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The wraps are off Mirvac's latest large-scale residential development that will insert itself into Sydney's Green Square urban renewal area.

Smart Design Studio and CO-AP have shared design duties for the quartet of predominantly residential buildings that pending approval, will account for Zetland's 77-93 Portman Street. Development plans for Mirvac's latest are now on display after having being received by City of Sydney during mid May.

Mirvac is no stranger to the area, already having pursued development nearby in unison with the NSW Government's Landcom property arm. <a href="/buildings/ovo-960-bourke-street-zetland">Ovo</a> at the northern tip of Green Square is Mirvac's 28 level residential tower that is all but complete.

<h2>77-93 Portman Street application summary</h2>

<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/image106_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level perspective. Image: Smart Design studio / CO-AP"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="367" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image106_0.jpg?itok=iaIwDv01" title="Ground level perspective. Image: Smart Design studio / CO-AP" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level perspective. Image: Smart Design studio / CO-AP</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site area: 5,903sqm </li>
	<li>FSR: 6.2:1</li>
	<li>Proposed: 4 buildings between 7-23 levels</li>
	<li>Tallest tower: 78.55m</li>
	<li>354 apartments: 11 x Studio, 65 x 1BR, 208 x 2BR, 66 x 3BR, 4 x Penthouse</li>
	<li>3 Basement levels for 289 vehicles &amp; 432 bicycles</li>
	<li>Total residential GFA: 34,204sqm</li>
	<li>Retail tenancies at ground floor: 1,945sqm</li>
</ul>
<h2>Street level intensification</h2>

77-93 Portman Street is "designed to create an active and lively streetscape at a human scale" according to Smart Design Studio and CO-AP.

Just shy of 2,000 square metres of retail space stretches the length of Zetland Avenue and through to Barker and Portman Streets. The design team have also added an urban plaza and site through link to increase the level of interaction and articulation at ground level.

"The plaza steps up to courtyard level, creating bleachers for seating and a sense of enclosure. Adjacent to retail premises, the urban plaza offers a place to stop and eat an ice-cream, have a coffee or meet friends whilst overlooking the Drying Green park."

<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/image109_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Views on show. Image: Smart Design studio / CO-AP"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image109_1.jpg?itok=c0nPvYdW" title="Views on show. Image: Smart Design studio / CO-AP" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Views on show. Image: Smart Design studio / CO-AP</figcaption></figure><h2>Keeping the pipeline flowing</h2>

The Portman Street proposal is the latest in Mirvac's substantial pipeline of residential projects in play across Australia; the growing Urban National Project Database includes 13 current apartment projects under Mirvac's guidance.

Perth's Claremont on the Park is the developer's sole active project in the west, with the balance located along the eastern seaboard. Of those, the majority are at either registration and sales or construction.

The Zetland planning application represents the sole project at planning for the developer for the time being.
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silvermb

Mirvac's $240 million Zetland development hits planning

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Intentions to create a new World Trade Center on Sydney's western periphery are gaining momentum.

Infrastructure earmarked for the area, prompted by the construction of Western Sydney Airport at Badgerys Creek, will be fast-tracked by the state and federal governments. Adjacent to land reserved for the new airport, Sydney World Trade Center is backed by Aerotropolis Group who have in turn enlisted Woods Bagot for master plan design duties.

Aerotropolis Group has presented the high-profile $8 billion mixed-use proposal to the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet. Included in their vision is "an international convention and exhibition centre, commercial space for multinational companies, an innovation and incubation centre for start-ups and retail and residential space."

Front and centre among the many buildings expected are four signature towers highlighting the latest ESD initiatives.

<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/image83_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level perspective. Image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="357" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image83_4.jpg?itok=NoN9IWZ0" title="Ground level perspective. Image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level perspective. Image: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Woods Bagot for their part have envisaged the Sydney World Trade Center precinct as a net zero carbon development.

According to the design practice "energy production, use, storage, recycling and sharing between different types of development in the cluster of the towers and low rise mixed use – and the spaces between them – is a key part of the sustainability goal."

Controlling the master plan has allowed Woods Bagot to implement citywide design and livability features. One of the city's intended outcomes is to "achieve connectivity for allied uses across the project, economy and resilience of the development and to promote sustainable living with food, entertainment, commerce, work and housing, all within reach."

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
In combination, the new Western Sydney Airport and the realisation of the Greater Sydney Commission's strategy for the Western Parklands City is an extraordinary opportunity to conceive urban development hosting high tech industries synthesised with the unique natural environment of the Nepean river system and Cumberland Parklands for sustainable living.
<cite>Woods Bagot's design director Neil Hill</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
WTC Sydney is a project that will resolve the structural problem faced by Sydney by bringing balance to our city which is historically tilted to the east.

We are excited about this project, it will create an ecosystem to promote international trade, economic activity and employment generation by connecting Sydney to the 322 cities in 90 countries through the WTC network.

WTC Sydney will ensure a seamless flow of demand from these 322 international cities to Sydney, causing export from NSW to increase significantly.
<cite>Aerotropolis Group Managing Director and CEO Jomon Varghese</cite>
</blockquote>

An Aerotropolis Summit held today will further push the project's various design and economic aspects. The summit is underpinned by research undertaken by PwC which shows that the Sydney World Trade Center would create 43,500 direct jobs annually, whilst injecting $13 billion to the NSW economy.

The city is penned in for a 2026 opening that will coincide with the new Western Sydney Airport opening.

<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/image88_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sydney World Trade Center. Image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image88_8.jpg?itok=VIdEGlU5" title="Sydney World Trade Center. Image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sydney World Trade Center. Image: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Aerotropolis Group is also active across a number of projects in Leppington, directly south of Western Sydney Airport's future location. The amalgamation of their Leppington interests and Sydney World Trade Center will see a substantial development pipeline in place for the next decade.
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Further details emerge for Western Sydney's proposed World Trade Centre

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Mere weeks ago Urban covered VCAT's decision to approve <a href="/news/160-whitehorse-roads-approval-pushes-blackburns-apartment-pipeline-toward-1000">development plans for 160 Whitehorse Road</a>.

Blackburn's largest development to date was given the green light after a planning push eventually secured the right to create a mixed-use project across the 8,767 square metre site. As many as 263 apartments are now approved for the development designed by Taouk Architects which was anointed Blackburn Place.

The development though has now been listed for sale with CBRE City Sales handling the process, providing Melbourne developers with the opportunity to nab one of the east's largest approved scheme in recent times. 

With Box Hill coming off the boil (in line with the trending decline of large-scale projects across the city), the Taouk Architects-designed 160 Whitehorse Road does discern itself due to its size and location.

<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/image29_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Prospective views. Image: CBRE City Sales"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image29_17.jpg?itok=UYB9gcKs" title="Prospective views. Image: CBRE City Sales" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Prospective views. Image: CBRE City Sales</figcaption></figure>Initial plans for the site attempted to realise a greater return of apartments, with buildings spanning 14, 10, 10 and 8 storeys as originally submitted. Those plans have been tempered with the VCAT-approved outcome seeing a more modest built form and apartment numbers reduced from 394 to 263.

CBRE note that the site's planning approval includes four buildings between 6 and 8 levels, plus 3,663 square metres of commercial space.

Having sold for $18 million to an Asian-backed developer three years ago, 160 Whitehorse Road's price history has seen steady growth. Previous campaigns saw the site sell for $11.36 million in 2010, $3.25 million in 1986 and $1.3 million in 1980.

<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/image30_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="160 Whitehorse Road. Image: Taouk Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="218" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image30_14.jpg?itok=dW28oq2e" title="160 Whitehorse Road. Image: Taouk Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>160 Whitehorse Road. Image: Taouk Architects</figcaption></figure>The size and staggered delivery schedule of 160 Whitehorse Road is in stark contrast to various other approved permits that have been 'flipped' in Melbourne's east over recent months. Two recent permitted Doncaster sites were a step down in size relative to 160 Whitehorse Road. 

7 Williamsons Road is currently for sale and sees 68 predominantly 2 and 3 bedroom apartments approved within a ClarkeHopkinsClarke-designed building. The 1,064 square metre site is in close proximity to Nicson Property Group's approved hotel scheme for 810 Elgar Road.

That site saw a Kyriacou Architects-designed hotel scheme offered for sale. The 993 square metre site came with approval in place for 102 suites over 8 levels, and if acted upon would become Doncaster Hill's first dedicated hotel.

At the turn of 2018, Mont Albert's 813-823 Whitehorse Road was offered for sale by Doyen Tower Pty Ltd; its 89 apartments are within a crystalline Bruce Henderson Architects-designed 16 level tower.

<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/image32_16.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mont Albert and Doncaster Hill have provided opportunity during 2018"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="237" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image32_16.jpg?itok=mCQaguTl" title="Mont Albert and Doncaster Hill have provided opportunity during 2018" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mont Albert and Doncaster Hill have provided opportunity during 2018</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne's east throws up a sizeable residential opportunity

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Builder Multiplex will deliver the final stage of Brisbane Quarter, continuing their presence onsite which has seen earlier commercial and hotel stages realised under the mixed-use project.

The 84-storey residential tower is being backed by Shayher Group; Brisbane Quarter along with Melbourne's Pentridge Coburg represent the developer's current Australian projects. Dubbed The One, the 263 metre residential tower is also the latest high profile, high-rise development successfully secured by Multiplex.

This month's instalment of the tier one builder for the project's final stage build will see the $300 million 84 level residential tower aim for an anticipated completion date of late 2021.

The One's basic podium structure is in place, delivered as part of earlier site works.

<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/image70_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="May progress across Brisbane Quarter. Image: Aussie Bhoy (Skyscrapecity)"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="401" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image70_8.jpg?itok=xR3TZEgj" title="May progress across Brisbane Quarter. Image: Aussie Bhoy (Skyscrapecity)" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>May progress across Brisbane Quarter. Image: Aussie Bhoy-Skyscrapecity</figcaption></figure>Shayher Group has successfully landed W Hotel to its 34 level hotel component which is nearing completion, whilst Multiplex are progressing a 42 level commercial tower with an eye toward completion mid next year.

The One's comparatively small floorplates at approximately 900 square metres will see the tower form shoot up relatively quickly. Expected within the tower are 76 one bedroom, 286 two bedroom and 87 three bedroom apartments, whilst 18 four bedroom apartments and three penthouses constitute the tower's premium living component.

Multiplex will also oversee the creation of dual swimming pools as well as various other amenities such as a cinema and gym.

The rapid progression of Brisbane Quarter is in contrast to Shayher Group's roll out of their Melbourne development.

<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/image1_7_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="21 Pentridge Boulevard is a Shayher Group project in waiting"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_7_0.jpg?itok=jzhuOHD6" title="21 Pentridge Boulevard is a Shayher Group project in waiting" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>21 Pentridge Boulevard is a Shayher Group project in waiting</figcaption></figure>The developer has taken a more measured approach with their Pentridge Coburg project which will account for much of the former Melbourne prison. Pentridge Coburg will ultimately provide Shayher Group 18 separate development lots under the <a href="http://pentridgecoburg.com.au/masterplan/">project masterplan</a>.

For now though Construction Engineering is undertaking a current build that will see a new central retail building created consisting of a cinema complex, supermarket and specialty shops over two levels. To date Shayher Group has only pursued one apartment development of note onsite; Horizon Apartments consists of 53 apartments over two 6 level buildings.

Towers though are envisaged for forthcoming stages of Pentridge Village. 

21 Pentridge Boulevard is an approved Particular-designed apartment buildings containing 190 apartments. The adjoining 19 Pentridge Boulevard was slated for a Cox Architecture-designed hotel and apartment tower, although VCAT earlier this year requested that be project be redesigned.
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Shayher Group's The One begins construction; Pentridge Coburg awaits

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<h2>Heidelberg Heights</h2>

Banyule City Council are advertising a recent planning application that looks to bring additional high density living to Heidelberg Heights. Adjacent to Caydon's high-rise Ivanhoe Apartments, the prospective seven level apartment block is designed by MAP Architecture.

The $11 million proposal is described as an "excellent opportunity to realise State and Local Planning Policy intent for the intensification of land within the Heidleberg Activity Centre." It would add further to the area's growing impetus as an apartment hub, as was <a href="/news/heidelberg-the-quiet-achiever-apartment-market-ticks-over-once-more">highlighted by Urban recently</a>.

455 Upper Heidelberg Road includes 29 apartments split between six 1 bedroom, sixteen 2 bedroom and seven 3 bedroom options for developer Venture Lane 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/image63_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="455 Upper Heidelberg Road. Planning image: MAP Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="342" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image63_6.jpg?itok=aQYMZFIs" title="455 Upper Heidelberg Road. Planning image: MAP Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>455 Upper Heidelberg Road. Planning image: MAP Architecture</figcaption></figure><h2>Doncaster East</h2>

A 2015 proposal to add 42 further dwellings to Doncaster East is approaching a final planning outcome.

Manningham City Council planners have recommended the approval of an apartment and townhouse development across 15-21 Andersons Creek Road; the site is currently home to Ichiban Japanese Restaurant. Reaching six levels at its highest point, the application which is valued at $12 million is split equally between 21 apartments and 21 townhouses.

2BScene Design's scheme garnered 33 objections, although a report tabled before Council concludes that "the proposal complies with the relevant planning policies in the Manningham Planning Scheme and should be supported."

<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/image64_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="15-21 Andersons Creek Road Doncaster East. Planning image: 2BScene Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="281" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image64_6.jpg?itok=X6wOh1fO" title="15-21 Andersons Creek Road Doncaster East. Planning image: 2BScene Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>15-21 Andersons Creek Road Doncaster East. Planning image: 2BScene Design</figcaption></figure><h2>South Yarra</h2>

Forrest Hill Precinct within South Yarra is set to gain another higher density development with plans lodged for a mixed-use building at 17 Yarra Street.

The $15 million build would account for a relatively small site that abuts the 25 level Yarra House, with a swag of other similar sized residential towers in the immediate area. Office space and apartments figure within the application; limited commercial development has taken place within the precinct thus far, with residential the overwhelmingly favoured outcome.

Wando Development Co has been listed as the entity behind the development.

<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/image66_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="17 Yarra Street. Image: Google"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="354" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image66_8.jpg?itok=4QsDepCP" title="17 Yarra Street. Image: Google" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>17 Yarra Street. Image: Google</figcaption></figure><h2>Richmond</h2>

Salta Properties has made a move on its latest project, lodging plans for a sizeable office development on Church Street. The $90 million development includes three buildings ranging between four and fourteen storeys, in addition to retail, cafe and a child care centre spaces.

459-467 Church Street hit City of Yarra's planning desk earlier this month.

Fairfax last week <a href="http://v">reported</a> that the intended development includes 23,500 square metres of office space which stretches east of Church Street to incorporate a second frontage at 20-26 Brighton Street. The bulk of the site is divided between an open air car park and a group of low-rise buildings.

<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/image68_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="459-467 Church Street. Image: Salta Properties"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image68_10.jpg?itok=0xe39NKU" title="459-467 Church Street. Image: Salta Properties" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>459-467 Church Street. Image: Salta Properties</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne planning and development news in brief

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The Hills Shire Council is going through the process of facilitating the delivery of larger apartment towers at Baulkham Hills.

Developer Mulpha Norwest has sought to increase the size of future towers within its next development sub precinct which is known as 'The Greens'. It will form part of the <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/mulpa-embarks-on-3b-new-developments-at-norwest-20171024-gz73wk">wider push to create a $3 billion development </a>within Baulkham Hills' Norwest Business Park in order to create a smart city and participate in the growth of the western Sydney corridor.

Currently <a href="https://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Building/Major-Plans-on-Exhibition/Current-Plans-on-Exhibition/The-Greens-Planning-Proposal-Part-40-Solent-Circuit-Baulkham-Hills-DCP-Amendments-Draft-VPA-52015PLP">documents are on exhibition</a> that would pave the way for the 3.77 hectare site at 40 Solent Circuit to include nine buildings ranging in height from 8 levels up to 26 levels.

Increasing the maximum permissible building height from RL 116 metres to RL 176 metres would allow for residential towers to reach up to 26 levels or approximately 80 metres. The associated floor space ratio would also expand to 2.9:1.

As a result as many as 864 apartments are envisaged, as it 6,000 square metres of commercial floor space that would create near on 200 additional jobs. The 6,000 square metres is split between business premises, a child care centre, health consulting rooms and medical uses,recreation facilities, restaurants or cafes and shops.

<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/image172_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Jackson Teece's design for 2-6 Maitland Place"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="723" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image172_0_0.jpg?itok=q2AWi417" title="Jackson Teece's design for 2-6 Maitland Place" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Jackson Teece's design for 2-6 Maitland Place</figcaption></figure>The revised tower heights for 'The Greens' would see the sub precinct fall into line with other towers nearby. Urban earlier this year <a href="/news/more-apartments-flood-into-norwest">highlighted a development application</a> backed by Mulpha Norwest for 2-6 Maitland Place.

The Maitland Place proposal is slated to reach 23 levels and include 131 apartments split between 32 studio or single bedroom, 72 dual bedroom and 27 triple bedroom apartments. Designed by Jackson Teece, the tower is slated to reach 69.8 metres.

Mulpha Norwest is also developing Haven Apartments on a nearby site at 38 Solent Circuit; Haven along with a completed residential building adjoining it stand at the 10-11 level mark. Construction firm Taylor is undertaking the $44 million build of Haven Apartments, and is well into construction. 

<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/image173_1_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Turner's take on 7 Maitland Place"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image173_1_0.jpg?itok=FWbtv5s4" title="Turner's take on 7 Maitland Place" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Turner's take on 7 Maitland Place</figcaption></figure>Additional towers are also on the agenda at Baulkham Hills.

A development application was lodged for 7 Maitland Place during December 2017. BHL 7 Norwest Dev Pty Ltd want to create 287 apartments in a scheme created by architecture firm TURNER, with the tallest tower spanning 24 levels.

Capital Corporation is also behind another Turner-designed twin-tower development at 11 Solent Circuit. Dubbed Esplanade Norwest Lake, the $280 million development spans 19 and 20 levels and includes 247 apartments plus an outdoor gym, outdoor cinema, putting green and landscaped area.

Lead image: Mulpha Norwest
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Planning manoeuvres facilitate the way for larger towers at Baulkham Hills

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A planning application is in play for the home of the Melbourne Theosophical Society on Russell Street.

Melbourne City Council received the application earlier this year for 124-130 Russell Street which would see the existing building make way for a thirteen-storey hotel above two basement levels. The existing structure dates back to 1923 but was marketed during 2017 as having no heritage protections.

<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/classic-russell-street-freehold-hits-market-after-45-years-nick-peden">Savills handled the sale</a> which saw the approximately 520 square metre site sell for approximately $23 million.

Beyond the initial submission, a change of application has been noted for the intended development via Council's planning register. The pending development marries with architecture firm Buchan recently publishing imagery of a hotel scheme across the site which would account for all traces of the existing building.

<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/image60_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Buchan Group's take on the expected Russell Street development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="475" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image60_2.jpg?itok=j7gqBelE" title="Buchan Group's take on the expected Russell Street development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Buchan's take on the expected Russell Street development</figcaption></figure>Buchan has accredited the project to developer LongRiver Group who are themselves pursuing another hotel development in Box Hill. <a href="/news/vcat-rules-in-favour-of-two-major-melbourne-developments">Highlighted by Urban earlier this week</a>, that project will involve an outer eastern suburban presence for DoubleTree by Hilton brand.

The 200 room Box Hill project at 874-878 Whitehorse Road was also designed by  Buchan.

Should Buchan's scheme for the Russell Street site be that which has gone to planning, it will be a far cry from their design created for Box Hill. 124-130 Russell Street has been earmarked as a micro hotel by the architecture practice, who enlisted Tokyo-based architecture firm Nikken Sekkei to collaborate on the project's design.

Buchan describes the project as follows:

<blockquote>
130 Russell Street will challenge the current market offering by creating a unique product when built.

The design features well-thought out, efficiently planned Japanese style guest rooms. These link with generous communal spaces based on Melbourne’s renowned food and beverage offers.

A joint project between Buchan and our alliance partner Nikken Sekkei, 130 Russell Street reflects a meeting of the Eastern and Western minds. It showcases Japanese innovation, attention to detail, and craftsmanship coupled with Australian efficiency, experience and quality of life.

The boutique hotel features small rooms, balanced with big public spaces. It includes modern restaurants and bars, basement nightclub and a rooftop bar with unhindered city views, designed for social travellers.

It is a literal example of the ‘living like a local’ trend. This interprets where an apartment is often a place to sleep, and the public spaces are where one spends the majority of their time. 

Currently, the trend in other major urban centres, the introduction of the micro hotel concept to Melbourne will further strengthen Melbourne’s reputation as a world-class, cosmopolitan city.
</blockquote>

Whatever form the Russell Street development takes, it will be inserting itself into an increasingly active development market.

The generally excellent performance of hotels across Melbourne's CBD has prompted many developers to turn their attention to hotel development in favour of residential pursuits. 124-130 Russell Street is the fourteenth current hotel development noted within The Urban Project Database.

Of the fourteen, only three are under construction, suggesting that the bulk of Melbourne's CBD hotel development will transpire over coming years.

Lead image: Savills
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Russell Street's Theosophical Society building sees new hotel application

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Aviation Consolidated Holdings is looking to rework an already approved design across Footscray's 26-34 Buckley Street.

Design Consortia Australia has taken on design duties in order to adjust a Rothelowman-approved high density scheme of 139 apartments &amp; 5 townhouses for the corner site. The most recent iteration costing $40 million is currently before Maribyrnong City Council and would see overall dwellings drop to 134.

Under revised plans townhouses drop to 3 and are in addition to 27 single and 104 double bedroom apartments. Also in tow are 137 car parking bays, a fitness-oriented communal area, provisions for 142 bicycles and a 150 square metre ground floor commercial space.

<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/image6_20.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rothelowman and DCA schemes side by side"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="213" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_20.jpg?itok=iTES2MbD" title="Rothelowman and DCA schemes side by side" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rothelowman and DCA schemes side by side</figcaption></figure>From a design perspective, Design Consortia Australia's version adheres for the most to the approved dimensions and finishes of the permitted design.

Maribyrnong City Council raised initial concerns regarding the reworked application's inability to achieve an acceptable design outcome. As a result, Design Consortia Australia addresses the north and east aspects of the building in order to provide a more suitable and articulated finish.

26-34 Buckley Street's high density aspirations began in 2014 when Dobinson Nominees selected Rothelowman for the design of a 16 storey residential building containing 182 dwellings.

With approval in place, the 1,890 square metre site was offered for sale mid last year.

<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/image7_19.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Belgravia Apartments. Image: Motto Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="367" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_19.jpg?itok=Qz6oiC0B" title="Belgravia Apartments. Image: Motto Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Belgravia Apartments. Image: Motto Group</figcaption></figure>Aviation Consolidated Holdings picked up the approved Footscray development site in the second half of 2017 after offloading a major South Melbourne island site for $41 million earlier last year. That 4,630 square metre site holds frontages to Cecil Street, York Street, Northumberland Street and Market Street.

<a href="https://www.cbre.com.au/about/media-center/south-melbourne-supersite-records-86-per-cent-price-gain-over-three-years">According to CBRE</a> the $41 million sales price represented an 86% price gain since it last transacted in 2013. GLG Group was the buyer of the South Melbourne development site.

26-34 Buckley Street holds an opposing corner to Belgravia Apartments at 16 Buckley Street; the project backed by Motto Group which is at the registrations of interest stage will see approximately 100 apartments built on the former site of the Belgravia Hotel.
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An approved Footscray development takes flight once more

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Urban recently spoke with Tim Lowe, founder and Managing Director of privately-owned property development and construction firm Lowe Group.

Active across Melbourne's bayside suburbs since 2015, Lowe Group has forged a reputation for unique small-scale projects. With expansion plans afoot, Urban posed a number of questions to Tim in order to understand what has underpinned Lowe Group's success to date and in what direction he intends to guide the blossoming business.

After growing up in his family’s construction business and working in Tier 1 construction, Tim created Lowe Group with the intentions of solely aiming his projects at owner-occupiers. To this end, all developments undertaken by Lowe Group thus far have common traits.

A lineage of high spec projects is the result, with a premium placed on functional spaces. Larger apartments at a specific price point is very much in Lowe Group's wheelhouse given that the target sales profile for all projects is 100% owner occupier.

<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/image1_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design to the fore: Promenade Aspendale"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="629" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_10.jpg?itok=dKDEH7TO" title="Design to the fore: Promenade Aspendale" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design to the fore: Promenade Aspendale</figcaption></figure>Tim Lowe noted the firm has grown rapidly since inception to a point where a development pipeline valued at $77.1 million is in place, backed by a confirmed construction pipeline of $48.6 million.

Pescar in <a href="/new-townhouses/mordialloc-vic-3195">Mordialloc</a> is the firm's most recent completion, whilst Promenade Aspendale is now at construction. 

Both are representative of the type of project undertaken by the developer, where Pescar achieved a record for a 3-bedroom off-beach apartment in the area at $1.25 million. Promenade's $1.45 million 135 square metre penthouse also notched the highest price achieved for a non-beachfront apartment in Aspendale.

Recent events have seen Lowe Group attain planning approval for a $21 million high-end residential project on the Black Street and St Andrews Street intersection in Brighton, in addition to settling on a 2,150 square metre site in Parkdale. 

<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/image33_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Linacre Park Apartments by Lowe Group, designed by Maddison Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="312" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image33_14.jpg?itok=C5spTFNd" title="Linacre Park Apartments by Lowe Group, designed by Maddison Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Linacre Park Apartments by Lowe Group, designed by Maddison Architects</figcaption></figure>Quizzed as to how Lowe Group attains the right architect for a given project, Tim explained that the selection process revolves around the ability to identify which design practices have functionality at their core. Beyond the initial meeting, its a matter of ensuring that both developer and architect maintained aligned in terms of values and project goals, according to Tim.

Lowe Group maintains two divisions; Lowe Living which covers off property development, and Lowe Create which is tasked with design and construction.

Tim Lowe explained that the in-house nature of the business allows for a heightened degree of quality control across all aspects of a given development. With marketing and sales also maintained internally, this allows Lowe Group to react swiftly to any changes requested by buyers.

<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/image34_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Promenade Aspendale"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="311" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_15.jpg?itok=jSWgWxb5" title="Promenade Aspendale" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Promenade Aspendale</figcaption></figure>In terms of expansion plans Lowe Group is being positioned for a tilt at Melbourne's inner eastern bluechip suburbs. Geographically the firm won't be constrained to bayside suburbs, now looking to transfer a successful development formula to the likes of Toorak.

Quizzed as to whether more sizeable projects are envisaged, Time explained that growth aspirations do not necessarily translate to tower-scaled developments. Rather the size of any project will be limited to the firm's ability to still meet their internal values and the need to maintain customer service at the fore.

Asked how Lowe Group be perceived in five years, Tim's answer revolved around being an accountable brand. Known for maintaining the focus on the purchaser and maintaining an open front door policy is paramount.

There's no set timeframe to achieve certain goals, but there is a want by Tim Lowe to expand the business to Perth in particular where he has experience.

In nominating Perth Tim says he understands the fundamentals, despite current market conditions. He believes a niche exists in the market that Lowe Group are looking to capitalise upon.
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Occupying the premium space: profiling Lowe Group now and into the future

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City of Ryde has this month fielded a trio of projects that stand to add hundreds of new high density apartments between Macquarie Part Railway Station and Macquarie University.

Most recent was 9 Peach Tree Road, with documents submitted for a 14 storey tower encompassing 116 residential apartments split between 26 x 1 bedroom, 50 x 2 bedroom and 40 x 3 bedroom options. The $35 million scheme also includes 4 basement levels for 136 vehicles and a 70 square metre tenancy.

The Peach Tree Road proposal follows on from 159-161 Epping Road and 45-61 Waterloo Road, both of which were lodged at the turn of May.

The latter will see John Holland delve into development and for now remains a Concept Development Application with an eye toward eventually becoming a multi towered apartment precinct of some magnitude. 159-161 Epping Road on the other hand is a more definitive development application championed by national developer VIMG.

Expected in the VIMG vision are two 14 storey residential apartment buildings designed by Warren and Mahoney.

The above projects are in addition to a development application across 1-3 Cottonwood Crescent which was lodged earlier in the year. That application seeks 774 rooms within a 15 storey designated as affordable rental housing stock.

<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/image19_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Epping Road perspective. Image: Warren &amp; Mahoney"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="398" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_18.jpg?itok=VySQGfpL" title="Epping Road perspective. Image: Warren &amp; Mahoney" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Epping Road perspective. Image: Warren &amp; Mahoney</figcaption></figure>VIMG's scheme is a further step by the developer in enhancing its national presence after establishing a strong development history in Melbourne over recent years.

Their 159-161 Epping Road endeavour includes 317 dwellings split between 2 x studio, 104 x 1 bedroom, 179 x 2 bedrooms &amp; 32 x 3 bedrooms options. Costing in excess of $146 million to build, the project also sees 3 basement levels accommodating 308 vehicles.

Warren and Mahoney's scheme sees an open green space 'outdoor room' bisect the site.

<blockquote>
The landscape component forms an integral part of the development, and has been integrated into the design from the early concept phase. It will become a focal point for residents and provide an extension of the building forms, the 'Outdoor Room.'

The generous 34m building separation has afforded a design that provides a holistic connection between internal and external spaces, creating areas of varying privacy, and providing moments of reflection and celebration. A generous 20% of the site, which exceeds the minimum ADG requirement, is dedicated to deep soil landscaping, this allows for the retention and planting of mature trees to further enhance the sites natural landscape.

Warren and Mahoney
</blockquote>

VIMG expect their project to begin construction during 2019.

The above projects fall within the <a href="http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/macquariepark">Macquarie Park Urban Renewal Area</a> which will see a majority of the suburb dedicated toward higher density living, commercial development and innovation.

<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/image20_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="159-161 Epping Road within the Macquarie Park masterplan. Image: Warren &amp; Mahoney"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="474" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20_13.jpg?itok=LQslSimY" title="159-161 Epping Road within the Macquarie Park masterplan. Image: Warren &amp; Mahoney" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>159-161 Epping Road within the Macquarie Park masterplan. Image: Warren &amp; Mahoney</figcaption></figure>
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Macquarie Park racks up further major apartment developments

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]

Joel Robinson

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

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;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

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."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

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>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

The long-planned transformation of Brisbane's historic Shafston Estate has taken another major step, with Capella Hotel Group announced as the luxury hospitality partner behind what will become Brisbane's first branded residences.

The project, to be known as Capella Residences Brisbane, is being delivered by Verso Projects at the landmark Kangaroo Point riverfront estate, with completion targeted for 2029.

The announcement follows a series of planning changes to the project over recent years. The site was originally approved in 2023 for a 15-level, 37-apartment development designed by Rothelowman for Burgundy Group before Verso Projects took over the 10,070 sqm riverfront holding and lodged revised plans with Kerry Hill Architects to increase the development to a 25-level tower with 51 apartments.

The latest announcement confirms Capella Hotel Group will bring its branded residential offering to the project, marking just the second Capella Residences development globally after Seoul, and the group's first branded residential project in Australia.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/23-castlebar-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Castlebar Street development</a> will centre around the restoration of the heritage-listed Shafston House, one of Brisbane's oldest residences, originally constructed in 1851 by Reverend Robert Creyke as a single-storey cottage known as Ravenscott.

<img alt="Capella" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b9f4ce5-638f-4d6b-8082-3ca7e4b75fca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-09%20at%207.20.41%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=f7aeqsW_DzOJI4FymWb3lD8NptSfsP7q" />

Capella said the project aligns with its focus on heritage-led developments, with the Brisbane estate combining the restored historic residence with a new luxury apartment tower and hospitality-inspired resident amenities.

Residents will have access to the Capella Living Room, a concierge-led communal space inspired by the group's luxury hotels, alongside landscaped gardens, six swimming pools, wellness and recreation facilities.

The broader estate will also include two riverfront homes, a six-berth private marina, porte cochère arrival experience, secure basement parking and a new section of public riverwalk along the Brisbane River frontage.

The heritage Postal Depot Building will also be retained and repurposed as a guest house, in line with the revised development plans.

The project represents another evolution for the site, which Kerry Hill Architects previously described as a rare opportunity to restore one of Brisbane's most significant heritage estates while creating a new benchmark for apartment living.

"The Shafston Estate provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to restore one of Brisbane's finest heritage precincts and to reinstate residential use as a unique site perched on the edge of Kangaroo Point," Kerry Hill Architects said in its Urban Context Report accompanying the planning submission.

"The project will celebrate excellence in sub-tropical residential design, setting a new benchmark for vertical living in Brisbane."

Verso Projects, which now has an $8.5 billion development pipeline spanning more than 6,000 dwellings across apartments, townhouses, retail and commercial projects, said the partnership with Capella would elevate the development beyond a traditional residential project.

"We feel honoured to be restoring Shafston Estate to its former glory, elevating it to new heights of luxury and excellence underpinned by Capella's distinctive service ethos and design philosophy, and making it a standout landmark in Brisbane," Verso Projects CEO Steve Laffey said.

"By partnering with Capella, globally recognised for its refined approach to luxury hospitality and deep respect for cultural and historical context, we will elevate this project beyond a residential offering into a world-class destination."

Capella Hotel Group President Roland Fasel said Brisbane's emergence as a global city made it the right location for the company's Australian residential debut.

"Brisbane is a city on the cusp of something remarkable, and Capella Residences is our commitment to being part of that story," Fasel said.

"The Capella residential experience is more than luxury. It is about a sense of belonging to a place with deep meaning."

Private appointments have now opened for the project, with a display suite expected to open in late 2026 ahead of the planned 2029 completion.

Mark Baljak

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