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Podia and Centennial Property Group are looking to add to Neutral Bay's tightly held apartment market via a fresh development application that landed with North Sydney Council earlier this month.

The submission for approval follows on from Colliers successfully selling 14-20 Premier Street during January; the site with 63 metres of frontage contained four small-scale freehold apartment buildings and was billed as a prime development site.

Site in hand, entity AIDOP No 2 Pty Ltd on behalf of the development duo is looking to inject 36 new dwellings into the Neutral Bay apartment market. Spread across a sloping 2,175 square metre plot, the development would maintain sweeping view over Forsyth Park, the North Sydney skyline and the Sydney Harbour Bridge beyond.

Presenting as two levels to Premier Street, the rear of the site would rise to five levels, affording many apartments with expansive vistas.

<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/image279.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective of the site. Image: Colliers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="360" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image279.jpg?itok=0ou_B-ln" title="Aerial perspective of the site. Image: Colliers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective of the site in close proximity to Forsyth Park. Image: Colliers</figcaption></figure>Architecture practice Ess Lifestyle is behind the design, opting for strong horizontal elements punctuated by generous amounts of greenery.

Internally the proposal provides for 36 apartments, broken down into the following matrix: 7 x 1 bedroom, 16 x 2 bedroom apartments, 12 x 3 bedroom apartments and 1 x 4 bedroom apartments. The healthy number of three bedroom apartments and the addition of a four bedroom apartment has the project aimed at the upper end of Sydney's residential market.

Ess Lifestyle has designed the apartments where possible to include a minimum of two frontages in order to maximise available light and ventilation. Effectively two buildings connected via an enclosed walkway, the highly transparent design provides a scale and apartment density that is appropriate for "both the existing and future multi-unit developments in the area, and within the proposed evolving local context."

<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/image278.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Light filled apartments are the order of the day. Planning image: Ess Lifestyle"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image278.jpg?itok=5Z39n32M" title="Light filled apartments are the order of the day. Planning image: Ess Lifestyle" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Light-filled apartments are the order of the day. Planning image: Ess Lifestyle</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The overall massing dual building form is a rational response to the particular constraints of the site/context and the functional needs of the proposed program. As such the final built form and facade articulation was the result of the process to create a project that maximises amenity while being sensitive and responsive to both its existing and future contexts.

The proposed façade articulation is horizontal in nature and provides a bespoke response to the amenity requirements. The inclusion of planter boxes helps break down the symmetrical rhythm of the internal planning providing a rich and textured facade. The simple material and colour pallet deliberate response to the project’s urban but garden locale.

Simple expressed horizontal elements provide the framework for an exploration of texture providing differing levels of solidity, transparency and opaqueness through material manipulation. The addition of greenery helps to further enliven the facade and blend it in with the locale.

Ess Lifestyle Design statement
</blockquote>

14-20 Premier Street has a development cost of $13.28 million, with the application currently at referral after having its time before Council's Design Excellence Panel.
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silvermb

Podia and CPG take aim at premier position in Neutral Bay

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Melbourne developer Bensons Property Group is spearheading the transformation of Chevron Island, taking to sales the island's first high-rise residential tower.

Sited directly behind the heart of Surfers Paradise, Chevron Island has been earmarked for increased high-density living. To that end, the number of high-rise towers proposed for Chevron Island has mushroomed, although Bensons Property Group will be the first sizeable project to market with Chevron One.

Designed by Marchese Partners, Chevron One is a $230 million project across a 2,627 square metre site that includes 247 apartments.

<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/image242_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Chevron One. Image: Bensons Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="409" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image242_1.jpg?itok=TtOHAPIe" title="Chevron One. Image: Bensons Property Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Chevron One. Image: Bensons Property Group</figcaption></figure>A <a href="http://www.mediahunt.com.au/bensons-launch-230m-chevron-one-tower/">recent piece</a> published by Media Hunt featured Bensons chairman Elias Jreissati. On Chevron One he said the following:

<blockquote>
We’re seeing the city setting itself up for a golden era of growth and Chevron Island is on the cusp of playing its role in this transformation.

It’s home to a thriving local village, yet it’s close to this amazing and extensive arts precinct on the doorstep of iconic Surfers Paradise. Our proposal is to embrace that village vibe and enhance it further.

Careful consideration has gone into our first development foray outside of Melbourne and the Gold Coast is performing very strongly on the fundamentals of population growth, major infrastructure spending and affordability.

With that in mind, we see Chevron as the first of many Gold Coast apartment developments for Bensons in the coming years.
</blockquote>

<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/image259_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="New Chevron Island perspectives"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="649" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image259_0.jpg?itok=x6fMhl7v" title="New Chevron Island perspectives" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>New Chevron Island perspectives</figcaption></figure>With Chevron Island's future heading toward increased higher density living, 11 residential developments of note have identified for the enclave. Combined these projects are capable of adding a further 1,414 apartments to the island.

7 of the 11 projects are considered high-rise; examples include 30-36 Mawarra Street, <a href="/new-apartments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">166-174 Stanhill Drive</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">17-21 Thomas Drive</a> and Brisbane developer Citimark's intended tower at 2-8 Mawarra Street.

More modest apartment projects are also at planning or have been approved. Most recently Marquee Development Partners have sought a planning permit for 266 Stanhill Drive; the BDA Architecture-designed project spans 9 levels and includes 61 apartments.

See below a collection of apartment developments that collectively may well change Chevron Island into a national apartment hot spot.

<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/image254.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Stanhill Drive is in line for another apartment project. Image: BDA Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="397" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image254.jpg?itok=KU6uFDCz" title="Stanhill Drive is in line for another apartment project. Image: BDA Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Stanhill Drive is in line for another apartment project. Image: BDA Architecture</figcaption></figure>
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Chevron One heralds the beginning of Chevron Island's transformation

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A new 3,800 square metre dual-level Woolworths is headed for Southbank.

Melbourne Square will host the Woolworths as part of a larger 6,000 square metre retail zone that will feature shopping, dining and cafe facilities in a European-inspired, piazza-style setting. As Southbank’s first full-line supermarket, it will also go some way to alleviating the needs of the hundreds of new residents that move into the high-density suburb each year.

Stage One of Melbourne Square will also see a new public park spanning 3,700 square metres created, satisfying developer OSK Property's bid to have Melbourne Square become the benchmark development for amenity and services on Southbank.

When fully completed Melbourne Square will include approximately 15,000 square metres of retail, services, amenity and open space across its ground/podium levels. 

<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_7319_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site as of this week"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="400" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7319_0.jpg?itok=o5231Ixh" title="The site as of this week" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The site as of this week</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Southbank’s population is expected to exceed 50,000 by 2036, which is 174 per cent higher than the current population.

It is essential that the community is able to access basic everyday amenity so that the area’s expanding population can be adequately accommodated. We know Southbank residents have been waiting for a full-line supermarket in their local area and we are happy to be able to provide this much-needed amenity, along with other amenities for the community.

This is in line with our vision to create an integrated mixed-use lifestyle precinct for Melbourne Square residents and the Southbank community
<cite>Executive Chairman of Malaysian developer OSK Property, Tan Sri Ong Leong Huat</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We’re pleased that we’ll soon be able to offer local residents the convenience of a supermarket that will include all the usual features our customers have come to expect. From fresh fruit and vegetables to a large range of grocery items at great prices, those living in the area will be able to pick up all their shopping essentials, without needing to travel too far.
<cite>Woolworths’ State Property Manager Brad Karge</cite>
</blockquote>

<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/image240.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Phase One of Melbourne Square. Image: Planning &amp; Property Partners"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="793" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image240.jpg?itok=Iu3JKD79" title="Phase One of Melbourne Square. Image: Planning &amp; Property Partners" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Stage One of Melbourne Square. Image: Planning &amp; Property Partners</figcaption></figure>Builder Multiplex has an August 2020 scheduled completion date for Stage One of Melbourne Square; the new Woolworths will open at this point.

The retail component will sit below two residential towers of 54 levels and 69 levels respectively, which amount to 1,043 new residential apartments for Southbank. Multiplex have Stage One valued at $490 million.

Ultimately the Woolworths will cater for an altogether larger development with OSK Property holding a permit to create four additional towers. Another two residential towers are planned, with the taller reaching 73 levels; total apartment numbers across Melbourne Square are permitted at 2,160.

A commercial tower and hotel are also slated for the 5-acre, Cox Architecture-designed mixed-use development.
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Southbank's largest development gains some retail clout

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Builders signage across a quartet of sites has heralded the commencement of a new wave of construction that will create 900 new dwellings.

The four separate projects are headlined by <a href="/buildings/st-boulevard-601-st-kilda-road-melbourne">601 St Kilda Road</a> which has just seen Icon signage made prominent across the site. 601 St Kilda Road was a low-rise commercial complex, but it is quickly making way so that Icon can deliver 400 plus apartments over three separate buildings.

Dubbed St. Boulevard and Magnolia, the towers onsite will be separated by a green communal space. 2,000 plus square metres of amenity also includes an outdoor pool, health club/gym, heated spa and sauna, dining area, outdoor BBQ pods, lounges and bathing pavilions.

The Elenberg Fraser-designed trio of buildings adds to St Kilda Road's seemingly endless flow of large-scale apartment projects.

<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_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="St Boulevard/Magnolia. Image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_18.jpg?itok=kAZL6Ik6" title="St Boulevard/Magnolia. Image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>St Boulevard/Magnolia. Image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Although announced last year, Watpac is only now ready to advance on Stage 2 works, being the main building fronting 619 St Kilda Road.

With demolition all but complete, works will begin on the delivery of a new nine-storey building for Jewish Care Victoria. Watpac value the building contract for the multi-phase development at $73 million.

The Senior Living and Community Precinct includes construction of 156 residential units, health care, and medical services above basement car parking. An art gallery, community service centre, training rooms, function spaces, family lounges, winter gardens and indoor/outdoor terraces round out the smith + tracey architects-designed project.

<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/final_exterior-926-800-600-80.png" rel="gallery-all" title="619 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Image: Jewish Care"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="407" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/final_exterior-926-800-600-80.png?itok=RKFiwWKS" title="619 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Image: Jewish Care" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An early render of 619 St Kilda Road. Image: Jewish Care</figcaption></figure>Verve Constructions has fresh signage up across 33-35 Hall Street in Moonee Ponds.

The builder has taken on the 14-storey tower after the project had stumbled at the first attempt; S.W.A.T Building initially had the job but the site had laid dormant for some 14 months after their appointment. Marketed as Central 35, the development includes near on 70 apartments and three ground-level retail spaces.

The appointment of Verve Constructions will no doubt hearten buyers within the project that is running well behind schedule.

<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/image238.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="33-35 Hall Street. Image: Davey Architecture Studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="688" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image238.jpg?itok=ch7Hjtbi" title="33-35 Hall Street. Image: Davey Architecture Studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>33-35 Hall Street. Image: Davey Architecture Studio</figcaption></figure>Hacer signage is also due at 127-139 Nicholson Street, East Brunswick.

The builder has snared the first stage of <a href="/buildings/east-brunswick-village-3-bluestone-way-brunswick-east">East Brunswick Village</a>, developer Banco Group's latest multi-residential project. With earthworks active across the massive site for in excess of 12 months, Hacer now has a target completion date of late 2019.

As part of the first stage, Hacer will create 223 new apartments within an 18,000 square metre building. A Coles supermarket, Liquorland and four additional retail tenancies are located above two basement levels.

East Brunswick Village has been designed by JAM Architects.

<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/1419_ebv-2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="East Brunswick Village - Stage 1. Image: Hacer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="294" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1419_ebv-2.jpg?itok=mPz9WdhN" title="East Brunswick Village - Stage 1. Image: Hacer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>East Brunswick Village - Stage 1. Image: Hacer</figcaption></figure>
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Signed, sealed but yet to be delivered. Work commences on 900 new dwellings

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Victoria University is once more pushing to consolidate its CBD presence into a single precinct, although not via the expected source.

Heritage Victoria is assessing a current proposal to restore and refurbish the former Land Titles Office (LTO) and Strong Room, with a new vertical campus tower at 247-283 Queen Street expected. The institution did hold approval for a separate mixed-use tower on the adjoining block, mere metres from the current proposal, which was also to have seen its CBD presence consolidated.

John Wardle Architects have conceived the current 17-level tower which would rise from behind the restored LTO building.

<h2>247-283 Queen Street development 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/image218_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective. Image: John Wardle Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image218_0.jpg?itok=AL1fkPlE" title="Street level perspective. Image: John Wardle Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective. Image: John Wardle Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>LTO Building vacant for three years, requires an internal refurbishment</li>
	<li>Proposed 87.5 metre tower</li>
	<li>Total Net Lettable Area for the project is 23,263 square metres</li>
	<li>27% of space dedicated to formal teaching and learning use</li>
	<li>Osteo and Dermal Clinic, Entrepreneurial Hub, VU College and social spaces also included</li>
	<li>Single basement level</li>
	<li>New pedestrian link at ground level between LTO Building and proposed tower, with canopy above</li>
</ul>
<h2>Heritage considerations</h2>

The former Land Titles Office is included in the Victorian Heritage Register for being a property is of architectural, technical and historical significance to Victoria. It was built in three stages between 1874 and 1877, with the Strong Room completed over 1884-1885.

John Wardle Architects' scheme is noted as being less intrusive on the historic structures than a 2014 permit for works to the LTO building. Under those plans demolition, refurbishment and new building works would have been undertaken to create a new tower for Victoria University above the Strong Room.

Similarly, under current plans "the support structure for the tower is to be placed around the Strong Room, and does not impact on the original enclosing walls of the building. The vertical campus core will be located in the south-west corner of the Strong Room, requiring demolition of the existing built-in shelving units and structure above and below.

The original northern section of the Strong Room will be retained and restored."

A photographic essay of the two historic structures can be found <a href="http://www.hinlimphotography.com/gallery_A1_files/Heritage/2016%20LTO%20Strong%20Room/index#">here</a>.

<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/image223_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Former LTO - Strong Room. Image: Hin Lim Photography"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image223_0.jpg?itok=GW_dWtXk" title="Former LTO - Strong Room. Image: Hin Lim Photography" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Former LTO - Strong Room. Image: Hin Lim Photography</figcaption></figure><h2>John Wardle Architects design notes</h2>

<ul>
<li>The success of this new vertical campus for Victoria University amongst other criteria and measures is the project’s response to the Heritage aspects of the site, it’s accordance with Planning requirements and the development of the Tower form and floor plate that creates a flexible framework for new teaching and learning activities within a new city campus.</li>
	<li>This building takes stock of the expanding means by which people learn and communicate today, and transposes them into a tower form.</li>
	<li>While many advances in communication and learning have evolved independent of developments in the physical environment, the notion of a campus still holds considerable sway. The enduring nature of a campus is couched in its ability to bring creative and progressive minds together in physical space - providing a platform for their sustained interaction.</li>
	<li>Rather than an autonomous essay on the future of learning, the VU Tower acknowledges that Melbourne’s civic history can be found in buildings that are monumental – or through time, have become mute.</li>
	<li>The space between the Land Titles Office and the Strong Room has the potential to perform multiple roles by establishing a sense of Terra Firma for the project. Through a series of interventions that uncover its latent qualities, we propose an internal street that is at once a transitional moment between city and campus, and a key opportunity to set the tone for architectural and pedagogical values that follow.</li>
</ul>
<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/image220_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Level five student area. Image: John Wardle Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="342" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image220_1.jpg?itok=qFJAJjiV" title="Level five student area. Image: John Wardle Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Level five student area. Image: John Wardle Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>First to fall?</h2>

Victoria University did hold approval for a more substantial mixed-use development across 364-378 Little Lonsdale Street, diagonally opposite the Queen Street tower proposal.

The permit has not been acted upon for a number of years, which would call into question the institution's intentions for the dual Little Lonsdale Street sites.

<blockquote>
"Planning approval is in place for redevelopment of these sites for a new multi-storey educational facility. This facility was designed to accommodate an expanded educational programme for the central city campus, including health and business faculties.

On more recent review of this approved development Victoria University has determined that the modest area of the floor plates, combined with lifting (vertical movement) requirements, makes the viability of this development questionable."
<cite>Lovell Chen</cite>
</blockquote>

Spanning 135 metres and designed by Jackson Architecture, the Little Lonsdale Street tower was designed to include academic and support services space, plush 11,350 square metres of leasable office space.

Time will tell if Victoria University pursues the Little Lonsdale Street tower in an altered form such as student accommodation or consigns it to history.

<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/image221_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A dated render of VU Tower. Image: Jackson Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image221_0.jpg?itok=1SZOGjia" title="A dated render of VU Tower. Image: Jackson Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A dated render of the approved VU Tower. Image: Jackson Architecture</figcaption></figure>
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VU reworks its Queen Street Precinct tower plans

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Despite the planning uncertainty swirling around Fishermans Bend, the urban renewal area can now boast a world-beating and fully complete Primary School.

To mark the completion of South Melbourne Primary School (SMPS), project architects Hayball have commissioned new imagery of the complex. Melbourne-based architecture photographer Dianne Snape was tasked with capturing SMPS in use, in the process providing the wider public with a first glimpse of the project's internals.

After receiving the Future Project of the Year gong during the 2016 World Architecture Festival Awards, SMPS was handed over to contractor <a href="/builders/adco">ADCO Constructions</a> with completion achieved for term one 2018. Public plaza and landscaping works were completed thereafter.

The Ferrars Street complex is Victoria’s first high-rise state school and now caters for 160 students, although the six-level building will build up to a capacity of 525 primary school students and 44 early learning students, supplemented by various integrated community services and facilities.

<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/smps_diannasnape_print_02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="SMPS is now a working education facility"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/smps_diannasnape_print_02.jpg?itok=f0s5O6Sw" title="SMPS is now a working education facility" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>SMPS is now a working education facility</figcaption></figure><h2>SMPS - the broader context</h2>

<blockquote>
This school is an exemplar of a contemporary 21st century learning environment, developed within the context of inner urban regeneration and focussing on the needs of today’s students and also the wider community.

With enrolments for prep at capacity before even opening the doors, the need for such a facility in the area is clear. Similarly, we’re excited to see the support from the broader community who have embraced this new integrated model of school wholeheartedly.

The school operates as a genuine community hub. Nowhere is this more apparent than at ground level where there are no fences separating the school from its surrounds.

With thousands of new residents flocking to the adjacent Fishermans Bend precinct each year – and space a scarcity in the inner-city – it was important to design facilities that can be used outside of school hours and have a greater use to the community.
<cite>Richard Leonard, Director at Hayball</cite>
</blockquote>

<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/smps_diannasnape_print_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A dynamic view beyond the sandbox"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/smps_diannasnape_print_18.jpg?itok=653gCcfu" title="A dynamic view beyond the sandbox" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A dynamic view beyond the sandbox</figcaption></figure>The building's large footprint and vertical nature allowed <a href="/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> to include spaces unique to the schooling environment.

A feature that has become commonplace in many contemporary institutional designs across Melbourne makes its debut within SMPS. A large-scale atrium with tiered seating and a 'showcase' staircase become the focal point for the immediate area.

A meeting space, teaching space and auditorium seating as required, the atrium is representative of the multifunctional nature of SMPS.

Similarly, the traditional classroom is on the outer, with spaces arranged around “learning communities” to facilitate both aged-based and stage-based learning groups.

<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/smps_diannasnape_print_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The cavernous piazza with staircase to the roar"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="795" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/smps_diannasnape_print_13.jpg?itok=CK0SBrmS" title="The cavernous piazza with staircase to the roar" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The indoor 'piazza' with staircase to the roar</figcaption></figure><h2>SMPS - outdoor spaces a necessity</h2>

<blockquote>
Above the indoor gym, we have an outdoor sports area so kids can play typical ball games they love – of course there’re nets surrounding the play area so balls don’t fly off the roof!

There’s also a climbing play structure called ‘The Treehouse’ which allows vertical connection between the outdoor learning areas on levels two and three, promoting exercise and active play as well as connecting levels.

All in all, we’ve turned the horizontal school yard into a vertical play centre, so kids are not missing out on the best parts of going to school, which for them is playing and being active with their friends.

<cite>Richard Leonard, Director at Hayball</cite>
</blockquote>

Further images by Dianne Snape can be seen in the slideshow below
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A first look inside Hayball's South Melbourne Primary School

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Box Hill's emerging hotel sector will welcome another operator with Avani Hotel confirmed for Central Park Box Hill.

The 20 level development which has yet to appear above ground is backed by H&amp;F Property and is in the hands of builder Maxcon. H&amp;F Property is a Melbourne-based development firm which brings together Richard and Eddie Hirsch (United Petroleum) and Daniel Faigen (Deague Group).

Daniel Faigen confirmed to Apartments.com.au that Minor International will occupy 75 suites within the mixed-use project under their Avani Hotel brand, with the balance dedicated to 93 private apartments.

Minor International's Avani Hotel is an upmarket designer brand; the hospitality and leisure company also controls Oaks Hotels &amp; Resorts which are prevalent across Melbourne's 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/image193_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="SJB Architects have included significant amenities within Central Park Box Hill"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="436" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image193_2.jpg?itok=DjuP3Brq" title="SJB Architects have included significant amenities within Central Park Box Hill" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>SJB Architects have included significant amenities within Central Park Box Hill</figcaption></figure>Supplementing Avani Hotel and the private apartments is 1,500 square metres of consulting suites within the podium, owing to the development's location opposite Box Hill's medical precinct.

According to Daniel Faigen Minor international was drawn to the development due to its high-quality design. Created by SJB Architects, Central Park Box Hill includes extensive outdoor rooftop amenities which include an indoor/outdoor dining areas, full-size kitchen, gym, pool and sauna.

Minor International's push into the Melbourne market will see its Box Hill presence supplemented by a new CBD hotel which is slated to open next month. Avani Central Melbourne will be located within the 55 level Avant tower at 60 A'Beckett Street which is rapidly approaching construction completion.

Daniel Faigen noted that H&amp;F Property and Minor International are in discussions regarding the prospect of further outlets across the developer's land portfolio.

<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/image190_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bruce Henderson Architects have created 107 Darling Road."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image190_0.jpg?itok=Uf1oop36" title="Bruce Henderson Architects have created 107 Darling Road." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bruce Henderson Architects have created 107 Darling Road.</figcaption></figure>Looking ahead and H&amp;F Property's upcoming project at 107 Darling Road will signify the developer's first foray into the fledgling build to rent sector.

Small in stature, 107 Darling Road will consist of only 9 high-end townhouses split between 7 x 3 storey townhouses with private lifts and 2 x 2 townhouses. Bruce Henderson Architects have undertaken the design for the development which includes underground car parking.

Daniel Faigen explained that on the back of H&amp;F Property's particular success in selling the designated 3 bedroom stock within their completed Grace Apartments at 1555 Malvern Road, the developer recognised the underlying depth for this product in the area. Consequently the compact site was always earmarked as a boutique project.

H&amp;F Property also has another significant development in the pipeline which Daniel Faigen has described as a "very special building." More details on that particular project in coming weeks.
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H&F Property secures Avani Hotel for Box Hill; Malvern East is next on the agenda

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One of Hawthorn's more recent proposed developments has come from an unlikely source.

Although headquartered in the same vicinity as the application, Brown Property Group has to date focused primarily on detached residential estates on the periphery of Melbourne’s South East. Diverging away from their typical modus operandi, Brown Property Group are behind a bid to redevelop a corner block at 2-4 Roche Street.

With the initial bid for the site's redevelopment running into a planning stumbling block, DKO Architecture was enlisted along with what amounted to a new project team to provide a new design outcome.

<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/image197_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Roach and Gibney Streets perspective. Planning image: DKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="381" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image197_1.jpg?itok=fhJUQXdT" title="Roach and Gibney Streets perspective. Planning image: DKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Roach and Gibney Streets perspective. Planning image: DKO Architecture</figcaption></figure>The initial submission seeking 54 apartments has now been redesigned to include 33 apartments, equating to a reduction of 40%. This was a direct result of the introduction of the State Government’s Better Apartment Design Standards 2017.

Consequently, 2-4 Roche Street's 33 apartments sit within a 6-story building above 2 levels of basement parking.

DKO Architecture has gone with a brick exterior injected with hanging greenery, with the bulk of the building seemingly set back from the perimeter. Bronze balustrades, frames and planter boxes, plus exposed horizontal concrete bands round out the project's exterior look.

Akin to many other apartment projects currently slated for Hawthorn, 2-4 Roche Street is heavily skewed toward two and particularly three bedroom apartments.

<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/rochestreet.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial view. Image: Savills"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/rochestreet.jpg?itok=OKDbrsqc" title="Aerial view. Image: Savills" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial view. Image: Savills</figcaption></figure>Brown Property Group picked up the site for $9 million during mid 2017, when the 1,209 square metre site was offered by Savills for sale.

The addition of 2-4 Roche Street to the Urban Project Database sees the number of active Hawthorn residential projects with 10 or more dwellings increase to 28. Of these 8 are at registrations and sales with JD Group's <a href="/buildings/sierra-hawthorn-196-202-burwood-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Sierra Hawthorn</a> the largest; it contains 293 dwellings.

Furthermore, <a href="/new-apartments/21-27-queens-avenue-hawthorn">Queens Avenue</a>, Manningtree, <a href="/buildings/longhouse-17-lynch-street-hawthorn">Longhouse</a>, <a href="/buildings/hawthorn-club-apartments-625-glenferrie-road-hawthorn">Hawthorn Club</a> and <a href="/buildings/hawthorn-bond-609-burwood-road-hawthorn">Hawthorn Bond</a> are at construction, amounting to a further approximately 330 new dwellings for the popular suburb.
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Brown Property Group turn their hand to apartments

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Developer Mulpha's bid to significantly upscale their its Norwest Business Park precinct within Baulkham Hills is gathering momentum, as evidenced by their latest residential project which is slated to reach 23 levels.

At 2-6 Maitland Place, the proposal which was submitted during late February is the developer's first tangible manoeuvre post Mulpha's announcement during late 2017 that they would <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/mulpa-embarks-on-3b-new-developments-at-norwest-20171024-gz73wk">undertake a considerable expansion</a> of the Norwest Business Park with the aim of creating a smart city. This expansion would see an additional $3 billion pumped into the expanded 377-hectare masterplanned precinct.

Jackson Teece have designed 2-6 Maitland Place; it features vertical 'green DNA' strands running the height of the building and green terraces, in addition to substantial landscaping around the tower form.

<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.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective. Planning image: Jackson Teece"><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.jpg?itok=1ZZNsY5w" title="Hero perspective. Planning image: Jackson Teece" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective. Planning image: Jackson Teece</figcaption></figure>131 apartments are included within the proposal, which would be considerably taller than existing surrounding buildings. The apartment matrix sees 32 studio or single bedroom, 72 dual bedroom and 27 triple bedroom apartments.

The tower is slated to reach 69.8 metres.

Mulpha is also developing Haven Apartments on a nearby site fronting 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. 80 new dwellings within Haven's 11 storey form are supplemented by 4 retail tenancies and 3 levels of underground car parking. 

<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/w1920-h1080-w2000-h1500-2012456679_12_pi_160809_122703.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Haven is well into construction. Image: Taylor"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/w1920-h1080-w2000-h1500-2012456679_12_pi_160809_122703.jpg?itok=zLacLf3x" title="Haven is well into construction. Image: Taylor" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Haven is well into construction. Image: Taylor</figcaption></figure>Only during December a further, and larger, planning application was lodged for 7 Maitland Place which is directly opposite Mulpha's latest proposal.

Four separate buildings amounting to 287 apartments are proposed in the scheme created by architecture firm TURNER for BHL 7 Norwest Dev Pty Ltd. Ranging between 6-24 levels, the buildings are located above a 3 level basement for 470 vehicles.

Spanning 9,630 square metres, the site under the proposal would see 4,500 square metres dedicated toward open green space.

7 Maitland Place's status has been noted at 'Stop the Clock' suggesting amendments to the design are required for the proposal not to fall foul of planning authorities.

<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.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="7 Maitland Place. Planning image: TURNER"><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.jpg?itok=O1obJVbR" title="7 Maitland Place. Planning image: TURNER" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>7 Maitland Place. Planning image: TURNER</figcaption></figure>
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More apartments flood into Norwest

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A freshly advertised planning application with City of Yarra has shown K7 <a href="/developments/collingwood-vic-3066">Developments </a>to be the purchaser last year of an already approved development site at 288-296 Johnston Street.

Rather than proceed with the previous Cox Architecture-designed scheme, K7 Developments have reworked the project, effectively looking to double the apartment yield. Plus Architecture have been engaged to deliver the new design.

The project is diagonally opposite Pace of Abbotsford which may well act as a height precedent for 288-296 Johnston Street; both projects are at 12 levels.

<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/untitled.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Plus Architecture's new take on Johnston Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="444" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/untitled.jpg?itok=161lTu25" title="Plus Architecture's new take on Johnston Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Plus Architecture's new take on Johnston Street</figcaption></figure>In getting to 12 levels from the previously approved 8, K7 Developments are hoping to bump apartment numbers from the approved 44 to 87. The prospective apartment mix is broken down as 23 single bedroom apartments, 62 dual bedroom and 2 triple bedroom apartments.

The dwellings would sit above a 214 square metre cafe and dual retail tenancies amounting to 374 square metres.

A triple level basement holds 87 car parking spaces and capacity for 101 bicycles. Vehicle access to the intended project is via Little Turner Street at the rear of the property.

<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_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cox Architecture's initial Johnston Street design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image63_5.jpg?itok=Ph_JaoS5" title="Cox Architecture's initial Johnston Street design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Cox Architecture's initial Johnston Street design</figcaption></figure>The Abbotsford property has been in a state of flux for many years from a development perspective, with a planning history spanning seven years. Last year the Cox Architecture approved scheme across the 1,182 square metre site wes offered for sale by CBRE.

Meanwhile, another commercial project has been earmarked for Collingwood.

Plans are on display for a new part four, part seven storey building at 61-75 Langridge Street. Designed by Preston Lane for Domain Hill Property Group, the Langridge Street proposal includes 4,900 plus square metres of office floor space above retail and commercial tenancies.

<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/doma9764_langridge-st-planning.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Langridge Street. Image: Preston Lane"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="342" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/doma9764_langridge-st-planning.jpg?itok=w9Tu_OJu" title="Langridge Street. Image: Preston Lane" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Langridge Street. Image: Preston Lane</figcaption></figure>Preston Lane imagery shows an open floor format and industrial finishes within the building.

The proposed Langridge street complex backs on to 2-16 Northumberland Street which has begun construction. Grocon have the job of delivering the 15,000 square metre build for tenants The Commons and Aesop.

The Langridge and Northumberland projects are joined by three additional current Collingwood office projects which between them are seeking to add approximately 40,000 square metres of new office space to the suburb.
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K7 Developments moves on Abbotsford; Collingwood eyes another commercial development

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.

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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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