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NAME: Kevin Coppel
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POSITION: Regional Head, Asia Pacific
COMPANY: Knight Frank Asia Pacific
OFFICE LOCATION: Singapore (Knight Frank Asia Pacific is the headquarters in Asia Pacific)
How long have you been in the industry?
I have been working in the professional services sector for about 25 years, of which eight years (and counting) have been in real estate.
What’s happening in the area you specialise in?
Market performance across the Asia Pacific region is quite mixed. For example, the east coast of Australia and Japan remain strong with considerable buying interest; whilst the Southeast Asian markets are struggling.
For Asian real estate investors, there remains significant interest in purchasing trophy assets (residential and commercial) in gateway cities in the UK, US and Australia.
At the same time, technology is becoming increasingly important in everything we do, bringing about technology-enabled offices which drives activity-based working. Knight Frank Sydney has recently been transformed into a new agile workplace which we believe will create more flexibility for our staff and improve collaboration.
Describe the most interesting commercial property you have worked on?
In my role I am more focused on client relationships than individual properties or portfolios.    
What I am noticing is that our clients are increasingly regional or global in the way they operate and make decisions.  In order to serve our clients effectively, we need to be able to mirror that in terms of the way we work.
Today, Knight Frank has 417 offices across 58 countries. In Asia Pacific alone, we have 57 offices in 13 countries. Hence, it is important that the region is actively communicating and sharing information in order to increase cross-border collaboration and provide the sort of seamless service our clients expect.
What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?
My ingredient mix for success:
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1">Listening well</li>
<li class="li1">Patience</li>
<li class="li1">Communicate clearly</li>
<li class="li1">Ability to articulate the firm’s strategy and how each employee fits into the bigger picture</li>
<li class="li1">Project energy despite limited sleep after a long haul flight; you cannot let jetlag get the better of you</li>
<li class="li1">Not taking yourself too seriously</li>
<li class="li1">Carefully managing consumption of food and alcohol and doing plenty of exercise</li>
</ul>
What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?
My top 3 favourites:
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1">Meeting with clients and visiting offices in the region to catch up with the local teams</li>
</ul>
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1">The privilege of travelling around the region and experiencing different food, cultures and office dynamics</li>
</ul>
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1">Getting home to my family after a business trip 
</li>
</ul>
Where would you invest a spare A$750,000?
I would focus on residential opportunity in “brownfield” city fringe areas likely to be gentrified, concentrating on gateway cities in Asia Pacific. 
Which football team do you support?
Many – it depends on what football code you are talking about.
My pick:
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1">Rugby:  NSW Waratahs and Wallabies.  </li>
<li class="li1">AFL: Sydney Swans.  </li>
<li class="li1">NFL: New England Patriots.  </li>
<li class="li1">EPL: Man Utd.  </li>
<li class="li1">League: Sydney FC.   </li>
<li class="li1">NRL:  Manly Warringah</li>
</ul>
What’s your favourite app or techno gadget?
Favourite gadget: Bluetooth headphones for jogging
Favourite app: 
Seasonal: RWC 2015 (Rugby World Cup)
All-time: My Flights (tracks all of my flights); I am also an avid user of podcasts
How do you use social media?
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1">LinkedIn – via sharing updates and publishing pulse posts</li>
<li class="li1">Facebook – to follow what my children are doing; but I’m not a big fan of posting </li>
<li class="li1">WhatsApp – at present, I have approximately 40 active Chats groups across work, family, hobbies and sports</li>
</ul>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

In profile: Knight Frank Head of APAC, Kevin Coppel

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Australia’s retail industry is undergoing a period of significant change, as established retailers are forced to evolve in order to survive, according to the latest retail research from Colliers International, Game On: Retail’s new entrants flex muscle as competition grows.  
“Australia’s retail industry has been heavily concentrated and characterised by fierce competition between a few established players,” said Head of Retail at Colliers International, Michael Bate. 
“Our industry is undergoing an unprecendented period of disruption, as these established players have been forced to evolve in order to meet the changing demands of the consumer and revive profitability. 
"These changes are opening up new opportunities for the many emerging brands in Australia, who are looking to gain a foothold in an established and well-heeled market.”
According to the research, two retail segments who have undergone significant disruption are the supermarket and department store sectors.  
“The purchase of David Jones by the South-African based Woolworths chain last year has prompted a period of significant change,” said the report’s author, Daniel Lees, Associate Director of Research at Colliers International. 
“Under their new ownership, David Jones has undergone a transformation, and they are looking ahead at new opportunities, such as fresh food.  At the same time, Myer has been forced to revitalise their offering in order to stay competitive.”
The impact on the retail property sector as a result has been significant. 
Myer has decreased their property footprint in several key areas, such as Top Ryde where they are withdrawing completely.  In other centres they are reducing their footprint.  
“Myer and David Jones have been two of our most significant retail occupiers for decades,” said Mr Bate. 
“They have controlled a huge portion of the most sought-after, highest visibility retail space across the country. 
"With their rationalisation of space, comes a huge opportunity for the emerging brands to establish themselves in well-located retail spaces with good foot traffic and exceptional visibility.”
Aldi, who have been in the Australian market for more than 10 years, have expanded rapidly in recent times as such opportunities have arisen, with a current estimated market share of 11%. 
Likewise, there is speculation that global supermarket giant, Lidl, may enter the Australian market, and sourcing appropriate floor capacity will be crucial to their entry strategy. 
Having taken some of the low hanging fruit to improve sales at David Jones, Woolworths Holdings SA now sees the need to invest substantially more money in the business to build out offerings such as fresh food.
To fund this investment, it’s possible that David Jones could realise significant funds by a rationalisation of its property portfolio in Sydney and Melbourne CBDs, potentially raising up to $1 billion if air rights are fully exploited.
The sale may result in at least a partial leaseback of space from a buyer however this strategy does open up prime availability to new market entrants.  
“Our retail landscape has changed significantly in recent years, but that’s nothing on what we’re going to see in the coming years,” said Mr Bate. 
“The march of international retailers into our country is nothing new, but the second, third and fourth wave of these will continue to come.  Australia’s savvy consumers know these global brands, making their move into the Australian market an easy one.”
Brands such as H&amp;M are only making the move into the Australian market when the right floorspace opportunity comes up. 
H&amp;M’s new Sydney CBD store, in Pitt Street Mall, spans 5,000sqm and has strong visibility in a high traffic area. 
According to Mr Bate, such global retailers will form an important part of the future retail landscape.  
“Only 10 years ago, our major department stores occupied tens of thousands of square metres in our CBDs, limiting the options for other retailers.  These department stores are now savier with their space, and embarking upon multi-channel strategies to appeal to changing consumer needs. 
"This is opening up our retail industry to new players, and providing our consumers with an increased choice.” 
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New players make for retail disruption in Sydney

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Victoria's price growth has been plotted over the past decade by BIS Shrapnel in the McGrath IPO prospectus.
There is also a forecast for 2016. 
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Victoria's price growth over the past decade 2005-2015: BIS Shrapnel

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Investors are very active in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, in particular Glen Waverley, says valuation firm Herron White Todd.
The HTW month in review suggested that typically investors in the Glen Waverley residential investment market are from overseas.
"Residential stock located within the Glen Waverley Secondary College zone and within walking distance of The Glen shopping centre and Glen Waverley metropolitan train station are particularly appealing to investors.
"This is typically due to Glen Waverley Secondary College’s academic reputation among the local and Chinese communities and the practicality of being near a major transport hub and shopping centre.
"Looking at detached housing specifically, investors can be attracted to dated dwellings in original condition on at least circa 650 square metres which may be suitable for future subdivision or redevelopment."
The HTW report goes on to state that under the Monash Planning Scheme, dwellings within close proximity of Glen Waverley Secondary College and The Glen shopping centre are typically located within a General Residential Zone Schedule 2 (GRZ2).
"The planning schedule to this zone outlines that there is no maximum building height requirement for a dwelling or residential building within the zone. This feature encourages higher density living and development in the area.
"The entry price point for a typical original single level detached brick veneer dwelling on a 650 square metre site located within the Glen Waverley Secondary College zone is around $1.3 million.
"The entry price point for a typical circa 650 square metre original single level detached brick veneer dwelling located outside the Glen Waverley Secondary College zone is around $900,000."
Typical yields for newly completed two storey brick veneer detached dwellings with a double garage range from circa 2% to 3%, says the November review.
"Typical yields for newly completed townhouses in Glen Waverley range from circa 3% to 4%.
"Typical yields for newly completed apartments range from circa 4% to 5%."
The review also notes that speculative off the plan apartments have been of considerable interest to investors in the Glen Waverley area.
"Recent apartment developments within walking distance of The Glen shopping centre have almost sold out within hours of being put to the market for sale with strong interest from investors.
"Such apartment complexes include the Galleria tower  that media reports have said sold 100 apartments in just 90 minutes in early October 2015.
"The Ikon apartment complex located directly adjacent to the Glen Waverley train station also experienced a similar rush in under 24 hours from overseas investors wanting to buy in the popular area when they were first offered to the market in 2012."
The HTW report suggests that 2015 has seen a strong increase in capital values in the area, however recent legislation changes to foreign investment regulations in conjunction with lenders tightening lending criteria to investors (both local and foreign) has led to signs of market conditions cooling in recent weeks.
However premium properties or properties which offer a point of difference are still hotly contested and achieve strong results, says the valuation firms review.
"Should a significant change in current market conditions occur whereby investor demand significantly dropped we would expect to see a decline in property values in the area, especially in those properties which have risen sharply over the past 24 month period."
 
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Signs of cooling but Glen Waverley still active investment hub for Chinese: HTW

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Valuation firm Herron Todd White's November review says that investors are considered to be moderately active in Adelaide.
"The typical demographic of an investor is hard to qualify.
"In Adelaide there is a mix of local, interstate and overseas investors.
"Interstate investors are more likely to be buying on the back of investment seminars with investment groups.
"Overseas investors from what we have seen are more likely to be involved in purchasing off the plan apartments in multi-storey developments in the CBD.
"Investors have generally purchased units as they are considered affordable and easier to manage."
The HTW report added that they are more likely to purchase in new developments along with smaller properties which are infill developments in established locations close to existing infrastructure and finally they purchase detached dwellings or have constructed dwellings in mortgage belt locations to the north and south of Adelaide.
"When it comes to detached housing investors need to work out whether they want capital growth or rental returns.
"In general they have sought new or near new properties in outer areas where there is good rental income and there may also be depreciation benefits.
"Inner ring investors are more likely to be more cashed up and rental income is not the driver for the investment decision.
"They are looking at a longer term for the investment and therefore capital growth.
"When looking at price points we have looked at inner, middle and outer suburbs in both the northern and southern suburbs to make comparison."
It goes on to suggest that outer suburbs such as Munno Para and Seaford Meadows are expanding and there has been a lot of new residential development occurring in the past few years.
"New or near new properties in Munno Para can cost investors between $250,000 and $300,000, whereas the equivalent property in Seaford Meadows can range from $400,000 to $450,000.
"Seaford Meadows typically fetches higher prices due to its proximity to the beach and the rail line which commutes residents to and from the CBD.
"We have compared markets based on standard 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes with one or two car spaces for our comparisons."
The month in review also noted that middle suburbs such as Mawson Lakes and Ascot Park are areas which have also had vast development occur in recent years.
"A newly built standard 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home of similar style can be purchased for $400,000 to $450,000 in these suburbs.
"These two suburbs have been very popular with investors, particulary Ascot Park where re- zoning has meant that older trust homes have been purchased and demolished to make way for brand new medium density developments.
HTW also say that higher price points are evident in inner suburbs such as Prospect to Adelaide’s north, and Parkside to the south.
"In demand character homes are found in these localities, and we have seen an increase in price paid by investors wanting to own a piece of these niche markets.
"Recent sales for character dwellings in these areas range from $800,000 to in excess of $1 million.
"The gross yields differ when comparing properties in the inner, middle and outer suburbs."
The report suggests that investors are achieving gross yields of around 4.5% to 6% per annum in Seaford Meadows and Munno Para respectively.
"Munno Para is achieving a higher yield as the price paid for detached dwellings is lower than those at Seaford Meadows, but investors are achieving similar rent prices for newly built homes.
"Typical rent for a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in these localities ranges from between $300 to $400 per week."
Middle localities are achieving similar gross yields of around 4.7% to 5.2% per annum according to the November report.
"Mawson Lakes and Ascot Park are offering investors the chance to rent properties for upwards of $400 per week, which has been very popular amongst young families and students who wish to live near the CBD but not pay premium rent prices."
The HTW report suggests however that they yields in the inner suburbs are lower than outer and middle suburbs as investors who purchase these properties are more interested in the future growth in value rather than rental returns.
"Homes in Prospect and Parkside typically yield between 3.5% to 4% per annum.
"Townhouses and Units are achieving similar yields in areas such as Mawson Lakes where the purchase of a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom unit can achieve you a yield of around 5.2%.
"This figure was reached using sales of between $260,000 and $340,000 with rents ranging from $300 to $400 per week.
"The trend is similar in inner suburbs such as Parkside where units can fetch you a yield of around 3.8% per annum.
"This is when comparing rent prices of around $380 per week for 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom units with a value of $520,000." 
 
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Adelaide property investment mixed: HTW

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Valuation firm Herron Todd White suggests investors are attracted to the Wide Bay region due to the affordability of land, houses and units in the area.
Their recent November review notes that interstate investors seem to be attracted to new stock in outer suburbs such as Moore Park Beach and Branyan producing housing around mid to high $300,000 and obtaining rentals of around $340 to $350 per week. 
"However, these houses when offered back to the market for sale to local purchasers are not achieving original construction prices."
Sales volumes have remained steady in 2015 but values have remained static with most activity being in the sub $350,000 range.
Rentals appear to be stable with a standard 3-bedroom timber house in Bundaberg averaging $260 to $290 per week and a 4-bedroom modern brick house averaging $345 to $370 per week.
Vacancy rates are at about 4%.
HTW detect confidence appears to be growing with the current low interest rates, federal government incentives and average vacancy rates encouraging both first home owners and investors to remain in the market during 2015. 
Its prior report noted houses that were previously flooded and now fully renovated were being sold in a strengthening market.
The prior reports also noted unit sales in the Bundaberg town area had been slow. Prices range from $107,000 for a 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom renovated unit from the 1970s to a circa 2005 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom unit with 2-car built-in garage for $300,000.
The main sellers are the 2- and 3-bedroom units that range from low $200,000 to $300,000 for the 3-bedroom units.
The construction of new unit stock was described as sporadic - mainly four pack complexes with some larger ones.
Median rentals range from $225 per week for 2-bedroom units to $280 per week for the larger 3-bedroom units. Yields are around 5% 
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Bundaberg new homes cheaper when sold back to locals by interstate investors: HTW

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Lendlease have been granted permission to build again on Victoria Harbour.
The development at 1 Collins Wharf at 909 Collins Street will give the opportunity for residences to live on the waterfront.
The proposed development will feature a 28 level residential tower with 311 apartments.
The tower will be made up of 91 one bedrooms, 207 two bedroom and 13 three bedroom apartments, all featuring water views.
There will be 10 terrace houses on Collins Street featuring three bedrooms plus a home office over three levels with a roof top terrace and internal lift.
Resident-only facilities include a pool, gym, club lounge, dining room and function room.
The building is also targeting a five-star green rating from the Green Building Council of Australia after new Melbourne Kathmandu store scored the first five-star in Australia.
The development is to be designed by award winning architects Bates Smart. 
Bates Smart director Kristen Whittle said its north and south elevations maximise the double waterfront views. 
“This highly sculptured tower is fortunate to be surrounded by water; a situation completely unique within Melbourne. . 
The $6.1 billion Victoria Harbour development spans 30 hectares with 2.5km of waterfrontage, a precinct that boasts over 80 retailers and 8000sqm of community facilities.
The prices for the apartments are set to range from $465,000 to $1.5 million. The terraces, with an average size of 201sqm, will be priced around $2.4 million.
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1 Collins Wharf, Lendlease's latest residential offering

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Queensland's price growth has been plotted over the past decade by BIS Shrapnel in the McGrath IPO prospectus.
There is also a forecast for 2016. 
 
<a href="/images/2015/11/13/Screen%20Shot%202015-11-13%20at%202.12.16%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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QLD price growth over the past decade 2005-2015: BIS Shrapnel

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The markets of Ninety Mile Beach, Wellington, Loch Sport, Paradise Beach, Golden Beach, The Honeysuckles and Seaspray remain quiet, according to Herron Todd White's November review.
The report suggests there is more interest in established improved properties over vacant land as the Bushfire Management Overlay has added costs to new dwellings.
But they advise there has been progress for some as the Loch Sport sewerage scheme is about 30% completed.
"Initial cost is $800 for a collection tank.
"Future development will attract a connection fees of about $10,000 (in lieu of the cost of an onsite envirosep system).
"This has not influenced vacant land sales which remain in the $40,000 to $60,000 range without water views."
The report suggested that the values of residential properties are similar for all five towns and that values have been static for several years now.
"The price of an average quality dwelling in good condition without views is in the range $170,000 to $220,000, above average is greater than $220,000.
"East Gippsland investor activity in remains low with low interest rates and reasonably good rental returns not seeming to stimulate the market."
It went on to state the best returns are found in the lower brackets, say the $200,000 to $275,000 range, where gross yields are in the 6% to 7% range.
"Yields are lower for higher value ranges where for a $350,000 investment, 5% would be typical.
"Agents are reporting only a few recent enquiries from investors looking to buy."
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Gippsland offering 7% gross yields to property investors: HTW

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Investors remains active in the Toowoomba residential property market, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White's recent report.
However, the HTW report suggests the last half of 2015 has seen a stabilisation in investor driven development, "perhaps in response to reduced mining activity in surrounding areas.
"Evidence of this is that while the median house price continues to increase, the volume of house sale since the peak at the end of 2013 and start of 2014 has slowly reduced, showing early signs of a softening consumer sentiment across the market."
The report goes on to state that although investors continue to play an influential role in the level of development activity across Toowoomba, development of new units and dwellings on non-traditional small lots built to an average standard with basic to good finishes is concentrated in suburbs such as Glenvale and Kearneys Spring to the west of the CBD.
"The typical investor pool is comprised of mostly out of town investors seeking house and land packages.
"There has been a notable slowing in rental demand and a subsequent decrease in gross yields being achieved for investor product.
"As such, this may encourage the investor subset to reduce risk appetite."
Moreover, the report suggests the tightening of investor lending criteria may negatively impact the Toowoomba residential market in that the construction of new units and dwellings on non-traditional small lots in these areas is near completely reliant on investor and tenant demand.
"This is the case as the nature of these rental dominated estates or precincts is often synonymous with average street appeal and a general lack of maintenance which has traditionally deterred interest from the owner occupier market.
"In summary, it is unlikely that investor activity in Toowoomba will continue to increase at the rate seen in the previous year given the reduced mining activity in surrounding areas.
"However, while Toowoomba’s median house price remains below $400,000, the affordability of investment is likely to continue to attract some level of investor attention."
 
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Toowoomba stabilises in investor driven development HTW

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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