a workplace designed for how people connect and engage with each other and with their surroundings. By truly understanding the tenant journey, we will create a space that encourages an instinctive way of working and ultimately, a better and more productive workday.”
</blockquote>

Simon Stockfeld, Charter Hall’s Regional Development Director

Tier one contractor Delta Group has been appointed to undertake the demolition which will cost approximately $13 million. Once demolition is complete, the first phase of redevelopment will involve the construction of 35 levels of premium office space across 45,000 square metres. The goal is to create work environments which are engaging and inviting, as well as seamlessly integrated within the area’s surrounding CBD environment.

<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/555c_collins_st_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Render for 555 Collins Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="750" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/555c_collins_st_1.jpg?itok=lXodLzsW" title="Render for 555 Collins Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Render for 555 Collins Street</figcaption></figure>The development will aim to target a number of sustainable certifications including a 6 Star Green Star rating, 5 Star NABERS Energy Rating and Platinum WELL certification – in pursuit of creating one of the city’s most sustainable office buildings. The building will also contain a state-of-the-art health and wellbeing offering as well as a premium retail hub with a curated selection of restaurants and bars.

The team are currently preparing for demolition with completion slated for mid-2022.

<h2>WHAT THEY SAY</h2>

<blockquote>
“The existing 555 Collins Street building is vacant, allowing us to hit the accelerator to meet completion deadlines. Projects which do not have to consider heritage and have a strong planning case also provides future tenants with far higher development delivery certainty.”
</blockquote>

Simon Stockfeld, Charter Hall’s Regional Development Director

<blockquote>
“We are proud to be partnering with Charter Hall as they work to create a next-generation workplace experience, in the heart of Melbourne. With the workplace evolving at a much greater pace than ever before, our extensive experience designing office buildings and innovative workplace environments for a variety of clients around the world has given us a unique insight into what people – and especially the younger, tech-savvy generations – truly want and need from their workplace and the companies that employ them.”
</blockquote>

Lukasz Platkowski, Design Director at Gensler’s London office

<blockquote>
“Cox Architecture are genuinely excited about collaborating with Gensler to bring 555 Collins Street to life. Our client, Charter Hall, have a vision to authentically connect people, place, and work, and together we feel that 555 Collins Street will truly represent the new way of working in the city.”
</blockquote>

Simon Haussegger, Director at Cox Architecture
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Olivia Round

Charter Hall gets green light to redevelop coveted Collins Street site

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Woodlea’s triumphant launch to market has led to its sixth town-house release due to popular demand. The precinct is now Australia’s fastest community and has almost sold out, with 60 town-houses being snapped up by buyers within the space of a year.

<blockquote>
“Townhouses are generally reserved for inner city living but the different townhouse collections we’ve released to date have received strong demand from all different purchasers, proving there is no one size fits all."
</blockquote>

Lora Djurdjevic, Woodlea Marketing Manager

Djurdjevic also notes that young couples and first home buyers have shown an interest in the homes due to the level of quality and value for money, while families and downsizers are impressed by the low maintenance aspects of the town-houses.

The sixth development Parkfront Retreat, designed by Porter Davis Homes, will feature 10 turn-key residences with 3 and 4-bedroom configurations, affordably priced from $433,000.

Each town-house will be constructed with timber flooring throughout, premium stone benchtops, 2.7-meter high stud ceilings and brick; render and lightweight cladding.

<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/woodleatownhouse1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Woodlea's sixth town-home edition Parkfront Retreat"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="354" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/woodleatownhouse1.jpg?itok=z0XSNW5X" title="Woodlea's sixth town-home edition Parkfront Retreat" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Woodlea's sixth town-home edition Parkfront Retreat</figcaption></figure>Each dwelling boasts both a balcony and a courtyard for excellent light and airflow throughout the property and a great area for entertaining design by MDG Landscape Architects. The convenient location of the town-houses neighbours Featherwood Park and is only 350 metres from the future Woodlea Town Centre which is due to open next year.

<blockquote>
“Our townhouse releases are always located in prime locations within the Woodlea estate and overlook one of the many parks available, with the future town centre and schools all just a short stroll away... This has been an incredibly appealing feature for families as everything they need is right on the doorstep of their brand new home.”
</blockquote>

Lora Djurdjevic, Woodlea Marketing Manager

All properties are freehold, and buyers will be exempt from paying an Owners Corporation fee.

Lead image: Woodlea Townhomes
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VIP + Mirvac launch sixth Woodlea townhouse development

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In a bid to green our cities, the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) has proposed a 2019 Living Infrastructure Strategy and call for the support of the federal government and councils to build healthier, more sustainable communities.

Urban.com.au had a chat to AILA’S director Claire Martin and Australian National University Research Fellow Dr Andrew MacKenzie about the initiative – who explained how new infrastructure regulation could futureproof our cities from the impending effect of global warming, overpopulation, health complications and more.

<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/1_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="247" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1_10.jpg?itok=uxIfsTFm" width="580"></a></figure>Urban.com.au: Which key features of a Living Infrastructure Strategy do you believe would be most pertinent to action immediately and why?

Claire Martin: Many of the Australian Institute of Landscape Architect’s recommendations and strategic priorities are reflected in the Building Up and Moving Out report that captures the findings of the House of Representatives Inquiry into the Australian Government’s role in the development of cities. The report provides a wealth of insights into how we can achieve better outcomes for Australians and Australians cities. The inquiry was bolstered by the high level of multi-partisan support of the members involved, demonstrating that good urban policy is a priority across the political parties. The federal government has an opportunity to provide leadership through Infrastructure Australia to bring together key stakeholders, state and local governments, industry bodies and community representatives to develop a National Living Infrastructure Strategy to secure the future of our settlement and societies.

Urban.com.au: Are there many differences between the Green Infrastructure Strategy (2018) and a Living Infrastructure Strategy (2019)?

Claire Martin: The<a href="http://www.aila.org.au/imis_prod/documents/2019%20Federal%20Election%20Platform_v1.pdf" target="_blank"> 2019 Greener, Liveable &amp; Healthier Cities </a>strategy is our federal election platform that embeds and advances previous strategies. The Australian Institute of Landscape Architect (AILA) is a members of the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council’s Cities and Infrastructure Task Group our strategy is aligned with ASBEC’s 2019 Thriving Cities policy platform.

Urban.com.au: What is the funding share between ‘grey infrastructure’ and ‘green infrastructure’ currently?

Claire Martin: Whilst federal government expenditure is clearly defined there has been less clarity on green or living infrastructure expenditure both in terms of up-front costs, life-cycle costs as well as the valuation of ecosystems services benefits and contributions.  That’s why AILA supports is lobbying for multi-partisan support for the creation of a National Living Infrastructure Fund for an investment fund that would be established for the implementation of green infrastructure projects across Australia for allocation to state and local government green infrastructure projects. This fund could be operated similar to the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, which seeks to leverage private sector funding to enhance public benefit outcomes through government investment.

Urban.com.au: Which government parties/candidates are currently on board with your mission to create healthier cities? 

Claire Martin: Infrastructure Australia’s Creating Places for People — an urban design protocol for Australian cities is the result of two years of collaboration between peak community and industry organisations and governments at all levels. It represents a commitment to best practice urban design and quality living spaces in Australia. AILA recommends re-endorsing the Protocol and providing federal funding for the purposes of maintaining and promoting the principles outlined in the protocol. AILA is a member of the Parliamentary Friendship Group for Better Cities, established in 2014, is co-convened from the Government, Opposition and Cross Benches. The three co-conveners of the Parliamentary Friendship Group for Better Cities are Mr Trent Zimmerman MP, Member for North Sydney, Mr Andrew Giles MP, Member for Scullin and Senator Jordan Steele-John, Senator for Western Australia. The Parliamentary Friendship Group for Better Cities seeks to work together to make Australia’s capital and major cities more liveable, more resilient and more productive.

Urban.com.au: What impact are issues surrounding city density, congestion and increased population having on Australia and what could be some ways to mitigate negative long-term effects?

Claire Martin: There are significant environmental and health effects of poor planning of Australian cities including: more than 3,000 premature deaths in Australia every year are related to urban air pollution, loss of biodiversity, nutrient loads make their way into waterways and can cause algal blooms and negative environmental effects, a reduction in wellbeing and workplace wellbeing and productivity, increased loneliness and social exclusion, escalating obesity, diabetes and skin cancer, and reduced fitness particularly in young children, social exclusion and the increasing importance of positive mental health.

Much of this can change through planning and design with a shift to multi-centred Australian cities that are more localised with active living that could potentially remove tens of thousands of cars from our road and avoid further unnecessary spending on road infrastructure that locks cities into car dependency and increasing economic inequity. And through the introduction of living infrastructure which increases biodiversity, providing urban corridors for native wildlife, encouraging bird life and pollination; urban forests and greening support management of stormwater run-off and improve water quality, adding natural green elements to the built environment reduces air pollution and improves air quality, spending time in nature provides rehabilitative and recuperative benefits to those suffering mental illness, exercising in parks benefits adult’s relaxation and stress management and improves capacity to disconnect, time spent outdoors is linked to increased work productivity and creativity, structured activity in local parks is a motivator for older adults to visit and connect and adolescents who spend time in nature have a greater sense of calm and focus during 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/centennial.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Centenary Lakes Nature Play in Cairns"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/centennial.jpeg?itok=bIKwiGDo" title="Centenary Lakes Nature Play in Cairns" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Centenary Lakes Nature Play in Cairns</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/2_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="247" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2_7.jpg?itok=H5vNG5VI" width="580"></a></figure>Urban.com.au: Which country do you believe already has a similar environmental strategy in place and one which Australia could look towards? 

Dr Andrew MacKenzie: Singapore is a leader in policy approaches to green infrastructure - since independence, they have committed to greening the city through tree planting and more recently enhancing the biodiversity has been very successful. London has also made significant progress towards a metropolitan-wide GI strategy but are yet to be implemented.

Urban.com.au: What are some stand out examples of ways landscape design regenerates life into a space where infrastructure dominates the land?

Dr Andrew MacKenzie: Perhaps the best example is the bicentennial and Sydney Olympic parklands. Homebush Bay was once one of the most polluted waterways in the world now home to extraordinary biodiversity including the green and golden bell frog.

Urban.com.au: What does a healthy and more liveable city look like to you?

Dr Andrew MacKenzie: How long is a piece of string! A happy co-existence between the community and the urban environment where the benefits afforded from green infrastructure benefits everyone in some way from great parks and reserves to well-treed streets.

Urban.com.au: Which government parties/candidates are currently on board with your mission to create healthier cities?

Dr Andrew MacKenzie: The ALP has traditionally committed to supporting urban development going back to Chifley in the post-war era. The Liberals tend to leave it to the states and the private sector.

Urban.com.au: What impact are issues surrounding city density, congestion and increased population having on Australia and what could be some ways to mitigate negative long-term effects?

Dr Andrew MacKenzie: Essentially, current trends in compact city growth is squeezing out high quality accessible open spaces and reducing our green cover increasing risks associated with urban heat island effect (heat stress-related illness etc).

Additional information from <a href="http://www.202020vision.com.au/" target="_blank">202020 Vision</a> advocate and Griffith University urban and environmental planner, Dr Tony Matthews: ‘Extreme heat disproportionately affects built-up metropolitan areas. This is largely due to impervious surfaces and a lack of urban vegetation (street trees, green spaces) absorbing more heat than surrounding rural areas, which radiate it back into the air in an oven-like effect, causing ‘urban heat island effect’. The effects are wide-ranging, resulting in an increase to energy costs, air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, water quality, heat-related illness and mortality in these areas.[1]

Increasing the prevalence of green spaces through the installation of street trees, city parks and rooftop gardens has consistently demonstrated a reduction in the urban heat island effect, where larger urban forests can also create a pool of cooler air and spread it to nearby neighbourhoods by enhancing local wind patterns. We just need to see more action and momentum for the widespread uptake of these tried and tested strategies.

Urban.com.au: Due to the fact that half of Australia’s nationally threatened animal species occur in areas planned for urban development, what are some strategies that could be implemented to ensure Australia's native species are protected? Does this mean developments need to be relocated or are there ways to design these new spaces to accommodate the native species that already inhabit those areas?

Dr Andrew MacKenzie: Nature is declining globally at rates unprecedented in human history – and the rate of species extinction is accelerating, with grave impacts on people around the world now likely, warns a <a href="https://www.ipbes.net/news/ipbes-global-assessment-preview" target="_blank">landmark new report from the UN.</a> Cities have a critical part to play in saving our endangered from extinction.

Adopting a biodiversity evaluation approach to urban development where significant habitat is either protected or created (novel ecologies) is adopted. This could include improving the connectivity of green patches and improving our community appreciation of local ecological communities.

It means working with nature in our cities, both with government and the community. It’s not enough to have big grassy parks and trees as token gestures of ‘nature’, we need to reflect in urban environments what we actually see in nature. Urbanisation is a threat to biodiversity but there’s much we can do to minimise it, through biodiversity evaluation and habitat protection.

[1] Green City,<a href="http://thegreencity.com/the-causes-and-effects-of-the-urban-heat-island-effect/" target="_blank"> http://thegreencity.com/the-causes-and-effects-of-the-urban-heat-island-effect/</a>

Lead image: Darebin Yarra Trail Link by Vic Roads Urban and Structural Design Teams 

 

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Future focus: Australian Institute of Landscape Architects call for new Living Infrastructure Strategy

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In a bid to create the city’s greenest retail precinct, Sunshine Plaza in Melbourne’s west is now powered by nearly 50% renewable energy, making it the largest solar roof installation in Victoria.

The recently completed installation contains 4,175 roof solar panels, which produce enough energy to meet 45% of the Plaza’s daily requirements. The new fit-out also has the capacity to produce up to 1.04 megawatts of energy, and 1,414,930 kWh annually, which is enough energy to power 245 homes.

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By using renewable energy, the cost savings for tenants are substantial and it also provides extra protection against spikes in energy prices.

From an environmental perspective, the initiative reduces over 1,414.9 tonnes in carbon dioxide emissions annually – equivalent to removing around 815 cars from the road.

Sunshine residents can expect to welcome more sustainable developments in future, as part of a broader vision to green the area, creating the ultimate health and wellbeing precinct.

Many other commercial property developers are also looking into retrofitting their developments with roof solar panels, including <a href="/developers/lendlease-development">Lendlease</a>, <a href="/developers/gpt-group">GPT Group</a> and <a href="/developers/stockland">Stockland Development</a> to attain higher sustainability credentials.
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Sustainable future: Melbourne mall now features over 4000 solar panels

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We spoke to Jordan Curran, ClarkeHopkinsClarke’s leader of the mixed-use and retail team about creating healthier, better connected and more liveable communities. We also discussed the future of city precincts, The Greater Sydney Regional Plan, ethical trading and more.

Urban.com.au: In pursuit of ClarkeHopkinsClarke’s national goal to create healthier, better connected, more liveable communities – how much support have you experienced when sharing your mission with developers, councils and buyers and has this given you more freedom to better achieve this goal?

Jordan Curran: The support is definitely growing. We always begin our discussions with stakeholders by outlining the research and precedents that show where and how this approach working – not just on our projects but in communities overseas. We’ve developed our own detailed methodology, which our Urban Design Partner Dean Landy laid out in a book called Creating Vibrant Communities, and community consultation is key. We get everyone on board early with the big vision and the way, and we then work through the detail together. You obviously can’t please everyone on every single issue, but you can address everyone’s key concerns. And that builds support because everyone’s on board and invested in success from the start.

U: Which key design features do you believe connect communities best?

JC: Public space like playgrounds and parks, especially for young families. Places where people just naturally want to come together, and they don’t cost any money. If you can create close proximity between these spaces and cafes, retail precincts and services like childcare or aged care, that’s where people start to form close relationships and bonds. They make their own connections – with each other and with the place.

U: How do you think future precincts are likely to look and what changes would you like to see made to the current town planning structure?

JC: More and more I think we’ll see purely mixed-use precincts with lots of elements embedded from the start. That’s the essence of our Creating Vibrant Communities strategy – we include as many different elements as we can so all sorts of people can use and enjoy them. Lots of developers are looking at this, and I think that’s a positive thing. Building in flexibility is becoming more important too, so precincts can change and adapt. 
Town planning at the moment almost encourages us to work in silos and tick boxes. But a very positive thing councils are doing is bringing urban designers into their teams. For better or worse they will make a decision on the merit of the project. So they’re holding a lot of sway now. They don’t just work to a tick box. They work to key urban design principles. I actually think that’s a huge positive.  It’s happening a lot in Victoria and probably needs to happen a bit more in NSW.

U: Focusing on Sydney in particular, which areas do you believe have great potential to be developed to inspire interconnectivity and community?

JC: One of the things I think will really help Sydney develop more connected communities is high-speed rail. Melbourne is built on a radius from the city, so wherever you live you’re no more than about 45 minutes from the city. Sydney doesn’t work like that. It’s more rectangular because it’s landlocked by the mountains and national park, and the new growth corridors are about an hour and a half away from the CBD. Moving forward I think high speed rail has huge potential to unlock communities along the coast north and south of Sydney.

U: What are your thoughts on The Greater Sydney Region Plan and segmenting Sydney into three cities?

JC: I think it’s a good idea. It relates back to that last question – Sydney kind of has to grow this way. To have affordable housing as Sydney grows we almost have to provide a second CBD people can connect to. The focus on Parramatta is important. I feel like they’re doing the right thing relocating the Powerhouse and other cultural and civic elements out to there so culture is accessible to everyone, not just those with access to Sydney’s CBD.

U: What does the timeline of a mixed-use precinct planning development look like? Which aspect of the design do you start with?

JC: Timing varies. The first project I did, Leopold Shopping Centre, I started as a student. By the time it was finally built I was a partner. That was a seven- or eight-year process, including planning, rezoning and market shifts. And that’s the challenge of retail precincts. During those seven years the iPhone came into existence and completely changed the whole retail space. We were quite lucky that we were already focussing on placemaking and urban design, so it works well. But if you were designing something seven years ago purely as retail and delivering it now how do you build that flexibility in? With technology every year things change so much.

We begin designs by researching benchmark projects around the world, running workshops and documenting the brief, goals and vision for the future. That initial visioning statement might be something like ‘this is a technology and innovation precinct with a focus on social connectedness’. Big picture stuff with big goals and targets that help us stay on track along the away. Project length can vary but it’s always a minimum of two years, so that’s why flexibility in design is so important. The market shifts so much in that time.

U: As technology impacts physical retail stores, how can intuitive design compete with the rise of online shopping etc.?

JC: We’re working on a model that combines bricks and mortar and online shopping because they both have their challenges. We’re looking at retail shopping centres incorporating customer fulfilment centres for online shopping. Small-scale, warehouse-style hubs that online retailers can use as a local distribution centre and for pop-ups and product testing. Online shoppers can go straight there to pick up their purchases.

Everyone talks about the challenge for retail as creating a physical experience for shoppers but that’s almost a given now. This looks at the challenges of growth for both online and bricks and mortar and how they can work together.

U: ClarkeHopkinsClarke is listed as one of three Australian architecture firms to be certified by B Corps due to the firm's social and environmental performance, public transparency and legal accountability. Do you believe your clients and property buyers are becoming more aware of the importance of ethical trading?

JC: It’s taking a while to be honest. People like to work with designers with a social responsibility background. But at the same time developers are putting everything on the line with every project so they also need designers with the technical expertise to deliver commercial viability. Some practices focus on one and lots focus on the other, but we genuinely focus on both.

U: I’m aware you have been involved in initiating a personal development and mentoring course for the school curriculum in Sydney. What does this course cover and do you believe there is a strong push for both primary and high school students to take an interest in city planning and architecture these days?

JC: We are working with the leadership team of a high school in southern Sydney to develop a mentoring, networking and thought leadership program for senior students in suburban public high schools. We’re keen to broaden access to the kind of thought leadership and alumni that’s common for kids in private schools. The idea is to get the students challenging suburban norms, coming up with big ideas for improving their communities, and teaming up with alumni who have the networks and experience to help achieve them.

U: Which future ClarkeHopkinsClarke project are you most excited about commencing work on and why? 

JC: I’m excited about a mixed-use urban village we’ve proposed for Wollongong because it’s genuinely different to anything that exists currently. The concept is a diverse mix of uses – residential, aged care, a hotel, childcare – and a new architectural style that reflects Woolongong’s amazing landscape. What’s there is very generic. Our focus is trying to typify features like the colours of the mountains and rooftops that reference the cliffs and trees above. There’s nothing like that there at the moment.

Lead image credit: ClarkeHopkinsClarke
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ClarkeHopkinsClarke's Jordan Curran discusses how to create more liveable communities

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Day two of the annual DesignBUILD expo seminars looked at the opportunities of new technology in design and construction, a new era of luxury and the constant development of new industry practice.

Key points covered:

<ul>
<li>Evolution of smart cities</li>
	<li>Role of designers in building regulatory reform</li>
	<li>Rise of luxury in the built environment</li>
</ul>
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<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/designbuild-coverage-wrap-up-of-day-one">DesignBUILD coverage: Wrap-up of DAY ONE</a></div>

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<h2> </h2>

<h2>LISA MCLEAN FROM OPEN CITIES</h2>

Open Cities CEO Lisa McLean covered the topic of urbanisation in Australia with a focus on how we must create genuine self-sustaining, liveable communities. This could be achieved through the use of smart and sustainable technologies such as renewable energy, water recycling and more.

<h2>DR SIMONE ZARPELON LEAO FROM UNSW</h2>

Dr Simone Zarpelon Leao – Associate Dean at the Faculty of Built Environment at UNSW shared insight into the connection between technology, sustainability and building resilience. Dr Simone encouraged the audience to question what kind of change will take shape as we develop smart, sustainable cities.

<h2>BRONWYN WEIR FROM WEIR LEGAL AND CONSULTING</h2>

Legal expert Bronwyn Weir discussed the pertinent topic of regulatory reform and shared her vision for the improvement of Australian building standards. Weir believes the industry must place more importance on the value of peer review and that good documentation processes must be in place throughout the course of a project – from design to completion.

<h2>MICHELLE CIESIELSKI FROM KNIGHT FRANK</h2>

Michelle Ciesielski explored the rise of luxury developments, drawing facts from Knight Frank’s recently released The Wealth Report 2019. Ciesielski noted that the changes in currency conversion rates could be causing an increase in international buyers seeking luxury property across Australia.

<h2>WILLIAM SMART FROM SMART DESIGN STUDIO</h2>

In keeping with the luxury theme, architect William Smart of Smart Design Studio said that from a design perspective, the idea of luxury is shifting as modern living requirements change. Instead, there is more of a focus on creating authentic and unpredictable spaces.
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DesignBUILD coverage: Wrap-up of DAY TWO

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The highly anticipated DesignBUILD expo began on Tuesday, so here's a wrap up of what was discussed over the course of the day.

Key points covered:

<ul>
<li>Compliance and procurement</li>
	<li>Modern slavery</li>
	<li>Planning for a big Australia</li>
</ul>
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<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/designbuild-coverage-wrap-up-of-day-two">DesignBUILD coverage: Wrap-up of DAY TWO</a></div>

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<h2> </h2>

<h2>Richard Choy from NATSPEC</h2>

Richard Choy kicked off the expo with a talk about construction quality and productivity, as well as the importance of documentation to avoid the use of non-compliant materials.

Choy also noted that the National Construction Code has already had 100 clause changes and 28 standards changes – meaning the industry must be knowledgeable of the constantly adapting continuum of building regulation, and not only choose compliant products, but also install them in a compliant manner.

<h2>Nicole Thompson from Edge Environment</h2>

Later in the morning, Nicole Thompson reiterated Richard Choy’s sentiment regarding the importance of good documentation to identify modern slavery risks within the supply chain. Thompson gave insight into how businesses can ensure they comply with regulations.

<h2>Francesca Muskovic from Property Council of Australia</h2>

Continuing the talk of modern slavery – Francesca Muskovic added that 'modern slavery' in the supply chain can be overcome with industry collaboration, sector-specific initiatives, procurement policies and innovative use of technology.

<h2>Collectivity Talks (panel)</h2>

The panel of industry experts discussed planning for big Australia and focused on the potential of three CBDs in central Sydney.

Rob Mirams of Fender Katsalidis (who was a featured panel member) explained the importance of cultural institutions in the emergence of new cities. Rob also elaborated on the idea of the creation of connectivity through mixed-used, high-density developments.

<h2>Craig Allchin from the University of Technology Sydney</h2>

Craig Allchin discussed the idea of shifting from ‘master planning’ to adopting a framework which reflects the change in modern society and focuses on interconnected communities.

For more information and to check out the DesignBUILD speaker line-up, <a href="http://designbuildexpo.com.au/speaker-series/">click here</a>.
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DesignBUILD coverage: Wrap-up of DAY ONE

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An exciting project is on the cards for builder-developers <a href="/developers/crema-group">Crema Group</a> as they embark on Melbourne’s first fully integrated live, work, play facility in the heart of the new Domain Precinct.

<a href="/buildings/the-eighth-south-melbourne-22-kings-place-south-melbourne">The Eighth</a> will be situated on the doorstep of the future <a href="/news/an-overview-of-the-projects-in-the-vicinity-of-the-new-anzac-station">Anzac Station</a>, and the island section is set to house an 18-storey building with 36 luxury residences.

<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/exterior_1.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Exterior view. Credit: Crema/Studio Kennon"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="956" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/exterior_1.jpeg?itok=5MQhr7VK" title="Exterior view. Credit: Crema/Studio Kennon" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Exterior view. Credit: Crema/Studio Kennon</figcaption></figure>Drawing on inspiration from private club lounges in metropolitan cities such as London and New York, The Eighth will follow suit, providing hyper-luxury experiences for residents and workers alike.

<blockquote>
“Spending time in transient cities such as New York, London, Singapore and Hong Kong has shown me how many people are looking for enhanced everyday lifestyle experiences and a strong sense of wanting to belong to something.”
</blockquote>

- Nicolas Crema, Crema Group Director

A selection of boutique office spaces, boardrooms and meeting zones; will be complemented with relaxing day spas, top-of-the-line wellness centres and beauty clinics to provide the optimum work-life balance.

<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/media_images.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Spa facility. Credit: Crema"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/media_images.jpeg?itok=OlKPLFiE" title="Spa facility. Credit: Crema" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Spa facility. Credit: Crema</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
“The way people in Australia are living is changing, and ‘real life’ is not now confined to what happens outside of traditional office hours anymore. The Eighth reflects this shift and facilitates the interconnected life many people are seeking.”
</blockquote>

- Nicolas Crema, Crema Group Director

The design by <a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0">Elenberg Fraser</a>, represents grandeur and opulence with high stud ceilings, luxurious stone and marble throughout and a slim grid-like exterior framing, supporting multi-storey window panes.

<blockquote>
“The architecture takes into account the users outlook, privacy and connection to the natural environment. The outcome is a building that creates its identity through a sense of permeance, strength and presence.”
</blockquote>

- Peter Kennon, Studio Kennon (formally of Elenberg Fraser)

<div class="rtecenter">RELATED ARTICLES</div>

<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/an-overview-of-the-projects-in-the-vicinity-of-the-new-anzac-station">AN OVERVIEW OF THE PROJECTS IN THE VICINITY OF THE NEW ANZAC STATION</a></div>

<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/crema-group-sizes-up-another-tower-for-south-melbourne">CREMA GROUP SIZES UP ANOTHER TOWER FOR SOUTH MELBOURNE</a></div>

 

The Eighth apartment interiors have been masterfully designed by Miriam Fanning of Mim Design to feature modern, minimalist spaces which allow potential buyers to curate their apartments to add personal touches. This idea also reflects Crema’s mission to produce a development which embraces the evolution of modern life, and the home owner’s desire to customise their own apartments to suit their needs, requirements and taste.

<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/lobby_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lobby. Credit: Crema"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/lobby_0.jpg?itok=APDu-XSD" title="Lobby. Credit: Crema" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Eighth's central lobby. Credit: Crema</figcaption></figure>In keeping with the modern, futuristic approach to design, each of the 36 apartments boasts individual private lobbies and lifts, which can also take residents to the Los Angeles-inspired rooftop pool and sky bar on level 18. Residents will have unlimited access to Crema’s own executive lounge on level 5, and a sought-after membership will be offered to other residents of the Domain Precinct. The lifestyle club will include luxury spa facilities, a business lounge, meeting facilities and a wellness lounge. The multi-use facility will also offer 3,000 boutique office spaces (some of which will be occupied by Crema Group), as well as a 250 square metre café, and an intimate European themed restaurant/wine bar. The premises are likely to garner significant interest from local restauranteurs, given the building's unique central location, and tastefully curated planned fit-out. The landscape design has been led by Openwork who has also recently completed <a href="/news/2019-victorian-architecture-awards-shortlist-announced">Doubleground</a> – which was the award-winning design for the annual NGV Architecture Commission.

Crema has decided to maintain management rights to ensure The Eighth is run according to their expectations.

The building is due to commence construction by the end of 2019 and will follow Crema’s recent <a href="/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>-designed development <a href="/buildings/derby-place-369-high-street-kew">Derby Place in Kew</a>.

<blockquote>
“Our recent experience with our Derby Place development in Kew has customers place great importance on Crema being both the developer and builder which provides them with [an] assurance that we are able to deliver on our promises.”
</blockquote>
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The Eighth by Crema to deliver Melbourne’s first fully integrated live, work, play facility

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Urban.com.au caught up with Andrew Hoyne, Author of The Place Economy and Founding Principal of branding agency Hoyne, to discuss how effective placemaking approaches can result in significant social and economic benefits long-term.

Urban.com.au: Thank you Andrew for taking the time to chat with me today. The concept of ‘placemaking’ is a fascinating one, and I could imagine that without a precursor, people could quickly develop their own meaning of the term. How do you describe the essence of ‘placemaking’?

Andrew Hoyne: The essence of placemaking is about creating great experiences for people. Placemaking is the curation and creation of the hard and soft experiences, that ensure people are magnetically drawn to a space. Both built form and space activation. By stimulating positive experiences, you make a place destinational. It’s about how you give real meaning and purpose to a place, that compels people to care, engage and repeatedly visit. You need to begin by analysing community’s unique needs. So you must ask what already exists and what is missing. It’s the consideration of all the elements that work together to create a compelling destination: planning, architecture, materiality, green space, amenity, infrastructure, art and cultural connections. So good placemaking begins and ends by considering people who will use and inhabit a space. Good placemaking results in better social and economic outcomes for everyone.

U: In this video, you mention that the goal is to plan out 10-30 years ahead. Given the fluidity and uncertainty of the property market, what is your strategy for future development planning? 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/A3Xy6s80DiM" width="560"></iframe>

AH: In the context of that quote I’m actually talking about place or city branding, rather than property development. Today it is vital that cities think 20-30 years ahead if they want to ensure that their city remains competitive with an edge on their rivals. We’ve seen this already with cities like Berlin, Dublin, Copenhagen and London; they’ve all shown how a compelling place brand can future-proof your city, ensuring its success, and the success of its residents for decades to come. But a place brand does have a direct impact on the development industry; it will inform the vision for the future of the city and as a result dictate how it evolves and grows. So it’s really important to have that long term plan in place to ensure the built environment is bringing an agreed vision to life. The great thing with a strong place brand is that it functions like magnetic north for a city; you may get slightly blown off course by say a downturn in the property market, but you always have this set of guiding principles to realign to. This ensures you’re working towards that end goal of what the city will one day become and not floundering and changing tack with every economic bump. So to a certain extent the core principles of the place brand should be driving the market, rather than the other way around.

U: Do you feel as though developers and town planners have an element of control over shaping the future of our cities? Or do they evolve more organically?

AH: Today developers and planners, along with architects and government, do indeed have the great privilege and the responsibility of shaping the future of our cities. That’s why it’s so vital they begin the development process with a strong Place Vision in place. A Place Visioning TM process creates a blueprint that guides and shapes a space, regardless of size. Resolving this early, before you’ve even begun to talk about built form, is fundamental to successfully identifying anchors and establishing the ‘magnets’ (amenity; public realm; retail; F&amp;B) that will attract people to a place, precinct or city. Done well it mitigates risk and results in developments and cities that are socially and economically successful.

U: One of the core aims of ‘placemaking’ is to create more meaningful spaces. What design features can you add to a space to create a more meaningful experience for its users?

AH: There is no set list of features, but there is a design thinking framework you can use to create meaningful spaces. This begins with getting boots on the ground and finding out what makes a place tick. Visit the suburb or site, talk to the locals, sit in the cafes and then ask “what role can this development fulfil in this community?”. You then need to either understand your multi-faceted target audience, or define it. Once you’re clear on your various ‘tribes’, compare their needs and desires to the experience gaps for that location. Once you clearly understand your audience, and have a sense of the experience gaps, it’s time to build the business case and articulate the Place Vison. You then start by bringing the vision to life through early activation so assets and experiences grow from an early phase, rather than waiting for completion and pulling the fence down, so to speak. This is a great way to engage the community from the get go. Finally, you need to follow through and maintain engagement through careful curation, activation and stakeholder management.

U: Which of Australia’s key suburbs do you think have the strongest sense of community and how do you think other areas can mirror their success?

<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/surry_hills_photo_by_by_ali_nasseri_courtesy_of_the_place_economy.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Credit: Ali Nasseri, courtesy of The Place Economy"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/surry_hills_photo_by_by_ali_nasseri_courtesy_of_the_place_economy.jpeg?itok=NqTb-DxS" title="Credit: Ali Nasseri, courtesy of The Place Economy" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Credit: Ali Nasseri, courtesy of The Place Economy</figcaption></figure>AH: I'm lucky enough to live in Surry Hills which I think has a phenomenal sense of community. Less than 15 years ago, the broader population thought Surry Hills was “too dirty and too dangerous” but over the last decade it’s become so famous it was listed as one of the top 30 places in the world to live. To this day it has an incredibly creative energy that has spawned the birth of famous businesses and experiences. It’s got great schools, restaurants, bars and shops; public transport is phenomenal, and everything is walkable. Ultimately it's suburbs like Surry Hills that give Sydney it’s village character. While I think it’s very unwise to suggest other suburbs try to replicate Surry Hills, I think other areas can mirror its success by developing, elevating and promoting their own unique DNA – that makes it a great place for their locals. It all comes back to people and my view is that if you create experiences that fulfil the needs of the community it will always be a success. Surry Hills supports its local community first and foremost in nearly everything it does, and that in my view is how to succeed. 

U: What was the process before ‘placemaking’ and how do you feel the concept is changing industry norms? Is there scope for developers and investors to reach a higher ROI if they follow your planning approach?

AH: Placemaking has been around since the 1960’s, although it’s been through lots of change. Up until recently, most people working in the space were focussed single mindedly on creating community oriented spaces. There was no real consideration for economic benefit, and in fact many were appalled at the idea of any form of commercialisation. However, our strong view has always been that someone has to pay for the upkeep, maintenance, constant improvement, activation and evolution over time. It’s rare that federal, state or local governments have this perspective which means that good intentions often result in spaces that degrade over time. A commercial approach ensures spaces are taken care of and loved, so people keep coming back. It’s benefiting the industry enormously because it has given us a way of creating socially and economically successful places, that meet the needs of the community, and ensure increased upside for developers and investors. This philosophy underpins everything we do: if you deliver a superior solution for the community, you generate stronger financial returns. One of my favourite developments of the moment is Industry City in Brooklyn, which is a great example of all this. It’s actually a commercial precinct that was aimed at the innovation economy but it’s been so perfectly curated with such a great mix of all these elements that it’s become a magnet and people visit from all over the world. Because of this success the average property price in the neighbourhood in which the development sits, Sunset Park, has risen by 43 per cent since the third quarter of 2014. And the price per square foot has risen to an all-time high level of growth which far outstrips wider Brooklyn. Lonely Planet has now named Sunset Park among the world’s 10 “coolest neighbourhoods”. This is an example of being rewarded for delivering what the market wants. This approach also mitigates risk. Traditionally, mitigating risk meant doing the same thing you had always done, because you knew that it made money. These days this is the riskiest thing you can do because it will not capture the attention of a more sophisticated market with increasingly higher expectations. No one will line up, pay a premium, or celebrate the arrival of another cookie-cutter development, which doesn’t address the needs of a community or provide tangible societal benefits. The only way to mitigate risk is to ask ourselves: ‘What is it we can do to make these communities stronger and more enjoyable?’, ‘What is missing and how can our development provide that?’. If you do this and create a compelling solution that exceeds people’s expectations, you will ensure stronger sales and returns than the rest of the industry. A great thinker Alan Fletcher once said “Fish are the last to recognize water.” I fear the same can be true in development. We need to break out of the old way of doing things, to create more engaging outcomes for communities and businesses. So creating magnetic destinations is mandatory to ensure a place has competitive advantage, whether it’s a mixed use precinct, or an entire city. 

U: Your place and property agency Hoyne strives to deliver ‘Brave not beige’ campaigns. What’s been your bravest (or favourite) campaign yet?

AH: One of our bravest campaigns has been Wonderland, the final release at Central Park for Frasers Property. Rather than presenting traditional property clichés the campaign identity took its creative cues from the world of retail which was a really unusual and daring approach. When we were looking at Central Park as a precinct, with it’s incredible mix of heritage and modern architecture, laneways, bars and restaurants that draw you into explore, it struck us that living there is like living in a modern day wonderland. So we brought the precinct and the development to life through a contemporary take on Lewis Carroll’s novel Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. A combination of CGI and photography was used to create these cool visual montages, unlike anything else in the Australian property marketplace – they fully embraced the journey and the storytelling experience. It was a bold move and there were a lot of raised eyebrows at the start but Frasers were incredible and gave it their full support. And it paid off; the results were phenomenal with 1,700 enquiries before launch and $140million worth of sales at launch, before a complete sell-out. But great solutions are always achieved by real collaboration. And as Ken Blanchard famously said “None of us is as smart as all of us.” 

U: In a perfect world, what would your dream suburb/precinct look like?

AH: My dream suburb or precinct would have great experiences for people of all ages. From kids, adults and the aged. It would have a unique sense of character and community. It would make the most of the area’s history and heritage. There would be great bars and awesome restaurants. It would have beautiful green spaces where people could hang out, and kids could ride their bikes. There’d be great public transport links. People would be able to walk their kids to school in the mornings. Everyone would walk to work. It would facilitate improved outcomes for business, innovation and creativity. And there would be something unexpected there, which you couldn’t find anywhere else. It could be built form, it could be art, or it could be a service. But it would be the central thing the space would become famous for.  

U: Lastly, with the effects of climate change requiring critical attention, what do you believe is the best response to aid in alleviating the problem when it comes to developing our cities?

AH: As the futurist Peter Ellyard said to me “sustainability means creating zero net collateral harm”. In fact, he said this can be applied to personal relationships, health, design, and actions by government. Or as Peter summed up, “The decisions I make, and the things I do, do not hurt you”. The best way for development to mitigate our environmental impact is to create built form that has meaningful legacy and longevity. I believe we also need to think more creatively about how we use old buildings, rather than reducing them to a pile of rubble if they don’t instantly suit the need of the moment. I love the quote by Stephanie Meeks (CEO and President of the National Trust for Historic Preservation), that “the greenest building, is the one which is already built”. Her team at the National Trust in the USA have mapped historic and new buildings in 50 cities around the world to see how individual blocks performed. They actually discovered that blocks which have a mix of old and new buildings have more small businesses, more women-and minority-owned businesses, are denser and have more affordable housing units. I also think that old buildings make great incubators for small business because they provide flexible spaces that help these businesses prosper. So preservation makes social, economic and environmental sense.
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Andrew Hoyne discusses the benefits of placemaking in urban design

LIMINAL: Melbourne’s trendy new venue could be the CBD’s next best meeting spot

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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