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Developer Riverlee is hoping to add to City of Yarra's substantial commercial development pipeline by way of a mixed-use, multi-storey building at 484-486 Swan Street.

Utilising entity Killara Quest Pty Ltd, Riverlee has applied to deliver a major commercial and retail building spanning 14 levels which would be located adjacent to Burnley Station. Technè Architecture and Interior Design have conceived the design, marking their first high-rise project within the Apartments.com.au Project Database.

Aside from twelve floors of dedicated office accommodation, the project would also include five separate food/drink tenancies, including one which spans the entire first floor. Technè have a particularly strong background in designing hospitality spaces.

According to planning documents, various parties have shown interest in the office and restricted retail spaces although none have formally committed to the lease. 

<h2>484-486 Swan Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image15_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="484-486 Swan Street adjacent to the rail line. Planning image: Technè"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="291" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15_11.jpg?itok=pSQdvVSX" title="484-486 Swan Street adjacent to the rail line. Planning image: Technè" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>484-486 Swan Street adjacent to the rail line. Planning image: Technè</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Lodged June 2017</li>
	<li>Combined site area: 2,334sqm</li>
	<li>Current use: low-rise commercial</li>
	<li>Proposed 14 storey development at 56.8 metres in height</li>
	<li>GFA: 25,655sqm</li>
	<li>Commercial office space: 13,623sqm</li>
	<li>1 retail tenancy of 226sqm &amp; 5 food/drink tenancies amounting to 2,170sqm</li>
	<li>155 car parking spaces within a 3 level basement</li>
	<li>240 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>4 separate outdoor terraces</li>
	<li>Estimated cost of development: $42 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Urbis planning statement</h2>

<blockquote>
484-486 Swan Street is located in one of Richmond’s most prominent areas, which is renowned for its economic diversity. The rich history of industrial uses still lives strong today, but has encouraged other forms of commerciality to the area, such as hospitality, retail, showrooms and large corporate offices.

The proposed development recognizes this site’s opportunity for a precedent setting architectural gesture. The proposal acknowledges its role within a largely activated and dynamic communal context, as a catalyst for functional and amenity driven program.

The building’s proximity to public transport and location on the street, provides ideal conditions for a ‘transport hub’ offering, contributing a significant portion of its ground plane, for public through block connections, uses encouraging activation and visitors beyond those of the office building, and meaningful landscaping.
</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/image14_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="484-486 Swan Street in a future built form context. Planning image: Technè"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="288" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image14_14.jpg?itok=dsNBHlGI" title="484-486 Swan Street in a future built form context. Planning image: Technè" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>484-486 Swan Street in a future built form context. Planning image: Technè</figcaption></figure><h2>Swan Street becomes increasingly popular</h2>

Other developers are also looking to transform Swan Street in line with the <a href="http://file:///C:/Users/silvermb/Downloads/Swan%20Street%20Structure%20Plan.pdf">Swan Street Structure Plan</a>. 

Adjoining 484-486 Swan Street, Elenberg Fraser have designed a sizeable scheme for 462-482 Swan Street. The predominantly residential development for Bamfa Properties includes in excess of 200 apartments and 3,400sqm of retail space.

Also at planning is <a href="/developments/richmond-vic-3121">370-374 Swan Street</a> with over 14,000sqm of office accommodation earmarked for the project. Add a raft of smaller commercial and residential developments in progress and the area particularly around Burnley Station is leading Swan Street's push as a new higher density frontier.

<h2>484-486 Swan Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Riverlee (Killara Quest Pty Ltd)</li>
	<li>Architecture: Techne Architecture and Interior Design</li>
	<li>Urban Context Analysis and Design Response: Techne Architecture and Interior Design</li>
	<li>Planning Report: Urbis</li>
	<li>Traffic Impact Assessment: Ratio Consultants</li>
	<li>Sustainability Management Plan: Arcadis</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Ratio Consultants</li>
</ul>
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silvermb

Riverlee eyes Swan Street for Richmond's next major development

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As construction progresses on its initial two Melbourne developments, UEM Sunrise is launching its third local project which shapes as a very definitive presence in Melbourne's high-end apartment market.

Mayfair will account for an existing commercial complex at 412 St Kilda Road. In its place, a $330 million Zaha Hadid Architects-inspired residential tower will rise with only 158 apartments included.

With the St Kilda Road precinct already heavy with apartment projects in development, UEM Sunrise have sought to place Mayfair at the pointy end of the pack. Mayfair's features will include private lift lobbies, a 24-hour concierge service and the opportunity to include custom-designed signature Zaha Hadid pieces within the apartments.

UEM Sunrise have sought to reinterpret the concept of ‘luxury’ from the idea of "ornamental embellishments, the adornment of space and the display of wealth and ostentation."

With Mayfair, UEM Sunrise has chosen to highlight the "unique experiences, personalisation and a sense of place. Mayfair exudes that next level of elegance, appealing to discerning buyers who wish to be a part of a living, breathing piece of Zaha Hadid art.”

<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/image9myf.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mayfair's lobby space"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="351" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9myf.jpg?itok=5nWAEK-7" title="Mayfair's lobby space" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mayfair by Zaha Hadid adorns the lobby space</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
We wanted to create a landmark that is equally innovative and spectacular to its predecessors, if not more. We are extremely excited to launch Mayfair with internationally acclaimed Zaha Hadid Architects and Australian-based architecture practice, Elenberg Fraser.

The world’s most liveable city remains a key focus for UEM Sunrise, and Mayfair will add a legacy building to both St Kilda Road and Melbourne’s skyline that is unmatched by others, reinforcing our longstanding commitment to delivering sterling living spaces that resonate with Melbourne’s stature as a truly international city.
<cite>Anwar Syahrin Abdul Ajib: UEM Sunrise Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The location on St Kilda Road is another drawcard for buyers looking to make the move from established inner-city suburbs. Buyers looking for a complete lifestyle change for their encore years want nothing but the best – they want to walk to the theatre precinct, pop into the city for work or go shopping, and spend their leisure time at the nearby gardens and golf courses.

The breath-taking panoramic views of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Shrine of Remembrance, Albert Park and Port Phillip Bay remind them that they are not just in the heart of the action, but that they own a piece of Melbourne’s prime real estate.
<cite>Peter Kudelka: Director at Kay &amp; Burton</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/image191_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mayfair's luxury rooftop "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="313" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image191_0.jpg?itok=x2X1WkNd" title="Mayfair's luxury rooftop " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mayfair's luxury rooftop</figcaption></figure>With the St Kilda Road precinct already heavy with premium apartment projects, Mayfair has been billed as offering "a new lifestyle previously unseen in the city’s ever-growing residential landscape, featuring bespoke residences and penthouses."

The 158 apartments range between one and five bedrooms, and from 70 square metres to 556 square metres for penthouses dubbed the Zaha Signature Suites. Pricing is reflective of the project's intended stature, starting from $823,000 and moving on up to $13.1 million for the very <a href="/new-apartments/the-mayfair-412-st-kilda-road-melbourne">best dwelling within Mayfair</a>.

Construction is due to begin during the first half of 2018, placing the project in the midst of a luxury-driven mini development boom which is occurring along St Kilda Road and Queens Road.

Developments such as Opera, K1 Residences, Victoriana and Albert Place Residences have all placed themselves at the luxury end of the market in the precinct.
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UEM Sunrise adds Mayfair to the ultra-luxury apartment circle

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The recent <a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.bdav.org.au_awards&amp;d=DwMD-g&amp;c=M50t_wfPryPkL4C2Nv6aB3q8AWPHmcy6NXnZ7db1zqg&amp;r=goapdA6bgLzr6yrIxf-zMqZi9f7ZqxQMoboCMwCo1eg&amp;m=CR_FEL7bfFqRRcMOAeNdgipiOYI3jYZTU7R_LQTWhWU&amp;s=ky_sWj3K8mYzf6LJOOsbr5MQ5j4ksfCK9SXTGhmZtRI&amp;e=">BDAV Building Design Awards</a> once more showcased the talents and expertise of Victoria's building designers.

2017 was the 22nd year of the BDAV Design Awards, which aims to "profile excellence in building design, as well as profiling the importance of the building design profession to both the building industry and to the broader community."

One project that ticked the boxes was Green Edge. Formerly an open air car park, the multi-residential design not only offers 9 star energy efficiency but also a certified Greenstar rating, demonstrating a holistic approach to sustainability. 

In light of Green Edge winning the category Energy Efficient Design – Residential and securing a commendation for Multi-Residential Design, Urban.com.au posed a number of questions to John Armsby of Armsby Architects, the design force behind Green Edge which was delivered by construction firm Team Building on behalf of developer Richmond Icon.

Urban.com.au: Were Green Edge's heightened sustainability credentials included at the request of the developer, or were you given a free reign of sorts to design as you saw fit?

John Armsby: Given the nature of the site being in such close proximity to a rail line and being off the main shopping strip I suggested to the developer we take this approach and he agreed, as long as it didn’t cost any extra to do so. Therein lay both the task and the challenge.

The project then became a real exercise in what I’d term ‘smart ESD’, meaning that every sustainability initiative had to be justified and ideally function in more than one way. There was no place for token or bolt-on sustainability in this 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/image2ge.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Green Edge's pared back foyer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2ge.jpg?itok=hyVcCy9V" title="Green Edge's pared back foyer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Green Edge's pared back foyer</figcaption></figure>UM: Was there an added cost to the project (either in design or build phase) associated with the implementation of the added green/sustainability features? In a roundabout sort of way, I'm asking why do you think developments to this standard are not more common?

JA: There was an obvious Greenstar certification and associated consultant cost with the project but the aim was to try and get items that needed to be there regardless to also work sustainably.

Careful consideration was given to every element of the design and by attempting to make every element serve an alternative use, the additional cost turned out to be absolutely minimal. I’m not sure if every project would present the same opportunities to ‘double dip’ that this project has.

The whole aim of Green Edge was to push the limits of what I’d call Mainstream Green, more or less how to produce a green building without the client even noticing. Many green buildings often look ‘strange’ and are off-putting to many purchasers so I was trying to prove that a green building doesn’t have to look ‘odd’ to still be green.

Initially, I started this project by designing footprints for apartments that I thought would work well energy-wise and how and where they should fit together in the building envelope. That then evolved into an experiment in tweaking every aspect of the layout, eg. dropping window heads by 300mm from the ceiling creates a little heat trap which in turn captures the heating and stops the heated air from escaping.

The heart of this project's success lies largely in its energy efficiency. It has a lot of other great stuff going on but if you can get the heating and cooling requirements right then that is a major advantage for the entire lifespan of the building. Once you get energy efficiency up over 9 stars, the heating and cooling costs are negligible.

Interestingly in this project, I have been able to follow up on power and water use and been able to verify all of the original predictions on consumption have been met or beaten.

The project largely contains no west facing windows with most windows to the western side being turned to face north and being protected with a turret-like fin which also removes overlooking of the neighbours. Balcony depths were fiddled with until an optimum depth for solar efficiency was achieved.

This project also utilises an electric heat pump hot water system. While many argue that there are less greenhouse gas emissions from gas hot water systems, in this case the Owners Corp have the opportunity to have zero greenhouse gas emissions if signed up to Green power.

The hot water system is also partially powered by photovoltaics and uses heat pump technology which results in an ultra efficient solution. Another benefit to this hot water system is that when coupled with Induction Cooktops in the kitchens the entire project has an opportunity to be fossil fuel free. 

This system was accepted by the client because it meant no gas pipework was required throughout the building. Not having to run copper gas piping through the building largely compensated the additional cost of installing this system; additionally, the occupants are only paying one utility supply tariff instead of two.

<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/image3ge.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A Green Edge apartment interior"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3ge.jpg?itok=32HuJRtq" title="A Green Edge apartment interior" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A Green Edge apartment interior</figcaption></figure>All south facing apartments are close to the railway so all balconies to the south have wintergardens. This not only creates a very large triple glazed acoustic barrier to the trains but also enormously improves the energy efficiency of the project

The building is full of little things like this that all add up to make it a very special project.

UM: What were the different design aspects of creating a green/sustainable building like Green Edge? For instance, greater cooperation between architect and the ESD team?

JA: In this instance, I had the advantage of being the ESD consultant for the initial design phases of the project. Given I have been right in the heart of the sustainability side of the industry for so long it has now become something that seems to find its way into everything we do, often without even specifically trying.

I did then hand the process over to a specialist sustainability consultant to take care of the Greenstar accreditation process.

I would like to see greater feedback and engagement from Sustainability consultants because there is a lot to be learned from the information and data that software such as Firstrate spits out, which architects can make great use of if they knew what it all meant.

The ratings can be used to tell you the weak points in the efficiency of any project if only you know how to interpret the numbers. Often the problem might simply be that a window is just too large and facing the wrong direction and the room is overheating in summer and losing too much heat in winter and this can be seen in the Firstrate data files.

A problem within the Energy Rating industry is that too many developers only want to achieve the minimum level of efficiency so many raters do not get the opportunity to experiment with pushing the limits of efficiency and really tweaking a design

UM: Can you provide a rundown of the major ESD features that distinguish Green Edge?

JA: Its quite an extensive list, with the vast majority covered below:

<ul>
<li>Glazing oriented to avoid west facing glass</li>
	<li>Any western glass protected with screening devices or frit</li>
	<li>Optimised north facing balconies and south facing wintergardens</li>
	<li>Exposed thermal mass</li>
	<li>Ceiling fans throughout</li>
	<li>Individual ducting to each exhaust fan or range hood</li>
	<li>Individual Energy efficiency less than 30mj/m2</li>
	<li>Sustainably sourced materials with low VOCs</li>
	<li>Electric PV boosted central hot water heat pump system</li>
	<li>Dwelling shut down switch</li>
	<li>Airtight building construction</li>
	<li>High CoP A/C units. These were installed because the Coefficient of performance meant that they would be cheaper to run annually than a stand alone small panel heater.</li>
	<li>Energy efficient lighting with motion sensors and timers to public areas</li>
	<li>Energy efficient fittings and fixtures</li>
	<li>Rooftop clothes drying racks and residents garden with native vegetation planting</li>
	<li>Rainwater tanks</li>
	<li>Recycling of onsite construction waste</li>
	<li>Recycling opportunity of discarded household objects within the building occupants</li>
	<li>1 bike space per apartment</li>
	<li>On-site reduction of parking below statutory rate</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/image4ge.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The as yet matured plantings atop Green Edge"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="409" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4ge.jpg?itok=_f72T2wi" title="The as yet matured plantings atop Green Edge" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The as yet matured plantings atop Green Edge</figcaption></figure>UM: Do you have any other projects with similar green/sustainability credentials on the drawing board?

At the moment I have a small project in Port Melbourne which I am looking to construct using mass timber technology. It only has a small footprint but is actually a little taller than Forte in Docklands so will become the tallest residential tower in Australia if I can get it off the drawing board and under construction.

It has very large 3 bedroom and 4 bedroom apartments with only 1 per floor. It also incorporates many of the features of Green Edge, with no gas going into the building and in this instance I want to use individual heat pump hot water systems to each apartment.

It also contains a lot of PV panels however not as many as my Russell Street project (14-22 Russell Street) which has the entire north facing lift and stair core covered in many (thousands) of PV panels. The PV panels are to be used as a cladding system and rain screen to the building

With my latest project being preparing for planning lodgement in Port Melbourne, we are seeking to integrate PV panels right into the facade design. We have been in discussions with a PV panel manufacturer to get custom sized PV panels and have them glazed straight into the facade instead of alpolic or other spandrel finishes.

The cost of PV panels has dropped enormously to the point where this sort of thing is now financially viable. It is now possible to have a facade which can quite literally pay for itself. It is intended that this project will also have Greenstar accreditation but also has a lot of other interesting things going on which we are quite excited about.

That will need to be the topic for another day though.
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John Armsby discusses the merits of Richmond's award-winning Green Edge apartment development

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In the planning sense, <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a> currently finds itself coming off an all-time high. Whilst numerous large-scale projects are either at construction or have just been delivered, developers have been somewhat more hesitant to plough on with larger planning applications over the course of 2017.

In between project delivery and initiating the planning process for the next generation of noteworthy buildings, there still remains a mass of applications lodged during 2016 at arguably the tail end of the recent apartment development boom which only now are finding resolution. This tranche of large but not exceedingly large apartment and mixed-use projects will form the backbone of construction across Melbourne in the years to come.

After the turn of the new financial year, an abnormally large number of these pending projects have been given the green light across metropolitan Melbourne, making for a plumper development pipeline.

A cross-referencing of the Apartments.com.au Project Database with the planning platforms of various councils has yielded a substantial number of projects that have been approved in the past two months. Thousands of new apartments and hundreds of student accommodation beds across 20 major projects are now clear to proceed at the discretion of the respective developers.

Whilst August boomed for approvals, part one of this focus on the new wave of approvals will account for July 2017.

<h2><a href="/new-apartments/highett-vic-3190">Highett on top</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/image15_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Highett's new tallest. Image: Growland"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="601" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15_10.jpg?itok=vwJ-mr8x" title="Highett's new tallest. Image: Growland" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Highett's new tallest. Image: Growland</figcaption></figure>VCAT paved the way for a planning permit to be granted during July for Highett's new tallest building.

Developer <a href="/developers/growland-group">Growland</a> has commenced soft marketing for what will eventually become <a href="/new-apartments/southpoint-highett-1233-nepean-highway-highett">HoriZon Highett</a>. At 13 levels the <a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed building opposite Southland comfortably out does any existing Highett buildings for height, and is expected to contain 200 plus dwellings.

<h2>PDG Corporation primed </h2>

Two of developer PDG Corporation's four forthcoming developments gained the green light during July.

<a href="/new-apartments/west-melbourne-vic-3003">West Melbourne's</a> <a href="/developments/west-melbourne-vic-3003">17-37 Abbotsford Street</a> and <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">611-681 Elizabeth Street</a> shape as two substantial projects for the developer who's current interests also include the Munro site at adjacent to QVM and a prospective Barkly Street, <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick</a> apartment block.

As initially submitted, 17-37 Abbotsford Street included 200 apartments and a healthy retail aspect, whilst the reworked Elizabeth Street development on the current Melbourne City Toyota site will also yield hundreds of new dwellings.

<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_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Melbourne and Elizabeth Street. Images: DKO Architecture and SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="203" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17_14.jpg?itok=ef9nvl8S" title="West Melbourne and Elizabeth Street. Images: DKO Architecture and SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Melbourne and Elizabeth Street. Images: DKO Architecture and SJB Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>Suburban infill</h2>

The <a href="/architects/interlandi-mantesso">Interlandi Mantesso</a>-designed <a href="/new-apartments/31-43-puckle-street-moonee-ponds">31-43 Puckle Street</a> can now be delivered after receiving a planning permit.

Receiving a Notice of Decision during July, the project is spread over 10 levels and includes 84 apartments and an arcade that will host over 1,000sqm of retail space. The project's stand out feature is its multicoloured facade treatment to its southern and western facades.

Another infill development project adding to its respective suburb's apartment-driven credentials is <a href="/buildings/18-lilydale-grove-18-lilydale-grove-hawthorn-east">10-16 Lilydale Grove</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/hawthorn-east-vic-3123">Hawthorn East</a>. With both Lilydale Grove and the adjoining Montrose Street receiving higher density apartment projects in recent years, 10-16 Lilydale Grove is the latest to add to the area's rapidly evolving streetscape.

Residence Company Pty Ltd is behind the <a href="/architects/ellis-group-architects">Ellis Group Architects</a>-designed project that includes 86 apartments and a single retail tenancy.

<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/image18_19.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Puckle Street and Lilydale Grove. Images: Interlandi Mantesso &amp; Ellis Group Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="271" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_19.jpg?itok=pfnaZjQO" title="Puckle Street and Lilydale Grove. Images: Interlandi Mantesso &amp; Ellis Group Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Puckle Street and Lilydale Grove. Images: Interlandi Mantesso &amp; Ellis Group Architects</figcaption></figure><h2><a href="/new-apartments/st-kilda-vic-3182">St Kilda duo</a></h2>

The now demolished Greyhound Hotel at <a href="/buildings/1-brighton-road-st-kilda">1 Brighton Road</a>, St Kilda has received approval for a residential development. Initial plans for the prominent corner site saw <a href="/architects/terry-harper-architects">Terry Harper Architects</a> design an 8 storey building incorporating 43 apartments above 5 retail tenancies.

Approved by VCAT during July, site demolition has been undertaken despite an attempt by Port Phillip Council to gain heritage protection for the landmark structure.

Also nearly, <a href="/developments/st-kilda-vic-3182">190-192 St Kilda Road</a> gained the green light. It is noteworthy simply for its design prowess; small in stature consisting of limited commercial space plus a sole dwelling, the project is big on character with <a href="/architects/peddle-thorp-architects">Peddle Thorp</a> the design force.

<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/image20stk.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The works of Terry Harper Architects and Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="254" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20stk.jpg?itok=TmaA3bGJ" title="The works of Terry Harper Architects and Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The works of Terry Harper Architects and Peddle Thorp</figcaption></figure>Tomorrow Apartments.com.au will highlight the altogether more robust list of approvals granted during August 2017.
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The next wave: 20 freshly approved projects that will further redefine our city

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Continuing from <a href="/news/the-next-wave-20-freshly-approved-projects-that-will-further-redefine-our-city">yesterday's piece</a> covering the boon in recent approvals across greater Melbourne during July, August's approvals and NOD's take precedence below. 

Only last week Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/marriott-confirmed-for-docklands-as-malvern-scores-its-own-substantial-hotel-project">covered the news</a> that<a href="/buildings/the-docklands-residences-3-43-waterfront-way-docklands"> 3-43 Waterfront Way</a> within <a href="/buildings/the-docklands-residences-3-43-waterfront-way-docklands">Dockland</a> gained approval during August, with a new Marriott-branded hotel confirmed for the development. The second part of Melbourne's mid year planning bonanza continues below beginning with other projects that fall within City of Melbourne's boundaries.

<h2>CoM approve</h2>

In the City of Melbourne, after a number of design iterations the residential tower slated for 502 Albert Street, East Melbourne has a planning permit.

Created by DCM Architects, the tower has found resolution after 31 months at planning. The most recently advertised version design saw a 20-storey building intended for the site which overlooks Parliament Gardens. 

Included are 105 apartments which are skewed toward single bedroom abodes, after initially being submitted as an ultra-luxury development.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image28melb.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="East Melbourne, North Melbourne and Southbank in clockwise formation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="287" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28melb.jpg?itok=HLCobtrA" title="East Melbourne, North Melbourne and Southbank in clockwise formation" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>East Melbourne, North Melbourne and Southbank in clockwise formation</figcaption></figure>The planning process for two other developments is all but completed; <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">31 Coventry Street, Southbank</a> and <a href="/developments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">North Melbourne's 15-27 Wreckyn Street</a> both received a Notice of Decision to Grant Permit during August.

The former is an Elenberg Fraser-inspired tower of 120 apartments across 21 storeys for developer <a href="/developers/headland-properties">Headland Properties</a>. It is a redesign amalgamating two separate development sites to create a more substantial scheme with an increased apartment yield and improved resident amenity.

15-27 Wreckyn Street, on the other hand, is UniLodge's latest offering, with hundreds of new student beds sweating on a final permit prior to construction commencing.

<h2>CoPP approve</h2>

Three significant applications within City of Port Phillip can now become bona fide projects. August heralded the approval of <a href="/buildings/saint-moritz-st-kilda-14-16-the-esplanade-st-kilda">14-16 The Esplanade</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/the-charnwood-60-st-kilda-road-st-kilda">54-60 St Kilda Road</a> and <a href="/buildings/park-ave-39-park-street-south-melbourne">37-43 Park Street</a>.

<a href="/developers/barana-group">Barana Group's</a> bid to transform the current Novotel Melbourne <a href="/new-apartments/st-kilda-vic-3182">St Kilda</a> into 236 dwellings can proceed. Under plans conceived by <a href="/architects/metier3">Metier3 Architects</a>, The Esplanade will eventually be home to a collection of townhouses and apartments, with the mix weighted toward larger two and 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/image32_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Park Street, St Kilda Road and The Esplanade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="403" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image32_8.jpg?itok=8vkIgGhM" title="Park Street, St Kilda Road and The Esplanade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Park Street, St Kilda Road and The Esplanade</figcaption></figure><a href="/developers/spacious-property-development-group-pty-ltd">Spacious Group</a> has also found joy with 54-60 St Kilda Road. The developer now has a <a href="/architects/hayball">Hayball-designed</a> apartment building in its keep, with the initial application calling for 103 apartments and 500sqm of retail space within a 10 level building, which will eventually replace a low-rise commercial building currently onsite.

Elsewhere and <a href="/developers/milbex">Milbex</a> has been successful in increasing the size of its intended tower at 37-43 Park Street, South Melbourne. Dubbed 39W, the tower can now accommodate circa 200 apartments across 20 levels and is a short distance to Milbex's initial project in the area at 52 Park street.

<h2>Middle-ring gains</h2>

387-403 Malvern Road received the go-ahead for Metrobuild Pty Ltd. Under plans devised by <a href="/architects/cbg-architects">CBG Architects</a> the 6 level building can accommodate upwards of 40 dwellings.

<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/image36app.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Airport West, Hawthorn and South Yarra in clockwise formation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="499" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image36app.jpg?itok=gH4pDvux" title="Airport West, Hawthorn and South Yarra in clockwise formation" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Airport West, Hawthorn and South Yarra in clockwise formation</figcaption></figure>Key projects in <a href="/new-apartments/hawthorn-vic-3122">Hawthorn</a> and <a href="/developments/airport-west-vic-3042">Airport West</a> also received a Notice of Decision during August.

<a href="/new-apartments/hawthorn-vic-3122">538-542 Burwood Road</a> is primed to add 25 apartments for <a href="/developers/miura-group">Miura Group</a> whilst <a href="/developers/one-pacific-asia-group-pty-ltd">One Pacific Asia Group Pty Ltd</a> is closer to making a mixed-use building at <a href="/new-apartments/83-matthews-avenue-airport-west">83 Matthews Avenue</a> a reality. That project shapes as the first major development within the rezoned Airport West Activity Centre, and as submitted would include apartments, serviced apartments and commercial space.

<h2>Suburban splendour</h2>

<a href="/developments/glen-waverley-vic-3150">Glen Waverley</a> continues to attract a solid stream of higher density projects, with the latest approved being <a href="/new-apartments/glen-waverley-vic-3150">50 Montclair Avenue</a>. The development will see 38 apartments and commercial space over 13 levels, in a scheme devised by <a href="/architects/life-design-architecture">Life Design Architecture</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/image40app.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Glen Waverley and Moorabbin's sprawling South Road development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="253" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image40app.jpg?itok=tDDHZ1pq" title="Glen Waverley and Moorabbin's sprawling South Road development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Glen Waverley and Moorabbin's sprawling South Road development</figcaption></figure>With its permit issued mere days ago, the largest project on the agenda is <a href="/developments/moorabbin-vic-3189">420 South Road, Moorabbin</a>.

<a href="/architects/peddle-thorp-architects">Peddle Thorp Architects</a> and <a href="/architects/rpc-architects">RPC Architects</a> have combined for the expansive project that sees hundreds of new apartments and a substantial serviced apartment building approved. As submitted the development consists of five buildings of up to 10 levels across a 20,000sqm site.

420 South Road, Moorabbin was at planning for 14 months prior to its permit being granted.
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The next wave: August's planning approval bonanza

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One of Melbourne's larger infill developments is progressing somewhat under the radar in Williamstown.

Mere kilometres from the CBD, Waterline Place within the bayside suburb is gathering momentum as developer AV Jennings pushes through with the delivery of near on 600 townhouses and apartments in total. Holding a nominal value of $450 million, Waterline Place marked the traditionally greenfield developer's push into Melbourne's apartment market.

Having acquired the sprawling site which was formerly the Port Phillip Woollen Mill and historic Oriental Hotel. AV Jennings now has Waterline Place in full development mode.

First residents were onsite last month within Rosny. The SJB Architects-designed apartment building of some 71 apartments was completed by builder LU Simon at the turn of July, with an adjoining townhouse aspect all bar complete.

According to AV Jennings' recent ASX release, Rosny achieved total presales for the 71 apartments of $42 million, with "the mix of predominantly 1 bedroom plus study and 2 bedroom apartments sold for between $355,000 and $1,200,000."

<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/image21_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rosny apartments at the point of completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="247" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_14.jpg?itok=biAWZ_sf" title="Rosny apartments at the point of completion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rosny apartments at the point of completion</figcaption></figure>With Rosny complete, AV Jennings will shift focus to <a href="/buildings/gem-25-windsor-terrace-williamstown">Gem apartments</a> at Waterline Place and further townhouses fronting Kanowna Street.

Gem shapes the precinct's largest development to date, incorporating 92 new apartments and penthouses. The work of design practice Elenberg Fraser, Gem spans 10 levels and includes 28 single, 36 dual and 28 three-bedroom apartments, with the largest spanning 132sqm.

The building garnered its name from the Gem paddle steamer that ferried people from Williamstown to Port Melbourne during the mid to late 1800's. 

In terms of construction, contractor Buildcorp Commercial has carried out early works for Gem.

<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/image22_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gem is the latest building at sales. Image: AV Jennings"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="298" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_8.jpg?itok=OpGkpR9K" title="Gem is the latest building at sales. Image: AV Jennings" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gem is the latest building at sales. Image: AV Jennings</figcaption></figure>In line with their work upon Waterline Place's masterplan vision, Elenberg Fraser is also responsible for Lot 8 which shapes as the next apartment building in waiting within the precinct. 

Incorporated are 62 apartments within the building which carries a NSA of 5,081sqm. In the project's current configuration, apartments are split between 8 single, 41 dual and 13 triple bedroom apartments, and are supplemented by 83 car parking spaces and 62 bicycle spaces.

From a design perspective, Elenberg Fraser has referenced nautical shapes and strong horizontality above the podium to create an undulating outcome.

A communal rooftop terrace is included in order to take full advantage of the unimpeded views directly east over Port Phillip Bay.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image20_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lot 8 is currently at planning. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="301" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20_10.jpg?itok=LEmQUnet" title="Lot 8 is currently at planning. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lot 8 is currently at planning. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Beyond Lot 8 above, 15 townhouses are also in the pipeline for Lot 4 which fronts Nelson Place. Adjoining the Titanic theatre at 1 Nelson Place, the townhouses span three levels and provide a lower interface to the immediate surrounds.

Furthermore, Hobsons Bay City Council has lots 5,6 and 7 at 3-39 Nelson Place as still at planning. Combined theses future buildings are slated for a further 200 dwellings.
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Williamstown's Waterline Place moves into full development mode

Marriott International&#39;s long held <a href="/new-apartments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands</a> aspirations have been confirmed on the back of developer <a href="/developers/capital-alliance-investment-group">Capital Alliance</a> gaining approval for a mixed-use development last week.

The hotel operator will absorb 200 hotel suites within the <a href="/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture-designed</a> scheme at <a href="/buildings/the-docklands-residences-3-43-waterfront-way-docklands">3-43 Waterfront Way</a>. 110 apartments account for the balance of the development, with the building to be crowned by a publicly accessible infinity pool and bar/dining facilities.

Capital Alliance&#39;s associated media release expects the apartments to be taken up by owner occupiers, with the project&#39;s sales campaign set for launch later this year.

In delivery phase, the $200 million project is expected to create 500 direct and indirect construction and development jobs, with 100 ongoing positions created as part of the Marriott Hotels &amp; Resorts-branded facility. Construction is slated to start mid 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/capital_alliance_marriott_approval_view_02_a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The approved new mixed-use Docklands development. Image: Capital Alliance"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/capital_alliance_marriott_approval_view_02_a.jpg?itok=anVBIA2g" title="The approved new mixed-use Docklands development. Image: Capital Alliance" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>The approved new mixed-use Docklands development. Image: Capital Alliance</figcaption>
</figure>

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
This will deliver the first contemporary Marriott to Melbourne and its rooftop infinity pool will give the city an experience it has never seen before &ndash; akin to the renowned pool bars and lounges of New York City. Marriott is the world&rsquo;s largest hospitality company and the opportunity it sees in Melbourne and Docklands is a huge compliment to our city.

We are very excited to get started and deliver on our original vision.

This project will be a true destination in Melbourne and something special that will add to the city&rsquo;s tourism potential.
<cite>Mohan Du, Managing Director, Capital Alliance</cite></blockquote>

<blockquote>
We are excited to bring our flagship Marriott Hotels &amp; Resorts brand to Docklands as part of this visionary, mixed-use project. The hotel will be a flagship in Australia and a true example of the Marriott brand&rsquo;s sophisticated style and innovative functionality. We&rsquo;re grateful for Capital Alliance&rsquo;s support.
<cite>James Doolan, Regional Vice President Hotel Development, Marriott International</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/image13_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Corno Nero's bid for Malvern. Planning image: D-Arc Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="426" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_18.jpg?itok=xeAqGq5E" title="Corno Nero's bid for Malvern. Planning image: D-Arc Architects" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Corno Nero&#39;s bid for Malvern. Planning image: D-Arc Architects</figcaption>
</figure>

Meanwhile, <a href="/new-apartments/malvern-vic-3144">Malvern</a> may be in for a substantial new residential hotel project, with a company tied to <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a> developer/builder <a href="/builders/cornonero">Corno Nero</a> seeking the right to deliver an 85-suite serviced apartment project.

Accounting for a portion of the Malvernvale Hotel site, <a href="/developments/malvern-vic-3144">1321-1341 Malvern Road</a> has been designed by CBD-based <a href="/architects/d-arc-architects">D-Arc Architects</a> as a five level building consisting predominantly of 24sqm single bedroom suites, with a limited number of larger suites pushing beyond the 50sqm mark.

The project&#39;s ground floor includes an office tenancy of 352sqm alongside various hotel facilities.

The play by Corno Nero for a serviced apartment building along this stretch of Malvern Road follows on from a string of residential projects that have been built or are proposed for the area. According to the <a href="/developments">Urban.com.au Project Database</a>, seven apartment projects in development currently stud Malvern Road.

Marriott confirmed for Docklands as Malvern scores its own substantial hotel project

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Hawthorn's Queens Avenue is emerging as an apartment hot spot of sorts, as developers realise the worth of converting the light industrial and commercial strip into a higher density apartment enclave.

Running parallel to Burwood Road, Queens Avenue now has six apartment developments in progress. The latest to emerge via City of Boroondara is 21-27 Queens Avenue which is seeking to add a further 66 apartments within a 9-storey building.

Leinard Constructions Pty Ltd is the owner and prospective developer of 21-27 Queens Avenue, with Rothelowman tasked the development's design.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image7_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="21-27 Queens Avenue with Queens Avenue and Agustra. Images: Rothelowman, FKD &amp; Ascui &amp; Co"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="308" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_14.jpg?itok=3bQG1XAR" title="21-27 Queens Avenue with Queens Avenue and Agustra. Images: Rothelowman, FKD &amp; Ascui &amp; Co" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>21-27 Queens Avenue with Queens Avenue and Agustra. Images: Rothelowman, FKD &amp; Ascui &amp; Co</figcaption></figure>Should 21-27 Queens Avenue progress successfully through planning, it will join a handful of fellow apartment projects bringing change to the area.

Bond Hawthorn and the CHT Architects-designed Queens Avenue Apartments are currently under construction, jointly adding 103 apartments. The former also maintains a second frontage to Burwood Road, as does 563 Burwood Road.

Design practice Ascui &amp; Co currently maintains a relevant presence along Queens Avenue, responsible for three of the six current projects. Along with 563 Burwood Road which backs onto Queens Avenue, Ascui &amp; Co have also created 22-24 Queens Avenue and 4 Queens Avenue which has been marketed as Augusta Apartments.

Although the above three projects have yet to reach fruition, Ascui &amp; Co were also the design driver behind Syracuse Apartments at 8 Queens Avenue; a project of 26 apartments which was completed during 2015 and was the first high-density residential development to grace Queens Avenue.

All told there are 229 apartments currently in development along Queens Avenue; not a particularly large number in Melbourne's larger apartment market, but a sign nonetheless that another well positioned commercial/industrial strip is heading down the path of apartment development.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_6910.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queens Avenue construction activity as seen from Burwood Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6910.jpg?itok=O2XsFadE" title="Queens Avenue construction activity as seen from Burwood Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Queens Avenue construction activity as seen from Burwood Road</figcaption></figure>Incidentally, 21-27 Queens Avenue is the fifth current project designed by Rothelowman within Hawthorn to enter the Apartments.com.au Project Database.

Earlier this month, City of Boroondara provided a Notice of Decision for 538-542 Burwood Road, which will see 25 dwellings above a cafe and a retail space within a 7-storey building. The Rothelowman creation went to planning as a green-covered residential building sitting aside the historically significant Zion Particular Baptist Church at 536 Burwood Road.

Other current Hawthorn projects under the Rothelowman banner include the at sales duo of Sierra Hawthorn and The Kent at 382 Burwood Road, plus the approved 9 Montrose Street.

<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_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Kent and 538-542 Burwood Road. Images: CDG &amp; Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="265" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_17.jpg?itok=a7ypExQ2" title="The Kent and 538-542 Burwood Road. Images: CDG &amp; Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Kent and 538-542 Burwood Road. Images: CDG &amp; Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>
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Hawthorn's Queens Avenue notches its sixth current apartment project

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The notion of Melbourne becoming a 20-minute City has been explored heavily in recent times.

Seeking to provide Melburnians with the ability to 'live locally', the 20-minute City, in essence, strives to provide people with the ability to meet most of their everyday needs within a 20-minute walk, cycle or local public transport trip of their home.

Plan Melbourne's <a href="http://www.planmelbourne.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/377117/Plan_Melbourne_2017_Outcome_5_PDF.pdf">push toward the 20-minute City</a> would also have immense repercussions for the environment, potentially reducing travel by nine million passenger kilometres and cutting Melbourne’s daily greenhouse gas emissions by more than 370,000 tonnes.

The Heart Foundation and the Victorian Government's <a href="https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/news/designing-an-active-healthier-victoria">Healthy and Active by Design Victoria</a> has the 20-minute City at its core. The push to heighten awareness around the issue of connecting people efficiently with daily necessities has not gone unlost on certain developers.

As awareness of the health issues increases, enterprising developers are beginning to talk up the health benefits of living close to places of employment; this is particularly pertinent in Melbourne's middle suburban apartment market as it begins to mature.

Developer Cedar Woods has of late been talking up the health and wellbeing benefits of living in close proximity to places of employment. Given their Jackson Green development is in close proximity to the Monash Employment Cluster, they are well placed to do so.

According to the <a href="https://www.medibank.com.au/livebetter/tag/better-health-index/">Medibank Better Health Index</a>, there are significant health benefits in living closer to places of work, thus reducing time spent commuting during the week. According to the Index, "those travelling one to five kilometres to work having a better overall health score versus those commuting more than 50 kilometres."

Furthermore, "Those with a journey of 30 kilometres or more suffered from various negative health outcomes such as increased stress and weight gain. By living close to work, time usually spent commuting can be put into other important lifestyle activities such as health and exercise, quality family time and personal relaxation."

Cedar Woods have been quick to point this out, using Jackson Green's latest release, Gardenia, as an example of buyers choosing to purchase based on proximity to their workplace.

In a recent media release, Cedar Woods state manager Patrick Archer extolled the virtues of living close to one's place of employment:

<blockquote>
People are aware of the negative effects long commute times add to their health and wellbeing, as well as the time they lose each day spent in the car or on public transport getting to work. To help combat this they are placing greater importance on where they live and ensuring it is close to their workplace. 

We have noticed a number of buyers at Jackson Green moving to the area because they want to be closer to work. They are being more strategic with their time to create more opportunities to relax, re-energise and reduce the amount of time spent commuting.
<cite>Patrick Archer, State Manager, Cedar Woods</cite>
</blockquote>

The Monash Employment Cluster is the prime example in that it maintains Melbourne’s largest concentration of jobs outside the CBD and includes employment hubs such as the Monash Medical Centre and Monash University.

The advent of further <a href="https://vpa.vic.gov.au/urban-renewal/national-employment-clusters/">National Employment and Innovation Cluster</a>s such as Dandenong, La Trobe, Sunshine and the massive Werribee East project will also serve to draw in greater populations seeking to reside closer to major employment hubs. As Melbourne's population continues to balloon, it seems that so to will congestion across all modes of transport.

People will invariably be drawn to living closer to their places of employment; perhaps now developers spruiking their respective apartment projects in Melbourne's middle suburbs will include another inducement in their marketing campaigns - that of health and wellbeing, and proximity to all that matters.
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The 20-minute city, associated health benefits and expanding middle Melbourne

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Architecture practice HASSELL is heading design efforts for a new office development with an end value of $163 million that will see job search firm SEEK take root within Cremorne.

The atypically shaped campus-style building was lodged with City of Yarra earlier this month, nominating a large land parcel at 60-88 Cremorne Street as SEEK's new headquarters. Arthur Land Pty Ltd is the listed land owner and applicant within planning documents, although <a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/property/seek-to-move-hq-to-purposebuilt-office-in-melbourne-tech-hub/news-story/2b84264ca87b2da5b46b00455bc17aa0">The Australian</a> has nominated Gus Coopers' Cremorne Properties as the developer.

60-88 Cremorne Street's double-peaked roof along with a smaller annex building will encompass 29,493sqm of commercial floorspace. The bulk will tend to the needs of SEEK, with additional space dedicated toward retail, a wellness and education centre and a tech incubator.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=600]

Currently, at 541 St Kilda Road, SEEK's 800 local employees will be shifted to the purpose-designed Cremorne complex upon its completion.

<h2>60-68 Cremorne Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image14_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective of Seek's new headquarters. Planning image: Hassell Studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="303" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image14_13.jpg?itok=EYnP1hFw" title="Street level perspective of Seek's new headquarters. Planning image: Hassell Studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective of Seek's new headquarters. Planning image: HASSELL</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Frontages to Cremorne Street, Blanche Street and Parkins Lane</li>
	<li>6,734sqm site</li>
	<li>Proposed seven storey building at 36.2 metres to top of architectural ridgeline</li>
	<li>3,500sqm floor plate across lower levels</li>
	<li>Education centre with capacity for 68 students</li>
	<li>156sqm indoor recreational facility</li>
	<li>231 car parking spaces and 309 bicycle spaces within two level basement</li>
	<li>454sqm across three retail spaces</li>
	<li>390sqm terrace on level six</li>
	<li>635 jobs during construction</li>
</ul>
<h2>In HASSELL's words</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_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Inside Seek's new headquarters. Planning image: Hassell Studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="359" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17_12.jpg?itok=QtQoXoWJ" title="Inside Seek's new headquarters. Planning image: Hassell Studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Inside Seek's proposed headquarters. Planning image: HASSELL</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
A ‘Contemporary Warehouse’ approach has been adapted with modern form, finished in traditional materials. The approach achieves a building that is both strong in form and sensitive in footprint.

Leveraging from the industrial heritage of Cremorne, the proposal at 60 Cremorne Street Cremorne, will seek to provide a highly integrated and diverse language of materials and form to reinforce its place within the existing urban and historical context.

The intent of a ‘contemporary warehouse’ is driven by the gabled brick roof forms which are prolific throughout Cremorne, most notably the former Cremorne Street State School, listed on the Victorian Heritage Database, which is directly adjacent to the subject site.

The external architectural response cleverly reinterprets the historic buildings which occupied Cremorne and the wider Richmond area through a composition of materials and building form.

This outcome addresses policy aspirations within the Swan Street Structure Plan to ensure that new buildings “reinforce the industrial and commercial building character of the precinct” and “to promote development that responds to the diverse character and architectural styles of the precinct’s existing built form.
<cite>Urban Context Report, HASSELL</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Greening and softening</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/image19_16.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Green aspects. Planning image: Hassell Studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="243" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_16.jpg?itok=B8YNOyJ5" title="Green aspects. Planning image: Hassell Studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Green aspects. Planning image: HASSELL</figcaption></figure>Each floor will include winter gardens, alternating between east and west facades from level to level. Serving the needs of SEEK's staff, the winter gardens also soften the buildings external appearance.

HASSELL's integrated approach to 60-88 Cremorne Street's green appearance also sees a considered outcome to the proposal's street frontages. All four frontages feature accessible paths for foot traffic and social engagement, along with varying degrees of greenery at street level.

<blockquote>
The ground floor is as much about Cremorne’s community as it is the building’s occupants – an incubator space, a networking zone, an event platform, and an opportunity to connect over a quick bite.
<cite>HASSELL</cite>
</blockquote>

The expected new street level activation is a far cry from the fenced off, gravel car park that currently occupies the site.

<h2>60-88 Cremorne Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Cremorne Properties</li>
	<li>Architect: HASSELL</li>
	<li>Project Manager: Case Meallin</li>
	<li>Planning: Contour Consultants</li>
	<li>Landscape Architecture: HASSELL</li>
	<li>Traffic: GTA</li>
	<li>Services, Acoustics, Structure, Fire &amp; ESD: ARUP</li>
	<li>Waste: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Heritage: Bryce Raworth</li>
	<li>3D visuals: Scharp</li>
	<li>Economic: Urbis</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

SEEK and you will find... a new Cremorne headquarters

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

Mark Baljak

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