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A site with mixed-use development potential at Carnegie in Melbourne’s inner south-east has been snapped up by a local private developer for an undisclosed sum.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-carnegie-501733386" target="_blank">360 Neerim Road</a> property comprises a 568 square metre corner site with an existing building generating short-term holding income of $55,140 per annum net.
The selling agents were Julian Heatherich and Jesse Radisich of Savills.
A development scheme prepared for the property includes 13 large apartments and ground-level retail, said Heatherich.
The site is positioned between the Carnegie and Murrumbeena retail precincts and train stations and close Chadstone Shopping Centre, Monash University, schools and parks.
"As such it offers developers excellent potential for the sort of residential and retail project described in the development scheme,’’ Heatherich said.
The vendor was a local private investor.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Developer snaps ups mixed-use site in Melbourne's Carnegie

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The current business and consumer confidence will continue to have a positive effect on Australian property into 2016, according to a report by Colliers International. 
“We have experienced a sustained increase in business confidence over the past twleve months,” said John Kenny, CEO Australia and New Zealand at Colliers International.  
“This confidence is having a positive impact across the property sector, and this optimism is starting to flow through to several of our occupier markets, as businesses become more confident in leasing office space.”
The Sydney CBD office market has improved since early 2015, with a significant decline in vacancy over the year, said the report titled Property Outlook. 
This run is expected to spread to other markets with Melbourne CBD office, Sydney industrial and national neighbourhood and large format centres likely to experience strong demand in the year ahead, it said. 
Despite this return of occupiers across the country, there will still be pockets where this does not lead to rental growth.  
In some markets, oversupply is offsetting the growth in tenant demand. 
Similarly, those locations impacted by parts of the economy experiencing a slowdown, such as those markets dependent on, which have remained elevated for some time, are another contributing factor in the overall strong performance of the property sector. 
“The strong residential housing market, increasing consumer confidence and the lower Australian dollar are all factors that have contributed to the current state of our economy,” said Nerida Conisbee, national director of research at Colliers International.  
“Right now, Australian interest rates remain stable at their historic low of 2%. Nevertheless, the Reserve Bank continues to suggest that it is not averse to cutting rates and is waiting on key economic releases post Christmas. 
"For now, although GDP growth remains below average, business surveys suggest that the services sector will continue to improve which will support the Victorian and New South Wales economies in particular.  
“All of these factors continue to make Australia a very attractive destination for offshore capital, and this flood of both local and offshore activity will continue to hold the property sector in good stead for 2016.”
Investment in Australia's commercial property is expected to reach $35 billion in 2015, of which domestic buyers account for around half. 
Australian investors are increasingly moving offshore, spending about $5 billion overseas in 2015. This is more than double the 2014 level but well below the nearly $28 billion in 2007 when Australian investors were the third highest offshore investors in the world. 
“Very few Australian groups are entering international markets at this stage, with around 90% of this year’s offshore acquisition activity made by two groups – Australian Super and Lend Lease,” said Conisbee.  
According to the report, this growth in Australian groups investing offshore will continue next year, but the types of investors in the market will be different from the previous cycle. 
In 2007, the most dominant purchasers were Australian institutions. In the current cycle, these institutions are increasingly being funded by offshore groups looking to partner with them because of their expertise in Australian property.  
The dominant groups going offshore will continue to be Australian superannuation funds as they seek to diversify their investment into direct property. Finding the scale necessary in Australia is increasingly difficult and offshore markets provide a significant pool in which to invest in. 
At a regional level, the focus remains on China and the impact it has on property, from the large capital flows into property across the region to the Chinese banks that are making their mark on occupier markets and the flow of tourists dominating tourist spending and hotel usage. 
India is also considered to be a major player next year though not so much from the outflow of capital, but rather the gradual opening of that country to investment and the opportunities for regional investors.
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Business confidence to help Australian property sector in 2016: Colliers report

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Modular hotel company Tribe Hotel Group will partner with the Mantra Group to operate its inaugural property in Walker Avenue, West Perth.
Mantra Group will manage the West Perth hotel’s operations under the new Tribe brand when it opens in 2016.
The Tribe Hotel Group's modular design and construction methodology comprises pre-fabricated guest rooms with essentials for the modern traveller, deviating from traditional accommodation.
“Tribe aims to revolutionise the traditional hotel experience by challenging the norms to attract the new generation of traveller who is looking for simplicity, affordability, and connectivity in a high-end interior environment," Mark Peters, the founder of Tribe Hotel Group, said.
"We saw an opportunity to lower the cost of construction by designing and manufacturing a quality modular product from overseas and plan to pass these savings onto our guests who are travelling for business or looking to explore a new city.
“We look forward to bringing this vision to life with Mantra Group and our key business partners to revolutionise the market when we open our first hotel in West Perth.”
The first Tribe Hotel in West Perth aims to provide a smart, curated hotel experience with luxurious guest rooms supported by free WiFi, barista coffee and fresh juices with communal work and breakout spaces.
Construction company Probuild has been engaged to complete the project build, expected to be more efficient than the average build time for a similar sized hotel due to the modular application.
Construction is set to commence in November 2015 and the project is estimated to have an end-value of $30 million with completion expected in December 2016.
“The Perth market is in a solid position with strong occupancies. We expect this to be sustained by a growing leisure travel sector along with corporate travel and inbound tourism maintaining strong demand for the city and are confident this project will be a great success,” said Mantra Group CEO Bob East.
Mantra Group will play a major role in the success of the West Perth hotel alongside Tribe Hotel Group’s joint venture partners including prominent property developer, Salta Properties and the Victor Smorgon Group.
Tribe Hotel Group has acquired two additional sites in prominent locations with plans to start construction in 2016 on projects in Melbourne and Hobart.
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Tribe partners Mantra for modular-design hotel in Perth

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Two combined residential houses in Melbourne's Balwyn suburb have been auctioned off for $4.05 million.
The 1,853 square metre site at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-balwyn-501712393" target="_blank">327-329 Union Road</a>, which was offered to the market with a planning permit for seven luxury townhouses, was snapped up by a Chinese buyer.
The selling agents were CBRE’s Mark Wizel, Julian White and Scott Orchard.
The sale price translates to a rate of more than $575,000 for each permitted townhouse.
There were more than 100 enquiries, with six offshore bidders, said Julian White.
“CBRE is witnessing a spike in demand from mainland Chinese buyers across a broad range of asset classes. Many industry authorities expected the uncertainty in the Chinese economy to have a negative impact on the Australian property market, however, what we are witnessing is quite the opposite,” added Wizel.
The properties are surrounded by residential homes and close to retail centres like Belmore Road retail and Coles. Also nearby is the Balwyn High School, one of Melbourne's top public schools.
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Townhouse development site in Melbourne's Balwyn fetches $4.05 million at auction

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Telecommunications and ICT services company Visionstream has secured 7,600 square metre office space at the $500 million masterplanned Parkview Estate in Melbourne's Moorabbin.
Visionstream has committed to an entire office building within the 51 hectare estate, which is 20 km from Melbourne's CBD.
Colliers International national director Rob Joyes, who brokered the deal, said it was the largest office-leasing transaction in Melbourne's south-east in 2015.
"Vision Stream is joining big brands like Bunnings, Bolle, Westpac and Danks Home Timber and Hardware who are operating out of Parkview Estate, a suburban business park," he said.
Developer Pellicano's managing director Renato Pellicano said the office building, which was purpose built in 1998 as the South East Water headquarters, was vacant for less than a month, reinforcing the strong demand for suburban office spaces.
"Visionstream virtually moved into the office as soon as South East Water vacated, on the back of some minor refurbishments," he said.
"Parkview Estate currently has 19,000 square metres of commercial offices spread across five buildings with a vacancy rate of less than 2%. A sixth office building is currently under construction which will take the total commercial space to over 22,000 square metres.
Parkview Estate houses over 65 business and 3,000 workers and includes Quest serviced apartments, 75 residential apartments, the 25,000 square metre Moorabbin SuperCenter, the Otto Lane café, gymnasium, swim school, childcare centre and retail banking.
Family-owned Pellicano's 2015 development workbook is at $275 million, with commercial, industrial and residential projects currently underway between Melbourne and Brisbane.
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Pellicano secures south east Melbourne's largest commercial deal for 2015

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The NSW government has sold off a commercial office building in the heart of Blacktown for $17.15 million.
Blacktown City Council has been selected as the preferred buyer for the six-story building at 22 Main Street, after an open market tender.
The building will be leased back to the state government to meet the occupancy needs of government tenants, that includes the Department of Education, WorkCover NSW and Juvenile Justice.
“The sale and leaseback of this property not only releases capital upfront to reinvest into infrastructure and services for the community, it also maintains government jobs in Blacktown’s CBD,” said Brett Newman, the CEO of Government Property NSW, while announcing the sale.
Newman said the sale aligns with the principles outlined in the Property Asset Utilisation Taskforce (PAUT) report, which state that government should only own real property assets to support core service delivery.
The sale of 22 Main Street was managed by CBRE.
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NSW government's sale of Blacktown building fetches $17.5 million

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Indie game developer Halfbrick Studios will open its doors at the former Sunny Queen Eggs home in Brisbane's Red Hill.
Halfbrick Studios – creator of the best-selling Fruit Ninja video game – has signed a five-year lease for an annual rental of $450,000 gross per annum.
Previously occupied by Sunny Queen Eggs, the 2,200 square metre building at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-industrial+warehouse-qld-kelvin+grove-501230671" target="_blank">25 Musgrave Road</a> has been completely retrofit, with a $5.5 million fitout and refurbishment undertaken by engineering contractor John Holland.
The deal was brokered by CBRE’s Mel Pikos and Michael Skarparis.
“Following the immense success of Fruit Ninja, which has been downloaded more than one billion times, Halfbrick Studios has experienced exponential growth, and, as a result, required additional facilities that would enable further expansion,” Pikos said.
Fruit Ninja is the second highest-selling game of all time on the iOS platform, says the gaming company's website.
“Some of the key building features that appealed to Halfbrick include the exposed ceiling grid spray painted black, large internal stair with void, multiple break-out and chill-out zones, large rooftop area overlooking the Brisbane CBD, and even an original chick-hatchery room that has been converted to a meeting room,” he said.
Skarparis said the deal was evidence of Brisbane’s increasing appeal as an IT and gaming destination.
“In 2015, Brisbane has emerged a hub for computer game and app developers, with deals negotiated to Halfbrick Studios for 2,200 square metres, Gameloft for 650 square metres, and Red Eye Apps for 355 square metres,” he said.
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New coop in Brisbane for Fruit Ninja video-game creator

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A prominent investor has purchased a Fitzroy North development site for $14.05 million at auction.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-fitzroy+north-501743886" target="_blank">81-89 Queens Parade</a> site – a 3,201 square metre corner landholding – saw strong bidding from local and offshore buyers.
The freestanding corner building sold to a prominent local investor for $14,050,000, working out to a rate of $4,382 per square metre.
The selling agents were CBRE in their sixth recent transaction where local buyers had elbowed out offshore groups.
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Melbourne buyer secures Fitzroy North site for $14.05 million 

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Axieo Specialties has leased 556 square metres of office space at 16 Giffnock Avenue in Sydney's Macquarie Park.
The property was leased at $290 square metres net for a term of five years.
“Axieo were looking to upgrade their current premises at Seven Hills and <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-macquarie+park-501022175" target="_blank">16 Giffnock Avenue</a> ticked all the boxes.
The offices were refurbished and it was in a location which was easily accessible by public transport and major motorway connections,” said Tom Merrett of Savills Australia who brokered the deal on behalf of Stockland.
“There is a growing trend of businesses moving down the M2 to Macquarie Park to take advantage of improved public transport infrastructure.”
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Macquarie Park office site leased by Axieo through Savills

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The increasing use of Big Data could drastically change facilities management in commercial real estate and the operations of the future workplace, according to JLL.
This will include the emergence of intelligent buildings with the ability to better manage and prevent issues, increase sustainability for owners, and technologies that allow staff to engage with the buildings and influence their surroundings in new ways.
Big Data is the term given to extensive sets of data that are of a size, diversity and complexity that require new techniques and advanced analytics to manage and extract valuable insights from them.
“Ninety percent of all the data we have in the world today was created only in the last two years. Today we create about six exabytes of data every day, whereas all the data produced on the planet up until 2003 only totalled about five exabytes,” said JLL’s director of corporate solutions Rajiv Nagrath.
He said all types of organisations are increasingly relying on analytical tools to generate data-driven insights that enable better decisions and improve operations.
In buildings, a major contributor of Big Data are the Internet of Things (IOT) devices.
IOT is the term given to the vast network of automated pieces of hardware that are individually connected to the internet, enabling them to collect and exchange data all the time. 
"By 2020 there will be an estimated 26 billion internet-connected devices in addition to about seven billion laptops, tablets and smartphones," he said.
“Hundreds of thousands of these IOT devices will be located in commercial buildings, constantly creating huge volumes of data points to make sense of managing the buildings efficiently and effectively.
Various sensors, controllers and other IOT enabled devices will revolutionise how buildings operate and make the truly intelligent building a reality.
“Most modern buildings today are already provisioned with such advanced devices and technologies, having about 5,000 to 10,000 points connected to the Building Management System - already a high number of devices that act together, and a large volume of data that needs to be collected, analysed and acted upon.
"If we have the right analytic tools, Big Data offers us the chance to find the patterns and identify the correlations and causes of malfunction,” he said.
Big Data and IOT will also impact the way facilities management (FM) and the modern workplace could operate.
“Workplace models are shifting towards increasing choice and flexibility, which not only means changes for the staff, but also for the building owners and managers. One key shift the IOT will have on FM will be the integral role Wi-Fi will play in controlling the office environment, and the intimate level of control each individual could have over their immediate space and surroundings.
“Where once we had a simple passive infrared sensor (PIR) detector switching off the lights in a meeting room, we will have situations where all of the lights will have a movement detector and each light fitting will be addressable.
"Individuals will be able to set their own lighting and space temperature preferences all via an app on their smart phone.
"This will add another layer of complexity for facilities management previously not witnessed in the commercial property sector.
Nagrath, who recently presented on the relationship between Big Data and Facilities Management at a conference in Perth, said another effect of Big Data and IOT on FM would be the shift towards a central command centre model for managing a portfolio of buildings, instead of standalone building management systems.
While most modern buildings already incorporate a standalone building management system that controls some of the systems such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning and emergency generators, it was no longer the best solution, he said.
“What we are seeing more often is that due to changes in resourcing and skill levels, it is no longer efficient for someone to be constantly monitoring the performance of the building at an individual site level.
"It is much more efficient to channel all of the information from those systems back to a central 24/7 command centre to monitor, analyse performance and detect failures and anomalies.
"Command centres increase efficiencies because they can monitor many buildings, staff can conduct in-depth analysis, and it can leverage powerful software to run algorithms over a huge amount of data.
"Our experience is that in most buildings you can improve sustainability and save 10-15% in energy costs once you connect it to a command centre too.”
JLL has been implementing such models for a couple of years now.
Nagrath said that while the concept of a command centre was not new, it had taken a while to gain traction in the FM sector.
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Big Data to shake up building management systems: JLL

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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