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Today we look at a progressive design within Carlton that not only rejuvenates an underused tract of land, but also helps to break down a stigma associated with Melbourne's established social housing stock.

I'd like to think I'd be right in assuming the average Melburnian generally frowns upon social housing estate's such as those found in Richmond, Carlton or Prahran. Whether it be a perception of safety, crime, drug use or an altogether inhospitable public realm social housing estates in the eyes of many are no-go zones.

Enter the <a href="http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/about-the-department/plans,-programs-and-projects/projects-and-initiatives/housing-and-accommodation/carlton-housing-redevelopment" target="_blank">Carlton Housing Redevelopment</a> project which "is an urban renewal and community development project that provides housing and community facilities for the entire Carlton community."

<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/Carlton_redevelopment_sites-550.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An overview of the Carlton housing redevelopment. Image courtesy DHS"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="248" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Carlton_redevelopment_sites-550.jpg?itok=2UTwiuTi" title="An overview of the Carlton housing redevelopment. Image courtesy DHS" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>An overview of the Carlton housing redevelopment. Image courtesy DHS</figcaption></figure>Jointly developed by Citta Property Group and Australand, Living Carlton stage 3, better known as <a href="http://apartmentscarlton.com.au/location" target="_blank">Local Carlton</a> is a collection of 116 newly built six star green-rated private dwellings which share communal facilities with the long established Nicholson Street social housing complex. Designed by ARM Architecture and Fender Katsalidis, the centrepiece of the project is a new public park and linear urban park which connects Elgin Street and Palmerston Street.

Three new apartment buildings are designed in a horse-shoe format with the aforementioned park centrally located. At the core of the development is the notion that the large, open area with new recreational facilities will improve social interaction, safety and usability within the estate.

<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/Img_3676.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Where there was none prior"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_3676.jpg?itok=mumuhC4Y" title="Where there was none prior" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>Where there was none prior</figcaption></figure>The green area and urban park (a children's playground) essentially invite inhabitants of the social housing towers and the public alike into the 'backyard' of the private apartments. Whilst it's a commendable design feature, ultimately the effectiveness of the layout will be borne out over time.

Will the park attract apartment dwellers, social housing dwellers of the general public? Will the park be used at all? Could this style of public-private living be easily adapted to other estate's such as Footscray or Richmond?

I can't answer those questions but I can provide a set of images taken within and around Local Carlton recently, highlighting both building and public spheres alike. Enjoy.
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silvermb

New apartment meets old commission in Carlton

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A small piece of Melbourne's history will begin disappearing in the days and weeks to come as Melbourne Airport's water tower continues to be engulfed by scaffolding and mesh in preparation for demolition.
A pronounced structure viewed by hundreds of millions of travellers yet never at the forefront of anyone's thoughts, the tower has stood the test of time since it began appearing on the horizon during 1969 as evidenced by the Melbourne Airport image below.  More recently the water tower became far more recognisable, gaining a lick of paint to closely resemble a Tiger Airways aircraft livery.
<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/1384_19-11-2013_3817.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Airport's image of the water tower under construction during 1969"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="380" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1384_19-11-2013_3817.jpg?itok=w69b9LT2" title="Melbourne Airport's image of the water tower under construction during 1969" width="580"></a>
According to Melbourne Airport, demolition will consist of  "A series of innovative cutting and propping techniques, regarded by engineering specialists as the safest procedure for a demolition of this scale."  In what will most likely resemble the demolition of the Lonsdale Street Power Station chimney some years ago, large horizontal rings will be cut with a diamond tipped cable mechanism and then repositioned by mobile crane to terra firma for recycling offsite.
The water tower is to make way for the new integrated ground transport hub with forms part of the larger precinct redevelopment of which <a href="http://www.leightoncontractors.com.au/" target="_blank">Leighton Contractors</a> is the chief builder.  As seen below works have commenced well back from the terminal precinct for associated infrastructure such as elevated roadways and the like.  Piling for the integrated ground transport hub and part of the terminal precinct are well advanced.
<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/Img_3625.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Early works with Melbourne's skyline in the distance"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_3625.jpg?itok=WMYbZ732" title="Early works with Melbourne's skyline in the distance" width="580"></a>
Visit Melbourne Airport's website <a href="http://melbourneairport.com.au/about-melbourne-airport/media/photo-gallery?gallery=historical-photos" target="_blank">here</a> to see a collection of images dating back to the early 1960's.  Further construction images of current works are provided in the link below.
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Tiger loses its tail!

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Another chapter today in the ever evolving artwork that is Hosier Lane which of late has begun a vertical expansion, elevating the visual delights to a point where they can be seen from afar.
Under the auspices of <a href="http://hosierrutledge.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Hosier Inc</a> and with funding from Melbourne City Council, <q cite="http://hosierrutledge.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/19_2_14_media_release_hosier_inc__paint_up.pdf">Melbourne-based artist Adnate will transform Australia's most iconic laneway, painting a significant wall that has never before been available to any artist. This is the first installment in a series of major artworks to be commissioned by local community association Hosier Inc. Paint Up! is part of an ongoing program of activities designed to activate the laneways and create a safe and engaging environment for all to work, live, visit and enjoy the area.</q>
<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/wednesdaymorning003.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Works underway as seen from Hosier Lane. Image © David Russell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/wednesdaymorning003.jpg?itok=RETuobIf" title="Works underway as seen from Hosier Lane. Image © David Russell" width="580"></a>
The associated PDF press release is <a href="http://hosierrutledge.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/19_2_14_media_release_hosier_inc__paint_up.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.
Works on the 1945 McDonald and Company building at 165 Flinders Lane we undertaken in recent weeks. Whether further works are applied to McDonald and Company or the adjoining Forum Theatre remains to be seen.
The results of stage one are below along with the comings and goings on Hosier Lane &amp; Rutledge Lane during a typical Sunday afternoon.
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Paint Up! Hosier Lane reaches for the sky

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It does seem there will be many more interstate and international visitors performing the obligatory jump on a Melbourne hotel bed in years to come, as available hotel rooms grow markedly. Following <a href="/news/5000-new-hotel-rooms-for-melbourne" target="_blank">yesterday's article</a>, today Apartments.com.au looks at the remaining large scale hotel projects expected to grace Melbourne's skyline in the not too distant future.

<h2>Southbank due for 1400 plus rooms</h2>

<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/Image10_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queensbridge Tower, 400 City road and 167 City Road. Images © Bates Smart, Crone &amp; Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="506" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image10_9.jpg?itok=9iHY_k5-" title="Queensbridge Tower, 400 City road and 167 City Road. Images © Bates Smart, Crone &amp; Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

Crown is the established 'gorilla' on Southbank, with 1604 suites over three premises. Yet if all proposed hotels rooms are delivered, combined additional Southbank hotel suite numbers would approach that of Crown's.

Interestingly though only one proposal is a stand-alone hotel, namely the approved 167 City Road complex which would find itself wedged between two established Central Equity residential towers if built. All other proposed Southbank hotels form part of a larger mixed-use development.

By numbers, PDG and Schiavello's <a href="/new-apartments/one-queensbridge-street-1-23-queensbridge-street-southbank" target="_blank">Queensbridge Tower</a> leads the remaining mixed-use candidates with 408 rooms within the hulking tower set aside for a hotel operator. A stone's throw away M &amp; L Hospitality have 360 suites included within their equally tall proposal at <a href="/news">25-35 Power Street</a>. Presently controlling 460 rooms at Citigate Melbourne and Travelodge Docklands, reports indicate M &amp; L Hospitality will retain management of the Power Street development, although under which hotel brand is unknown.

The much talked about <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">Australia 108</a> project slots in next with 288 suites envisaged within a shortened tower's summit while last and least likely to proceed is the approved <a href="/new-apartments/400-430-city-road-southbank">400 City Road</a> development. As part of a larger four tower mixed-use complex, 280 hotel rooms are incorporated, although the $1 billion dollar project has been put on ice in favour of leasing out the existing low-rise office space.

<h2>Who's left?</h2>

<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/Image11_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="M Docklands © Elenberg Fraser &amp; The Larwill under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="296" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image11_11.jpg?itok=EaeQBjfa" title="M Docklands © Elenberg Fraser &amp; The Larwill under construction" width="580"></a>

Three developments round out the selected 20, with a further two within Docklands. Peppers Resorts have signed up to the <a href="/buildings/m-docklands-679-la-trobe-street-docklands" target="_blank">M Docklands</a> development, securing 68 rooms for their first metropolitan Melbourne foray while Parkroyal have taken a hefty 281 rooms within the soon to be constructed <a href="/new-apartments/docklands-vic-3008">Altus</a> development at Digital Harbour.

Rounding out City of Melbourne's upcoming hotel projects is The Larwill, although it's more nearing completion as seen above. The fourth chapter in Asian Pacific Group's Art Series Hotels, The Larwill will carry 100 rooms and principally serve the adjoining Royal Children's Hospital.

<h2>What the future holds</h2>

<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/Image1444.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Space Hotel St Kilda initial and final designs. Images © CHT Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="317" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1444.jpg?itok=i_irCU2F" title="Space Hotel St Kilda initial and final designs. Images © CHT Architects" width="580"></a>

Time for the crystal ball once more! Crown delivering a super tall fourth mixed-use complex with traditional apartments and serviced apartments? Outrigger joining a host of new operators on the Melbourne scene? A bevy of new and existing operators flooding into Fishermans Bend once the area establishes itself? Or increased hotel developments outside the CBD and surrounds?

Naturally not all activity will be bound to the central city, although the ability to deliver a project outside the City of Melbourne seems altogether more difficult. Big ticket developments such as Crowne Plaza Doncaster Hill or Space Hotel St Kilda (seen above) have yet to materialise after being on the radar for some time.

Accurately predicting the future in this regard should be left to the likes of Nostradamus, but two things seem certain. The sheer numbers of proposed hotel developments means a mass of new hotel accommodation will add to existing stock even if a handful of the aforementioned projects are never reaslised, whilst the overall health and outlook for the hotel sector remains strong.
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5000 new hotel rooms for Melbourne (continued)

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How the face of Melbourne has changed over the last decade, and digital camera technology for that matter. Today will the first in a semi-regular look back at Melbourne's biggest and best projects which were under construction this month 10 years ago.

A selection of 2004's under construction projects that helped reshape Melbourne include:

<h2>Southbank hits the heights</h2>

The soon to be Melbourne's tallest had just reached its level 55 jump form reconfiguration, on the way to becoming the city's tallest residential tower and subsequently tallest building by year's end. Eureka was ably supported by Australand's Freshwater Place development next door which commenced with PwC's 2 Southbank Boulevard and Freshwater Tower.

Elsewhere Southbank Central was under construction, adding to Central Equity's incredible architectural repertoire... well at least it was a step in the right direction.

<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/comp6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="PwC, Freshwater Place and Eureka Tower circa 2004"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/comp6.jpg?itok=MQLUc8wi" title="PwC, Freshwater Place and Eureka Tower circa 2004" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>PwC, Freshwater Place and Eureka Tower circa 2004</figcaption></figure><h2>One wasteland for another?</h2>

Depending upon who you ask that's what Docklands was in the process of becoming. Southern Cross Station's roof was taking shape while 700 Collins was found guilty for crimes against architecture even before completion. The Conder at Newquay was in its formative stages as was Victoria Point, with Lonsdale Street's chimney still in tact.

Lower left is Watergate Apartments, with V1 Docklands and Victoria Point either side for company. Watergate was arguably the first project to showcase Elenberg Fraser's flair, and of course their trademark bronze facade.

<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/comp4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Construction images of 2004"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="719" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/comp4.jpg?itok=EwF2Z0ov" title="Construction images of 2004" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>Construction images of 2004</figcaption></figure><h2>Into the burbs</h2>

Mondo Tower was soon to become the tallest tower outside the inner city at 17 levels, and was joined in construction by Foxtel Moonee Ponds... both would subsequently be found guilty of crimes against architecture.

The mammoth Austin and Mercy Heidelberg was still chugging along under Baulderstone's $270 million build contract while the 14 level Barrett Apartments in Hawthorn became that suburb's vanguard development... much would change.

<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/comp1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" style="font-size: 12px;" title="Construction images of 2004"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="474" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/comp1.jpg?itok=nW9LtM6T" title="Construction images of 2004" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>Construction images of 2004</figcaption></figure><h2>Inner city</h2>

The comparatively huge Royal Domain Tower had just broken the car park levels and was into the first floor of apartments while once of Melbourne's signature buildings, Yve, was little more than a twisted mess as site demolition progressed. Demolition was word of the week at the MCG as the world's biggest tower crane (Favelle Favco M2480D) worked above the Northern Stand.

Even in 2005 Hayball has a fascination with precast... some kids never grow up! And Mirvac was continuing with Beacon Cove in Port Melbourne... anyone found any retail in Beacon Cove as yet? Notable mentions to Gateway on Queens Road which at 20 levels was built without a tower crane and Bio21 on Flemington Road. Time has and will continue to be kind to this newly completed ripper from Designinc.

<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/comp5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Construction images of 2004"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="554" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/comp5.jpg?itok=hiUOtTO5" title="Construction images of 2004" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>Construction images of 2004</figcaption></figure><h2>Big city build</h2>

2004 in general was a massive year with a clear upswing in apartment living leading to a new rash of apartment projects such as QV, Mondriane, Concept Blue within the CBD along with many others. April 2004 also saw a group of commercial office towers under construction, the first such grouping since the boom and bust of the early 1990's.

380 La Trobe Street was receiving its final touches and Herald Weekly Times was beginning its transformation. 11 Exhibition, Southern Cross, RACV - 501 Bourke Street and Urban Workshop (all pictured below) would add a mass of office space upon completion, while all having sizeable tenant commitments - once bitten, twice shy!

<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/comp7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Best of the CBD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="755" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/comp7.jpg?itok=qUY92eQx" title="Best of the CBD" width="580"></a>
<figcaption>Best of the CBD</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne under construction > April 2004

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City of Port Phillip are currently assessing the merits of a recently submitted planning application which seeks to replace an dreary, dated car park with 20 levels of residential living. <a href="http://pdaaustralia.com/" target="_blank">PDA Australia</a>, Message Consultants and <a href="/architects/dko-architecture" target="_blank">DKO Architecture</a> form the core of the project team, preparing the scheme for overseas entity and site owner Kangoala Pty Ltd.

<h2>All the vitals</h2>

<ul>
<li>Site area of 2,320 square metres, currently hosting a seven level commercial car park</li>
	<li>Proposed is a 20 level, 65 metre residential tower</li>
	<li>Basement provides 104 bicycle bays and 260 car parking spaces, below the statutory 331 required</li>
	<li>235 apartments split between 82*1, 104*2 and 49*3 bedrooms</li>
	<li>Setback of 15 metres to Queens Road with generally 4.5 metres to other boundaries</li>
	<li>Pool, gym, event space and rooftop terrace/spa included within the proposed development</li>
	<li>Pedestrian link to site's south, linking Queens Road and Queens Lane</li>
	<li>No borrowed light to any bedrooms within any dwellings</li>
</ul>
<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/Image16_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Google snap shot of what currently exists onsite"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image16_2.jpg?itok=Elx_zWBX" style="height:299px; width:580px" title="Google snap shot of what currently exists onsite"></a>

<h2>Quality of Architecture</h2>

External finishes are slated to include glazed balustrades, precast panels, perforated metal and brickwork. Although hard to discern via the renders, many of the external finishes "Meet on an angle to one another, creating a dynamic affect across the facade."

Of the design quality, the application asserts:

<blockquote>
"The curved indentation to the facade, together with the rounded corners of the building give it a sinuous and elegant appearance, while the interplay of solid and translucent balcony surrounds creates a subtle sense of 'movement' across the facades that adds to the visual interest dynamism in the building's presentation."
</blockquote>

<h2>Improving the public realm</h2>

<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/Img_2774.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground floor layout. Image © dKO Architecture "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_2774.jpg?itok=kocl20pL" style="height:254px; width:580px" title="Ground floor layout. Image © dKO Architecture "></a>

Granted the immediate area is neither heavily utilised by pedestrians or a retail draw card, but put quite simply any development would be an improvement as the existing structure presents poorly to all frontages. Landscaping is expected along all frontages while a pedestrian link seeks to promote foot traffic through the site during all hours, something which is generally not the case with commercial buildings.

Although taller than surrounding buildings, 12 Queens Road is according to the planning application consistent with City of Port Phillip policy fostering a focus toward higher density development. Surrounded by existing buildings, the proposal wouldn't significantly change the shadow profile of the area.

<h2>Elsewhere on Queens Road</h2>

<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/queens%20road.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="77 Queens Road. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/queens%20road.jpg?itok=GzQwYohp" style="height:326px; width:580px" title="77 Queens Road. Image © Elenberg Fraser"></a>

Neighbouring property Atari House was purchased during 2013 by local developer <a href="/builders/hallmarc" target="_blank">Hallmarc</a>. With a price tag of $13 million for the dated 12 level office structure, it to is expected to make way for apartments in the future. Elsewhere <a href="/buildings/lakeside-77-queens-road-melbourne">77 Queens Road</a> also changed hands last year with expectations and rippled 13 level apartment building designed by <a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0">Elenberg Fraser</a> will become a focal point in due course.

Together these three developments may yield somewhere in the vicinity of 700 new dwellings if built.
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Planning Application > 12 Queens Road, Melbourne

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News reports have flowed thick and fast of late detailing Melbourne's robust hotel sector. Recent <a href="http://www.afr.com/" target="_blank">AFR</a> articles show hotel occupancy rates have increased near 4% year on year, investors and operators hold bullish sentiments for the future while Melbourne maintains the lowest national major city room rate averaging $182 which ties in with affordability.

Via <a href="http://www.afr.com/p/business/property/hotel_demand_to_push_up_occupancies_kdQRdwJg9mlKSCZ9GH2HfL" target="_blank">this article</a> Deloitte suggests "In Melbourne, demand for rooms is forecast to outstrip new supply by 1.7 per cent over the next three years, pushing occupancies up to 85.7 per cent and room rates up to $209."

But what of the actual buildings which will deliver solely, or as part of a larger mixed-use development, the throng of new hotel suites destined for Melbourne? <a href="/news/5000-new-hotel-rooms-for-melbourne-continued">Continuing into tomorrow</a>, Apartments.com.au highlights 20 upcoming hotel developments located within the City of Melbourne.

<h2>Hiap Hoe the benchmark</h2>

<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/Image3_271.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hiap Hoe's intended projects at Docklands and 380 Lonsdale Street. Images © DKO &amp; Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image3_271.jpg?itok=2bvm8B_h" title="Hiap Hoe's intended projects at Docklands and 380 Lonsdale Street. Images © DKO &amp; Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

If one firm epitomises the faith in Melbourne's hotel sector, it's Hiap Hoe. Shortly after acquiring three development sites late last year worth $177 million, the Singaporean firm revealed a letter of intent was penned with Starwood's Asia Pacific Hotels &amp; Resorts to manage two of their Melbourne properties.

Four Points by Sheraton are slated to take naming rights over 6-22 Pearl River Road, located within Melbourne's Docklands while 380 Lonsdale Street (above right) will be home to Aloft Hotels once the project has been completed. A third property at 206 Bourke Street is currently subject to a preliminary design process, with concept renders depicting what looks to be a typically sleek Elenberg Fraser complex.

Together these developments will deliver near 1000 hotel rooms to Melbourne's inner core - impressive in both scale and speed of progression.

<h2>Top of the town</h2>

<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/Image4_23.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Windsor, 101 Flinders Lane and 27 Little Collins. Images © DCM &amp; Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="293" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4_23.jpg?itok=QynI7Zz2" title="Windsor, 101 Flinders Lane and 27 Little Collins. Images © DCM &amp; Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

The grandeur of Melbourne CBD's east end is well documented so it's no surprise that many hotel operators are seeking a slice of the acation close to Spring Street. The trials and tribulations of the Windsor Hotel are well documented, although last week it was announced the 152 room expansion of the grand complex would proceed to construction late this year.

Nearby Sheraton at 27 Little Collins Street is well advanced into construction, yielding 175 rooms while other projects in the area include the expected redevelopment of Rosati's at 95-101 Flinders Lane into a 195 room hotel, QIC's redevelopment of Nauru House with plans including a 252 room hotel and of course the Palace Theatre redevelopment seeking 200 suites under the W Hotel brand.

<h2>Elsewhere in the CBD</h2>

<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/Image8_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="William Street, The Forum and 180 Russell. Images © EF, Forum &amp; Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="498" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image8_12.jpg?itok=zgKytTL6" title="William Street, The Forum and 180 Russell. Images © EF, Forum &amp; Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

There's no shortage of developers vying to land a hotel operator elsewhere in the CBD with 1500 additional rooms currently on the cards. Aside from Wyndham on William with 87 dwellings under construction as part of Hengyi's 199 William Street, six other aspirants have yet to solidify their intentions.

Biggest of all is Far East Consortium's intended redevelopment of 250 Spencer Street highlighted by 488 hotel suites over two towers. Elsewhere 131-141 Russell Street holds approval for 182 suites as does 110-112 Franklin Street with 129 rooms over a modest eight levels. Currently seeking approval is 386-412 William Street with 210 suites available as part of the mixed-use development. Ace Hotel Group have put themselves forward as a potential operator.

The two remaining proposals are also controversial given their sensitive locations. As part of a larger mixed use development AXF Group seek to add 200 hotel suites to their 280 metre replacement of the Total Car Park which has been <a href="/news/new-proposals-seek-to-join-the-200m-club" target="_blank">touched upon</a> by Apartments.com.au. Nearby Marriner Group have submitted plans for a 32 level hotel development behind a restored Forum Theatre. Both projects are still under planning consideration.

<a href="/news/5000-new-hotel-rooms-for-melbourne-continued">To be continued...</a>
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5000 new hotel rooms for Melbourne

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Time to gaze into the crystal ball after <a href="/news/victorian-government-announces-suite-of-super-tuesday-approvals">yesterday's announcements concerning 'Super Tuesday'</a>; or the approval of five residential towers through inner Melbourne.

Reading over the press release, much could be derived from the short few paragraphs which were provided. Here's my interpretation:

<h2>Backyard Blitz</h2>

Yesterday's release made reference to Plan Melbourne and reformed residential zones which protect established suburbs from high rise development.

I can't help but think that the certain council's implementation of this policy has left a few noses out of place on a state level. Expect some further announcements on this topic in coming weeks.

<h2>Having a bender</h2>

<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/art-ipad2310fishermansBend_729-620x349.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy of The Age."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/art-ipad2310fishermansBend_729-620x349.jpg?itok=vbZuZ97W" title="Image courtesy of The Age." width="580"></a>

The first glimpse of justifying relaxed heights limits for Fishermans Bend may have been contained in yesterday's press release. "Melburnians have made it clear that they want their suburbs protected from high-rise apartment development. To achieve this we're delivering density in defined locations like Melbourne's CBD and Docklands - not in our quiet suburban streets."

Prediction: the above coupled with strong population growth will form the nucleus of the argument to relax height limits in Fishermans Bend. 40 level towers in four level zones may not eventuate, nor will they stay at 4 levels either.

<h2>Western World</h2>

<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/254444-cbd.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy of the Herald Sun."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/254444-cbd.jpg?itok=xqrFzwGp" title="Image courtesy of the Herald Sun." width="580"></a>

If one development epitomises the change in decision-makers stance toward high-rise living it just might be 420 Spencer Street. The best part of eight years ago a squat development was proposed for the site, drawing disgust from local residents. Fast forward to yesterday's announcement and a 38 level, 131 metre tower with 438 apartments gains approval.

It sets a precedent for projects such as <a href="/buildings/melbourne-village-377-spencer-street-west-melbourne" target="_blank">371 Spencer Street</a> nearby which are of a similar height. Will West Melbourne/Dudley become the next Southbank? Yes it will.

<h2>Super CBD</h2>

Unless it's proposed around the Parliament precinct, it'll likely to receive planning approval and at a substantial height. The suburbs are safeguarded but tall towers within Melbourne's CBD will become all the more common.

Good, bad or otherwise, the change and the rate at which it occurs for Melbourne's CBD over the next decade will be immense with at least a tripling of the number of 200 metre plus towers in the big smoke. Prediction: welcome to mega Melbourne.
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Ramifications of 'Super Tuesday'

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News surfaced last week of another prime Southbank site slated for a major residential tower being snapped up by an Asian property firm intent on making an immediate impact in Melbourne. The Australian <a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/property/chinese-firms-18m-berth-at-southbank/story-fniz9vg9-1226831987691#">reported</a> that Chinese group Financial Fook has purchased 84-88 Queensbridge Street for $18 million via its new subsidiary Starryland Melbourne.

While Starryland may be in its formative stages, parent company Financial Fook have pounced on the site and The Australian suggests they may also be running the ruler over a nearby site at 25 Queensbridge Street, which holds a planning permit for a 71 level, 586 apartment tower.

The subject of today's article however was submitted for consideration to DTPLI during December by <a href="http://www.contour.net.au/">Contour Consultants</a> on behalf of then site owners Shriar Nominees Pty Ltd and D&amp;L Harris Investment Pty Ltd.

<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/Imagegfh1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero image. Image © Rothe Lowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="346" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Imagegfh1.jpg?itok=Ns9_14ge" title="Hero image. Image © Rothe Lowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero image. Image © Rothe Lowman</figcaption></figure>Conceived by <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">Rothe Lowman</a>, the architect envisages replacing the modest existing low rise office block at the junction of the Kings Way overpass with a 55 level predominantly residential tower reaching 183 metres in height.

Rothe Lowman state "The proposed development will make a major contribution to the surrounding public realm and will be defined by high-quality architecture. The contemporary architectural expression will create a beneficial bookend to Queensbridge Street and provide a natural Gateway to and from the City when experienced from Kings Way overpass."

The above assertion may have credence, yet when viewed with the <a href="/buildings/bella-248-city-road-southbank">Verge</a> and <a href="/buildings/home-southbank-256-260-city-road-southbank">256 City Road</a> combination on the opposite flank of Kings Way, the proposal gains a new dimension. Laurence Dragomir has produced a render visualising what the area surrounding Kings Way may resemble in a few years time, as seen below.

In addition to being a bookend to towers situated closer to the Yarra, it seems 84-88 Queensbridge Street coupled with 256 City Road would act more as a twin gateway to Southbank for those heading in a northerly direction, owing the the fact they're the tallest structures in the immediate area and of a similar height.

<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/88_queensbridge%20street_and%20friends%203.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The handy work of Laurence Dragomir aka Blockhead visualising a new Kings Way entry to Southbank."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="302" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/88_queensbridge%20street_and%20friends%203.jpg?itok=o3-fJPIm" title="The handy work of Laurence Dragomir aka Blockhead visualising a new Kings Way entry to Southbank." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The handy work of Laurence Dragomir aka Blockhead visualising a new Kings Way entry to Southbank.</figcaption></figure>As for the tower itself the immediate eight levels constitutes the podium, with retail spaces and a distinctive lobby fronting Queensbridge Street. Broken by black bands, two fractal elements protruding from the podium represent a 151 sqm commercial space and 108 sqm gym, activating what for the most is an above ground car park.

Included within the podium are 108 car parking spaces and 92 bicycle bays while the podium top sees a green common area and dining hall. Thereafter the slender tower hosts 295 apartments with options slated to include 1 Bed/1 Bath, 2 Bed/1 Bath and 2 Bed/2 Bath layouts. Generally each level will carry six dwellings with apartments sizes ranging between 50 sqm and 75 sqm.

Breaking the tower's form at level 42 is a recessed floor plate which features a mix of apartments and residential amenity, chief of which is a 23-seat cinema room which when not in use acts as a viewing deck with sweeping views toward the CBD.

<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/Image5_21.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Podium aspect. Image © Rothe Lowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="426" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_21.jpg?itok=k15eBI0N" title="Podium aspect. Image © Rothe Lowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Podium aspect. Image © Rothe Lowman</figcaption></figure>Of the design quality, Rothe Lowman states "The proposed building is a sophisticated response to the brief and context where the complexities inherent in the project are confronted through a solution that belies its simplicity. Delivering the requisite apartment amenity, responding effectively to the urban context and ensuring an inherently efficient solution are all resolved through a carefully considered and orchestrated tower plan.

The architectural expression in turn translates the plan into a beautifully elegant, timeless building. At the grandest scale the building is designed to fulfil its role as an important addition to the city yet on approach the building reveals a fine scale and level of detail appropriate to its use as a residential building." Basically it's an articulated, visually pleasing building.

What will be of interest is the speed at which the project will advance to sales, assuming the tower receives approval. Fellow Asian developers have wasted no time in marketing their projects, with the <a href="http://marcomelbourne.com.au/#header">Marco Melbourne</a> project close to 84-88 Queensbridge Street a prime example. Expectations are that upon approval 84-88 Queensbridge Street will join the throng of residential towers seeking their place on the skyline.
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What the Fook: 84-88 Queensbridge Street, Southbank

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To say Melbourne's apartment market is an attractive target for Asian based developers and institutional investment vehicles is quite the understatement these days.  Seemingly every week there's a new announcement concerning the arrival and/or ambitious expansion of Asian developers seeking their slice of the Melbourne pie.

<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/Imagelogo1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Three brands combine for Melbourne's Eq. Tower"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="101" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Imagelogo1.jpg?itok=hxVzW1y8" title="Three brands combine for Melbourne's Eq. Tower" width="580"></a>

This week is no exception with local developer <a href="http://www.icdproperty.com.au/" target="_blank">ICD Property</a> joining forces with two Hong Kong Stock Exhchange-listed entities in order to deliver a forthcoming Melbourne project - Eq. Tower.  ICD Properties website reads a follows:

<blockquote>
ICD Property is proud to announce two joint venture partners, <a href="http://www.sinooceanland.com/en-US/About/AboutIndex" target="_blank">Sino-Ocean Land Holdings Limited</a> and <a href="http://www.geminiinvestments.com.hk/global/home.php" target="_blank">Gemini Investments (Holdings) Limited</a>, who are investing in ICD Property’s landmark project in Melbourne’s CBD, Eq. Tower.  Gemini Investments (Holdings) Limited is a subsidiary of Sino-Ocean Land Holdings Limited which is one of China’s largest property developers.

The controlling shareholder of Sino-Ocean Land is China Life Insurance Company Limited, which is the largest life insurer in the People’s Republic of China.  Both Sino-Ocean Land and Gemini Investments are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.  ICD Property’s managing director, Michael Mai said the partnership between ICD Property, Sino-Ocean Land Holdings Limited and Gemini Investments (Holdings) Limited would maximise the strengths of each individual entity and help earn international recognition of the Australian property market.”  ICD Property is thrilled to announce Sino-Ocean Land and Gemini Investments as our new joint venture partners for Eq. Tower – our new apartment project in Melbourne’s CBD.”

By cementing an international partnership we can play to our strengths and form synergies for the joint benefit of the project, whilst at the same time we can focus on placing Australia’s property market firmly on the world stage,” he said.
</blockquote>

Eq. Tower with the address 127-141 A'Beckett Street is located within the northern reaches of  Melbourne's CBD.  Highlighted by Apartments.com.au last year, the <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/" target="_blank">Elenberg Fraser</a> design draws inspiration from Dior's Fahrenheit bottle - a detailed overview can be found <a href="/news/the-fahrenheit-tower-a-closer-look-at-127-141-abeckett-street" target="_blank">here</a>.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of this project is the speed at which it has progressed.  Having been submitted last September for approval, many steps have since been taken in order to facilitate a public sales launch upon receiving planning approval, which includes appointing <a href="http://www.sinclairbrook.com.au/" target="_blank">Sinclair Brook</a> as project manager.

One would expect the addition of Sino-Ocean and Gemini Investments as joint venture partners provides surety in terms of project finance and the ability to tap a large, established customer bases in both Hong Kong and China who are willing to purchase overseas properties - both of which bode well for Eq. Tower.

<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/Image31_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Eq. Tower - Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1175" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image31_0_0.jpg?itok=l8QReeI2" title="Eq. Tower - Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

Apartments.com.au has been informed that a site for registrations of interests will be launched soon.
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Eq. Tower - three times the power

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<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/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<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/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

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The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

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The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

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Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

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Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

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Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

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Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

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The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

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The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Mark Baljak

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