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Lendlease has scored a blue chip tenant for Melbourne Quarter, with financial services giant  AMP signing on.

No stranger to Docklands, AMP will take 9,720sqm of space within the currently under construction One Melbourne Quarter on 699 Collins Street. AMP already maintains a sizeable presence at 750 Collins Street within the wider Batman's Hill precinct.

Already tethered to the new 13-storey commercial tower are engineering firm Arup and Lendlease itself, with the project acting as the developer/builder's Victorian headquarters.

<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_9620.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One Melbourne Quarter's October construction progress. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9620.jpg?itok=LUu1craT" title="One Melbourne Quarter's October construction progress. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One Melbourne Quarter's October construction progress.</figcaption></figure>The tower is currently midway through its structural phase, and is slated for completion during September 2018. As part of the first commercial tower's delivery, a sky park will be built and will look over Collins Street, providing a much needed burst of greenery to this section of Batman's Hill.

Ultimately the precinct will include extensive open public spaces plus 40 new retail shops and cafes/restaurants. Aside from the 24,000sqm plus of premium office space within 699 Collins Street, future Melbourne Quarter commercial towers at 681 Collins Street and 691 Collins Street are expected to add a further 104,000sqm of space to the area.

Commenting on AMP's move, Lendlease’s Managing Director for Urban Regeneration and Infrastructure Development, Mark Menhinnitt understands that Melbourne Quarter is competing against a raft of commercial proposals in Melbourne's CBD.

<blockquote>
Signing a blue-chip tenant like AMP to join us in the heart of the Southern Cross precinct demonstrates how this project promises to revitalise Melbourne’s corporate identity. One Melbourne Quarter brings together the latest thinking in sustainability and technology, offering businesses new, collaborative ways of working with a genuine focus on employee health and wellbeing.

More than half the precinct is dedicated to open green space including a Skypark, an elevated new public park on Collins Street that has been a key draw card for businesses. Following AMP’s commitment, One Melbourne Quarter will have only one more floor to lease, reflecting the strong market interest in the project.
</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/image2mq.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lendlease's vision for Melbourne Quarter"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2mq.jpg?itok=-5tFHQDU" title="Lendlease's vision for Melbourne Quarter" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lendlease's vision for Melbourne Quarter</figcaption></figure>According to Lendlease, the Denton Corker Marshall-designed One Melbourne Quarter will target leading sustainability outcomes in water consumption, waste management, and indoor environmental quality.  A 6 Star Green Star rating and a 5 star NABERS energy rating is the expected outcome.

The pending two commercial towers are designed to be considerably taller than One Melbourne Quarter. All in all 12,000 workers are expected across the three towers once Melbourne Quarter's commercial component is complete.

681 Collins Street was granted a permit during March of this year and is now in the pool of potential projects seeking a pre-commitment whilst 691 Collins Street is still being assessed by the Planning Minister's office, having been submitted during June.
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silvermb

Lendlease woos AMP to Melbourne Quarter

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What was appearing across Melbourne's skyline a decade ago?

There certainly wasn't the stupendous number of high-rise towers or low-rise apartment apartment buildings at construction relative to today, but nonetheless a robust construction sector was churning out a respectable number of new and interesting projects.

See below a retrospective construction overview at this corresponding period a decade ago.

<h2><a href="/new-apartments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands</a></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/image110y.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Docklands was a hive of construction activity, and still is"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="289" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image110y.jpg?itok=A6T7C5Nh" title="Docklands was a hive of construction activity, and still is" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Docklands was a hive of construction activity, and still is.</figcaption></figure>The then National Foods had its new headquarters taking shape at 737 Bourke Street whilst AXA Australia's adjoining campus-style development at 750 Collins Street was nearing construction completion. It's fair to say that upon completion neither were aesthetically astonishing buildings.

Victoria Harbour also kept construction rolling in the latter stages of 2007; the most notable build was ANZ's new global headquarters at 833 Collins Street. In a nice piece of symmetry their new tower adjoining 833 Collins Street is at roughly the same level of construction a decade later.

Digital Harbour was also tasting construction with then contractor Baulderstone working on the modest Life.Lab building. It feels like preciously little has occurred within Digital Harbour since.

<h2><a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Inner city</a></h2>

Some key projects were on the go in inner Melbourne during late 2007, and none were more noteworthy than the expansion of 'Jeff's Shed.' Once more, a decade later and another expansion of the complex is in progress.

<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/image310y.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The MECC expansion during 2007"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="219" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image310y.jpg?itok=cOXAc-NY" title="The MECC expansion during 2007" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The MECC expansion during 2007.</figcaption></figure>Neo 200 was nearing construction completion, thus taking its place as one of the CBD's early residential towers; how residential living through the CBD has flourished since. <a href="/builders/multiplex">Multiplex</a> was pushing through with the dual-towered commercial-oriented CBW development fronting Bourke and William, with 79,500sqm on its way to being delivered.

<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/stc_20070908.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A sought after Melbourne address in the making"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="436" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/stc_20070908.jpg?itok=d-Y5iCp_" title="A sought after Melbourne address in the making" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A sought after Melbourne address in the making.</figcaption></figure><a href="/developers/salta-properties">Salta</a> was also working on what would become one of Melbourne's most sought after addresses, namely 150 Clarendon Street in <a href="/new-apartments/east-melbourne-vic-3002">East Melbourne</a>.

<h2>A St Kilda Road marvel</h2>

The curves that made Balencia an eventual award-winning design were nowhere to be seen during 2007; the <a href="/developers/sunland-group">Sunland Group</a>/<a href="/developers/pellicano-group">Pellicano Group</a> joint venture's core was barely above ground.

In time it too would become one of Melbourne's most sought after addresses. Post its completion, Balencia would go on to win awards such as The Australian Institute of Architects Frederick Romberg Award for Residential Architecture - Multiple Housing for the year 2009.

<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/image710y.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Construction and the finished product. Image: RealestateVIEW"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="228" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image710y.jpg?itok=425jlSzZ" title="Construction and the finished product. Image: RealestateVIEW" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Construction and the finished product. Image: RealestateVIEW.</figcaption></figure><h2>
<a href="/new-apartments/south-yarra-vic-3141">South Yarra</a> in vogue</h2>

Much can change in a decade in South Yarra. After a period of inactivity, 2007 witnessed works begin in earnest on South Yarra's premier development site. 

It would become Vogue South Yarra, the suburb's tallest, and it still remains so. That mantle though will in time go to <a href="/buildings/capitol-grand-241-toorak-road-south-yarra">Capitol Grand</a> which is on its way to becoming suburban Melbourne's tallest at 50 levels and 178 metres.

<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/image1010y.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Vogue and a render of its successor, Capitoal Grand. Images: Buchan Group and Multiplex"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="329" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1010y.jpg?itok=LOvZUsQ7" title="Vogue and a render of its successor, Capitoal Grand. Images: Buchan Group and Multiplex" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Vogue and a render of its successor, Capitoal Grand. Images: Buchan Group and Multiplex.</figcaption></figure><h2>Greater Melbourne</h2>

A building that would become a contender for the worst in Melbourne for both design and construction longevity began its move upward during late 2007. <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick's</a> 108 Union Street is abysmal in just about every way and speaks of a period where design sophistication was not what it is now.

<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/image1410y.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="U108 began in earnest during 2007. Image: RealestateVIEW"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="200" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1410y.jpg?itok=5R9cmdZU" title="U108 began in earnest during 2007. Image: RealestateVIEW" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>U108 began in earnest during 2007. Image: RealestateVIEW.</figcaption></figure>Doncaster Hill's Westfield was in the midst of a truly massive construction programme, with only Eastland's expansion matching the project for sheer size in the past decade. Nearby in <a href="/new-apartments/box-hill-vic-3128">Box Hill</a> and the Eastern Health building was tasting low-rise expansion; in a sign of how rapidly the design and planning landscape has changed, Epworth Eastern is now pushing for high-rise tower in close proximity to the Eastern Health building.

Closer to the city and The Well in <a href="/new-apartments/camberwell-vic-3124">Camberwell</a> was at construction. A decade on and the mixed-use development still remains one of the few major projects to be built in the suburb, with Aerial Camberwell being the obvious exception.

<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/wdx_20070913.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="But a few of the cranes utilised on Westfield Doncaster"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="412" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/wdx_20070913.jpg?itok=15blZsLu" title="But a few of the cranes utilised on Westfield Doncaster" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>But a few of the cranes utilised on Westfield Doncaster during 2007.</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne under construction - a decade ago

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Growland has sought to increase the size of all bar one of the six tower than constitutes their <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">Victoria Square development</a>.

Hand in hand with the developer revealing it had <a href="https://urban.melbourne/development/2017/09/12/growland-aims-local-buyers-victoria-squares-second-stage-launched">effectively sold out the Footscray project's first tower release</a> during September, a revised planning application was put before Maribyrnong City Council seeking to add between 4-5 levels across five separate buildings. The revised application also sees a near fourfold increase in commercial space across the development.

Currently, Growland are pursuing sales for Victoria Square's most recently released tower which has been dubbed VS02.

<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/image1kud.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new Dynon Road perspective. Planning image: KUD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1kud.jpg?itok=hHKeQXZh" title="A new Dynon Road perspective. Planning image: KUD" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Dynon Road perspective. Image: Scharp</figcaption></figure>Under plans currently on display with Maribyrnong City Council, the tallest tower across the development would increase from 24 to 28 levels. It along with the adjoining and unchanged 24 level building constitute Stage 1 of Victoria Square, and are defined by their white horizontal exterior.

The remaining four towers across Stages 2 and 3 are all earmarked for an additional five levels of apartment living. Stage 2's blue-glazed towers front Hopkins Street whilst the development's envisaged final release includes twin 19 level towers across the site's northern perimeter.

An increase in office space from 887sqm to 3,164sqm across Stage 2 is a concession to the objectives within the Footscray Metropolitan Activity Centre framework, which seeks a diversified land use within the wider Joseph Road Precinct.

All in all Victoria Square's final outcome would see as many as 1,066 apartments delivered, plus the aforementioned 3,164sqm of office space and over 2,700sqm of retail space spread across 20 separate retail 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/image4_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new vista beckons for Footscray. Planning image: KUD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="361" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_18.jpg?itok=cFLr5PL8" title="A new vista beckons for Footscray. Planning image: KUD" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new vista beckons for Footscray. Image: Scharp</figcaption></figure>The project's exterior continues to evolve as well, as described by Kavellaris Urban Design within the planning documents:

"The three separate stages incorporate the swaying/shifting floor plates as a common architectural language but have differing material palettes. The central towers (stage 1) incorporate a solid expression of white concrete and perforated metal screens, whereas stage 2 and 3 (southern and northern respectively) incorporate a lighter reflective glass language.

Both stage 1 and 2 towers share a singular podium built form which incorporates a landscaped terrace at the roof level. The podium has been designed to capture the various curvilinear architectural expressions and explores suburban parks and public spaces typologies.:

Imagery created by design agency Scharp also points toward the impending bulk headed for the wider Joseph Road Precinct. Should it be approved, Victoria Square's tallest tower at 28 levels would still be shadowed by taller towers already approved for the urban renewal area.
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Growland pushes Footscray's Victoria Square to new heights

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City of Melbourne intentions for a reimagined University Square are now available for viewing. The significant piece of public space at 190-192 Pelham Street is in line to receive a total makeover, bringing the green landscape into a 21st century.

With the surrounding area rapidly bulking up and receiving a new Metro line and station, City of Melbourne's long held plans for the site have taken on added impetus. This is doubly so given that 40% of Elms which form part of University Square have reached the end of their useful life expectancy.

In partnership with the University of Melbourne and the Victorian Government, the reworked University Square is now in its third phase of consultancy, which was submitted for consideration during September. They were promptly placed on <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/building-and-development/property-information/planning-building-registers/Pages/town-planning-permits-register-search-results.aspx?appid=282456">public display</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/image39_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Enhanced green spaces for University Square"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="247" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image39_8.jpg?itok=kn2y49GC" title="Enhanced green spaces for University Square" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Enhanced green spaces for University Square</figcaption></figure><h2>Lord Mayor Robert Doyle's take on the project</h2>

<blockquote>
To recognise the Square’s role and location as a gathering space for residents, students, visitors and workers, the University Square Master Plan has drawn on extensive community feedback to guide the design of this space; to craft a 21st century park.

We want to create a larger park and make the landscape more user friendly and engaging. Over time, many of the elm trees at University Square have declined; a legacy of the drought from 1998 to 2007.

In response we will increase the tree canopy and species diversity by planting more than 250 climate-appropriate trees and add a rich understorey, while preserving the Square’s existing trees during transition. In the years ahead we can look forward to a new urban forest and the new avenues that will emerge for future generations of Melburnians to enjoy.

In addition to creating vibrant social spaces that respond to the needs of our community, we will increase the size of University Square, create new plazas and activity areas, capture stormwater, install solar energy and WiFi.
</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/image43_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An aerial of University Square's development zones"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image43_6.jpg?itok=lRlyIpwn" title="An aerial of University Square's development zones" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An aerial of University Square's development zones</figcaption></figure>University Square's redevelopment can be broadly broken down into the following categories:

<ul>
<li>1 - Planning for trees: Create a new urban forest at University Square, with the addition of almost 250 new trees</li>
	<li>2 - Barry Street new park spaces: Increase the size of the square by closing Barry Street to traffic and car parking</li>
	<li>3 - Leicester Street road within a park: Reduce the width of Leicester Street and maintain northbound traffic only to retain essential bus services, bicycles, and traffic while enlarging the square</li>
	<li>4 - Plaza and Grattan Street: Build a new heart for University Square in a re-designed plaza. New features include diverse trees and gardens, a recessed basketball half-court, table tennis and chess boards</li>
	<li>5 - Water Terrace A transition from the Plaza to The Green will be created with a Water Terrace. The new space will include trees, gardens and aquatic plantings with a focus on water</li>
	<li>6 - The Green: Expand and improve the square’s much-loved lawn area</li>
	<li>7 - Pelham Street park front and biodiversity corridor: Replace the current single central entrance with a new park entrance and address at Pelham Street. Pelham Street itself will be transformed into a green corridor linking University and Lincoln squares</li>
	<li>Creating social spaces: Design and locate park elements that meet the needs of social, accessible and connected spaces in the new park including seating</li>
	<li>Building a living laboratory: Provide opportunities and infrastructure that encourages research and prototyping in fields such as alternative energy sources, biodiversity, air quality and heat-island-effect</li>
	<li>Integrated public art vision: Integrate art into University Square from the design phase through a strategic creative vision that enables art to be a fundamental component of the site’s design</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/image44_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The planned Water Terrace"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="419" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image44_2.jpg?itok=9uxtO-9T" title="The planned Water Terrace" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The planned Water Terrace</figcaption></figure>Whilst the application for a planning permit plays out, City of Melbourne are preparing top implementation certain aspects of the Master Plan.

The first stage of University Square's redevelopment will see both Leicester Street and Pelham Street come in for some attention. Sections of Leicester Street adjacent to University Square will be demolished in favour of a new 5m wide north-bound lane and dedicated bicycle path/pedestrian thoroughfare.

Pelham Street, on the other hand, will receive a new park entrance and pedestrian crossings, plus new garden beds and seating, whilst also relocating the temperance fountain to the new Pelham Street entrance.
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University Square goes ultra green 

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Fueled by an investor-driven market, the CBD and Southbank ruled the apartment sales market over recent years. That was then, but now the mantle rests with Melbourne's inner eastern suburbs, where developers have jumped upon a recurring project format which gives their project the greatest chance of success.

Low-rise developments with spacious apartments designed for the owner-occupier. Simple really?

Simple or otherwise, the proliferation of low-rise three to five level apartment buildings in suburbs such as Hawthorn, Malvern and Glen Iris demonstrates the strong consumer uptake of projects which shy away from smaller, investor-driven apartment formats. 21 Riversdale Road is the most recent example of the strength of the inner east apartment market.

Agent Marshall White Projects has just revealed they signed off on $12 million in sales during a single day for the luxury residential project in Hawthorn which features 22 oversized apartments. This high mark was achieved one month prior to the project’s public launch and before any sales or marketing material was made available.

The $32 million project is being developed by Moda, whilst Ewert Leaf undertook the design; the practice has made a habit of creating highly successful low-rise apartment schemes in Melbourne's southern and eastern suburbs for some time now.

Director of Marshall White Projects, Leonard Teplin denotes 21 Riversdale Road's features which are apparent across many of the current batch of apartment projects in Melbourne's east - oversized, light-filled apartments with high-quality finishes, designed to attract the owner occupiers and the ability customise floor plans to create larger apartments.

95% of the early purchasers were local downsizers from either Stonnington and Boroondara.

<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/image5mwh21_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="21 Riversdale Road's open plan living space. Image: Marshall White Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5mwh21_0.jpg?itok=VdclnC0a" title="21 Riversdale Road's open plan living space. Image: Marshall White Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>21 Riversdale Road's open plan living space. Image: Marshall White Projects</figcaption></figure><h2>Commentary by Leonard Teplin</h2>

<blockquote>
The success of a project is dependent on its ability to understand the needs of the market and deliver a product that not only meets, but exceeds those needs.

21 Riversdale Road is a prime example of what happens when developers get it right – when you create a quality project and invest the time and resources early on, the development speaks for itself and you end up spending less on sales and marketing down the track.

Projects located within Melbourne’s wealth belt affords the benefits of connectivity and proximity to lifestyle amenities, while also offering the quiet leafy streets that are favoured by the downsizer market.
</blockquote>

<h2>The format for success</h2>

Assessment of the Apartments.com.au Project Database shows the strength on the low-rise luxury apartment market through the inner eastern suburbs.

Adding locales such as Camberwell, Hawthorn East, Kew, Malvern East and Toorak to the aforementioned suburbs Hawthorn, Malvern and Glen Iris reveals a clear cut penchant for low-rise apartment projects. Across these 8 suburbs, 136 apartment projects are in various stages of development, and of those only 27% have six or more levels.

Restrictive planning controls coupled with the target market's appetite of low-rise luxury living across Stonnington and Boroondara in particular is plain to see.

<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_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A sample of current apartment project in Melbourne's inner east"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="467" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_11.jpg?itok=6OutAFXr" title="A sample of current apartment project in Melbourne's inner east" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A sample of current apartment project in Melbourne's inner east</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne's inner east keeps the apartment light burning bright

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Fishermans Bend's overall development activity has slowed almost to the point of stagnation over the past year, as the collective development industry waits for the release of the draft framework for the urban renewal area.

In the shadows of the State Government announcement of these permanent planning controls, the three prospective projects below have in one way, shape or form broken the quiet spell of development related news within Fishermans Bend over recent days.

<h2>272-280 Normanby Road</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/image15norma.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Slightly varying designs for Normanby Road. Planning images: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="237" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15norma.jpg?itok=P-eoi8QQ" title="Slightly varying designs for Normanby Road. Planning images: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Slightly varying designs for Normanby Road. Planning images: Hayball</figcaption></figure>A reworked design for 280 Normanby Road Pty Ltd's intended tower has gone before City of Port Phillip, with Council's October report on the project still recommending that it does not support the application in its current form. The 40 level mixed-use development was previously considered by Council during August 2016.

Included within the current scheme are 289 apartments (down from 396), an affordable housing component, 5 retail tenancies, 4 commercial tenancies, resident amenities and a 342sqm ground floor level community room. A through block link between Normanby Road and Munro Street along is also on the agenda.

"The amended plans satisfactorily address a number of Council concerns with the original application regarding tower setbacks, loading bay design, car park layout...but does not meet the new Local Policy for employment or affordable housing. The amended plans do not respond to Council concerns regarding tower height, and changes to the podium and tower façade treatments.

Council indeed want the tower dropped to 35 levels at the most, regardless of the fact it's in a 40 level height limit area.

Aesthetically the tower has seen its design merits lessened somewhat with its exterior simplified relative to earlier versions of the Hayball-designed tower, with Minister Wynne to have the final say on the tower.

<h2>68 Buckhurst Street </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/image13buck.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="South Melbourne's latest site up for purchase. Images: Colliers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="225" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13buck.jpg?itok=YeXWBqUm" title="South Melbourne's latest site up for purchase. Images: Colliers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>South Melbourne's latest site up for purchase. Images: Colliers</figcaption></figure>The right to deliver 1,000 plus apartments is in the offing, with Colliers &amp; Savills jointly listing for sale one of Fishermans Bend's largest development sites.

Approval is in place for a quartet of Fender Katsalidis Architects-designed residential towers, installing 68 Buckhurst Street as one of the urban renewal area's largest permitted sites to be offered for sale. As many as 1,004 apartments can be realised under the permit, with the ability to have the project delivered over stages likely to be an attractive selling point.

Spanning 9,478sqm, 68 Buckhurst Street's design outcome supersedes earlier versions for the site; one of which included 1,312 apartments, 1,055 bicycle bays and 772 car parking spaces.

Prospective buyers have until November 2nd to submit their Expression of Interest for the site which is in close proximity to the currently under construction South Melbourne Primary School.

<h2>2-28 Montague Street</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/image16cymazda.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Movement on the Mazda site. Image: McGlashan Everist"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image16cymazda.jpg?itok=G8SkB294" title="Movement on the Mazda site. Image: McGlashan Everist" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Movement on the Mazda site. Image: McGlashan Everist</figcaption></figure>Developer Tim Gurner last week flagged the likelihood of 2-28 Montague Street heading down the path of redevelopment in the medium term.

GURNER's acquisition of the 10,000sqm island site will eventually lead to a $1.5 billion mixed-use, multi-tower project which is weeks away from planning submission. Having used COX Architecture on a number of current projects within City of Yarra, GURNER has again turned to the design practice for the Montague Street project.

Surrounded by a variety of towers which are at planning or approved, 2-28 Montague Street is expected to house thousands of apartments, childcare facilities, serviced apartments, a 4.5 star hotel, commercial office space and over 9,000sqm of retail space.

<blockquote>
We are very keen to play an important role in Melbourne’s regeneration and the evolving urban landscape, so this represents an opportunity for us to really sink our teeth into urban renewal. The size of this site is aligned with our vision to create projects that are iconic and recognised both around Australia and internationally.

Our focus will be to price the first few stages strategically, offering a high-end product at an affordable price, so that we can quickly move through to construction of the ground level retail plane, and start contributing to the area’s regeneration as soon as possible
<cite>Tim Gurner: GURNER founder and director</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The site will be the ‘front row’ not only for excellence in architecture but also in how an activated groundplane will weave together old and new, providing amenity and a genuine magnet for the surrounding neighbourhoods even beyond the building.

The location will provides the benchmark, the precedent and the catalyst for the link between the rejuvenated South Melbourne and newly envisioned Fishermans Bend precinct.
<cite>Philip Rowe: director of Cox Architecture.</cite>
</blockquote>
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Fishermans Bend's development scene rumbles back to life

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Based on the flow of planning applications into Oakleigh, the suburb was identified by Apartments.com.au as <a href="/news/pellicano-group-cements-oakleigh-as-an-upcoming-apartment-hotspot">an emerging apartment hot spot</a> at the turn of 2016.

Oakleigh's apartment-driven regeneration has now taken a step forward with the official launch of another major apartment project. Mount Waverley-based developer Pellicano has pulled the trigger on Alke, their latest residential project that will add 89 dwellings along Oakleigh's Atherton Road.

With an end value of $53 million, Alke is the result of a stint at planning which culminated with a win for Pellicano at VCAT.

Subsequent to the project's approval, Pellicano chose to drop the number of apartments within Alke from 115 to 89, in order to provide larger dwellings and better meet local demand stemming from Oakleigh and surrounding suburbs.

<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/image6alke.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Oakleigh's new edition - Alke."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6alke.jpg?itok=dPCmYhPe" title="Oakleigh's new edition - Alke." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Oakleigh's new edition - Alke.</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Oakleigh holds a great significance to Pellicano and we want to uphold our history by bringing a more premium product to the area, adding value to the urban context and providing long-term, quality homes for its inhabitants.

These generously sized and well-designed apartments provide a great opportunity for contemporary, community-focused living within an established neighbourhood. Due to the area’s rich history and strong community, we are seeing a lot of interest from local downsizers and local first home buyers.

Many second and third-generation Europeans, who want to stay in their established community and continue to enjoy the abundant amenity but without the hassle of looking after a large family home, are looking to move into these larger, well-appointed apartments. The local primary schools and close links to relatives also make it attractive for the young families looking for a home.
<cite>Nando Pellicano: Pellicano managing director</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Our interior arm created a scheme that offers residents the opportunity to express their own personality though the selection of furniture, artwork, and accessories.

The communal areas are light-filled and landscaped with vegetation, offering spaces for social interaction or quiet respite, and adding to the quality of life for Alke residents.
<cite>Tristan Wong: SJB director</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/image5alke.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alke's finer street level treatment"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="725" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5alke.jpg?itok=QHCrUUru" title="Alke's finer street level treatment" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alke's finer street level treatment</figcaption></figure><h2>The design</h2>

After various planning machinations, architecture firm SJB has settled Alke's design; two six level buildings set above a common podium level sweep away from one another, with a low-rise third building also part of the development.

Each building consists between 14-45 apartments, with the larger buildings bisected by a podium top communal garden space. Externally the project is finished in brick snap panels which speaks to Oakleigh's traditional housing finish, floor to ceiling glazing and perforated metal screens for shading and privacy.

Internally Pellicano have split the 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments into different categories; Garden Loft Residences, Terrace Homes and 3 bedroom Penthouse sized residences. Interior schemes carry timber floorboards, contrasting lines plus soft grey and white colour schemes with an overtone of industrial detailing.

The almost ubiquitous trendy cafe will also account for Alke's retail 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/image7alke.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alke's communal terrace"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7alke.jpg?itok=N2_Xd7w6" title="Alke's communal terrace" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alke's communal terrace</figcaption></figure><h2>Oakleigh bulks up</h2>

Alke joins Oros as projects currently at sales within Oakleigh. 

Oros will eventually become a sprawling development accounting for a 9,605sqm site fronting Dandenong Road; its 348 apartments are joined by a serviced apartment contingent and in excess of 2,000sqm of retail space. Conversely Alke is more conservative in scale and closely cited to Oakleigh's retail and commercial heart, plus Oakleigh Station.

Combined they will add 400 plus apartments to the suburb which has only one considerable apartment project approaching construction completion, namely 8 Degrees at 83 Drummond Street which consists of 54 apartments.
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Alke adds another buyer option to the strengthening Oakleigh apartment market

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Prospective Kensington development sites continue to drift toward higher density residential outcomes. 

The latest to do so is Naser Group's 347-367 Macaulay Road which is now at planning, with the developer hoping to create 55 overly large two and three bedroom apartments within a new C-shaped, six-storey building. The site itself is currently home to an ordinary single storey warehouse which abuts the mid-rise Kensington Warehouse Apartments complex to the south.

Designed by Pitch Architecture + Developments, 347-367 Macaulay Road draws heavily upon the area's brick warehouse heritage, which is evident across the design's lower levels. Grimbos Building surveyors is also associated with the project.

Received by City of Melbourne during August, Pitch Architecture + Developments refer to the project as <a href="http://pitchad.com.au/sky-house/">Sky House</a> on their website, perhaps indicating the name that the project will carry down the track.

<h2>347-367 Macaulay Road 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/image11_19.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Macaulay Road perspective. Planning image: Pitch Architecture + Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="330" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image11_19.jpg?itok=HEqOegS1" title="Macaulay Road perspective. Planning image: Pitch Architecture + Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Macaulay Road perspective. Planning image: Pitch Architecture + Developments</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site area: 2,011sqm with 55m main street frontage</li>
	<li>Proposed 6 level building</li>
	<li>55 dwellings: 23 x 2BR, 32 x 3BR</li>
	<li>Estimated cost of development: $26 million</li>
	<li>103 car parking spaces and 55 bicycles across two basement levels</li>
</ul>
<h2>Naser/Nascon expanding</h2>

347-367 Macaulay Road is the latest project for Naser Group Property, who's director Mohammed Naser is also director of Nascon Group.

Combined the two property entities have developed a string of apartment projects across Melbourne. Most recently completed was Ivanhoe's The Orchard which holds 39 apartments, with Fitzroy North's Fitz &amp; Co and <a href="/new-apartments/moore-21-moore-street-moonee-ponds">Moore Apartments</a> in Moonee Ponds both currently under construction.

After a long stint at planning Nascon Group also successfully gained a mid-2017 permit to develop an <a href="/new-apartments/21-yarra-street-heidelberg">88-apartment, Artisan Architects-designed tower</a> in the heart of Heidelberg.

347-367 Macaulay Road adds to the Naser Group/Nascon Group stable, but distinguishes itself by intending to add larger than average apartments to Kensington. Smallest sized apartments within the proposal begin at 73sqm internal, with the largest loft apartment covering 162sqm of internal 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/image13_19.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design aspects of the proposed building. Planning image: Pitch Architecture + Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="323" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_19.jpg?itok=-_u5p4bz" title="Design aspects of the proposed building. Planning image: Pitch Architecture + Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design aspects within the proposed building. Planning image: Pitch Architecture + Developments</figcaption></figure><h2>Kensington higher density</h2>

Kensington is not flush with development sites, but certain pockets are lending themselves to redevelopment.

Traditionally a light commercial and/or industrial stronghold, the area surrounding 347-367 Macaulay Road is receiving increased apartment-based proposals. A stone's throw away, both <a href="/new-apartments/51-61-hardiman-street-kensington">51-61 Hardiman Street</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/28-32-albermarle-street-kensington">28-32 Albermarle Street</a> are at planning and combined could potentially add a further 92 dwellings to this emerging development pocket.

Isolated higher density developments such as <a href="/new-apartments/2-22-gatehouse-drive-kensington">2-22 Gatehouse Drive</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/2-22-gatehouse-drive-kensington">265-271 Racecourse Road</a> will likely add to Kensington's future apartment stock, but the area most likely to see pronounced development is a stretch of land alongside Hobsons Road that is now receiving its first taste of construction, by way of River Walk Kensington.

A likely construction hot spot in years to come, the vast stretch of land fronting Hobsons Road is adjacent to the West Melbourne Waterfront urban renewal 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/image35_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Macaulay Road with fellow Kensington projects. Construction image: Hacer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="392" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image35_10.jpg?itok=NlbYtaNr" title="Macaulay Road with fellow Kensington projects. Construction image: Hacer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Macaulay Road with fellow Kensington projects. Construction image: Hacer</figcaption></figure>
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Naser Group goes for the Sky in Kensington

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A planning application before City of Monash has sidestepped the traditional 'mixed-use' format, instead opting to label the pending project as a ‘multi-age precinct’ development.

BC Mount Waverley Project Pty Ltd is pushing through with the application across 445-467 Blackburn Road Mount Waverley, which also abuts the Monash Freeway. The Box Hill North-based entity was created during 2015 to purchase the property and existing 4-star Hotel Bruce County, with the intent of delivering a larger development onsite.

And that development consists of the ‘multi-age precinct’ which would cater specifically for both children and the elderly, whilst adding short, mid and long-term accommodation options.

445-467 Blackburn Road is the work of Marchese Partners, whose last major Melbourne design effort was <a href="http://www.marchesepartners.com/project/v1/">Village Docklands V1 Tower</a> which was completed during 2005.

<h2>445-467 Blackburn Road 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/image17_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rendered perspective. Planning image: Marchese Partners"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="403" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17_15.jpg?itok=31RaBTvf" title="Rendered perspective. Planning image: Marchese Partners" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rendered perspective. Planning image: Marchese Partners</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Current use: Hotel Bruce County, conference centre, restaurant, car park</li>
	<li>Site area: 6,353sqm with 2 street frontages</li>
	<li>Proposed: U-shaped building rising to 10 levels or 32.4m</li>
	<li>Hotel: 120 rooms and 8 serviced apartments</li>
	<li>Retirement village: 60 independent living units</li>
	<li>47 apartments and 10 townhouses</li>
	<li>A medical centre and retail outlet</li>
	<li>Single basement level for 135 cars</li>
	<li>Child care centre for 140 children. 589.9sqm indoor area and a 320.9sqm terrace</li>
	<li>Amenities: central courtyard, gym, swimming pool, hydro therapy area</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design Philosophy excerpts</h2>

<blockquote>
The architectural detailing of the proposed building is exceptional in quality, which is a rare occurrence in the middle and outer ring suburbs of Melbourne. As a result, the proposed development makes a significant contribution to the neighbourhood, presenting a well-resolved design with highly articulated facades and active ground level interfaces.

The 10 storey building height proposed in this part of the site presents a robust interface to the Monash Freeway exit ramp and Blackburn Road, defining this corner and recognising the prominence of this location by proposing a key built form marker for the locality.

The proposal makes a positive contribution to the public realm by providing attractive and activated frontages to all street addresses. The commercial address to Blackburn Road will be retained and new food and drink premises and health care services fronting the central courtyard will promote activity and engagement within the site.
<cite>Urban Context Report and Design Response: Hollerich Town Planning</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/image18mp.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rendered perspective. Planning image: Marchese Partners"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="359" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18mp.jpg?itok=OzA9NqEe" title="Rendered perspective. Planning image: Marchese Partners" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rendered perspective. Planning image: Marchese Partners</figcaption></figure><h2>Mount Waverley's largest</h2>

445-467 Blackburn Road inserts itself as Mount Waverley's largest project in development. Apartments.com.au is tracking six other projects within the suburb, but all pale into insignificance relative to 445-467 Blackburn Road's overall size.

Current notable projects within Mount Waverley include further commercial buildings slated for the Axxess Corporate Park on Gilby Road and the intended mixed-use development spanning 170-174 Highbury Road. The latter was well publicised as early works ran into issues during the excavation process, resulting in damage to adjoining properties.

Also in the works for Mount Waverley is Pace Development Group's 554-558 High Street Road; awaiting a VCAT hearing, Pace took the proposal to VCAT because Council did not decide upon the application within the required 60 day timeframe

445-467 Blackburn Road on the other hand was lodged with City of Monash earlier this year, and only began its advertising stint last week.
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Mount Waverley earmarked for a ‘multi-age precinct' development

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Brunswick East's popularity continues to cut through with apartment buyers, as Jameson Capital has noted with the recent launch of B.E. Apartments.

Acting as a capital partner to date, Jameson Capital has turned its hand to development with 11-15 Brunswick Road, a 1,724sqm site that is located in an already established apartment pocket. On the eve of the project's launch, Apartments.com.au chatted with Jeremy Urbach, director of Jameson Capital regarding Melbourne's latest apartment release.

The development has been well publicised in that Jameson Capital has chosen to offer 10 of the project's 97 apartments at a 5% deposit rate, half the norm. Designed to aid first home buyers and those looking to buy again, Jeremy Urbach told Apartments.com.au that at the time of launch earlier in September, 7 of the 10 incentivised apartments had been accounted for with 5 of those first home buyers.

Dubbed 'Your Path Your Start' the incentive has also served to increase the profile of the development in a competitive off-the-plan apartment market.

<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/image9aa.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Exterior perspective. Image: Jameson Capital"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="381" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9aa.jpg?itok=C1pSTYwN" title="Exterior perspective. Image: Jameson Capital" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Exterior perspective. Image: Jameson Capital</figcaption></figure>Asked if the incentive could be rolled out across future projects, Jeremy Urbach explains that at this point the scheme is restricted to the Brunswick East project.

'Your Path Your Start' is much like Jameson Capital's role as developer of B.E. Apartments; a meeting of opportunity with the capital capacity to deliver. Jeremy Urbach states that Jameson Capital's chief role will remain that of a financier and capital manager, but the numbers stacked up to step in as developer when the site was offered for sale with a permit in place.

B.E. Apartments has a completion value of $60m, with a targeted internal rate of return of 30.2% gross.

With sales now underway a shortlist of builders has been compiled, with the successful head contractor expected to be onsite during the first quarter of next 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/image10aa.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rothelowman's design influence. Image: Jameson Capital"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10aa.jpg?itok=LvQXrdC6" title="Rothelowman's design influence. Image: Jameson Capital" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rothelowman's design influence. Image: Jameson Capital</figcaption></figure>Post site acquisition, Jameson Capital enlisted Rothelowman to overhaul the existing permit. Although the previous permit was adequate, Jeremy Urbach explains that as a continuation of an existing relationship, Rothelowman were tasked with redesigning the project to meet the Better Apartments Design Standards criteria.

The resultant B.E. Apartments now has no saddleback configurations, increased daylight access and increased sellable area, although the redesign did add an extra 10 months to the development's timeframe.

Apartments were also made larger, with single bedroom apartments between 50-53sqm, whilst the largest three bedroom dwelling comes in at 105sqm.

Another point of difference is the work of street artist Ghostpatrol which will feature on the building's exterior and within the project's common areas. B.E. Apartments will also include ground floor retail space and a rooftop terrace holding an unimpeded CBD sight line.
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The right fit, the right time: profiling Jameson Capital's B.E. Apartments 

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."

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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."

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

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

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[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.

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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.

[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.

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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."

[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>.

Mark Baljak

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