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In Urban's most recent webinar, Mike Bird (Urban CEO) was joined by an expert panel including TrueSite Director, Chris Omeissah, and Lucid Vue CEO, Brooke Smith.

If you missed the webinar, here is what was discussed:

<h2>Introduction</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tq1tgKGN9Ss" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Lucid Vue Product Overview</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cAJmDmtWUdo" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>TrueSite Product Overview</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gnnmCb7cClQ" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>How to get ROI from virtual property experiences</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zVH6bqiiaDg" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>How much does it cost to get an MVP running?</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Aevtd4_h-9M" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>The future of virtual experiences</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j21YFAp8tLc" width="660"></iframe>

If you'd like to be informed of Urban's next industry webinar, sign up to Urban's industry portal <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/login">here</a>.
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urban.com.au

Urban CEO Mike Bird chats to TrueSite's Chris Omeissah and Lucid Vue's Brooke Smith about VR + property marketing

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In Urban's most recent webinar, Mike Bird (Urban CEO) was joined by a renowned panel including Whitefox Founder, Marty Fox, and Castran Gilbert Director, Michael Laing. 

If you missed the webinar, here are some of the topics that were discussed:

<h2>How has the luxury end of the market been impacted by COVID-19?</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kTZqNxSQ9gk" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>How have you adapted your marketing activities to suit the current conditions?</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kPhuk-xNipw" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Are you seeing any specific market segments rise due to COVID-19?</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xNqd0XXSAnM" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>If you had a site ready to go right now, what signs would you be looking for to know if it's the right time to launch?</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JpaumrPBgJc" width="660"></iframe>

If you'd like to be informed of Urban's next industry webinar, sign up to Urban's industry portal <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/login">here</a>.
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Urban CEO Mike Bird interviews Whitefox's Marty Fox + Castran Gilbert's Michael Laing about the property industry's response to COVID-19

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Last week Urban held a webinar hosted by CEO Mike Bird. Mike interviewed renowned property industry experts Andrew Leoncelli (CBRE Managing Director) and John Meagher (Founder and Managing Director Three Sixty° Property Group) about how the industry is responding to the recent outbreak of COVID-19. 

If you missed the webinar, here are some of the topics that were discussed:

<h2 class="rtecenter">Will Government fast-track new development permits once lockdown is over?</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/COGI2SU9xAQ" width="660"></iframe>

<h2 class="rtecenter">There has been a shift to owner-occupier stock in the last 15 months. Will this trend continue once the pandemic is over?</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kMC2MHf_uV0" width="660"></iframe>

<h2 class="rtecenter">What is the outlook for projects settling this year amidst COVID-19 and what are the strategies adopted to mitigate risks?</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SpIsKhQrvss" width="660"></iframe>

<h2 class="rtecenter">When would you anticipate the market to recover and why?</h2>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R1u2XBV8-OU" width="660"></iframe>

If you'd like to be informed of Urban's next industry webinar, sign up to Urban's industry portal <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/login">here</a>.
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Urban CEO Mike Bird interviews 360 Property's John Meagher + CBRE's Andrew Leoncelli about the property industry's response to COVID-19

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Footscray is a major western suburb of Melbourne located approximately 6 kilometres west of the city. As one of the earliest European settled areas of Melbourne, Footscray continues to welcome residents from many different ethnic backgrounds, creating a culturally diverse community.

The suburb is a Melbourne melting pot best personified by the multitude of global cuisine along Nicholson and Barkly streets.

Footscray is a similar distance from Melbourne as South Yarra but without the soaring property prices.

The Maribyrnong River area of Footscray is seeing the largest amount of new development currently.

<h2>Why is Footscray called Footscray?</h2>

Maribyrnong, the name of the river, is an Anglicisation of an aboriginal word 'Mirring-gnay-bir-nong' which translates as "I can hear a ringtail possum" according to <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://collections.museumvictoria.com.au/articles/2274" target="_blank">Museum Victoria</a>.

For over 40,000 years Footscray was home to the Woimurrung and Boonwurrung tribes of the Kulin nation.

Footscray was named after an English town - Foots Cray - which European settlers along the Maribyrnong River hailed from.

<h2>How far is Footscray from the CBD?</h2>

As the crow flies: 6km

By rail: 9 minutes to Southern Cross station (direct), 15 minutes to Flinders Street (via City Loop).

By road: 7km via Dynon Road.

<h2>What train line is Footscray on?</h2>

Footscray is a major railway junction with regional and metro services stopping at the station's 6 platforms.

The Sunbury line (which has some services originating/terminating at Watergardens) serves Footscray as well as the Werribee, Williamstown and Laverton via Altona lines. In peak times, you will rarely have to wait more than a handful of minutes to catch a city-bound train.

Warrnambool, Geelong, Ballarat, Ararat, Bendigo, Swan Hill and Echuca V/line regional services all run through, and many stop, at Footscray station as well.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/footscray_park1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Footscray Park"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/footscray_park1.jpg?itok=QblX3FEX" title="Footscray Park" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Footscray Park</figcaption></figure><h2>What is there to do in Footscray?</h2>

Eat, drink and cheer on the Western Bulldog's at Whitten Oval when they're training. 

The Maribyrnong river has bike paths running along the western side of the river connecting the area to many other suburbs including Maribyrnong, Seddon, and other suburbs further up the river, such as Avondale Heights.

Footscray is a Melbourne melting pot that has seen many waves of post-war migration with southern European, Indochinese and Sub-Saharan African influences throughout the region.

Dong Ba, Rudimentary, Pho Tam, Konjo Café and Up in Smoke are some of the most well-known Footscray restaurants you could be living near.

The Footscray Community Arts Centre along the riverfront is a performance space that has a large year-round program of entertainment that you can also hire for events. The Footscray Drill Hall in West Footscray is a community centre that also acts as a performing arts practice space.

The Footscray Market located directly opposite Footscray station offers a wide range of fresh produce and general goods. The market is located on the ground floor and has two levels of car parking located above the complex. The market is open every day except Monday and Sunday.

<h2>What other institutions are located in Footscray?</h2>

Footscray Community Arts Centre is a thriving hub for Footscray's vibrant arts scene. The centre, with support from the Maribyrnong City Council, Footscray Rotary and Victoria University, presents the biennial Footscray Artice Prize for visual arts.

Footscray Hospital is a public hospital operated by Western Health at a campus on Gordon Street. The Victorian Government will be spending $1.5 billion on a <a href="https://www.vhhsba.vic.gov.au/health-infrastructure/new-footscray-hospital" target="_blank">new Footscray Hospital</a> to be located opposite Victoria University's main campus. The new hospital is expected to open in 2025.

Victoria University has two campuses in the suburb. One at adjacent to Footscray Park is the larger of the two and the other campus is located on Nicholson Street to the south of Footscray station.

While not located in Footscray, Highpoint Shopping Centre is a short tram ride from central Footscray. The 82 tram between Footscray and Moonee Ponds, links Victoria University's Footscray Park campus, Highpoint Shopping Centre and the wider retail area in Maribyrnong.

Just over the other side of Maribyrnong River from Footscray Park is Flemington Racecourse, home of the Spring Racing Carnival.

<h2>Who lives in Footscray?</h2>

According to the <a href="https://quickstats.censusdata.abs.gov.au/census_services/getproduct/census/2016/quickstat/SSC20929" target="_blank">2016 census</a>, 43.8% of all Footscray residents were born in Australia with the 5 top non-Australia place of birth countries including Vietnam (9.6%), India (6.7%), China (excluding Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan - 3.9%), New Zealand (2.1%) and England (1.9%).

Vietnamese (11.4%) is the language spoken most at home after English, followed by Mandarin (4.2%), Cantonese (2.5%), Telugu (1.7%) and Greek (1.6%).

35.7% of people travel to work by public transport versus 43.1% who travel to work by car.

The median weekly household income for Footscray was $1,314 in the 2016 census, while the median age was 31 years old.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/footscray3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="View of Melbourne City from Footscray"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/footscray3.jpg?itok=Bgd1vdX7" title="View of Melbourne City from Footscray" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>View of Melbourne City from Footscray</figcaption></figure><h2>What new Footscray developments are in the pipeline?</h2>

There are over <a href="/developments/footscray-vic-3011">60 new developments</a> on the cards for Footscray.

<iframe frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/footscray-vic?embeddable=list-map" width="100%"></iframe>

 
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Footscray, Victoria, 3011: The complete suburb guide for buyers

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Located in the City of Whitehorse, Box Hill is a traditional business and retail centre located in Melbourne's eastern suburbs that is undergoing rapid change.

With over <a href="/developments/box-hill-vic-3128">50 residential projects in the development pipeline</a>, Box Hill's shopping area will be the focal point for many changes over the coming years. The retail precinct itself will see a major upgrade and Box Hill station will see expansion with the mooted plans to terminate phase 1 of the Suburban Rail Loop at Box Hill.

The suburb is already one of the best in Melbourne connected by public transport with a very large bus network and interchange located at Box Hill central that feeds multiple bus routes into the retail and transport hub.

Station Street is the suburb's primary north-south arterial with Whitehorse Road - also known as the Maroondah highway - is the primary east-west arterial road.

The suburb is home to many educational and health organisations including the Box Hill Institute, Box Hill hospital and Epworth Eastern private hospital.

<h2>How far is Box Hill from the CBD?</h2>

As the crow flies: 14km.

By rail: 25 min stopping all stations (Flinders Street Station to Box Hill direct) or 16 min Box Hill express to Parliament, calling at Richmond only.

By road: 21km via the Eastern Freeway.

<h2>What train line is Box Hill on?</h2>

Box Hill station is served by the Belgrave and Lilydale lines.  Trains to/from Blackburn also stop at Box Hill station.

Trains run every 3-4 minutes in peak, and every 7-8 minutes off-peak.

Box Hill is the 109 tram terminus which connects the suburb along Whitehorse Road to Mont Albert, Balwyn and Kew.

<h2>What is there to do in Box Hill?</h2>

Box Hill Central shopping centre sits atop the suburb's train station and is one of the key retail centres in Eastern Melbourne.  The shopping precinct spills out on to Carrington Road, a street famous for having some of the best Asian cuisine outside central Melbourne.

The suburb is home to <a href="https://www.aqualink.com.au/">Aqualink</a> located in Surrey Park, a large scale aquatic and fitness centre located south of the retail and transport core and the suburb hosts multiple sporting clubs across AFL, Rugby, Athletics and Tennis among others.

Box Hill Gardens has a large grassy area for chilling, a duck pond and also includes facilities to keep you even more active: it has a skateboard park, a basketball court and a 1000m running/walking track.

The <a href="https://www.boxhilltownhall.com.au/">Box Hill Town Hall</a> is the former meeting place for the City of Box Hill (now known as the City of Whitehorse) and is now used for exhibitions and events. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/shutterstock_452788339.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Box Hill Hospital."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shutterstock_452788339.jpg?itok=8OK0qx5t" title="Box Hill Hospital." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Box Hill Hospital.</figcaption></figure><h2>What other institutions are located in Box Hill?</h2>

Box Hill Institute - locally known as Box Hill TAFE - is one of Victoria's main VET/TAFE education providers and the TAFE has two campuses in the suburb - Nelson and Elgar.

Box Hill High School is the main secondary college within Box Hill's school zone. Laburnum Primary School, Kerrimuir Primary School and Box Hill North Primary School as well as St Francis Xavier's Catholic Primary School service Box Hill.

Box Hill hospital underwent a major upgrade that was completed in 2014 that saw the addition of a 10 story building that houses new emergency facilities as well as a maternity, cardiac and intensive care unit.

Private hospital operator Epworth has a presence in the suburb that is also seeing a major expansion with a new 14 storey wing that will house a new emergency department, three new clinical floors, additional operating theatres and additional consulting suites as well as more car parks.

<h2>Who lives in Box Hill?</h2>

Box Hill is one of the most diverse areas of Melbourne. 27% of trhe suburb's population at the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://quickstats.censusdata.abs.gov.au/census_services/getproduct/census/2016/quickstat/207031163?opendocument" target="_blank">2016 census</a> nominated Chinese as their ancestry and Malaysia, India and Vietnamese feature prominently in the suburb's place of birth statistics.

Mandarin, Cantonese, Greek, Vietnamese and Korean are the top 5 languages other than English spoken at home according to the census and 52% of residents in Box Hill work full time while a further 35% work part-time.

24% of all residents in Box hill commuted by public transport versus 55% who commuted by car and the average weekly income at the 2016 census was $522 for individuals and $1,200 for households.

The median age of people in Box hill was 33 years and children aged 0 - 14 years made up 14% of the population. People aged 65 years or older made up 13% of the population.

<h2>What new Box Hill developments are in the pipeline?</h2>

There are over <a href="/developments/box-hill-vic-3128">50 new developments in the pipeline for Box Hill</a>.  

<iframe frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/box-hill-vic?embeddable=list-map" width="100%"></iframe>

 
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Box Hill, Victoria 3128: The complete suburb guide for buyers

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Urban's Display Suite Walkthrough series started with a look at the <a href="/news/urbans-tour-of-the-shelley-st-display-suite">Shelley Street display suite</a> in Richmond. Today, our second tour of the series features FOCUS by Central Equity in Melbourne’s Southbank. The Urban team were able to visit the display before it was deconstructed in time for construction to commence. 

<div class="rtecenter">Check out our video tour:</div>

<div class="rtecenter"> </div>

<div class="rtecenter"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qDiYoOxsxoU" width="660"></iframe></div>

FOCUS AT A GLANCE

Developer: Central Equity

Architect: Doig Architecture

Location: 75 City Road, Southbank

Number of apartments: 592

Construction slated to begin: Nov 2019

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/focus_kitchen_light_types_a_k.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="FOCUS by Central Equity"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/focus_kitchen_light_types_a_k.jpg?itok=ScX68IO_" title="FOCUS by Central Equity" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>FOCUS by Central Equity</figcaption></figure>After 30 years in the industry, and 75 residential projects delivered, Central Equity has now embarked on the construction of their latest project, FOCUS Melbourne. 

Situated in the heart of Melbourne’s Southbank, the sought-after location is likely to be a drawcard for buyers who want to live in the epicentre of one of the world’s most liveable cities.

Just a stone's throw from Melbourne’s Arts Precinct, residents will be able to enjoy exploring the city by foot, with theatres, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), music venues, 5-star restaurants and Universities within walking distance.

FOCUS Melbourne boasts impressive amenities, including a 17-seat luxe movie theatre; an expansive barbecue and social dining area; as well as lifestyle facilities including a pool, gymnasium and sauna.

For added comfort and liveability, each apartment features openable windows, which facilitate natural airflow throughout the residence. This is complemented by the state-of-the-art reverse cycle air conditioning system in each home.

The design also considers the impact of city-noise on the residences by assessing the sound-proofing of all glazing, walls, and insulation. Acoustic engineers have been engaged from the beginning of the design process to ensure optimum resident comfort.

Central Equity General Manger Ian Carkeek explains that double glazing is important for environmental reasons, cost-effective thermal control and sound attenuation.

<blockquote>
“Our latest designs have 2.7m high ceilings and full-height windows, letting in natural light, and importantly all those windows are double glazed, which means better energy efficiency, lower energy bills and better acoustic properties – and acoustics are very important.”
</blockquote>

Ian Carkeek, General Manager – Product Design, Central Equity

The apartment kitchens feature composite stone benchtops, LED feature lighting, soft-close cabinetry, Miele stainless steel appliances, high-quality German tapware, externally ducted range-hoods and innovative storage solutions. Buyers will also be invited to customise their apartments with a wide range of floorplan layouts to choose from.

Special offer: For a limited time, qualifying buyers could save $20,000-$52,000 in government stamp duty.

While the display suite is no longer open for tours as construction has already commenced, you can <a href="/buildings/focus-melbourne-81-city-road-southbank">reach out to the Central Equity sales agent</a> via Urban at any time.
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Urban’s tour of the FOCUS Melbourne display suite

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Written By Julia Frecker

With Melbourne’s projected population growth of an additional 4 million people by 2051 (<a href="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/hdp.au.prod.app.vic-engage.files/6915/6463/0112/BetterApartmentsInNeighbourhoods_DiscussionPaper_-_Public_Consultation_Release_1.8.19.pdf">DEWLP</a>), we are faced with the complex equation of an ever-increasing number of people within a constant amount of urban area. This leads to the inevitable outcome of stacking people on top of each other to conserve our rapidly depleting liveable space.

In a reaction to the unfortunate association of apartment dwellings with a lower standard of living, the <a href="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/hdp.au.prod.app.vic-engage.files/6915/6463/0112/BetterApartmentsInNeighbourhoods_DiscussionPaper_-_Public_Consultation_Release_1.8.19.pdf">Better Apartment Design Standards (BADS)</a> were introduced in 2016 by the Department of Environment, Water, Land and Planning (DEWLP), with an inclusion into the planning scheme in the form Clause 58 for <a href="/new-apartments">Apartment Developments</a> in early 2017. 

It forced developers and architects to focus heavily on better layouts, access to daylight, windows and ventilation amongst other things. It worked to redefine the well-worn narrative of the shoebox apartment that is cramped, dark and stuffy.  

Out of regulation was born resolution and grew respect for apartment living. It was a collective realisation that if you are spending most of your life in a dwelling, you should feel that it is not just liveable but an enjoyable space too.  

Whilst bringing change for more liveable multi-dwelling developments, the inclusion of <a href="/news/5-of-australias-top-apartment-gardens">greenery and open space</a> into the standards always felt like an afterthought. The communal space objective aimed to provide open areas for the residents of the apartment.

The standard is:

Developments with 40 or more dwellings should provide a minimum area of communal open space of 2.5 square metres per dwelling or 250 square metres, whichever is lesser.

However, there is no strong enforcement for the provision of greenery within these standards. 

The standards for Landscaping in the BADS only aims to “maximise landscape opportunities.” For most apartment developments, a communal open space usually means an easy to maintain, mostly concrete communal area. In this case, the potential for maximum landscaping is minimal. 

The requirements for this standard are that an apartment proposal should “consider landscaping opportunities.” In terms of a guideline, this is not a strong enough incentive or enforcement to get people to creatively think about that communal open space. There is no enforcement or encouragement for developers, architects and the like to truly aim to maximise the access to greenery and landscaping in a way that would create lush communal areas. Or create areas that have a tangible impact on urban heat island and increase permeable surfaces. 

The most critical breakdown of the BADS and the plight for access to greenery and open space is that the standards for a minimum area of communal open space only apply to developments with 40 or more dwellings. Meaning that apartment proposals providing anything below this are not required to provide any communal open space. Developments that aren’t considered intense enough to trigger the provision of open space can, therefore, get away with not providing any green escape for those apartment residents. 

Apartments have historically been situated in inner-city areas with higher height limits, but in this new era, apartments are common everywhere from <a href="/new-apartments/epping-vic-3076">Epping</a> to <a href="/new-apartments/bonbeach-vic-3196">Bonbeach</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/ringwood-vic-3134">Ringwood</a> and beyond. More and more people are opting, or indeed, needing to live in apartments, in a more diverse range of locations. Therefore, the standards need to keep up with the urban changing fabric.

The diversity of apartment locations<a href="/new-apartments/vic"> around Victoria</a>, and the Better Apartment Design Standards shortfalls have necessitated a follow-up paper in the form of the <a href="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/hdp.au.prod.app.vic-engage.files/6915/6463/0112/BetterApartmentsInNeighbourhoods_DiscussionPaper_-_Public_Consultation_Release_1.8.19.pdf">Better Apartments in Neighbourhoods Discussion</a> paper by DEWLP.  The paper is currently open for public consultation <a href="https://engage.vic.gov.au/building-better-apartments-in-neighbourhoods">here</a> with submissions welcome till 27 September 2019.

It addresses the key issues associated with Green Space and the Better Apartment Design standards of 2016, these include:

<ul>
<li>
	Despite the current planning rules, landscaping is often an afterthought in the building design and planning process. Canopy trees, which improve people’s well-being and provide urban cooling, are often either too small or not provided at all. 
	</li>
	<li>
	Developments of 40 dwellings or fewer will often not have communal open space which means that residents may not have access to a garden. 
	</li>
	<li>
	Some apartment buildings at street-level do not contribute to green streetscapes.
	</li>
</ul>
(DEWLP 2019)

It is cheering to see the proposed changes as a direct reaction to the dubious attempt at the inclusion of green space in the 2016 BADS.  

The question is if the new standards were to be introduced, could they ever strive to meet the success of the Minimum Garden Area Requirement for the inclusion of greenery and<a href="/news/5-new-sustainable-apartment-developments-in-australia-2019"> garden area in new developments</a>?

The <a href="https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0016/127114/PPN84-Applying-the-minimum-garden-area-requirement.pdf">Minimum Garden Area Requirement (Practice Planning Note 84)</a> has been the most effective planning practice for enforcing the provision of garden area. Although often causing developers and homeowners alike to tear their hair out, it has been critical in protecting the leafy green character of the General Residential and Neighbourhood Residential zones. The Planning Note is enforced, making it planning practice and creates a strong, fixed standard that ensures the garden area is retained and protected. The stronger wording of the practice note itself, “The minimum garden area requirement is a mandatory requirement that must be met and cannot be reduced,” is successful in conveying the necessity of the provision. Concurrently with Clause 54 and 55 Rescode standards, the Minimum Garden Area Requirements has been undeniably effective in retaining the character, and general enjoyment of urban streets and dwellings. 

The introduction of the Better Apartments in Neighbourhoods discussion paper, with proposed changes to the BADS, is coming at a perfect time. The language involved in the discussion paper is already noticeably more strongly worded.

For landscaping amongst the proposed standards it reads that;

(2.4)“Canopy trees should be provided at the number specified in column 2 of Table D2” 

It focuses on boosting the provision of deeper soil trees with larger canopy potential. This means communal areas and private areas would be more enjoyable. This ensures that the landscaping being provided isn’t just low-level; swallow plants and trees that don’t provide shade or lushness. The provision of a few small trees does not feel conducive to the holistic living experience that is yearned for with apartment living.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/proposed_standards_for_deep_soil_areas_and_canopy_tree_requirements_-_delwp-min.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Proposed standards for deep soil areas and canopy tree requirements – DELWP"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="633" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/proposed_standards_for_deep_soil_areas_and_canopy_tree_requirements_-_delwp-min.png?itok=evqp7KhT" title="Proposed standards for deep soil areas and canopy tree requirements – DELWP" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Proposed standards for deep soil areas and canopy tree requirements – <a href="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/hdp.au.prod.app.vic-engage.files/6915/6463/0112/BetterApartmentsInNeighbourhoods_DiscussionPaper_-_Public_Consultation_Release_1.8.19.pdf">DELWP</a></figcaption></figure>It could be worded more strongly with ‘must’ rather than ‘should’ however, it shows that these <a href="/news/future-focus-australian-institute-of-landscape-architects-call-for-new-living-infrastructure-strategy">new standards the provision greenery</a> has been more closely considered. It will hopefully put the provision of greenery to the forefront of apartment developments, rather than the afterthought it was becoming. 

Furthermore, in regards to the provision of communal space involves changes to the open space standards to include all apartment developments. As a result, the less than 40 dwellings slipknot has been removed. The discussion paper is proposing that:

(2.5) “Developments with 10 dwellings or less should provide a minimum area of communal open space of 25 square metres. Developments with 11 or more should provide a minimum area of communal open space of 2.5 square metres per dwelling or 250 square metres, whichever is the lesser”

This means that apartments developments of any space can be awarded the luxury of communal open space, regardless of size and intensity. Of course, the token greenery and open space in apartments will never compare to the leafy character of neighbourhood gardens associated with the Minimum Garden Area Requirement. However, as a trade-off for the amenity of inner city living, access to greenery that is intertwined into the urban living experience should be prioritised. The policy should reflect this in a way that both encourages and champions its inclusion.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/vertical_forest_lines_the_side_of_apartment_building_bosco_verticale_milan.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Vertical forest lines the side of apartment building: Bosco Verticale, Milan – Photo by Stefano Boeri Architetti"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="306" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/vertical_forest_lines_the_side_of_apartment_building_bosco_verticale_milan.jpg?itok=2JXLaJQf" title="Vertical forest lines the side of apartment building: Bosco Verticale, Milan – Photo by Stefano Boeri Architetti" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Vertical forest lines the side of apartment building: Bosco Verticale, Milan – Photo by Stefano Boeri Architetti</figcaption></figure>The future holds an ever-increasing need for apartment living and often the lack of access to greenery can be a deterring factor. In reality, it has the potential to take the forefront as a feature to promote a new development and peak people’s interests. The <a href="/news/exploring-the-merits-of-a-vertical-forest-has-it-a-lasting-place-in-melbourne">Bosco Verticale</a> development by Stefano Boeri Architetti in Milan instantly rose to prominence due to its green façade and vertical canopy planting. Closer to home, <a href="/news/the-commons-ceo-cliff-ho-discusses-the-differences-between-co-working-spaces-vs-traditional-offices">The Commons</a> and the <a href="/developments/brunswick-vic-3056">Breese Street</a> developments have championed greenery as a way to marketing to the public.

The proposed changes to the Better Apartment Design Standards are critical for better prioritising and applying greenery, landscaping and communal open space to apartment developments. The benefits of access to greenery for physical health, mental health and for offsetting urban heat absorption and the reduction of impermeable surfaces are well known and well researched. Greenery is critical for the development of urban areas, making them more enjoyable to be in, and in maintaining <a href="/news/is-australia-ready-for-smaller-footprint-apartment-living">people’s desire to live in apartments</a>. It’s a necessity for the future and as the urban fabric changes around us, the policies in place must help us protect and promote such critical greenery.
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The Good, the BADS and the Green in Future Apartment Living

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<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/the_one_brisbane_construction_update_2-min.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_one_brisbane_construction_update_2-min.jpg?itok=eNKk144X" width="580"></a></figure>Glass facade at level 34.

Concrete poured successfully for level 40.

With Brisbane Quarter retail opening early this year, with a connection to <a href="/buildings/the-one-residences-brisbane-8-adelaide-street-brisbane">The One Residences</a>, we could potentially see the first purchasers settling late 2019 in low lying apartments. Estimated completion for the tower, late 2020.
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The One Brisbane construction update

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<li>
	264 metres.
	</li>
	<li>
	82 floors.
	</li>
	<li>
	<a href="/buildings/the-one-residences-brisbane-8-adelaide-street-brisbane">Second tallest tower</a> in Brisbane.
	</li>
	<li>
	10th tallest building in Australia.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sixth tallest residential tower in the Southern Hemisphere.
	</li>
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The One Brisbane height

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Located on the banks of the winding Brisbane River, <a href="/buildings/the-one-residences-brisbane-8-adelaide-street-brisbane">The One</a> Residences boasts the tallest riverfront apartments in the city. In its bid to become Australia’s next World Class City, Brisbane is amping up the development progress with huge new projects such as Brisbane Quarter, featuring the second tallest tower in the city, The One.

Brisbane CBD is home to less than 20,000 people, a number that is expected to jump with the reunification of Southbank, apartment developments and migration.

In walking distance of the iconic Botanic Gardens, Museum of Brisbane, Treasury Buildings, Queens Street retail and the Eagle Street Pier, The One Residences are surrounded by some of the best boutiques, restaurants, entertainment and nightlife precincts in the city.

With nearby mega project, Queens Wharf, residents will be able to cross over the Brisbane River effortlessly to be within walking distance of the Queensland Museum, Gallery of Modern Art and the electric Southbank Promenade.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/the_one_brisbane_loc_2-min_0.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Location of the Brisbane Quarter complex. Image by Google Maps."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="248" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_one_brisbane_loc_2-min_0.png?itok=zAHDSsYC" title="Location of the Brisbane Quarter complex. Image by Google Maps." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Location of the Brisbane Quarter complex. Image by Google Maps.</figcaption></figure>
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The One Brisbane location

Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

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