<html><body>
A buyer has purchased $14 million worth of property in a single transaction at Kokoda Property’s $119 million Ella development in Newstead, Brisbane.
The project's launch saw more than $22 million in sales transacted.
The $14 million buyer purchased a complete floor, plus three additional apartments on a separate level.
<img src="/images/2016/12/16/V25_Ella_Hero%20Exterior_.jpg" alt="">
Kokoda Property has experienced market buoyancy in recent months, fast-tracking the release of the second stage, Ella, after demand started to soar and the first building, Chester achieved 135 sales totalling approximately $95 million in just seven weeks. 
Chester was recently named the second best performing project in Brisbane in the last quarter.
Located on the corner of Chester and Ella Streets in Newstead, the project offers a round-the-clock, hotel-style concierge.
<img src="/images/2016/12/16/V27_Ella_Apartment%20Kitchen.jpg" alt="">
The project includes a rooftop space with swimming pool, spa, outdoor cinema, kitchen and barbeque areas, and golf putting greens.
There is also a private dining facility, a courtyard terrace, health and wellness centre, and gymnasium.
Kokoda Property sales and marketing director, Sam Tucker said Chester and Ella had been designed by architecture firm Hayball with interiors by Singapore Ministry of Design. 
“We wanted to offer Brisbane something it had never seen before,” said Tucker. 
<img src="/images/2016/12/16/V28_Ella_1%20Bed%20Apt%20Section.jpg" alt="">
Ella’s golden façade then has interiors featuring gold plated finishes.
The building holds 149, one, two, three, and four-bedroom dwellings. 
<img src="/images/2016/12/16/V29A_Rooftop%20Terrace_Pool.jpg" alt="">
Tucker says Kokoda Property undertook extensive research into the lifestyle on offer in Newstead to determine viability of the site.
Key drivers included a high level of lifestyle amenity with restaurants, cafes, entertainment and premium retail options, proximity to the city and access to bike and running tracks.
Combined with low vacancy rates, strong rental yield, and significant capital growth at an average of 9.7% annually for the last 10 years, this presented the perfect opportunity.
Ella’s one and two bedroom apartments range in size from 55 square metres to 82 square metres and are priced from $440,000.
Three and four bedroom penthouses range in size from 145 square metres to 197 square metres and are priced from $2.3 million.
Completion of the project is expected in 2018. Visit <a href="https://kokodaproperty.com.au">kokodaproperty.com.au</a> for more information.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Single purchaser splashes $14 million at Ella, Newstead luxury development

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Ouyen is the cheapest locality in Victoria to purchase a house, according to Investar’s latest report.
The property investment firm says that the current median price is $119,500 - an increase of 8% over the past year.
This is followed by Dimboola with $122,500 and Morwell with $125,000.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="90">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="90">
Ouyen
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3490
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
$119,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="90">
Dimboola
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3414
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
$122,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="90">
Morwell
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3840
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
$125,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="90">
Red Cliffs
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3496
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
$130,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="90">
Warracknabeal
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3393
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
$131,500
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A three bedroom home at Ouyen such as the one at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-ouyen-123738234">26 Ritchie Street</a> (above) that is for sale for $119,950.
A three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-ouyen-124193074" target="_blank">22 Williams Street</a> (below) was sold for $130,000
<img src="/images/2016/12/15/22%20Williams%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Ouyen the cheapest locality in Victoria to purchase a house: Investar

<html><body>
Balwyn’s high school zone still remains in high demand with five of the seven luxurious townhouses, known as Blossom sold within the first week of launch.
There were over $10 million in sales with prices ranging from $1.59 million to $2.29 million.
Blossom comprises of seven luxurious townhouses designed with home cinemas, wine cellars and expansive backyards. Chun Group general manager Michael Hermans said the buyers expect the highest of quality. All featuring four bedrooms, Blossom come with a neutral colour palette and timber flooring. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2016/12/16/blossom02.jpg" alt=""> Its backyards were designed by leading studio Acre Landscaping Architects.  Blossom is listed with Jellis Craig Projects agent Nick Elmore.
Visit <a href="https://www.blossombalwyn.com.au" target="_blank">www.blossombalwyn.com.au</a>
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Demand for Balwyn’s High School zone sees near sell out of Blossom townhouses in a week

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The Allam home building family has emerged as the mystery buyer of the 1833 Georgian Regency villa, Lyndhurst.
Regarded as one of the inner Sydney’s most historically significant homes, it sold post-auction mid-year, settling only this week at $7.5 million.
It had previously traded at $3.3 million in 2005 when bought by the stockbroker Tim Eustace and his partner Salvatore Panui.
The family headed by Barney Allam were last on the radar when they paid $4.2 million in 2011 for the 1886 Gothic Revival Bowden - also in Glebe.
Lyndhurst was the home designed by esteemed architect John Verge as a marine villa for the colonial surgeon James Bowman, the husband of the iconic pastoralist John Macarthur's daughter, Mary. 
The home was bought by the Department of Main Roads in 1972 and slated for demolition to make way for an expressway, but saved at the last minute due to agitation by the Save Lyndhurst Committee, a Builders Labourers Federation green ban and a change of state government.
Eustace and Panui bought another historic inner city landmark, Iona, for around $16 million from entertainment industry couple Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin.
They outsmarted the art collector John Schaeffer who was furious at missing out on Iona when it was offered through Michael Pallier at Sothebys.
Schaeffer has instead bought a Bondi Beach sub-penthouse for $7 million. Eustace and Panui bought another historic inner city landmark, Iona, for around $16 million from entertainment industry couple Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin.
Founded in Penrith in 1991, the Allam Property Group has grown to become one of Sydney’s largest residential home builders.
The article first appeared in The Sunday Telegraph.
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Allam home builders buy Glebe's Lyndhurst

<html><body>
Keysborough is the top winner as fastest growing locality in Victoria for houses, according to Investar’s latest report.
The property investment firm says that median prices for houses in Keysborough has increased by 30% over the past year.
This is followed by Springvale with 25% and Richmond with 20%.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
1 year change
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
Median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Keysborough
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
30%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
$680,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Springvale
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
25%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
$600,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Richmond
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
20%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
$900,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Doncaster
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
20%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
$1,200,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Mornington
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
17%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
$680,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-keysborough-124021390" target="_blank">22 Leanne Crescent</a> (above) was sold for $683,000.
A house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-keysborough-124068114" target="_blank">23 Bundeena Avenue</a> (below) is on for sale for between $720,000 to $790,000.
<img src="/images/2016/12/15/23%20Bundeena%20Avenue.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Keysborough is the fastest growing locality in Victoria for houses: Investar

<html><body>
Nightcliff is the cheapest locality in the Northern Territory to purchase a unit, according to Investar’s latest report.
According to the property investment firm, the median unit price at Nightcliff has fallen by 22% from $270,000 to $210,000.
This is followed by Sadadeen with $239,000 and Gillen with $272,500.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="57">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Nightcliff
</td>
<td valign="top" width="57">
0810
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Studio and one
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$210,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Sadadeen
</td>
<td valign="top" width="57">
0870
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$239,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Gillen
</td>
<td valign="top" width="57">
0870
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$272,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
The Gap
</td>
<td valign="top" width="57">
0870
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$279,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Alice Springs
</td>
<td valign="top" width="57">
0870
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$288,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nt-nightcliff-122730030" target="_blank">25/5 Poinciana Street</a> (above) is for sale for $215,000.
A one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nt-nightcliff-122612122" target="_blank">12/6 Poinciana Street</a> (below) was sold for $215,000.
<img src="/images/2016/12/15/12_6%20Poinciana%20Street.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Nightcliff cheapest locality in NT to buy a unit: Investar

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Traralgon is the cheapest locality in Victoria to purchase a unit, according to Investar’s latest market report.
The property investment firm says that the median price for a one bedroom or studio unit in Traralgon is $114,500.
This is followed by ­Moe with $148,500 and Mooroopna and Mildura with $149,000, all of which are for two bedroom units.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Traralgon
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3844
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
Studio and one
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$114,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Moe
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3825
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$148,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Mooroopna
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3629
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$149,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Mildura
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$149,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Morwell
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3840
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$152,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Numurkah
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3636
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$154,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Newborough
</td>
<td valign="top" width="54">
3825
</td>
<td valign="top" width="88">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$155,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-traralgon-124117462" target="_blank">2/4 Murphy Crescent</a> (above) is for sale for $115,000.
A one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-traralgon-123699014" target="_blank">12/18 Gwalia Street</a> (below) is for sale for $110,000.
<img src="/images/2016/12/15/12_18%20Gwalia%20Street.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Traralgon the cheapest locality in Victoria to buy a unit: Investar

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Peterborough is the cheapest locality in South Australia for homes, according to Investar’s latest report.
The property investment firm says house prices had increased by 1% the median price is $110,000.
Coober Pedy a $112,000 was the next cheapest in SA.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Peterborough
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
5422
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$110,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Coober Pedy
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
5723
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$112,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Port Pirie
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
5540
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$144,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Whyalla Norrie
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
5608
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$155,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Port Augusta
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
5700
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$159,500
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A three bedroom home at Peterborough at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-peterborough-122716610" target="_blank">54 South Terrace</a> (above) is for sale for $110,000.
A three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-peterborough-121734778" target="_blank">42 Wright Street</a> (below) sold for $105,000.
<img src="/images/2016/12/15/42%20Wright%20Street.jpg" width="650">
</body></html>

Peterborough the cheapest place in SA to buy a home: Investar

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Queenstown is the cheapest locality in Tasmania to purchase a house, according to Investar’s latest report.
The property investment firm says that despite an increase of 7% the median price at Queenstown is $74,500.
This is followed by Zeehan with $78,500 and Rosebery with $93,000.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Queenstown
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7468
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$74,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Zeehan
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7469
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$78,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Rosebery
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7470
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$93,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Herdsmans Cove
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7030
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$135,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Gagebrook
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7030
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$140,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Mayfield
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7248
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$147,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Ravenswood
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7250
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$149,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Waverley
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7250
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$149,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Clarendon Vale
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7019
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$150,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Newnham
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7248
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$165,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A two bedroom house such as the one at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-queenstown-124249818" target="_blank">10 Harvey Street</a> (above) is for sale for $75,000.
A two bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-queenstown-122946466" target="_blank">2 Knox Street</a> (below) sold for $54,000.
<img src="/images/2016/12/15/2%20Knox%20Street.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Despite 7% increase Queenstown, Tasmania still the cheapest: Investar

<html><body>
Global real estate investment manager, Cromwell Property Group (Cromwell) has secured 15 leases at its flagship Northpoint Tower, signalling office space at its $130 million redevelopment is in high demand.
The raft of recent deals has been driven by both existing tenants keen to secure space ahead of the redevelopment completion in 2018.
There are also new businesses wishing to relocate to the increasingly popular North Sydney precinct predominately from businesses in the professional services and finance industry.
The most recent leases with Ignition Wealth and Sun Label follows a string of previous transactions with SJD Investment, Swisswork and Anderson IT, and existing tenants Secure Parking, Red Hat and Insurance Advisor.
Damian Horton, Cromwell Head of Property, said the flow of recent deals indicated vacant space at Northpoint would quickly fill up in coming months now demolition at the site is complete and construction commenced.
Ignition Wealth, a leading robo-advice solution provide, has signed a five-year lease for 340 square metres on level 17 which commences on 1 December.
The tenant will move from its existing tenancy two blocks away.
“Another new tenant, Sun Label, loved the building and location, and particularly the views over the Sydney Harbour from level 39.”
Cromwell has also secured a five-year lease extension to 2021 with Red Hat, a leading provider of software solutions.
The tenant has taken on additional space to a total of 760 square metres.
Insurance Advisor and Secure Parking have also renewed their leases, with Insurance Adviser taking on additional space on level 31.
Located on the corner of Miller Street and Pacific Highway, the redevelopment will feature the 187 room Vibe Hotel North Sydney as well as an eat-street and roof-top bar concept to service the ever-growing professional population of North-Sydney.
Construction of the integrated, three-level façade commenced in September.
Leasing opportunities in the retail façade for sophisticated dining, specialty retail and food outlets were launched recently by Colliers International and Property Partnership Australia.
</body></html>

Cromwell’s Northpoint North Sydney attracting tenants to take 2018 office occupancy

Kew has long been regarded as one of Melbourne's premier residential suburbs. It's a location defined by its grand period homes, leafy streets and some of the city's most prestigious schools, yet it has often sat just outside the spotlight cast on neighbouring Hawthorn and Camberwell.

Increasingly, however, buyers are recognising that Kew offers much of what draws people to those suburbs, with a quieter residential setting, exceptional amenity and long-term owner-occupier appeal.

Within a few minutes' walk, residents can access Kew Junction, one of Melbourne's most established village centres. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, boutique retailers and everyday services are all on the doorstep, with local favourites including Centonove, Adeney Milk Bar Cafe, and Frank &amp; Harri creating the type of walkable lifestyle that has become increasingly difficult to find in Melbourne's inner east. Beyond the immediate neighbourhood, Glenferrie Road's renowned shopping and dining precinct in Hawthorn and the retail, dining and entertainment offerings of Camberwell Junction are both just a short drive or tram ride away.

The suburb is equally well connected. Tram routes 48 and 109 provide direct access to the CBD, while High Street and Cotham Road connect residents to the wider inner east.&nbsp;Nearby access to the Eastern Freeway also places the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne Airport within easy reach, adding another layer of convenience for weekend travel.&nbsp;It's a rare combination of connectivity and tranquillity, where quiet residential streets sit just moments from some of Melbourne's most established shopping and lifestyle precincts.

For families, Kew remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held addresses. Carey Baptist Grammar School, Xavier College, Methodist Ladies' College, Trinity Grammar, Ruyton Girls' School and Genazzano FCJ College are all nearby, while the Yarra River parklands, walking trails and sporting clubs provide another layer of lifestyle appeal.

It's within this established pocket that developer Ricdanic is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wimba-ave-kew-9-11-wimba-avenue-kew-vic-3101">Wimba Ave</a>, a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings named after its location on the tree-lined Wimba Avenue,&nbsp;within one of Kew's most prestigious pockets where homes have been known to sell up to and above $8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=354809]

The residences prioritise the space that buyers are increasingly searching for but struggling to find in established suburbs. Living areas extend beyond five metres in width, ceiling heights range from three to five metres, and apartments open onto private gardens averaging around 125 sqm. Selected residences also feature balconies of approximately 60 sqm, while premium inclusions include Miele appliances, double-glazed windows, EV readiness, fully electric systems and a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.

Architect Chris Idle says opportunities to deliver homes of this scale within established suburbs have become increasingly uncommon.

"There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs," he says. "To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The architecture draws on Kew's established character through the use of handmade Krause bricks, while landscaping by John Patrick introduces 23 plant species, including nine native varieties, creating an environment which focuses just as much on nature as it does the building.

Construction on Wimba Ave is well underway by renowned high-end builder Sinjen, with completion expected in late 2027. Prices start from $2.22 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

Joel Robinson

The enduring appeal of Kew's tree-lined streets and village lifestyle

"For me, it's the location." That was the first thing Chris pointed to when reflecting on why he and his wife Marita decided to purchase at Candela Ivanhoe, the under-construction new apartment development by Salter Brothers in the heart of the north-eastern M​elb​ourne​ suburb. ​

"We've lived here before… everything is here," Chris said.

"Our doctor is around the corner, there's dentists, pilates, everything we need, restaurants, fast food places, two train stations, Ivanhoe and Darebin, both in walking distance. You don't need anything else."

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Just 10 kilometres from Melbo​urn​e's CBD, Ivanhoe combines direct city connectivity with the amenity of an established village community. Residents have access to highly regarded schools, expansive parklands, public transport, and a thriving retail and hospitality precinct centred around Upper Heidelberg Road, all within a neighbourhood that has retained its leafy character despite its proximity to the city.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Candela Ivanhoe</a> sits within the heart of this established landscape, positioned just moments from Ivanhoe Village and within walking distance of many of the suburb's most sought-after amenities.

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From Candela, residents can access cafés, grocers, wine bars, restaurants and essential services on foot, while Ivanhoe Station and Darebin Station provide direct connectivity across Mel​bour​ne. The development is also surrounded by some of the suburb's best-known lifestyle destinations, including Pinkie, Laurent, Enni, Docasa and Woodfire Pizza e Cucina, alongside Ivanhoe Plaza, Woolworths, pharmacies and specialty retailers.

Green space is another defining feature of the suburb. Darebin Parklands, Ivanhoe Park, Nellie Ibbot Park and the Yarra River trail network provide extensive opportunities for recreation, while Ivanhoe Golf Course and Ivanhoe Tennis Club continue to underpin the area's long-established lifestyle appeal.

The suburb's education offering further strengthens demand. Ivanhoe Grammar School, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Mary Immaculate Primary School and Ivanhoe Primary School have helped establish the area as one of Melbou​​rne's most sought-after schooling precincts, attracting families and downsizers alike who want to remain connected to the area.

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While location was the priority for Marita and Chris, the project itself also needed to meet their expectations.

"Whilst location was paramount, I was also looking at design of the environment and Candela ticked every box," Marita said.

"We're just thrilled with our choice."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=336455]

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>, Candela Ivanhoe has been designed to complement its village setting, with an emphasis on generous floorplans, natural light and practical everyday living.

Residents will have access to a range of shared amenities, including a communal rooftop garden and dedicated residential lounge, complemented by a ground-floor café and lifestyle wellbeing centre, helping foster the sense of community already emerging among future owners.

That approach has resonated strongly with the market. More than 90 per cent of purchasers at Candela Ivanhoe are owner-occupiers, with buyers ranging from downsizers and second-home buyers to young families and first home buyers, creating a genuinely multi-generational community of grandparents, parents and children. It reflects a broader shift across Melbo​​urne's apartment market, where buyers are increasingly prioritising neighbourhood quality, lifestyle amenity and long-term liveability.

Currently under construction by Ironside, Candela Ivanhoe comprises 58 apartments. Candela Ivanhoe is scheduled for completion in the coming months, and residents can move in from September. One to four bedroom residences, prices from $649,000 and limited opportunities remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Location and lifestyle drive demand at Candela Ivanhoe

As apartment buyers increasingly look beyond the four walls of their residence, the quality and depth of shared amenity has become a defining factor in how developments are designed and experienced, particularly in the high-rise, new apartment development space.

In Southbank, where high-density living continues to evolve, developers are placing greater emphasis on creating environments that support wellbeing, connection, and convenience as part of everyday life.

That approach sits at the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aura-at-melbourne-square-7-hoff-boulevard-southbank-vic-3006">AURA</a>, the latest residential tower in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a>’s $3.5 billion Melbourne Square precinct. Rising 67 storeys above Hoff Boulevard, the 673-apartment development has been conceived around what OSK describes as a “vertical wellness ecosystem”, a layered collection of amenities that extends throughout the building rather than being confined to a single podium level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=370263]

The amenity offering begins on the seventh level within the AURA Club, a dedicated resident hub focused on health, relaxation, and daily convenience. Here, residents will have access to an indoor swimming pool, cold plunge, spa, sauna, and steam room, alongside a fully equipped gym, reformer Pilates studio, and yoga room.

The wellness facilities are complemented by a range of spaces that acknowledge the changing ways people live and work. Work-from-home lounges and co-working areas sit alongside a library, music room, games room, cinema facilities, and open-air terrace spaces, providing residents with flexible environments that can adapt throughout the day.

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Beyond the internal amenity, AURA introduces a series of Japanese-inspired gardens that form a quieter counterpoint to the tower’s social spaces.

Landscaped retreats feature curated outdoor dining, tranquil courtyard seating, fire pit, and a tea house pavilion. Rather than functioning as simple recreational areas, the gardens have been designed as places for reflection and informal gathering, drawing on principles of balance, nature, and calm that underpin the project's broader design philosophy.

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The social amenity continues to evolve as residents move higher through the building. Levels 49 and 50 house the Meridian Club, where a lounge bar, conservatory spaces, and private dining rooms take advantage of elevated city views. At the summit of the tower, the exclusive Cumulus Club spans Levels 66 and 67, offering additional lounges, private dining, and meditation and treatment rooms positioned above Melbourne’s skyline.

For OSK Property, the extensive amenity offering reflects a broader focus on wellbeing as a core component of apartment living rather than an added feature.

“Aura stands tall as an exemplar of holistic wellness – its focus on social, physical and mental health culminate in a building that is calming, restorative and relaxing, where residents will have their own sanctuary within the well-connected and sought-after Southbank,” says OSK Property CEO Chong Boon Woon.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367796]

AURA’s amenity strategy extends beyond the tower itself through its integration with the wider Melbourne Square precinct.

Residents will have direct access to Kennedy Park, Southbank’s 3,745 sqm landscaped public park, alongside a full-line Woolworths supermarket, childcare centre, hospitality venues, and approximately 1,600 sqm of additional retail planned within AURA’s lower levels. Together, these elements create a highly connected residential environment where daily needs, recreation, and wellness are woven into the fabric of the community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=370253]

As Melbourne’s apartment market continues to mature, developments are increasingly judged by the lifestyle they provide beyond individual residences.

Through its combination of wellness facilities, landscaped retreats, social clubs, and precinct-wide amenity, AURA represents a shift toward a more comprehensive model of vertical living, one where shared spaces play as significant a role as the homes themselves.

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AURA elevates amenity living at Melbourne Square

Builder-developer Scion is the latest to target Sydney's booming Hills Showground Metro precinct, filing plans for more than 100 apartments within walking distance of the station.

Scion has lodged a concurrent rezoning and State Significant Development Application for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/27-33-middleton-avenue-castle-hill-nsw-2154">27–33 Middleton Avenue</a>, where it plans to replace four existing homes with an 11 and 14-storey mixed-use development comprising 109 apartments, six affordable housing dwellings, and a ground-floor café.

Designed by BHK Architects, the proposal includes three levels of basement parking with 174 spaces, more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space, and extensive landscaping across the 3,791 sqm site.

The development has been designed as two buildings connected by a recessed wintergarden spine, with the 14-storey building positioned to the south and the 11-storey building to the north.

<img alt="Scion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64dc359d-736b-43b8-87a8-70a8285cab47" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-25%20at%208.47.01%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=PXh.m8id_aevBPHEckPf88wQ2RQThPos" />

The apartment mix has been weighted towards owner-occupiers, with 13 one-bedroom apartments, 55 two-bedroom residences, 31 three-bedroom apartments, six three-bedroom lofts, and four four-bedroom homes. Six apartments will be dedicated as affordable housing in line with the NSW Housing SEPP.

According to the Architectural Design Report by BKH, the proposal seeks to create "a place-responsive architecture" inspired by the natural landscape surrounding Cattai Creek, while strengthening the public domain through landscaping, active frontages and a neighbourhood café.

Atlas Urban, in its Urban Design Report, says the proposal takes a different approach to increasing density around Hills Showground Station by favouring a more slender, vertically articulated built form over a conventional mid-rise outcome. The report argues this allows for greater deep soil planting, improved solar access and a better public domain outcome, while still delivering additional housing close to rapid public transport.

The site sits around 500 metres from Hills Showground Metro Station, within a precinct earmarked for significant residential intensification following the opening of the Sydney Metro Northwest line. Planning documents accompanying the application note that Greater Sydney's population has grown by more than one million people since planning for the precinct first began, reinforcing the need to accelerate housing delivery around existing transport infrastructure.

Scion is expanding its development pipeline which also includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/chatham-west-ryde-2-6-chatham-road-west-ryde-nsw-2114">Chatham in West Ryde</a>, 62 apartments which are approaching completion. They also have a State Significant Development Application with the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/96-anzac-avenue-west-ryde-nsw-2114">145 apartments on Anzac Avenue</a>, also in West Ryde.

First look: Scion plots Castle Hill apartment development near Hills Showground Metro Station

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>&nbsp;has unveiled its scaled-back plans for a pair of towers rising up to 49 storeys directly opposite Bella Vista Metro Station.

The builder-developer will deliver 674 apartments and a new mixed-use hub at the gateway to the station precinct.

The State Significant Development Application has been lodged under the Housing Delivery Authority pathway for the 6,979 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/9-11-mawson-avenue-bella-vista-nsw-2153">9-11 Mawson Avenue</a>, with the apartments sitting above a mixed-use podium. Initial plans were for closer to 900 apartments across two 40-storey towers.

Located around 30 metres from the Bella Vista Metro Station entrance, the development is intended to act as a catalyst for the long-planned Bella Vista Station Precinct, transforming a vacant site into a transit-oriented residential and commercial destination.

Planning documents describe the project as delivering "a high-density mixed use destination that combines housing, retail and community-serving uses in a highly accessible setting."

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 674-apartment Bella Vista towers opposite Metro station" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21c08216-589e-490d-ad08-2d88b6fa62d9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bella%20vista%20podium.png?VersionId=3TnwjjQCNwTsmyQRaWnFrLTSAF0CJeka" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/turner-studio">Turner</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, the project comprises 674 apartments, including 102 affordable housing dwellings representing 15 per cent of the residential floor space. The housing mix spans studios, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of townhouse-style residences integrated into the podium levels. The development also includes specialist disability accommodation and an elevated provision of adaptable and liveable housing.

The mixed-use podium has been designed to create an active urban centre around the Metro station, incorporating a 1,423 sqm supermarket, a 3,029 sqm gym, specialty retail spaces, a 100-place childcare centre and a publicly accessible "city room" community space. A secondary laneway, active frontages and landscaped public areas are intended to improve pedestrian connectivity through the site and strengthen links between the station precinct and surrounding neighbourhood.

In the project's design report, Turner said the proposal responds to Bella Vista's emerging role as a higher-density centre within Sydney's north-west growth corridor.

"The project transforms a strategically located site into a high-density mixed use destination that combines housing, retail and community-serving uses in a highly accessible setting," the report states.

"Active frontages, a publicly accessible city room, a secondary laneway and a mix of uses including a local supermarket, child care centre and gym create a more complete and socially useful urban environment for residents, workers and the wider community."

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 674-apartment Bella Vista towers opposite Metro station" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0fde6220-82de-4f6a-9b63-d0fd8157acc9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bella%20vista%20da.png?VersionId=7hEmuSutH8plTd_RqqdmPu055F6qe554" />

Urban Property Group has been one of the busiest developers across Greater Sydney this year.

The developer is progressing around 1,000 apartments across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-urban-property-group-plans-next-major-wollongong-tower">two projects in Wollongong</a>, with several thousand more homes in the pipeline across Newcastle, Castle Hill, Little Bay and Penrith.

Staff reporter

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