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A heritage listed building on an otherwise vacant Bouverie Street site is set to host one of Melbourne's larger student accommodation projects, falling under the UniLodge Bouverie St banner.

Across 123-135 Bouverie Street, dual towers are proposed that would add a further 596 rooms to the Melbourne market. Nettleton Tribe are the design force behind the proposal, with institutional investor Cedar Pacific backing the development.

The Art Deco style building onsite carries a distinct clinker brickwork pattern and is considered significant for both its historic and aesthetic attributes. Formerly the Modern Printing Company Factory, it will find new life as a retail/cafe space under the new plans.

<h2>123-135 Bouverie 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/image93_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Eliminating a vacant Bouverie Street site. Planning image: Nettleton Tribe"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="401" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image93_4.jpg?itok=tukEm3V8" title="Eliminating a vacant Bouverie Street site. Planning image: Nettleton Tribe" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Eliminating a vacant Bouverie Street site. Planning image: Nettleton Tribe</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Vacant 1,616sqm site save for the heritage Modern Printing Company Factory</li>
	<li>Proposed: 14 storey residential building over two wings and 45.2m high</li>
	<li>596 rooms</li>
	<li>All rooms within UniLodge Bouverie St available on either a 6 or 12 month contract</li>
	<li>Total GFA: 7,806sqm</li>
	<li>Facilities include rain garden, recreation area, theatre, gym, lounge areas, common study areas</li>
</ul>
UniLodge Bouverie St will cater for the University of Melbourne's Parkville students. Working under a 'self-catered hostel model', prospective students will find themselves in "a collegiate community with economic room sizes matched with a significant investment in common spaces and recreational areas."

Every level includes a communal space of some sort, with the rooftop including an outdoor garden and BBQ, herb/vegetable gardens and sky lounge.

After multiple similar projects for Deakin University and the recent completion of UniLodge @ VU in Footscray, 123-135 Bouverie Street is the latest project for Nettleton Tribe. Their Bouverie Street design consists primarily of a metallic two-tone aluminium cladding, highlighted by black steel fins and white aluminium trim.

<h2>A week for announcements</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/image95_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="97 Franklin Street's defunct design and the new 599-605 Swanston Street. Images: Hassell &amp; Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="308" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image95_2.jpg?itok=WeoXpi6X" title="97 Franklin Street's defunct design and the new 599-605 Swanston Street. Images: Hassell &amp; Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>97 Franklin Street's dated design and the new 599-605 Swanston Street. Images: Hassell &amp; Hayball</figcaption></figure>123-135 Bouverie Street's unveiling goes hand in hand with other significant news regarding Melbourne's student accommodation sector that has filtered through this week.

Scape Student Living has applied to build the world's tallest student-occupied tower on Franklin Street. Replacing approved plans for a 62 storey, 218m largely residential tower, Scape's intentions are for 740 student beds, 146 city living units and 11,500sqm of commercial space within the mixed use project.

Also this week, a fresh design has been added to the Apartments.com.au Project Database for Urbanest's approved tower at 599-605 Swanston Street. The creation of Hayball, Urbanest's latest Melbourne tower now presents as a golden tower with strong vertical elements across its facade.

The project is still expected to carry in excess of 600 student beds.
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silvermb

Inter-war and student to the core: another whopping student accommodation project unveiled

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At a time when the majority of <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's</a> commercial buildings in development are best describes as 'boxy', <a href="/new-apartments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne</a> may well be in for two intriguing commercial buildings, should the respective planning applications receive the green light.

On the corner of Moray and York Streets, <a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">134 Moray Street</a> is an angular, almost aggressive gesture to its otherwise mundane surrounds.

<a href="/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> are the design force behind the commercial project, acting on behalf of 134 Moray Street Unit Trust, the prospective developer. 

<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/image79_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="As envisaged from the corner of Moray and York Streets. Planning image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="360" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image79_5.jpg?itok=SvtVJkzX" title="As envisaged from the corner of Moray and York Streets. Planning image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>As envisaged from the corner of Moray and York Streets. Planning image: Hayball</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Proposed 10 storey commercial building at 34.1m in height</li>
	<li>6,221sqm of leasable office space</li>
	<li>82 car parking spaces, 90 bicycle spaces &amp; 6 visitor bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>Ground floor commercial display area of 429sqm</li>
	<li>One café of at 38sqm</li>
	<li>Communal terraces across each level</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
The lower tier of the development forms a street wall to Moray street and responds to the surrounding conditions of the site by taking the notion of a ‘Jewel’, intent on providing urban interest in an otherwise understated part of South Melbourne. The ‘Jewel’ concept has been applied to the façade design through a highly faceted yet restrained language and unifies the building setbacks into a cohesive whole.

The primary material pallet of glass, and metal, takes priority and forms the facets of the ‘Jewel’. The folded nature of the metal and glass facets allow for a playful shift of light and shade throughout the day, creating a dynamic yet restrained architectural language. The façade is further accented with variants in metal and glass tint and the subtle reading of the façade framing.

Through articulation of surface, material, light, and depth, the composition of the building provides a unified and robust architectural statement.
<cite>Design statement, <a href="/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a> Planning</cite>
</blockquote>

In addition to a light well which is would allow natural light penetration to internal spaces,134 Moray Street also carries a raft of ESD features. Likely to appear within the project is a rainwater harvesting system for toilet flushing and irrigation, re-used timber in building and construction works, a 25kWp solar photovoltaic array on pitched terrace roofs, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and shared electric bikes for staff.

While 134 Moray Street is a refreshing departure from the typical commercial form, it may not be the only one destined for <a href="/new-apartments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne</a>. During March plans were lodged with City of Port Phillip regarding an application for a fourteen storey office building at <a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">11-29 Eastern Road</a>. The island site sits just off Kings Way and currently features a low-rise commercial building and at-grade car parking.

If images published on architect <a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman's</a> website are indicative of the current planning application, South Melbourne may well be in for two stunningly designed commercial buildings.

<blockquote>
Eastern Road’s form flares to embrace natural light, create engaging spaces and direct views towards key Melbourne landmarks. With diverse urban design, shared amenity, cafes and public art, this office building will serve as a significant leap forward in the evolution of the modern, collaborative and sustainable workplace.
<cite>Rothelowman</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/image86_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Eastern Road. Image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="361" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image86_4.jpg?itok=apV-DdxC" title="Eastern Road. Image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Eastern Road. Image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>
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When a box simply won't do: dual eye-popping South Melbourne designs emerge

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There's movement regarding a number of imposing skyscrapers planned for Southbank.

The Planing Minister has granted approval for 51-65 Clarke Street during April, allowing developer Newcity Development (One) Pty Ltd to proceed with the hulking 70 storey tower. The twisting multi-coloured design by Elenberg Fraser which tops out at 233m would rank the tower among Southbank's tallest, although still well short of the suburb's tallest approved tower - 1 Queensbridge Street at 323m.

Spanning a GFA of 52,313sqm, 51-65 Clarke Street consists predominantly of 512 apartments, supported in turn by 327 bicycle bays and 120 car parking spaces.

<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/image72_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="51-65 Clarke Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="417" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image72_2.jpg?itok=nka0KwWu" title="51-65 Clarke Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>51-65 Clarke Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Although well in excess of the desired Southbank/CBD plot ratio, both Melbourne City Council and the Planing Minister saw fit to support the project.

<blockquote>
With a proposed height of 233m and setbacks that comply with the requirements of DDO10, the development will not overwhelm or dominate the public realm or adjoining buildings

As the development exceeds the maximum plot ratio of 24:1, the applicant is required to demonstrate a public benefit contribution. With the provision of a new through block link between Catherine Street and Hancock Street and contributions to nearby streetscape upgrades and projections actions with the City Road Masterplan and Southbank Structure Plan, it is considered that the plot ratio of 30.8:1 can be supported.
<cite>Report to Future Melbourne Planning Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

Also offered in principle support last month by Melbourne City Council was 87-105 Queensbridge Street. With Melbourne City Council's support or otherwise a prudent indicator as to whether a project will receive support from the Minister's office, 87-105 Queensbridge Street is now seemingly in the box seat to receive the green light.

If approved, the 170m tower would prove to be a boon for developer Aohua Sheng Le Property Pty Ltd.

Whether they choose to develop or move the site on, a permit for 852 apartments on Southbank is a substantial outcome. The planning application is also seeking the right to add 312 bicycle bays and 453 parking spaces within the Fender Katsalidis-designed project. 

87-105 Queensbridge Street's apartment split sees 354 single bedroom, 471 dual bedroom and 27 triple bedroom dwellings within the edifice which holds a massive GFA of 113,401sqm.

<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/image73_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="87-105 Queensbridge Street. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="443" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image73_4.jpg?itok=06TQZqvO" title="87-105 Queensbridge Street. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>87-105 Queensbridge Street. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>As the above duo navigate the planning process, a further two projects are looking for new owners as their current vendors choose to offload their respective assets.

38 Freshwater Place is the higher profile project of the duo up for sale. Knight Frank and CBRE have jointly listed the project, with its EOI campaign closing mid May. Up for grabs is the right to deliver a 273m mixed used tower featuring apartments, a hotel component and retail. After picking up the site at the turn of 2016, PCT Development &amp; Management have chosen to move on the trophy property.

Rounding out the Southbank do-si-do is 127-129 Kavanagh Street, which - save for a couple of months of piling activity at the turn of 2017 - has been dormant for some years. Designed by Squillace, 127-129 Kavanagh Street's approved permit allows for 780 apartments and multiple retails space across two towers, with the taller at 48 storeys. 

The above two projects are particularly valuable given the planning changes implemented over recent times, restricting height and density, and therefore apartment yield within the suburb. 

<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/image76_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="38 Freshwater Place &amp; 127-129 Kavanagh Street. Images: Knight Frank &amp; Squillace"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="287" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image76_2.jpg?itok=EosnoaVC" title="38 Freshwater Place &amp; 127-129 Kavanagh Street. Images: Knight Frank &amp; Squillace" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>38 Freshwater Place &amp; 127-129 Kavanagh Street. Images: Knight Frank &amp; Squillace</figcaption></figure>
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51-65 Clarke Street's approval leads the Southbank shuffle

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The path Broadmeadows and surrounds will take in order to become a successful urban renewal showcase has become all the more clearer.

The Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) and Hume City Council have released the draft Greater Broadmeadows framework plan that, in time, will guide the area's transition from a somewhat maligned suburb to a precinct that can fully realise its potential. 

Key to Broadmeadows’ renewal and growth are a handful of major transport and infrastructure projects that will capitalise upon the area's already strong transport links.

<blockquote>
Broadmeadows already has so much key infrastructure and with the right planning and investment, we are sure the suburb will become a powerhouse of Melbourne’s north.
<cite>VPA Acting Chief Executive, Steve Dunn</cite>
</blockquote>

Chief amongst these is the transformation of Broadmeadows' town centre; initiating increased development along with a heightened pedestrian experience are key targets of the freshly released plan. The notation of diversified housing types within the town centre points toward the arrival of higher density housing stock.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image66_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Broadmeadows itself can expect heightened development activity. Image: VPA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image66_6.jpg?itok=78h6yjS_" title="Broadmeadows itself can expect heightened development activity. Image: VPA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Broadmeadows itself can expect heightened development activity. Image: VPA</figcaption></figure>Also on the agenda is the push toward making the Meadowlink strategic priority area a thriving, 20-minute neighbourhood. This in part depends upon a significant expansion of the Meadowlink cycle network that will ultimately link four of the five priority areas within the Greater Broadmeadows framework plan.Also in line for change is the Maygar Barracks site, the Campbellfield business hub and the Upfield Ford site.

An increasing population and the need to diversity the area's jobs base have been highlighted by key figures within the Greater Broadmeadows framework plan. It's anticipated that by 2050, an extra 20,000 people will call the the Greater Broadmeadows area home, whilst jobs may expand from 27,000 in 2011 to as many as 60,000 by 2050.

From a public transport infrastructure standpoint, an extension of the Upfield train line and a new train station at Campbellfield can also be expected.

<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/image65_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Five Hume precincts are earmarked for renewal. Image: VPA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image65_2.jpg?itok=YGfr2206" title="Five Hume precincts are earmarked for renewal. Image: VPA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Five Hume precincts are earmarked for renewal. Image: VPA</figcaption></figure>Hundreds of hectares of land has been identified as subject to urban renewal within the Greater Broadmeadows framework plan. Post a public comment period that runs until 26 May, the VPA will finalise the plan then submit it to Hume City Council and the Minister for Planning for approval.

A result of two years of scoping and consultation, the draft Greater Broadmeadows framework plan can be viewed <a href="https://vpa.vic.gov.au/project/greater-broadmeadows/">here</a>.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LyoXizgw-04" width="100%"></iframe>
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A new planning framework charts Broadmeadows road to future success

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After years of stagnation in the Geelong hotel sector, Victoria's second city will soon welcome a new hotel as Franzé Developments unveils its intentions to turn a Geelong CBD site into new short stay accommodation.

Acquired for $7 million and spanning 2,700sqm, the site located at 44 Ryrie Street was purchased off market. The development is expected to respond to strong demand for serviced apartments, hotel rooms and high quality office space within Geelong; the city is currently experiencing a boon in office development with a string of commercial projects either proposed or at construction. 

With 44 Ryrie Street in its keeping, Franzé Developments is now in discussions with both local and state authorities with an eye toward submitting plans by August of this year.

The envisaged result is a substantial $200 million mixed-use development consisting of 1,000sqm of ground floor retail, 5,000sqm of office space, 90 serviced apartments and a 200 suite hotel.

<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/image62_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A commercial development previously proposed for 44 Ryrie Street. Image: 44ryrie.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image62_2.jpg?itok=FmmxZUrR" title="A commercial development previously proposed for 44 Ryrie Street. Image: 44ryrie.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A commercial development previously proposed for 44 Ryrie Street. Image: 44ryrie.com.au</figcaption></figure>The new 44 Ryrie Street will supersede previous plans for the site which revolved around an environmentally sustainable commercial development of 13,466sqm which would have counted itself as being one of the nation’s first WELL rated buildings, whilst also carrying a 6 Star Green Star and 5 Star Base Building NABERS Energy Rating.

Statistics garnered via the Greater Geelong and The Bellarine Tourism Development Plan Summary 2016 indicate a need of between 1,400 and 2,500 guest rooms required to support Geelong’s projected growth over the next 15 years.

According to the developer, several major hotel groups are in discussions in order to account for both the serviced apartment and hotel component. The latter can expect to be a in the 4 to 4.5 star range and will go some way to absorbing future anticipated needs for short term accommodation in Geelong.

<blockquote>
We are committed to delivering exceptional projects across a variety of sectors and we are looking forward to creating a genuine mixed-use project in Geelong, which is a new market for us.

Geelong continues to grow and evolve and currently attracts 2.2 million overnight visitors annually, which means there is a gap between supply and demand across the region. Our Ryrie Street project will be the coastal city’s first hotel in almost 20 years, since Four Points Sheraton Geelong in 2011, rebranded the Novotel Geelong in 2014.
<cite>Paul Franzé, Founder and Managing Director of Franzé Developments</cite>
</blockquote>

Franzé Developments have chosen Architectus to deliver the building's design, with a view toward commencing construction late next year.

 

Lead image: Google maps
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Geelong poised to score a new hotel as Franzé Developments heads down the highway

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Epworth Eastern is seeking to add another tower to Box Hill's burgeoning skyline.

Whilst previous additions to Epworth's Box Hill location spanning back to 2003 have been sprawling low-rise builds, the health provider is in the midst of seeking approval for a 62m Silver Thomas Hanley-designed tower that would underpin its future operations onsite and cater for the immediate area's booming population.

<blockquote>
The expansion of the Hospital is required in order to meet the current and projected short term demand for health services, with the demand for these types of facilities only becoming more vital with a growing and ageing population.

The facilities and services that Epworth offer on the site are currently operating at maximum capacity. The proposed redevelopment of the Epworth Eastern site will deliver a hospital led development, with additional hospital beds, new operating theatres and recovery, and consulting suites.
<cite>Urbis: 25 Nelson Street Planning Report</cite>
</blockquote>

2 operating theatres, 60 overnight acute patient beds, 15 rehab beds and 20 consulting suites constitute the net gain from the proposed development. In order to facilitate works on the tower, existing flats at 25 Nelson Street would be demolished.

At the south-east corner of Epworth Eastern's Box Hill land holding, the new build would also include 3 basement levels for additional car parking facilities, with levels both below and above ground linked to other existing buildings on site.

<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/image57_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="25 Nelson Street within the existing Epworth Eastern context. Image: STH"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image57_7.jpg?itok=F37aQUUW" title="25 Nelson Street within the existing Epworth Eastern context. Image: STH" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>25 Nelson Street within the existing Epworth Eastern context. Image: STH</figcaption></figure>The unveiling of Epworth Eastern's sizeable pursuit is key to supporting Box Hill's march toward becoming a tangible second CBD. Late last year former Planning Manager at the City of Whitehorse, now Meinhardt as Associate Director – Planning Paul McAleer wrote on <a href="/news/box-hill-to-become-melbournes-second-cbd">Box Hill's rise to prominence within the greater Melbourne context</a>.

As the population of Box Hill and surrounding suburbs mushrooms, the need for development to cater for an increasingly aged population has not gone unserved. Developments such as <a href="/new-apartments/box-hill-vic-3128">Tao Home</a> which caters specifically for seniors and Bluecross' 40 Dorking Road which includes 221 aged care beds are currently under construction.

Epworth Eastern's pending expansion joins Epworth Richmond and <a href="/news/freemasons-to-be-redeveloped-as-epworth-continues-to-develop">Freemasons East Melbourne</a> as ongoing developments falling under the Epworth banner. Most immediate is the Freemasons site within East Melbourne, where a new 10 storey Grey Street building is taking expressions of interests from medical specialists, with a view toward being completed by late 2018.

<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/image58_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Freemasons Clarendon Campus is next in line for development. Image: Epworth"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="362" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image58_5.jpg?itok=vhT8DccM" title="Freemasons Clarendon Campus is next in line for development. Image: Epworth" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Freemasons Clarendon Campus is next in line for development. Image: Epworth</figcaption></figure>
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Epworth Eastern rises to match Box Hill's booming population's needs

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City of Monash planners have recommended that Singapore-backed <a href="/developers/frasers-property">Frasers Property Australia</a> along with project partner Commercial &amp; Industrial Property (CIP) be allowed to proceed with a multi-staged commercial development that would become one of suburban Melbourne's largest.

Subject to a raft of conditions, the proposal which includes in excess of 60,000sqm of commercial office space is poised to account for a vacant site at <a href="/developments/mulgrave-vic-3170">254-294 Wellington Road, Mulgrave</a>. With a development cost of $120 million, the scheme displaces Peters Ice Cream which have occupied the site since 1964.

Peters have moved the bulk of their operations to an adjoining complex, allowing Frasers and CIP to roll out plans for a portion of the 133,259sqm site.

Four separate 8 storey commercial buildings are envisaged; each includes between 13,739sqm and 15,692sqm of leasable space. Designed by Max Architects, 254-294 Wellington Road also sees four multi-storey car parks with an accumulated 2,497 parking spaces, provisions for bicycle parking in each building and a cafe/food tenancy within the ground level of each office building.

An existing heritage building fronting Wellington Road will be maintained and amalgamated into the development.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/building_c.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="211 Wellington Road's Building C. Image: Colliers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="302" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/building_c.jpg?itok=f97h5lEM" title="211 Wellington Road's Building C. Image: Colliers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>211 Wellington Road's Building C. Image: Colliers</figcaption></figure>The developers play for the vacant 254-294 Wellington Road parcel comes months after work wrapped up on 211 Wellington Road.

Diagonally opposite the Peters site, 211 Wellington Road is a mixed-use project primarily consisting of three commercial buildings. Mazda National Headquarters, Monash University, BSN Medical and BMW Finance are the headline tenants within the project.

Falling under the Monash National Employment and Innovation Cluster which sees <a href="https://vpa.vic.gov.au/project/monash-employment-cluster/">Melbourne’s largest concentration of jobs outside the CBD</a>, Frasers and CIP will be hoping that the success of their 211 Wellington Road project is repeated at their new, and considerably larger commercial development across the road.

As large as it is, 254-294 Wellington Road is not the sole commercial development currently on the radar in the area.

<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/image42_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Goodman Group and Salta Properties latest offerings within Monash"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="219" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image42_2.jpg?itok=TOeF1KBg" title="Goodman Group and Salta Properties latest offerings within Monash" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Goodman Group and <a href="/developers/salta-properties">Salta Properties</a> latest offerings within Monash</figcaption></figure>Also in Mulgrave, builder <a href="/builders/hacer-group">Hacer</a> has recently taken on 10 Nexus Court. The 6,000sqm Gray Puksand-designed building is the latest commercial project under construction for Salta Properties within their sprawling Nexus Corporate Precinct.

As that precinct is rounded out by 10 Nexus Court, Salta Properties will move their attention to an adjoining development site at <a href="/news/salta-and-cedar-woods-upsize-their-monash-intentions">647 Springvale Road</a>, with an eye toward additional commercial offerings.

Meanwhile Goodman Group is seeking tenants for dual new office buildings within their Ferntree Business Park at 296-324 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill. Buildings Buildings D + N are in the pipeline, and may add as much as 14,500sqm of space to that particular precinct.

Ferntree Business Park is also set to host a Quest serviced apartment complex according to current construction tenders for that particular project.
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A commercial mini city beckons as Melbourne's southeast flourishes

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The local student accommodation market has a new provider as Blue Sky Private Real Estate and joint venture partner Goldman Sachs ramp up their Melbourne presence.

Months after being formed, Atira Student Living has hit the ground running in Melbourne. Already active across the Brisbane market, Atira is planning a further 4,600 beds split between Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide.

Of the 4,600 beds, a healthy proportion will be based in Melbourne.

<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/image46_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="42 La Trobe Street and 1 Flemington Road. Images: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="340" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image46_8.jpg?itok=pSRbPj3q" title="42 La Trobe Street and 1 Flemington Road. Images: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>42 La Trobe Street and 1 Flemington Road. Images: Hayball</figcaption></figure>42 La Trobe Street and 1 Flemington Road will be managed under the Atira banner.

The former already has a Hickory tower crane onsite in order to deliver 783 beds across two buildings, with associated ground level retail and public uses. The tower will utilise the Hickory Building System with floor slabs, facades and Hickory’s Sync bathroom pod system manufactured offsite and subsequently trucked to 42-50 La Trobe Street for final assembly.

1 Flemington Road which is also addressed 245-249 Peel Street will be constructed by Hutchinson Builders. It was initially submitted at planning as a <a href="/news/city-norths-latest-entrant-a-metal-monolith">metal-clad tower</a> holding 389 student beds.

Both projects have been designed by Hayball.

Rounding out the Atira Melbourne portfolio is 48-50 A’Beckett Street which has gone back to the drawing board after being picked up by Blue Sky Private Real Estate. Slated for a 2019 opening, the eventual student accommodation building will replace previous private apartment schemes for the narrow site.

<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/image48_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The revised 611-681 Elizabeth Street. Planning image: SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="313" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_6.jpg?itok=mi55jeaQ" title="The revised 611-681 Elizabeth Street. Planning image: SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The revised 611-681 Elizabeth Street. Planning image: SJB Architects</figcaption></figure>As Atira settles into Melbourne, various other projects are in development.

611-681 Elizabeth Street has been given the provisional nod from City of Melbourne planners. The multi-towered project includes 698 student accommodation apartments across two towers, broken down to 661 studios, 27 one bedroom apartments and 10 two bedroom apartments. It remains to be seen whether new owner PDG Corporation will maintain the student accommodation aspect of the development.

Early works on Redefine's 16-32 Leicester Street have begun, as a preview to construction commencing on the substantial student accommodation project whilst 123-135 Bouverie Street nearby is also subject to a new student accommodation application.

These projects are in addition to the thousands of student beds currently under construction citywide. 
Lead image: Redden
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Atira hits Melbourne as further student accommodation projects line up

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West Melbourne's increasing rate of densification will in time subsume another substantial site, with the expansive Rose Furniture building spanning 512-544 Spencer Street earmarked for redevelopment. Latest to capitalise on the area's march toward high density living are project partners Abacus Property Group, Lechte Corporation and Crema Constructions.

512-544 Spencer Street is the third current Melbourne apartment development for the team. The Eminence at 139 Queensberry Street, Carlton includes 193 residential apartments over 15 levels whilst Luminary in Hawthorn is a more modest development of 22 luxury dwellings.

DELWP are handling the application which would deliver two separate buildings, although three distinct architectural styles have been conceived to break up the development's multiple and substantial street frontages.

<h2>512-544 Spencer 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/image2_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Stanley Street perspective. Planning image"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="398" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_11.jpg?itok=R1QuJWw4" title="Stanley Street perspective. Planning image" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Stanley Street perspective. Planning image​​​​​​</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site area: 4,246sqm with 3 street frontages</li>
	<li>Proposed 8 level apartment buildings</li>
	<li>207 apartments: 72 x 1BR, 135 x 2BR</li>
	<li>1,026sqm ALDI at ground level</li>
	<li>3 additional retail tenancies across 518sqm</li>
	<li>272 vehicle spaces across 3 basement levels</li>
	<li>171 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>Terraced courtyard and library/lounge </li>
	<li>Project GFA: 31,175sqm</li>
</ul>
As was the case with The Eminence and Luminary, Plus architecture act as project architect for 512-544 Spencer Street.

<blockquote>
An architectural language was developed to respond to both the locality’s large scale industrial past, and the fine grain of the emerging residential developments.

The form was broken up into three separate blocks, each with their own take on an expression of vertical blades to describe the residential scale of the buildings. The three separate building languages have been designed to face the three separate street frontages of the site.
<cite>Design Statement: Plus Architecture</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>West Melbourne in full boom</h2>

As the torrent of large developments in West Melbourne continues, many more people will invariably call the suburb home over the coming years.

512-544 Spencer Street is the 25th entry for West Melbourne within the Apartments.com.au Project Database, with near on 3,300 apartments in play within postcode 3003. Of these, 781 - or just under one quarter - are at construction, pointing toward the future growth spurt that awaits within the suburb.

With Holder East yet to move on its large King Street holding and Perri Projects bidding to <a href="/news/industrial-west-melbourne-the-latest-urban-renewal-contender">rezone a vast section of industrial West Melbourne</a> to facilitate commercial and residential growth, West Melbourne's transformation may well accelerate over current high levels of development.

Whilst apartments will rule the West Melbourne roost, 469 hotel suites and/or serviced apartments are also primed for the suburb with the most recent addition that of Adina Grand signing on as operator of the hotel component within the West End development.

<h2>512-544 Spencer Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Lechte Corporation &amp; Abacus Property Group</li>
	<li>Builder: Crema Constructions</li>
	<li>Architect: Plus Architecture</li>
	<li>Planning: Planning &amp; Property Partners</li>
	<li>Traffic: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Sustainable Management Plan: Lucid Consulting Australia</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design </li>
	<li>Landscape Plan: John Patrick </li>
</ul>
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West Melbourne latest application adds to the suburb's development appeal

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The Celtic Club's development is poised to proceed under the moniker Paragon, as developer Beulah International moves to capitalise upon the development permit granted under previous planning regulations.

At 316-320 Queen Street, the site's development history has been far from mundane, with project approval but one of the hurdles involved in realising the residential tower. As far back as 2013, inner club wranglings had the deal to develop the site voted down by club members.

<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/1_20170410175201bvf143_bv.png" rel="gallery-all" title="A new skyline marker in the offing"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="355" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1_20170410175201bvf143_bv.png?itok=rmU7GoAU" title="A new skyline marker in the offing" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new skyline marker in the offing</figcaption></figure>Having eventually purchased the site last year after playing a patient game which involved a number of members votes on the fate of the club, Beulah International $25.6 million investment in the corner site will pay off with Paragon. The site's permit extension granted by Minister Wynne is due to expire in October, meaning Beulah International will likely move to launch the 48-level apartment tower shortly.

Spread across a 3,000sqm site, much of the Celtic Club will make way for the tower which was approved to include 256 apartments, although this number will almost certainly change as the developer rebalances the project's apartment schedule to meet current market conditions.

Peddle Thorp Architects were behind the initially approved version which was characterised by its green facade. Now understood to be in the hands of Fender Katsalidfis Architects, the tower's exterior has been given a more pronounced look, featuring a stretched diagrid pattern over a golden facade.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image89_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Celtic Club's initial and revised versions side by side"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="388" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image89_0.jpg?itok=OEFRnjeX" title="Celtic Club's initial and revised versions side by side" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Celtic Club's initial and revised versions side by side</figcaption></figure>The emergence of Paragon follows on from Beulah International's purchase of its fifth Melbourne development site, a 2,000sqm South Melbourne plot with DKO Architecture given licence to create 27 luxury townhouses. The South Melbourne project is located on the corner of Boundary and Thistlethwaite Streets, with four level townhouses the expected outcome.

Beulah International first Melbourne project dubbed Gardenhill atop Doncaster Hill was completed at the turn of the year, whilst their Hallmark Ivanhoe apartment project also designed by Fender Katsalidis accounted for 80% of its apartments after two weeks at sales.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image88_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hallmark Ivanhoe"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="233" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image88_5.jpg?itok=rU_ODFPE" title="Hallmark Ivanhoe" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hallmark Ivanhoe</figcaption></figure>
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Paragon caps Beulah International's healthy Melbourne development portfolio

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."

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

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Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

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The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

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The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

Mark Baljak

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