<html><body>
Coronation Property have appointed the international horticulturalist and landscape designer Jamie Durie to design key elements of the landscape masterplan for the banks of the Georges River on which their mixed-use development, The Paper Mill, sits. 
The Paper Mill residential precinct will include 1,045 apartments across multiple contemporary buildings which will transform the Liverpool region into a ‘river city’ only moments away from Sydney’s new second airport at Badgery’s Creek.
The Georges River landscaping proposal includes a boardwalk along the river bank, with native plant species planted along both sides of the boardwalk.
Coronation Property will fund the $6.5 million landscaping project at no cost to local or state government. 
The boardwalk in Coronation’s SJB designed urban design will connect the riverside precinct to the Liverpool Railway Station via a shared community pathway. 
Jamie Durie’s brief includes designing the precinct’s built form’s connection to the boardwalk which will include a children’s playground, as well as re-landscaping the Light Horse Park on the north and Mill Park to the south of the boardwalk.  
Joe Nahas, the managing director, Coronation Property said there will be 3,000 residents who will have direct access to the river.
"We really want the project to be the catalyst for the revitalisation of Liverpool and its reorientation towards the river.”
<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/2016/10/24/141124%20-%20Shepherd%20St%20-%20CAM03%20-%20FINAL%202000.jpg" alt="">
"The Georges River should be enjoyed by all not only for its natural beauty, but for its rich potential as a vibrant recreational feature." 
<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/2016/10/24/150611%20-%20%20Tower%20View_Extra%20Levels%20-%20Final%205000%20low%20res.jpg" alt="">
Jamie Durie's firm has completed commercial projects across the world including the Victorian Arts Centre precinct, Westmead Children’s Hospital, Sheraton Salobre Golf and Spa Resort and Hayman Island Resort.
“I think Coronation’s plan for the rejuvenation of Georges River is fantastic as it will open up the foreshore by improving public access and will really celebrate the beautiful Georges River in general. 
"There’s really no reason why the Georges River shouldn’t be considered in the same vein as Sydney’s harbour,” said Mr Durie.
<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/2016/10/24/160708%20-%2026%20Shepherd%20St%20-%20V01%20-%20Exterior%20Hero%20-%20Final%202000.jpg" alt="">
Jonathan Knapp, Director of Urban Design, SJB, said the Liverpool City Council has expressed its support of the master-planned community and its plans for the river precinct.
“This is a catalyst development for Liverpool, delivering high quality housing in a location close to transport and in an area identified for high density development." 
The riverside homes have been sold predominantly to owner occupiers and local residents, Mr Nahas noted.
<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/2016/10/24/160708%20-%2026%20Shepherd%20St%20-%20V03%20-%20Boardwalk%20-%20Final%202000.jpg" alt="">
The project will include a new retail precinct comprising approximately 1,400 square metres of premium retail space housed within a converted 19th century heritage warehouse. 
For more information, call Coronation on 1800 768 401.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Jamie Durie, Coronation Property and City Council join forces to rejuvenate Liverpool

<html><body>
Median values for both vacant residential land as well as house and land packages in the Logan City Local Government Area (LGA) in South East Queensland continue to rise, says Ray White Commercial.
Ray White land marketing director, Jamie Martin, said the Logan City residential land market has been buoyant in the 12 months to March 2016.
Its median value for land reached a new high of $434 per sqm.
Mr Martin said sales rates reached their third highest level since 2008, while house and land packages surged 37.6 per cent from the previous year.
“The results for Logan have shown the strength of the land market,” Mr Martin said.
“While sales volumes have reduced, the continued uplift in median values are encouraging signs for the market.
“Development approval levels have reduced from the highs of 2015, however the stable registration levels underline the depth of the market.
Indicators such as reduction of lot sizes, and strong increases in house and land packages highlight the ongoing demand for housing in this location.”
Mr Martin said the Logan City LGA provides 9,910ha of land suitable for residential development, with potential to deliver up to 104,000 dwellings, representing an important growth corridor of South East Queensland with significant scope for future residential land development opportunities.
“This corridor accounts for 38.5 per cent of South East Queensland’s current developable land,” he said.
Mr Martin said despite the reduction in development approvals, the total number of residential land projects has remained steady.
“This year we have recorded 105 total projects with 13 larger projects with more than 50 lots, which is just behind last year’s result of 108 projects,” he said.
“Lot registration over this period has been stable which highlights the ongoing steady completions of lots in Logan.
Registered lots have recorded a median lot size of between 450 sqm to 534 sqm with the median for the year growing by 2.31 per cent.”
</body></html>

Logan City's median land values on the rise

<html><body>
The Elizabeth Bay apartment of the late film costume designer, Norma Moriceau, has been sold for $1.55 million through Ray White Elizabeth Bay.
She was best known for her work on both Crocodile Dundee films as well as two of the Mad Max films, Babe, Patriot Games and Dead Calm.
The property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-elizabeth+bay-123995886">31/4 Ithaca Road</a> was traded in 1985 for $95,000.
It is renowned for its prime position adjacent to Sydney Harbour and its classical Art-deco features.
<img src="/images/2016/12/14/Elizabeth%20Bay.jpg" alt="">
The apartment is ready for renovation and offers panoramic and harbour views including Elizabeth Bay, Garden Island and Potts Point peninsula.
The king-size main bedroom features a wide bay window, plus built-in wardrobe while the second bedroom has a built-in desk.
</body></html>

Elizabeth Bay home belonging to Norma Moriceau sold for $1.55 million

<html><body>
Unlike a kitchen or bathroom renovation that depreciates over time, a garden will grow in value as it becomes more established with each passing year, according to Secret Agent’s latest bulletin.
They suggested their top 5 reasons why you should renovate your garden before your kitchen or bathroom.
1. Add up to 18% to your home value
Gardens are highly valued amongst homebuyers.
Inner Melbourne properties with notable landscaped gardens can sell for 18% more than those without, especially if the property is located in a suburb where greenery and space is scarce.
2. Maintain physical health
Being healthy generally means eating well and exercising more. Gardens can help improve both of these aspects.
By dedicating an area of your garden to a veggie patch, you can grow your own organic vegetables.
Gardening is also a good form of exercise as it forces us to ditch the sedentary life on the couch.
The more we move and use our body now, the better quality of life we will maintain as we age. Gardening is especially good for keeping our hands agile and strong.
3. Keep a healthy brain
A longitudinal study on almost 3000 Australian men and woman found that daily gardening reduced the risk of dementia by 36%.
Another study found this risk reduction was as much as 47%.
4. Become happier
Not only does gardening make you relax, it will also brighten your mood. Soil contains a microbe which has been shown to have antidepressant properties in humans.
This bacteria is absorbed into our bloodstream via inhalation or ingestion on vegetables and results in increased levels of serotonin- the feel good hormone.
A lack of serotonin has been linked to increased anxiety, depression and a variety of other mental health issues.
5. The benefits of biophilia
The natural bond humans have with living systems is explained by the biophilia hypothesis, coined by E. O. Wilson.
Connecting with nature sets into motion processes deep within the body that make us mentally and physically stronger.
Numerous studies have shown that hospital patients who see greenery outside their window recover faster than those who face a brick wall.
Due to technology, we are spending more time away from nature than ever before.
Building up a beautiful garden to maintain will allow you to reconnect with nature and receive all of these benefits.
For more information go to: <a href="https://secretagent.com.au/" target="_blank">https://secretagent.com.au/</a>
</body></html>

Five reasons to renovate your garden before the kitchen or bathroom

<html><body>
Tennant Creek is the cheapest locality in the Northern Territory to buy a house, according to Investar’s latest report.
The property investment firm says that the median price at Tennant Creek has fallen by 5% over the past year to $283,500.
This is followed by Katherine with $322,500 and Larapinta with $379,000.
<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="64">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Tennant Creek
</td>
<td valign="top" width="57">
0860
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$283,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Katherine
</td>
<td valign="top" width="57">
0850
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$322,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Larapinta
</td>
<td valign="top" width="57">
0870
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$379,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Moulden
</td>
<td valign="top" width="57">
0830
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$399,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Gillen
</td>
<td valign="top" width="57">
0870
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$425,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Braitling
</td>
<td valign="top" width="57">
0870
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$429,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A three bedroom house such as the one at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nt-tennant+creek-122177622" target="_blank">5 Skipper Street</a> (above) that is on sale for $280,000 is the kind of property that purchasers can expect to purchase at Tennant Creek.
</body></html>

Tennant Creek is NT's cheapest housing market: Investar

<html><body>
Perth’s home value has declined by 3% in 12 months, according to CoreLogic’s latest weekly report.
The property investment firm says that although the monthly change to the median home value increased by 0.9%, the year to date figure has declined by 5.2%.
<a href="/images/2016/12/05/Capital%20city%20home%20value.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/05/Capital%20city%20home%20value.jpg" alt="">
This is compared with Sydney which has an increase of 14.4% in the year to date change for home value.
Melbourne and Adelaide has no change at all week-by-week category.
</body></html>

Perth home values down 3% over past year: CoreLogic

<html><body>
Hobart is the cheapest capital city to purchase either a home or apartment, according to CoreLogic’s latest weekly report.
The property data firm says that the median price of a house in Hobart is $360,000 while the median price for an apartment is $250,000.
<a href="/images/2016/12/05/Capital%20city%20private%20treaty.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/05/Capital%20city%20private%20treaty.jpg" alt="">
This is compared to Sydney which has a median price of $950,000 for homes and a price of $728,000 for units.
</body></html>

Hobart the cheapest capital to purchase a home or unit: CoreLogic

<html><body>
Deniliquin is the cheapest localities in New South Wales for units, according to Investar’s latest report.
According to the property investment firm, over the past year the median unit price in Deniliquin has increased by 10% from $114,00 to $126,500.
This is followed by Leeton and Jindabyne with $135,000 and Moree with $136,000.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="121">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Deniliquin
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
2710
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="121">
$126,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Leeton
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
2705
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="121">
$135,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Jindabyne
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
2627
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Studio and one
</td>
<td valign="top" width="121">
$135,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Moree
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
2400
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="121">
$136,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Murwillumbah
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
2484
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="121">
$140,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Corowa
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
2646
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="121">
$140,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Crestwood
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
2620
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Studio and one
</td>
<td valign="top" width="121">
$145,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Narooma
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
2546
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Studio and one
</td>
<td valign="top" width="121">
$147,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Queanbeyan East
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
2620
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Studio and one
</td>
<td valign="top" width="121">
$149,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
The Entrance
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
2261
</td>
<td valign="top" width="85">
Studio and one
</td>
<td valign="top" width="121">
$159,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
For the median price of $126,500 a two bedroom unit at Deniliquin can be purchased such as the one at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-deniliquin-119861149" target="_blank">3/115 Fowler Street</a> (above) that is for sale for $105,000.
</body></html>

Deniliquin units have $126,500 median price: Investar

<html><body>
Capital city clearance rate remained strong for the first week of summer at 75 percent, while the number of auctions fell week- on-week, according to CoreLogic’s latest weekly report.
The property data firm says that the combined capital city preliminary clearance rate rose this week to 75 percent, up from last week’s final clearance rate of 73 percent.
This week’s auction market results indicate that clearance rates are maintaining strength coming into summer.
This is a trend that is very different compared with last year’s performance when auctions clearance rates were tracking in the high 50 percent to low 60 per cent range.
The number of properties taken to auction this week fell across the capital cities, with 3,173 reported auctions, down from 3,398 last week, which was the second busiest week for auctions this year.
<a href="/images/2016/12/05/Weekly%20clearance%20rate.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/05/Weekly%20clearance%20rate.jpg" alt="">
In Melbourne and Sydney, the number of auctions held have decreased (1,410 and 1,158) while across the smaller capital cities, auction volumes have increased over the week.
Auction activity is expected to slow over the remaining weeks of December, however the strong trend in clearance rates is showing no signs of easing.
<a href="/images/2016/12/05/Weekly%20clearance%20rate%20Melbourne.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/05/Weekly%20clearance%20rate%20Melbourne.jpg" alt="">
Melbourne’s preliminary clearance rate increased to 79.3 percent, up from 76.1 percent over the previous week.
Auction volumes decreased with 1,410 auctions held over the week, slightly down from 1,616 over the previous week.
Over the corresponding week last year, the clearance rate was 63.3 percent across 1,622 auctions.
Looking at Melbourne’s sub-regions, the North East region was the best performer in terms of clearance rates, with an 88.6 percent success rate across 166 auctions, followed by the North West region, where 83.0 percent of the 97 auctions sold.
<a href="/images/2016/12/05/Weekly%20clearance%20rate%20Sydney.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/05/Weekly%20clearance%20rate%20Sydney.jpg" alt="">
In Sydney, 1,158 auctions were held this week, down from 1,262 over the previous week.
The preliminary clearance rate of 77.7 per cent is up from 77.1 per cent last week, and also higher than the corresponding period last year, when a clearance rate of 52.9 percent was recorded across 1,070 auctions.
Looking at the sub-regions of Sydney, the Northern Beaches region recorded the strongest clearance rate of 88.9 percent across 112 auctions, while the North Sydney and Hornsby region had the highest volume of auctions (168).
<a href="/images/2016/12/05/Weekly%20clearance%20rate%20Brisbane.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/05/Weekly%20clearance%20rate%20Brisbane.jpg" alt="">
Brisbane was host to 202 auctions this week and so far 123 results have been reported with a preliminary clearance rate of 50.4 percent.
Last week, auction volumes across the city were lower with 191 auctions held across the city and a 43.8 percent clearance rate recorded.
Across the Gold Coast, there were 68 properties up for auction this week.
Of the 26 results reported, 57.7 percent were successful.
<a href="/images/2016/12/05/Weekly%20clearance%20rate%20Adelaide.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/05/Weekly%20clearance%20rate%20Adelaide.jpg" alt="">
This week, Adelaide saw a preliminary clearance rate of 64.4 percent, with 104 reported results across a total of 165 scheduled auctions.
In comparison, over the previous week Adelaide’s clearance rate was 63.1 percent and 60.0 percent one year ago.
Perth’s clearance rate of 67.3 percent across 88 auctions is up from the previous week, when 67 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 27.3 percent was recorded.
Over the same week last year, the clearance rate was a lower 36.0 percent, and 67 auctions were held.
Across Canberra a total of 136 auctions were held this week, compared to 112 last week and 123 at the same time last year.
Canberra’s preliminary clearance rate of 63.8 percent is lower than it was the previous week (72.1 percent).
Of the 14 Tasmanian auction results reported so far this week, 4 sales have been recorded.
</body></html>

Clearance rate remains strong in first week of summer: CoreLogic

<html><body>
Both Queensland and Victoria has the highest month on month change for mortgage market activity, according to CoreLogic’s latest weekly report.
The property data firm says that both Queensland and Victoria’s mortgage market activity has increased by 6 percent.
<a href="/images/2016/12/05/Mortgage%20market%20activity.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/05/Mortgage%20market%20activity.jpg" alt="">
This is compared to New South Wales with the lowest increase of only 1 percent.
On a month to month trend basis, however, Tasmania has the highest increase of 5 percent.
</body></html>

Queensland and Victoria's mortgage market activity increases by 6 percent

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

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]

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."

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X8K0Bozug7A?si=Puwc6vx_ZO0qQZF8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=364553]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357510]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367468]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367810]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151921]

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.

Staff reporter

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News