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Grandview, the Prahran home of the Van Veenendaal family, has been sold.
Nicole Gleeson at Kay &amp; Burton South Yarra was seeking offers at $9 million plus when the marketing campaign turned into a three-way private boardroom auction battle for the Grandview Grove estate.
With wrought iron wrapped balconies, it last sold $1.33 million for the 1895 six bedroom home in 1995. 
Set on 1676 sqm on one of Prahran's more prestigious tree-lined streets, the estate features a heated 17 metre swimming pool and a floodlit tennis court.
The neighbour's had sold their renovated home recently for $12 million plus.
This article was first published in the Weekend Australian Mansion Australia property section.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Grandview, Prahran sold at $9 million plus

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The Rialto Joint Venture has reached an agreement with John Lindholm of Ferrier Hodgson, the Liquidator of Planet Platinum Ltd, to purchase 46 King Street, Melbourne.
Acquired for $13.25 million, the three-level historic bluestone King Street building is currently home to Showgirls Bar 20 nightclub.
With the multi-million dollar Rialto regeneration project on the corner of Collins and King Streets nearing completion, acquisition of the property is a timely one according to Lorenz Grollo.
“This year marks the 30th anniversary of Rialto Towers, long regarded as one of Melbourne’s most iconic building developments – and a major city landmark”.
“The redeveloped precinct is set to raise this benchmark even higher, incorporating world class office space, cafes, theatre, function and first-to-market retail facilities, so cleaning up King Street has been a key issue for us,” he says.
“We have been working closely with the City of Melbourne throughout the redevelopment to make this a reality, and we see the acquisition of the King Street property as an important and very necessary step in this process”.
At this stage they are looking to do something along similar lines to the nearby York Butter Factory development.
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Grollo's Rialto acquire Showgirls Bar 20 on King Street

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The Melbourne metropolitan council regions with the highest proportion of loss making resales over the quarter were: the inner city Melbourne CBD (19.2%), Murrindindi (12.5%) and Stonnington (10.7%), according to the latest CoreLogic Pain and Gain report.
The regions with the highest proportion of loss-making resales at the same time in 2015 were Melbourne (20%), Stonnington (12%) and Moonee Valley (10.3%).
Over the year the median loss moved from $28,125 to $39,950 in the latest quarter.
Some 2.1% of all Melbourne houses and 9.3% of units resold at a loss over the June 2016 quarter, with the proportion of loss-making house and unit sale lower over the quarter.
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<img src="/images/2016/09/28/pain%20and%20gain%20melbourne.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Knox (1.0%), Frankston (1.1%) and Maroondah (1.4%) council areas recorded the lowest proportion of resales at a loss over the quarter.
The council regions with the highest proportion of profit making resales over the quarter was Knox on 99%.
<a href="/images/2016/09/28/melbourne%20pain%20and%20gain%20chart.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/28/melbourne%20pain%20and%20gain%20chart.jpg" alt="" width="435" height="391">
Get the full report <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/news/file-download?id=56fe4d38-98f3-4f82-b763-e91283945def" target="_blank">here</a>
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Slight improvement, but around 19% of Melbourne CBD apartment sellers cop sale pain: CoreLogic

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Global development and construction giant Qingjian Group Co Ltd has taken control of the luxurious $107 million Northcliffe Residences absolute beachfront project in Surfers Paradise, laying the foundation for its push into the Australian market.
The Chinese conglomerate established in 1952, known as CNQC and ranked in China’s Top 500 enterprises for 12 consecutive years, has developed major infrastructure and residential projects across the world.
CNQC’s turnover exceeded RMB$50 billion in 2015. The company operates throughout China along with the USA, South America, Singapore, Africa, Europe and most recently, Australia.
Highlights of its worldwide development portfolio include luxury villas on Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeriah, the UAE’s spectacular Nad Al Sheba racecourse, the Beijing 2008 Olympics sailing venue and airports in China and Yemen.
CNQC has increased its original stake in Northcliffe Residences and will take full control going forward.
Eastview Australia will project manage the 25-level Northcliffe Residences, which has development and operational works approval.
Eastview managing director Graham Goldman said the demolition contract had been awarded and clearing of the site would begin on October 4.
Mr Goldman, who is also the director of CNQC’s Australian construction and development arm, said CNQC’s decision to take control of the project allowed site works to start immediately.
“Buyers now have the confidence of knowing the project is moving ahead in the hands of a highly reputable and experienced global developer,” he said.
Mr Goldman said CNQC would use Northcliffe Residences as the launching pad for further projects in Australia.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2016/09/29/BEACH%20FRONT%20VIEW.jpg" alt="">
“The company is not just here to do one project, this development represents its entry into a new market,” he said.
“CNQC, in conjunction with Eastview, is actively looking at other development opportunities in Queensland and Sydney.”
Northcliffe Residences is set to rise on its beachfront parcel at 3 Northcliffe Terrace, just minutes from the heart of Surfers Paradise.
It will offer 75 luxury apartments including a two-level penthouse with private rooftop pool and entertaining terrace, and four whole-floor sub-penthouses.
Residents will have exclusive access to a private ocean-view Beach Club complete with gymnasium, infinity pool, steamroom, sauna, lounge area and separate dining room.
The development has already captured the serious attention of buyers by achieving more than $52 million in pre-sales.
The project is being marketed by McGrath Projects which has a display suite on Cavill Avenue in Surfers Paradise.
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Global giant CNQC takes control of Gold Coast's $107m Northcliffe Residences

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A former church and adjoining residential property in the heart of Cronulla has been listed for sale.
The Uniting Church has appointed CBRE’s Simon Lytton and Peter Vines in conjunction with Peter Starr of McGrath.
The sale involves a 1920s church and a neighbouring residential property at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-nsw-cronulla-502110582" target="_blank">12 and 14 Wilshire Avenue</a>.
<img src="/images/2016/09/29/Church.jpg" alt="" width="390" height="278">
 
The properties will be offered for saleseparately or in one line.
The potential uses include childcare, medical, residential conversion or redevelopment.
CBRE’s Mr Lytton said the campaign presented a rare opportunity to acquire a major north facing site on one of the most prestigious streets in South Cronulla.
“The properties are situated in a highly sought after location, close to Shelly Park and Cronulla Beach,” Mr Lytton said.
“Given the size of the land and the exclusive location we are expecting overwhelming interest from both local investors and from buyers Sydney wide.
Up for sale is 12 Wilshire Avenue, comprising a single storey, five-bedroom brick house on a site of 891.6sqm. Included is a detached building presently set up as classrooms, with the two building have a combined areas of 267sqm.
The adjoining 14 Wilshire Avenue is an existing brick church with a rear hall, also on 891.6sqm.
Mr Lytton said the character of the 1920s church, which included timber flooring and a pitched tile roof, would appeal to buyers seeking a unique conversion opportunity. The church and hall have a combined total area of 385sqm.
“Sydney is currently experiencing the strongest residential conditions in over a decade,” Mr Lytton said.
“This has underpinned a sharp increase in demand for versatile and well located development sites due to the lack of available, quality stock.”
Expressions of Interest for 12 &amp; 14 Wilshire Avenue close 20th October 2016.
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Uniting Church offers significant site in Cronulla

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The Perth metropolitian council regions with the highest proportion of loss making resales over the quarter were: Perth (52.8%), Mosman Park (37.5%) and Cottesloe (33.3%), according to the latest CoreLogic Pain and Gain report. 
The report compares the most recent sale price to the previous sale price in order to determine whether the property sold at a gross profit or gross loss. 
Some 17.9% of resold houses and 30.2% of resold units across Perth over the June 2016 quarter were sold for less than the previous purchase price, with loss-making resales of houses at their highest level since September 1996 and unit losses at record highs.
<a href="/images/2016/09/28/pain%20and%20gain%20perth.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/28/pain%20and%20gain%20perth.jpg" alt="">
The Peppermint Grove council area recorded no resales at a loss over the quarter, while Nedlands (7.7%) and Bassendean (8.3%) were the other two regions with the lowest proportion of loss-making resales.
<a href="/images/2016/09/28/perth%20pain%20and%20gain%20chart.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/28/perth%20pain%20and%20gain%20chart.jpg" alt="">
Get the full report <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/news/file-download?id=56fe4d38-98f3-4f82-b763-e91283945def" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Perth CBD residential property sellers cop sale pain 50% of the time: CoreLogic

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The UBS Global Real Estate Bubble Index score for New York remains relatively unchanged at 0.13, which is in the fairly-valued territory.
The rebound in price growth rates has largely run out of steam, particularly at the high end, the latest update noted.
Growth rates in the second quarter halved compared to the previous year and remain below the countrywide average.
Supply expansion and the prospect of higher mortgage rates should dampen any overly optimistic price expectations in the short run, says UBS.
 <img src="/images/2016/09/28/Downside.jpg" alt="">
Real house prices in the New York metropolitan area are almost 25% lower than they were 10 years ago. In the second quarter of 2016, residential prices increased by less than 2% in inflation-adjusted terms, about half the previous year’s rise. It was the fourth consecutive year that real price growth in New York lagged the US average.
The city remains one of the most expensive and unaffordable cities in the world. A skilled-service worker from the New York area would need to work for about 11 years to buy a 60 square metre unit near the city center.
Most notably, rents are more than 50% higher in real terms than they were in 2006, making New York rents one of the highest worldwide. Consequently, the price-to-rent in Manhattan is below average compared to most other financial centres.
In Manhattan, house prices dynamics were stronger in the last couple of years than in the overall New York region, propelled by demand from global investors and a series of new luxury developments. The tide has turned, however, as the luxury market looks increasingly oversupplied.
A historically fair valuation, wage growth and low interest rates are supportive and should limit downside risk for the broader housing market, the UBS report predicts.
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Residential price uptrend stalls in New York: UBS bubble index

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Over the three months to June 2016, 2.9% of Canberra houses and 21.7% of units re-sold at a loss, according to the latest CoreLogic Pain and Gain report. 
The report compares the most recent sale price to the previous sale price in order to determine whether the property sold at a gross profit or gross loss.
<a href="/images/2016/09/28/pain%20and%20gain%20canberra.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/28/pain%20and%20gain%20canberra.jpg" alt="">
The proportion of house resales at a loss increased over the quarter while the proportion of unit resales at a loss fell slightly.
<a href="/images/2016/09/28/canberra%20pain%20and%20gain%20chart.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/28/canberra%20pain%20and%20gain%20chart.jpg" alt="">
Get the full report <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/news/file-download?id=56fe4d38-98f3-4f82-b763-e91283945def">here</a>
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Around 10% of Canberra property resales at a loss: CoreLogic

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Across Darwin over the three months to June 2016, 23.5% of houses and 25.9% of units resold at a loss, according to the latest CoreLogic Pain and Gain report. 
The report compares the most recent sale price to the previous sale price in order to determine whether the property sold at a gross profit or gross loss.
It found that over the three months to June, gross losses for resales of houses were, while for gross losses for units fell.
In total, 17.1% of homes resold at a loss.
<a href="/images/2016/09/28/pain%20and%20gain%20darwin.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/28/pain%20and%20gain%20darwin.jpg" alt="">
Palmerston recorded the highest proportion of loss-making resales over the quarter (25.5%) followed by Darwin (24.1%) and Litchfield (21.7%).
<a href="/images/2016/09/28/darwin%20pain%20and%20gain%20chart.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/28/darwin%20pain%20and%20gain%20chart.jpg" alt="">
Get the full report <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/news/file-download?id=56fe4d38-98f3-4f82-b763-e91283945def" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Around 25% of Darwin property sellers losing money: CoreLogic

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The Crofte estate in Bowral has been sold by the Craft family.
Nestled behind a private hedge and pebbled driveway, the circa <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-bowral-123486670" target="_blank">1870s weatherboard home</a> comes with several original fireplaces.
The home, filled with striking artworks and sculptures, has a formal dining room, a parlour, dedicated study a rear courtyard and an art studio with its own access.
There's a cool-climate garden on the 1,631 sqm parcel that features an old maple, elm, crab apple, Manchurian pear, birch, magnolia grandiflora, plum, nashi pear and buxus hedging.
The property was listed with a price guide of $1,595,000 to $1,695,000 through Duncan Hill Bowral agents Duncan Hill and Jamie-Lee Chetcuti.
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Craft family sell Bowral's Crofte estate 

Avant Townhomes is adding to Ivanhoe’s family-sized housing options with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/three-82-ivanhoe-382-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Three 82</a>, a collection of just 16 four-bedroom townhomes on Upper Heidelberg Road.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/intrapac-property">Intrapac Property</a> townhome division has taken a contemporary approach to the traditional family home, pairing larger floorplans with the lower-maintenance format of a townhouse.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374394]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/arcadia-studio">Arcadia</a>, with landscaping by Landsite, the homes feature generous open-plan living and dining areas that connect directly to outdoor spaces, with layouts also designed to maximise natural light and privacy.

Natural stone is used throughout the interiors, including in kitchens that pair stone surfaces with bespoke cabinetry, considered storage and SMEG appliances.

The four-bedroom layouts include built-in wardrobes and a main bedroom with its own ensuite, while family bathrooms service the additional bedrooms. Each home also includes a lock-up double garage and intercom entry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374399]

Energy efficiency has been incorporated into the design through solar panels, double glazing and reverse-cycle heating and cooling, with the homes targeting 7-star energy ratings.

Rather than incorporating extensive communal facilities, Three 82 has been conceived around private residential amenity, with the 16-home scale keeping the focus on individual homes and their own indoor and outdoor spaces.

The development is located at 382 Upper Heidelberg Road, around one kilometre from Ivanhoe Village's cafés and retail and a short drive from Eaglemont Station and Ivanhoe Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374393]

Several of Ivanhoe's established schools are also nearby, including Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar and Ivanhoe Grammar School. The address also provides access to the suburb's parklands and the wider Yarra River corridor.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/nelson-alexander">Nelson Alexander</a> has been appointed to handle sales.

Construction is underway and progressing well, with Three 82 currently tracking toward completion in Q2 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152069]

Joel Robinson

Three 82 brings boutique four-bedroom townhome collection to Ivanhoe

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366760]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366769]

A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366762]

The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

Luxury apartment buyers have long prioritised design, space and finishes, but increasingly they're placing equal importance on something less tangible: how easily they can live without relying on a car.

At <a>Richmond Square</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> believes that convenience begins beyond the apartment itself, with the mixed-use precinct earning a near-perfect Walk Score of 99.

The development has been planned around the idea that some of the most valuable amenities aren't contained within a building, they're the restaurants, cafés, parks, transport connections and daily conveniences that can all be reached on foot.

Located just behind Swan Street and Church Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/richmond-square-1-wiltshire-street-richmond-vic-3121">Richmond Square</a> places residents within one of Melbo​u​rne's most established lifestyle precincts while offering a quieter residential setting removed from the busiest thoroughfares. East Richmond Station is moments away, trams run along both Swan and Church Streets, and the MCG, Melb​​ourne Park, Yarra River trails and the CBD are all within walking distance. At the same time, the precinct itself will introduce a curated mix of dining, retail, hospitality and wellness offerings, creating a destination that extends well beyond its residential buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348530]

For Fortis, that combination of location and scale was what made the site unique.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a> is one of Melb​o​urne's most established and distinctive inner-city neighbourhoods, with a rare combination of dining, culture, recreation, public transport and proximity to the CBD," the developer said.

"The opportunity at Wiltshire Street was particularly compelling because the site sits slightly removed from the activity of Swan and Church Streets while remaining only moments from everything that makes the area desirable."

Rather than developing a standalone apartment building, Fortis consolidated 15 individual properties to create one of the larger development parcels assembled on Mel​b​ourne's city fringe in recent years. That allowed the team to deliver a genuine mixed-use precinct comprising 107 residences across Wiltshire House and Carmine House, premium office space, hospitality venues, retail, wellness offerings and a future 57-room hotel.

"The scale of the site allowed Fortis to think beyond a standalone apartment building," the developer said.

"Richmond Square could be planned as a complete lifestyle precinct, bringing homes, workplaces, dining, retail, hospitality and wellness together around a series of activated public spaces. The aim was to create a destination that feels connected to Richmond rather than separate from it."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348533]

The emphasis on walkability has also resonated with buyers.

Interest has been strongest from established owner-occupiers, particularly downsizers from Richmond and Melb​ourne's inner east who want to remain close to familiar restaurants, workplaces, family and social networks while moving into a more secure, lower-maintenance home. The project is also attracting Mornington Peninsula and interstate buyers seeking a Melb​ourne residence they can lock up and leave between visits.

Many are looking for generous living spaces, room to entertain, quality finishes and confidence in the project team, but location remains one of the biggest deciding factors.

"For many buyers, Richmond Square provides a way to simplify the practical side of home ownership without reducing the quality of their lifestyle," the sales team said.

"Location is also a major driver of interest. Buyers can remain connected to the CBD, major sporting events, the arts centres, local restaurants, cafes and bars and their family while living in a private and secure residence that is easy to lock up and leave for weekends or longer periods away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348549]

The residences themselves have been designed with that buyer in mind. Award-winning architecture practice SJB and interior designers Hecker Guthrie have created spacious two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses that prioritise generous living areas, natural light, bespoke joinery and private terraces. Above, a rooftop sanctuary by Acre includes landscaped lawns, bookable dining rooms, barbecue facilities, wellness spaces and panoramic views across the CBD, the MCG and Port Phillip Bay.

Fortis believes Richmond Square reflects a broader evolution in apartment living, where the surrounding neighbourhood becomes just as important as the residence itself.

"Richmond Square introduces a different proposition: generously proportioned residences within a genuinely mixed-use, hospitality-led destination," the developer said.

"The project's location and Walk Score of 99 further support a lifestyle where residents can complete many everyday journeys without relying on a car."

Fortis has assembled an experienced team that includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/hecker-guthrie">Hecker Guthrie</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a> and builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hacer-group">Hacer Group</a>, reflecting the developer's commitment to creating projects with enduring design quality and meaningful connections to the communities in which they sit.&nbsp;

Richmond Square is an expression of that philosophy, bringing together homes, workplaces, hospitality and wellness within one of Me​lb​ourne's most walkable neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

Construction is now almost complete, providing purchasers with growing confidence ahead of its expected September 2026 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13181]

Walk Score of 99 places Richmond Square at the heart of Melbourne's most connected lifestyle

<h3 data-end="19" data-section-id="1dvgwoe" data-start="0">Summary</h3>

<ul data-end="634" data-start="21">
	<li data-end="170" data-section-id="1o77v31" data-start="21">Walker Corporation has lodged plans for a second major residential development in the Maroochydore City Centre, a 29-storey tower known as Celeste.</li>
	<li data-end="327" data-section-id="1lb0y6t" data-start="171">The Plus Studio-designed proposal at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade would deliver 208 apartments, including four four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.</li>
	<li data-end="487" data-section-id="za720" data-start="328">The application comes as Walker doubles down on Maroochydore following the strong sales campaign at SOL by Walker, where the first tower is nearing sell-out.</li>
	<li data-end="634" data-section-id="5sovec" data-start="488">Walker is a key partner in the transformation of the Maroochydore City Centre, which is expected to ultimately deliver at least 4,000 new homes.</li>
</ul>

Walker Corporation is doubling down on Maroochydore following the successful sales campaign at its first residential project in the emerging CBD.

The national developer has filed plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celeste-30-sunshine-coast-parade-maroochydore-qld-4558">Celeste</a>, a new 29-storey apartment tower at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade, just metres from its under-construction SOL by Walker development.

The plans, prepared by Plus Studio, would see 208 apartments delivered across a 100-metre tower on the 2,376 sqm site, which fronts Sunshine Coast Parade, First Avenue and Future Way within the Maroochydore Priority Development Area.

<img alt="Walker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17038209-6fea-4ed2-855d-fd4df65b3d02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=iZD.oVXcQn.aLpUytDAW.CWjxP4puWMy" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 36 one-bedroom apartments, 48 two-bedroom apartments, 72 two-bedroom apartments with an additional multipurpose space, and 48 three-bedroom apartments.

The upper levels would be capped by two four-bedroom sub-penthouses and two four-bedroom penthouses, taking the total apartment count to 208. The preliminary yield study also provides 262 car spaces, 114 resident bicycle spaces and storage for each apartment.

It represents Walker's next major residential move in the new Maroochydore CBD after the success of SOL by Walker, its $220 million two-tower project nearby.

SOL launched to market in early 2025 and has since seen strong demand, particularly from local owner-occupiers. By February this year, Walker said the first SOL tower was nearing sell-out, with a strong waitlist also emerging for its recently released penthouse collection.

Construction is already underway on SOL, with the first tower expected to be completed in late 2027 and the second to follow in early 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

<h2 data-end="2518" data-section-id="1b2dyo5" data-start="2459">Celeste to rise 100 metres over Maroochydore City Centre</h2>

Celeste would take a different form to the twin 19-storey buildings at SOL.

Plus Studio has designed a single 100-metre tower above an activated podium, with the architecture responding to the site's prominent position and three street frontages.

The podium would incorporate commercial tenancies and public art, with sweeping façade elements wrapping the street edges. The scalloped concrete podium has been inspired by the patterns created in sand at low tide, while extensive landscaping would continue vertically through the tower.

The ground level plans show three commercial tenancies addressing Sunshine Coast Parade alongside the residential lobby and landscaped public realm. The podium would then accommodate several levels of car parking before the residential tower rises above.

<img alt="Celeste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="121f77b1-71c5-46d7-9b36-0a7d474211ca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=MGrg9Hb7HgzLN0Lelq_xrXNAruVl77ia" />

Plus Studio said the tower had been designed to maximise views from each apartment, taking in the Maroochy River, Sunshine Coast hinterland, Cotton Tree and Maroochydore Beach and ocean.

Those views have also shaped one of the project's key features, with Walker proposing to put the primary resident amenity on Level 29 rather than lower within the building.

The rooftop would feature a 284.9 sqm pool area with an infinity edge, along with a cold pool, spa, sauna, 93.2 sqm gym, sunset lounge, BBQ and dining areas, pool deck and private dining space. Cabanas and day beds are also shown across the recreation level.

The two penthouses would extend across the upper levels and each feature private terraces and plunge pools.

<h2 data-end="4202" data-section-id="v5f4ix" data-start="4160">Walker's growing Maroochydore footprint</h2>

Celeste further reinforces Walker's commitment to the transformation of Maroochydore City Centre.

Walker is one of the key partners delivering the new CBD alongside Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral Maroochydore, with the broader 62-hectare Priority Development Area occupying the former Horton Park Golf Course and surrounding land.

The precinct is ultimately expected to accommodate at least 4,000 new homes as Maroochydore evolves into the Sunshine Coast's principal commercial and residential centre.

When SOL secured approval in February 2025, Walker Managing Director and CEO David Gallant described it as the "first of many residential projects" the company planned for the Maroochydore City Centre.

Celeste now provides the clearest indication yet of what comes next.

The site sits immediately within the new CBD, with the design report identifying Sunshine Plaza and surrounding parkland within walking distance and Maroochydore Beach around a five-minute drive away.

For Walker, the timing of the application comes as its first residential bet on the new CBD appears to have been vindicated.

SOL has progressed from planning approval to construction while its first release has approached sell-out, giving Walker confidence to push ahead with another 208 apartments and take its residential pipeline in the Maroochydore City Centre to around 450 dwellings across the two projects.

Celeste remains subject to planning approval, with the architectural material describing the scheme as a preliminary yield study that may change through the assessment process.

Staff reporter

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