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The ACT-government’s goal of promoting Canberra as an international destination has received a boost with the completion of the Canberra Airport’s first luxury hotel.
The Bates Smart-designed Canberra Vibe Hotel, operated by Toga Far East Hotels, has a  circular form inspired by the geometry of Walter Burley Griffin’s Canberra.
The hotel has 191 rooms, including 12 suites over six levels and nine apartments. Other features include conferencing facilities, a restaurant and bar and lounges. 
The $50 million, 4.5 star hotel is close to the airport terminal and Parliament House and is part of a resurgence of new hotel developments in Australia.
Canberra Airport Group CEO Stephen Byron said the hotel’s completion was a key piece of the puzzle in attracting international flights. 
He said as the only 24-hour airport between Brisbane and Melbourne, Canberra Airport was strategically positioned to expand internationally and expected to draw its first international carrier in 2016.
“This hotel is on a key strategic site of great importance to the future growth of the airport and is why we held a major design competition to arrive at the perfect outcome,” he said.
“In terms of expanding internationally, it is a question of when not if. Our strategy is to connect to a key Asian hub and every day we get closer to that. We expect it to become a reality in 2016.”
Appointed to the project after winning the 2013 design competition, Bates Smart based the design around a dramatic full height circular atrium that draws references from Griffin’s plan for Canberra with its circular and radial geometries.
“We have created a unique destination for travellers to be, one that will attract visitors with its timeless design that combines circular and axial geometries to create a distinctive form, drawn from its context,” Bates Smart director Philip Vivian said.
“A signature space for the hotel is its striking black and white atrium rising above a large-scale ground floor entertaining space catering for intimate gatherings as well as large-scale events.”
Vivian said Bates Smart had a number of hotel projects on the cards, including a new hotel at Barangaroo in collaboration with the UK’s Wilkinson Eyre Architects.
“It’s no secret that new hotel developments have been scarce in recent years due to the expense associated with purchasing sites in Australia,” Vivian said.
“New hotel developments are on the increase and we’ve been looking at a number in the Sydney CBD. The economy here is performing well, stimulating business travel, and the lower dollar is attracting the tourist market. Consequently, hotel occupancy rates are up, stimulating the need for new supply.”
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Bates Smart unveil new Canberra Vibe Hotel, as new build hotel industry gains momentum

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A local private investor has snapped up a prominent retail complex in Perth's Bayswater for $5.45 million at auction.
The 497 Guildford Road complex is anchored by Red Rooster and Snap Fitness.
The deal was brokered by CBRE agents Ben Younger and Michael Milne.
The sale price translates to an estimated yield of 5.87%.
The 3,137 square metre site has expansive frontages to Guildford Road and Slade Street and on-site parking.
The site was sold with secure leases to four well-established tenants, which provide an estimated income of about $320,367 per annum.
The auction was well bid with eight parties.
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Bayswater retail complex sells under the hammer

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A South Yarra address leased to MasterChef Australia patissier Adriano Zumbo’s Fancy Nance and Little Frankie’s eateries has sold for $3.705 million before auction.
The Fridcorp-developed Lilli building at 21 Daly Street, South Yarra is spread across 410 square metres and is located on the ground floor.
Zoned Commercial 1, it was sold with a new 10-year lease with two five-year options to Zumbo’s high tea restaurant Fancy Nance and Little Frankie’s, returning a rental of $197,514 per annum plus outgoings and GST.
The yield works out at 5.3 percent.
Fitzroys' Chris Kombi and Andrew Hewett handled the selling campaign.
“This is an enormously successful location with a huge catchment of over 3,000 residents and workers immediately surrounding the property, with high growth prospects for the future,” said Kombi.
The building had been on the market for 48 days before Zumbo snapped it up.
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Adriano Zumbo-leased restaurant sold prior to auction for $3.7 million in Melbourne

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The last of nine prime retail shops at the base of the EXO apartment building in Melbourne’s Docklands precinct has sold for $1,128,000 to a private investor.
Shop 5A at 860 Collins Street is spread over 140 square metres and was the last retail space available on the ground floor of Lendlease’s EXO apartment tower.
The selling agents were Daniel Wolman, Oliver Hay and Chris Ling of Colliers International. 
It follows the recent sale of the 251 square metre corner site at EXO, tenanted by ASX-listed Flight Centre on a 10-year lease, for $2.51 million, also by Colliers International.
“Anchored by the national headquarters of ANZ, NAB, Lend Lease and Myer, Victoria Harbour is becoming increasingly sought after," said Wolman.
The nine ground floor shops at EXO range from 85 to 402 square metres.
Wolman said investment activity in the area was being supported by increasing foot traffic from a growing catchment of commercial office tenants.
“Since its completion in mid-2013, EXO at 860 Collins Street, and the Victoria Harbour precinct more broadly, has undergone significant uplift and growth as a result of Melbourne’s increasing population and the CBD growing towards Docklands with more affordable retail and office space,” he said.
Ling said record low interest rates, a soft Australian dollar and volatility in overseas Asian markets were combining to position the Australian commercial property as a safe haven for investors and owner-occupiers alike.
“Investor appetite for prime retail space in the Melbourne CBD continues unabated. We expect it will drive strong demand for a range of assets we are currently marketing, including a freestanding retail investment at 471 Eliizabeth Street, two strata retail shops at 1 Little Collins Street and the Belgian Beer Café site at the base of Eureka Tower at 3-7 Riverside Quay.”
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Final retail shop sold at Melbourne's EXO apartments for $1.128 million

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NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe has issued another public warning not to deal with Christopher Wayne Stanley Boyce, a removalist against whom the commission is taking action based on many complaints of losing, breaking and damaging household goods in transit. 
Boyce has previously traded as Bustamove Removals and now trades as Interstate Relocation Specialist at <a href="https://www.interstaterelocationspecialist.com/" target="_blank">www.interstaterelocationspecialist.com</a>, the note said.
The Commissioner issued a public warning about Boyce and Bustamove Removals in July last year after which Boyce started trading under the unregistered business name Interstate Relocation Specialist.
According to the notice, Boyce’s business practices pose a threat of consumer detriment due to him:
· failing to arrive at all for pick-up after taking a deposit or full payment
· failing to arrive for pick-up on time or within a reasonable time
· losing items and delivering broken and damaged items and furniture
· not providing receipts for payments
· not providing the services the consumer pays for such as an empty truck or a truck with requested dimensions
· not providing contracts or insurance (when requested)
· purporting to include insurance in the services but not obtaining any  
· not providing the accompanying packaging services such as boxes or protective packaging material the consumer pays for
· charging extra for storage and the subsequent delivery of 'stored' items
· requiring payment before accepting to provide a service.
The Commissioner said Boyce habitually has not returned calls, emails or text/SMS messages when consumers tried to contact him.
“Fair Trading takes the view Mr Boyce has breached provisions of the Australian Consumer Law and consumers who deal with him could suffer a significant financial loss,” he said.
“Moving is a stressful enough experience and the last thing consumers need is to suffer the insult of lost and damaged goods and inappropriate trader behaviour.
“Consumers should check internet product and service reviews for traders they are intending to deal with before committing to contracts or payment of any money. They are also advised not to automatically accept the lowest price quoted without further inquiry. In addition, consumers should not feel compelled to purchase based upon undue sales pressure from traders.”
This is also the case if consumers are using trader (removalist) locating or brokering (removalist) services on the internet and those businesses recommend Interstate Relocation Specialist.
NSW Fair Trading has started enforcement action against Boyce and his businesses. 
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Property 101: NSW Fair Trading issues warning against removalist Christopher Wayne Stanley Boyce

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Parramatta City Council is acquiring four sites along Phillip Street that it deems key to its River Strategy programme worth $200 million.
The council has zeroed in on Willow Grove, St Georges Terrace and other commercial buildings that will cost $35.5 million.
The council’s River Strategy envisions a makeover of the foreshore between Gasworks Bridge and Rings Bridge, O’Connell Street with better space for walking, cycling, recreation and the hosting of events such as New Year’s Eve.
The acquisitions are expected to improve the CBD’s connection to Parramatta River.
"These purchases will allow Council to provide a critical civic link within the City from Parramatta Square through to Riverbank and the foreshore. It allows Council to be more flexible in its activation and rejuvenation of a core precinct in our CBD," Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Paul Garrard said. 
The River Strategy would be an economic injection into the city, he added.
“Historic Willow Grove will be included in of our plans to activate the Riverbank precinct which is a crucial part of Council’s River Strategy adopted earlier this year.”
A blueprint for the Riverbank is currently being considered by council.
It has also resumed control of the former David Jones car park site, which together with the four purchases will make up an 18,000 square metre foreshore site planned for mixed use such as cultural venues and apartments.
The project will be completed in stages over a 20-year timeframe with funding from a range of sources including the council, state government and the private sector.
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Parramatta Council buys four properties for its River Strategy plan

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The $228 million redevelopment and expansion of Stockland Wetherill Park is a measure of confidence in the economic strength of Western Sydney and is part of by Stockland’s $2 billion investment in New South Wales over the next five years.
Stockland’s Wetherill Park shopping centre was completed three months ahead of schedule, just in time for the Christmas and New Year high sales period.
“Our $228 million investment in Stockland Wetherill Park is a strong vote of confidence in the economic strength of Western Sydney,” said Stockland managing director and CEO Mark Steinert.
The second and final stage of the redevelopment saw the addition of 5,600 square metres of retail space with 20 new fashion and homewares retailers together with an 800-seat indoor-outdoor dining precinct, which features 14 new restaurants, cafes and food operators.
Post-expansion, the gross lettable area (GLA) has increased to 70,000 square metres.
Stockland Wetherill Park has more than 210 retailers, including JB Hi-Fi Home, Dick Smith, Industrie, Napolean Perdis and Lorna Jane. 
The centre has more than doubled its fresh food and casual dining offering with brands such as Nandos, Grill’d, San Churro, Thai Rock and Rashay’s Pizza Pasta and Grill. Stockland Wetherill Park is also home to the first Jamie’s Ministry of Food in NSW, a new Fit n Fast gym and upgraded 12 screen Hoyts cinema.
Joining them is a new Coles supermarket with adjoining Liquorland.
The shopping centre’s Facebook page had 15,334 Likes as on February 22.
The Stockland Wetherill Park redevelopment is expected to achieve an incremental internal rate of return (IRR) of more than 15 per cent in the 10 years post-completion and an incremental, stabilised funds from operations (FFO) yield of just over 7.25 per cent.
The redevelopment started in September 2013, creating more than 2,250 jobs.
The opening in December was well attended, with Hon. Chris Bowen MP, Member for McMahon, Shadow Treasurer, Dr Hugh McDermott MP, Member for Prospect and Mayor of Fairfield City, Frank Carbone among those present. 
The parking space was also increased by 30 percent to accommodate 2,700 cars.
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Early completion of Stockland Wetherill Park expansion vote of confidence in Western Sydney's economic strength

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A private Stewart Island eco-sanctuary spread over 172 hectares is up for sale at an asking price of $2.25 million.
The Dancing Star Reserve, which adjoins Rakiura National Park, is on the market after 15 years as a private, protected ecological refuge for native flora and fauna.
Encompassing mountainous terrain, garden meadows, five beaches and some of the oldest native forests in New Zealand, the property features a high-tech, ecologically engineered fence to exclude predators, as well as state-of-the-art electronic and video surveillance.
The listing brings a rare opportunity for anyone to own a piece of prehistoric New Zealand, says listing agent Matt Finnigan of New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty.
Wildlife preservation and biodiversity conservation have been the core focuses of the property’s current owners, the California-based, not-for-profit Dancing Star Foundation. The refuge now hosts well over 126 native species and contains one of the highest concentrations of kiwi in New Zealand.
“This particular property is quite special - it’s one of the largest pieces of privately-owned land on Stewart Island, and with the work done by the vendors, it has the potential to lead the world in conservation efforts,” says Finnigan.
Buildings within the reserve include a 230-square-metre barn and an environmental education centre with a shower block and kitchen. A full-time conservation manager currently lives on site to maintain the property and its inhabitants.
Finnigan says the reserve presents a unique opportunity for tourism operators and corporates, as well as private owners looking to balance their impact on the environment. It would also be of interest to individuals wanting a secluded and amazing holiday retreat or innovative stewards seeking a project with conservation attributes. 
“It would appeal to someone who would like to appreciate and preserve what the land was several hundred years ago. There are very few places like this remaining in New Zealand - or the world, for that matter,” he said.
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Stewart Island eco-sanctuary up for sale

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Imagine walking through the doors of your new apartment even before a brick has been laid, feeling its interiors and the spaces... 
Brisbane’s Blue Sky Private Real Estate is using Oculus Rift 3D technology to give prospective buyers a walk-through of its apartments at its latest Kangaroo Point development, The Duke, before construction even begins.
Visitors to <a href="https://www.blueskyfunds.com.au/the-duke/" target="_blank">The Duke's display suite at 444 Vulture Street</a> can inspect the property in 3D, where you see photo-realistic impressions of the apartment interiors, by wearing the Oculus Rift headset.
The software has been created by Australian architectural 3D visualisation studio, Binyan.
Blue Sky development manager Edan Norris said the new Facebook-owned technology was a game changer for the industry.
“Oculus Rift got gamers very excited at first, but the potential for the architecture and real estate industry is enormous,” he said.   “Buying a property is a huge decision, one that is very emotional. We want to give prospective owners the ultimate preview into our apartments to ensure they make an informed decision, as we know buying off-the-plan can be daunting.   “As buyers become more sophisticated, the Oculus Rift walk-through will give people a much better sense of space than any artist impressions, and allow them to take in the impressive view from the rooftops.”   Situated close to the Gabba, at the corner of Vulture and Duke streets, the new 15-storey development features 125 one, two and three bedroom apartments targeted at owner occupiers.
One-bedroom apartments range from $375,000 to $450,000, two-bedroom from $475,000 to $655,000 and three-bedroom from $790,000 to $830,000.   Blue Sky Private Real Estate is injecting $185 million in Brisbane’s south side with five residential developments underway to capitalise on rising demand.
The Duke is one of its most luxurious developments. Its will feature marble look benchtops, soft timbers and leather trim. Two landscaped rooftop terraces allow views of the city skyline, while resident facilities include a lap pool, BBQ dining and lounge areas, a herb and citrus garden space, an outdoor cinema screen and a tiered timber grandstand with direct views into the Gabba stadium.   “The architects, Rothelowman, have created a development that is contextually relevant,” Norris said.   The Duke is two kilometres from Brisbane CBD, with Kangaroo Point cliffs, Brisbane River, South Bank, the Story Bridge and the Pacific Motorway all a short walk.     Blue Sky Private Real Estate is a division of Blue Sky Alternative Investments (ASX: BLA).
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Brisbane's Blue Sky gives buyers a virtual realty check

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<div>Properties sold in Australia without an agent account for less than one percent of all property sales in Australia, according to research by real estate comparison service Which Real Estate Agent.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In figures, of the half-a-million homes sold in Australia in the 12 months to November, just 5,300 were sold by an owner without an agent.</div>
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<div><a href="/images/2016/02/19/properties-for-sale.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2016/02/19/properties-for-sale.png" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>The UK’s property market is more mature than Australia's, and local property analysts often use UK data to predict Australian trends, it says.</div>
<div>
According to the research, for sale by owner has similar market penetration in the UK as in Australia. Of the 1.2 million properties sold in the UK every year, just 10,000 are sold by owners who don’t use agents. That’s less than one percent of all property sales.
This suggests that unless a disruptor arrives and turns the entire property industry on its head, Australia’s for sale by owner market isn’t about to change. It hasn’t happened in the UK, and it’s unlikely to happen here.
<a href="/images/2016/02/19/For-sale-by-owner-property-sales.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/19/For-sale-by-owner-property-sales.png" alt="">
Other key findings include: 
<div>
<ul>
<li>Half of the for sale by owner websites analysed had sold fewer than 200 properties in the past year</li>
<li>For sale by owner websites sold an extra 300 properties this year compared to last, but that growth dwarfs when compared to the thousands of homes sold every year by agents. </li>
</ul>
For the research, Which Real Estate Agent examined sales data for 12 for sale by owner websites to see how many properties sold in the last 12 months (December 2014 to November 2015), and in the 12 months before that (December 2013 to November 2014).
<a href="/images/2016/02/19/growth.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/19/growth.png" alt="">
To derive sale numbers, they counted the number of sales listed on each website’s agency profile on realestate.com.au.
While hiring an agent will cost you, it is probably better to hire one if you are not experienced in the property market. There's also the downside risk of selling for a lower price than what you could have achieved with an agent. 
The full article can be found <a href="https://whichrealestateagent.com.au/ultimate-guide-australias-sale-owner-market-sell-agent/" target="_blank">here</a>.
</div>
</div>
<div> </div>
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Homes sold without an agent make up only 1 percent of Australia's property market: research

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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