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A refurbished 1950s home in Seaforth has sold for $4.1 million.
The house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-seaforth-123454338" target="_blank">4 Abernethy Street</a> was purchased along with a jetty, boatshed, sandstone harbour pool and pontoon. 
The three-level four-bedroom, two-bathroom house sits on 1,728 square metres of land. 
The median house price in Seaforth is $2.2 million according to CoreLogic.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Seaforth waterfront fetches $4.1 million at auction

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Whalan takes the equal top spot as Sydney's 2016/2017 hotspot for investing in houses with an expected increase of seven percent over the next 12 months.
The median price at Whalan is currently $480,000, according to APM, in their forecast developed by APM senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.
An example would be a four bedroom home currently on sale for between $485,000-$525,000 at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-whalan-123290346" target="_blank">227 Luxford Rd</a> Whalan (above), which is between $5,000 - $45,000 above the median price.
<img src="/images/2016/09/22/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-22%20at%208.21.00%20AM.png" alt="">
Similarly a four bedroom house was recently sold for $495,000 at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-whalan-122168302" target="_blank">66 Torres Crescent</a> (above), which is $15,000 above the median price.
The Smart Investor magazine, published by Fairfax Media, ranked Burwood as second best hotspot.
Suburb               Postcode    Median price      12 month forecast
Whalan               2770         $480,000           7%
Burwood             2134         $2,250,000        7%
North Strathfield  2137         $1,652,257        6%
South Granville    2142         $820,500           6%
Cabarita              2137         $2,632,000        5%
Sylvania Waters   2224         $1,817,500         5%
Manly                 2095         $2,715,000         5%
Telopea              2117          $1,082,500        5%
Homebush         2140          $1,931,460         4%
Pitt Town           2756          $1,070,000         3%
 
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Whalan tops list of 2017 Sydney property hotspots

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Singaporean billioniare Ronald Ooi has finally sold the historic Clyde Cottage in Woollahra for just shy of $13 million after transforming it into a contemporary home.
Ronald paid $4 million for the Queen Street heritage residence that was the childhood home of opera star Dame Joan Sutherland.
The Victorian front section has been extensively restored and the rear section features a contemporary rear pavilion.
Designed by Studiointernationale and May+Swan Architects, the HIA 2015 award winning home has four bedrooms, six bathrooms and an upstairs studio.
It was on the market since February.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
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Dame Joan Sutherland's Clyde Cottage, Woollahra sold

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Investors in Morwell can pick up a miner’s cottage in the vicinity of $130,000 and rent for around $210 per week reflecting an 8 percent yield, according to Herron Todd White's latest monthly market report.
Miners cottages are very common throughout Morwell, Moe and parts of Traralgon. These are generic 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom, timber weatherboard dwellings which seem to be popular with investors.
There is such <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-morwell-123584550">an offering at $129,000</a> currently.
The property advisory firm says that Gippsland has the option of the brick veneer, described as an iconic family home and generally structurally sound, but built in the good old days with hardwood frames and flooring.
Entry level at the median price of around $270,000 for the regional city of Sale would likely see a 3-bedroom brick veneer in original or dated condition.
A renovated California Bungalow in a central location will likely fetch around $500,000.
Classic styles for the Gippsland region include 1970s to 1980s brick veneer or in older areas of towns, circa 1930s California Bungalows.
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Gippsland offers 8 percent Morwell investor weatherboards: HTW

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Adelaide ranks as the cheapest capital city for houses and units, according to recent CoreLogic data on private treaty sales. Hobart is even cheaper.
Property Observer went searching for houses in Adelaide at around its $410,000 average.
A one bedroom home at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-adelaide-122872858" target="_blank"> 54 Corryton Street Adelaide</a> (above) recently sold for $394,000.
A one bedroom home at <a class="property-card__info-text" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-adelaide-122968118" target="_blank" data-reactid="104">16 Allen Place, Adelaide</a> recently sold for $511,000.
<h1 class="property-info__address">54 Corryton Street</h1>
<a href="/images/2016/09/13/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-13%20at%2010.23.40%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/13/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-13%20at%2010.23.40%20AM.png" alt="">
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Adelaide's $410,000 median house prices: CoreLogic

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Vacant land prices grew in value and price across most greater growth in the cost of established housing stock, according to CoreLogic.
Key Findings:
• As at June 2016, the national median vacant land sales price was $212,000 and decreased by -2.3 percent over the past 12 months.
• The median vacant land sales price was recorded at $270,350 across the combined capital cities, and $164,250 for the combined regional areas.
• Combined capital city selling prices increased by 8.1% over the year while combined regional area sales prices fell by - 1.9%.
• The median combined capital city vacant land selling price is now 65% higher than median prices in regional areas, the largest differential since September 2003 and the median size of residential land sales was recorded at 450sqm within the combined capital cities compared to 812sqm across the combined regional areas.
<a href="/images/2016/09/15/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-15%20at%2012.05.56%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/15/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-15%20at%2012.05.56%20PM.png" alt="">
Mr Kusher said, “Although nationally median prices are lower, there has been a divergence between price growth across the capital city and regional markets.”
The results show that the median land size has held reasonably steady (+0.4%) over the year across the capital cities and is 11.5% higher across the combined regional areas. Capital city vacant land sizes reached a low point after remaining at current levels for some time while regional market land sizes experienced a small increase over the past year, and are now substantially larger than those within the capital cities.
CoreLogic reported that based on vacant land selling prices, and the size of the lots, the rate per square metre of vacant land as at June 2016 was recorded at $584 across the combined capital cities and $177 across the combined regional areas.
The rate per square metre for vacant land sold increased by 4.3% over the year across the combined capital cities and fell by -17.0% across the combined regional areas. On a rate per square metre basis, capital city vacant land is now 231% more expensive than land outside of the capital cities which is the largest differential on record. (Note: The adjacent statistics table details the key vacant land statistics across each of the state capital city markets.)
<a href="/images/2016/09/15/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-15%20at%2012.06.05%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/15/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-15%20at%2012.06.05%20PM.png" alt="">
Mr Kusher said, “While it’s no surprise that the cost of vacant land in Sydney is significantly higher than in all other capital cities, of note is just how strong the increases in land prices have been in Sydney and Melbourne over the past year, with rises in excess of those for home values.”
“Excluding Hobart, each city currently shows a median lot size below 500sqm. Interestingly, median lot sizes have increased over the past year in a number of capital cities including Sydney and Melbourne where median land prices have increased significantly.”
<a href="/images/2016/09/15/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-15%20at%2012.06.24%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/15/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-15%20at%2012.06.24%20PM.png" alt="">
“On a rate per square metre, housing costs have increased across each capital city over the past year. Again Sydney and Melbourne recorded the greatest increases over the period.”
“A significant driver for the cost increases has been the price to purchase land. Therefore, it’s no wonder median house prices in Sydney are hovering around $900,000 when new vacant land (most of which is on the outskirts of the city) has a median price in excess of $422,000.
“An increase in the amount of land available for development, as well as lower fees and charges applied to land development, and more competition amongst developers would likely reduce land costs. Potentially, this would slow the escalation in housing costs, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne,” Mr Kusher said.
<a href="/images/2016/09/15/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-15%20at%2012.06.35%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/15/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-15%20at%2012.06.35%20PM.png" alt="">
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Capital city land prices continue to climb: CoreLogic

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Trinity Beach ranks amongst Investar's 10 most distressed suburbs. It is among the eight Queensland suburbs listed on the top 10 list.
Investar put the distressed rate at 50 percent at Trinity.
Bargara, also from Queensland, topped the list with Toongabbie and Denman being the only suburbs from NSW.
The list was produced using live on the market rental and sales listing data including distressed sale condition keyword analysis.
It identified listings with one or more keywords that would indicate an increased level of seller motivation and calculated this as a percentage of total listings on the market.
This data is designed to identify suburbs with the highest percentage of potentially distressed price stock based on the descriptions used by agents and vendors.
There is no suggestion the sales are being forced, just that the owner was keen for a sale.
"The owners are serious about selling this fabulous property and have reduced the price," advised one current listing.
"Reduced for Immediate Sale!" is the urging on the 2/24 Moore Street listing. Its initial asking price was $360,000 in early 2016. <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-trinity+beach-121825090" target="_blank">It is now $339,000 negotiable</a> (below). It last sold at $355,000 in 2007.
<img src="/images/2016/09/20/trinity1.jpg" alt="">
Another example includes a property on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-trinity+beach-119215775" target="_blank">Lot 702 Coastline Parade Trinity Beach Qld 4879</a> (below) that was formerly on sale for $635,000, but marketing advised it has "now reduced" to $595,000.
<img src="/images/2016/09/20/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-20%20at%209.41.52%20AM.png" alt="">
Suburb   State  Type Rooms Days to sell Median Price Median Price Growth
BARGARA QLD Unit    1          8             $182,500                 -8.30%
TRINITY BEACH QLD Unit  1         11      $145,000                   4.31% 
TOONGABBIE NSW Unit     2         29      $549,000                 12.61%
LONGREACH QLD  House   3         20       $265,000                  2.31%
RIVER HEADS QLD House  3         12       $330,000                 0.00% 
INNES PARK QLD 4 House 3          9        $374,000                10.32%
CLIFTON BEACH QLD Unit 3          8        $300,000                  0.33%
PIALBA QLD    Townhouse 3          8        $279,000                 -5.43% 
DENMAN NSW House        3         10       $280,000                -13.59% 
EMERALD QLD  Unit         2          25       $269,000                  0.00% 
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Trinity Beach vendors wanting out rank high on Investar's distressed suburbs list

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There are currently bargains across all price points at Emerald in Queensland, according to Herron Todd White.
They are from the basic neat home built in the 1980s around $140,000 through to executive homes built in the 1990s selling at around $250,000 up to acreage selling in the range of $400,000 to $550,000.
The acreage had held firm the longest but in the past 12 months we have seen it come back significantly in line with the fall in single dwelling properties in town, the valuation firm advised this month.
"The market is currently in a position where you can get much more with a lot less money than you could four years ago.
"If you’re a first home buyer or have a deposit and ready to go, now is the cheapest time to buy in the past 11 years," it suggested.
Emerald has gone through four major building and construction booms over the past fifty years.
There was a major construction phase in the 1960s to 1970s of railway homes, housing commission and blue collar workers’ accommodation.
"These are now selling near the bottom of the market in the $120,000 to $160,000 range," according to Herron Todd White's latest monthly market report. 
The property advisory firm says that then there was the opening up of many coal mines in the Bowen Basin region in the late 1970s when mining companies built many homes in town from 1978 to 1994 of very similar design and style. 
These are now selling mostly in the $160,000 to $220,000 range.
"We then saw a large expansion of the town by private developers and our own council in the 1990s with many owner-occupier and custom built homes of the highest quality the town had ever seen.
"These were your large executive style homes along with a great expansion in the rural residential market.
"This created some prestige estates which still hold a premium today. 
"Then we saw the last boom from 2004 to 2012 which was the largest the town had experienced with many single dwellings and unit complexes being constructed.
"Some of these large, modern homes under ten years of age with pool, shed and located in good estates are holding at the top of the market in a range of $450,000 to $550,000, back from the peak of $700,000." 
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Queensland's Emerald offers residential bargains: HTW

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The property next door to outgoing RBA governor Glenn Stevens at Sylvania Waters has been listed for September 24 auction.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-sylvania+waters-123482290" target="_blank">four bedroom, two storey home</a> on 600 sqm isn't too dissimiliar to the home owned by Glenn Stevens.
The corner non-waterfront home - on the market for the first time in 40 plus years through Dave Watkins and John Basa at DJW Property Sylvania Waters - has $1.35 million to $1.4 million price guidance.
It last sold in 1971 at $43,000.
Glenn Stevens and wife Susan have owned next since 1992 when they paid $312,500.
"My house is not a fibro house, but it is a piece of spec rubbish built in the 1970s, and in many respects it shows that," Stevens told a 2007 House of Representatives hearing.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph. 
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Glenn Stevens' Sylvania Waters neighbour to provide market insights

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BrickX, a new innovative trading platform that offers part ownership of properties, has bought a two bedroom Double Bay apartment. The initial entry price for investors will be $95.
The new fractional ownership platform, that allows the online purchase and the sale of 'Bricks', have paid $1.305 million for the Ocean Avenue property.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-double+bay-123223142" target="_blank">recreated Art Deco apartment</a> in the heart of Double Bay is a mid level apartment with grand-timbered entrance foyer, high ceilings and a marble bathroom.
Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay selling agents Louise Snowden and Molly Bellemore described the home as 'a nod to Manhattan style'. There were three bidders including John Spender QC.
It last traded for $655,000 in 2010.
BrickX is offering an innovative way into the housing market for young home buyers, with fractional investments starting from as little as $67 in residential properties.
The Double Bay bricks will be initially priced at $95. The settlement date for the first buyers will be late October. There is debt funding on the acquisition. Its expected rent will be $850 a week.
Anthony Millet, the BrickX chief executive, said they were working towards having 100 properties. A waiting list has been commenced for potential investors in the Double Bay investment trust.
To read more about BrickX, click here.
 
 
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BrickX purchase Double Bay apartment 

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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