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A substantial mixed-use development set for the former Courtney and Patterson Ford auto site looks to be creeping toward reality, with promotional signage appearing onsite labelling the project Bellelle.

With a primary address of 37-69 Bell Street, the Hayball-designed project set across a roughly 8,925sqm plot also maintains frontages to Lynden Avenue and Myrtle Street. After revisions which saw the initial scheme trimmed to better meet Council's expectations, final approval was gained during April via a compulsory conference held at VCAT.

Developer JTX also carries information on Bellelle via their website, with Probuild nominated as the builder of choice.

<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_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Linden Avenue perspective: Image: JTX Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_8.jpg?itok=9uc1a7y0" title="Linden Avenue perspective: Image: JTX Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Linden Avenue perspective: Image: JTX Group</figcaption></figure>Bellelle will be a true mixed-use project featuring private apartments, aged care and independent living units, retail spaces and childcare, provisions for a GP and Allied Health clinic, gymnasium and hotel accommodation which is aimed toward servicing the surrounding medical precinct.

Partnering with Blue Whale Property Group on the project, JTX describe Bellelle as:

<blockquote>
An integrated and genuinely mixed use development within in an identified Activity Centre with an emphasis on place making and successful connections to precinct. This JTX development promotes economic viability, deliverability and social benefit.

The architectural approach aims to moderate the size of the scheme while providing a strong overall coherence within the precinct. With a vision for overall design value and high quality residential amenity, key design drivers are for a high quality public realm and pedestrian experience through designing for human scale and vibrancy at street level.

To accommodate a range of demographics and families, the project provides a rich diversity of dwelling types with generous outdoor spaces suited to family occupancy. Enhancing the amenity and lifestyle opportunities are a diverse range of outdoor areas and internal communal zones include a dining room, lounge/library, family lounge and kids’ games room.

The project is underpinned by a serious commitment to sustainable outcomes, with initiatives equivalent to a 4 Star “Best Practice” Green Star.
<cite><a href="http://www.jtx.com.au/project/bellelle/">Bellelle Ivanhoe, JTX Group</a></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/image3_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Evergreen Ivanhoe and The Orchard"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="244" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3_5.jpg?itok=8kb85YJ4" title="Evergreen Ivanhoe and The Orchard" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Evergreen Ivanhoe and The Orchard</figcaption></figure>Bellelle is poised to join a number of other noteworthy projects within Ivanhoe.

Most notable is Kokoda Property Group's <a href="/buildings/evergreen-1-westley-avenue-ivanhoe">Evergreen Ivanhoe</a> which is nearing completion and includes approximately 120 apartments. Smaller projects under construction within the in-demand postcode include <a href="/buildings/lady-ivanhoe-985-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe">Lady Ivanhoe</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/ivanhoe-vic-3079">Insignia</a>, <a href="/buildings/the-orchard-ivanhoe-1045-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe">The Orchard</a> and a host of smaller projects which will add hundreds of new apartments to the suburb.

When Bellelle does progress, it will be a short distance from the area's tallest apartment project, <a href="/buildings/ivanhoe-apartments-443-upper-heidelberg-road-heidelberg">Ivanhoe Apartments</a>, which at has just been awarded to builder Hacer.
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silvermb

Ivanhoe's largest mixed-use project emerges as Bellelle

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Three towers at planning, three suburbs and the prospect of three new tallest buildings within their respective postcode.

Across Moonee Ponds, Clifton Hill and Highett, these three residential towers are working their way through the approvals process, with some having a seemingly smoother ride than others.

Of the trio, Caydon Property Group's 40 Hall Street Stage 2 within Moonee Ponds is the largest. At 34 levels it is also one of greater Melbourne's largest proposed buildings.

Moonee Valley Leader <a href="http://leader.newspaperdirect.com/epaper/viewer.aspx">reported late last week</a> that the Fender Katsalidis-designed tower will be heading to VCAT, given Council's dissatisfaction with the size of the project; so much so Cr Nicole Marshall described it as an "offensive application." Subsequently, Council has urged Planning Minister Richard Wynne to rule upon the tower, although Mr Wynne's department has yet to receive a formal request asking as much.

<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/img6_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Moonee Ponds' new tallest? Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="484" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img6_1.jpg?itok=hGUauUYG" title="Moonee Ponds' new tallest? Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Moonee Ponds' new tallest? Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>With the VCAT hearing scheduled for January, the Moonee Ponds project represents Caydon's fifth development in succession that will make a visit to the planning tribunal. Hall Street Stage 2 joins Cremorne's Malt District project, Only Flemington, Ivanhoe Apartments and 40 Hall Street/Mason Square as having visited VCAT.

In Clifton Hill, 249-265 Queens Parade has received feedback from City of Yarra, with altered plans now on public display.

With the intended tower still at 17 levels, changes to the scheme see revised floor plans and a decrease in apartment numbers from 127 to 115, with the intent of increasing the internal amenity within the tower. This move was a <a href="http://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/IgnitionSuite/uploads/PlanningApps/PLN160494%20-%20Response%20to%20Council%20Concerns.pdf">direct response to Council's initial concerns</a> for the project which is championed by Salta Properties and Wolf Capital.

Architect in charge, Fieldwork, has modelled the exterior to closely resemble that of its neighbour, 243 Queens Parade, which is also a Fieldwork 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/queenspde_ext03_east_a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Reworked upper floors for 249-265 Queens Parade. Image: Fieldwork"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="359" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/queenspde_ext03_east_a.jpg?itok=RS0Go0WM" title="Reworked upper floors for 249-265 Queens Parade. Image: Fieldwork" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Reworked upper floors for 249-265 Queens Parade. Image: Fieldwork</figcaption></figure>Highett also figures prominently with 1233-1237 Nepean Highway on display with Kingston City Council after revisions to the initial design.

Spanning 14 storeys, the RotheLowman-designed residential project has sought approval for 242 apartments on behalf of Growland. Covering a 4,300sqm site opposite Southland, the proposal would see a mix of building heights ranging from three to fourteen levels.

A retail strip, gym and pool feature at ground level, as does a four bedroom apartment. At 45 metres, the proposal comfortably outsizes other recent apartment projects within Highett. As part of the proposal, a substantial courtyard faces neighbouring northern properties at ground level, with further outdoor terraces across levels 11 and 13.

<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/v3-1000-e1460537966954.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Highett is subject to a new tallest building. Image: RotheLowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="462" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v3-1000-e1460537966954.jpg?itok=PVsDhplW" title="Highett is subject to a new tallest building. Image: RotheLowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Highett is subject to a new tallest building. Image: RotheLowman</figcaption></figure>
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Three projects at planning which could redefine their suburbs

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The proposed new Melbourne Conservatorium of Music (MCM) on Sturt Street is shaping to become much more than a cutting edge venue. While the project has been given coverage to date across a range of mediums, very little has been said regarding the project playing an integral part in the wider push to enliven the Arts Precinct and Southbank as a whole.

With plans for the $105 million complex now on display, it's an apt time to explore the projects intentions for Southbank at large.

Covering a site area of 5,100sqm, project lead John Wardle Architects have been joined by landscape architects ASPECT Studios in conceiving a site-specific response, with the aim of encouraging activity across the site and the wider area. Tying in with initiatives such as City of Melbourne's <a href="/news/transforming-southbank-boulevard-and-dodds-street">Transforming Southbank Boulevard</a> project, MCM will create a new active linear axis between Sturt Street and Dodds Street.

Dodds Street has been earmarked by the City Of Melbourne as a prime candidate for conversion to a pedestrian thoroughfare, providing Southbank with additional public space.

Located across from the West Block of the Melbourne University's adjoining campus, this new connector will see the reconfiguration of a number of existing onsite buildings in order to deliver plazas, lawns, more intimate parks and courtyards, set around a common pedestrian pathway. It's expected that when these outdoor spaces (including performance areas) are not utilised by university students, they will be made available to outside organisations.

<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/image38_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Exterior perspective. Image: Image: John Wardle"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="267" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image38_5.jpg?itok=lWdk-YlY" title="Exterior perspective. Image: Image: John Wardle" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Exterior perspective. Image: Image: John Wardle</figcaption></figure>According to the advertised documents, the MCM's design is in part based upon four key themes held within the wider ranging <a href="http://archive.creative.vic.gov.au/files/ea1c6732-f4f6-4c04-b8c0-a2d0012231f0/Melbourne_Arts_Precinct_Blueprint.pdf">Melbourne Arts Precinct Blueprint</a>. They are:

<ul>
<li>Bring life to the streets</li>
	<li>Create a ‘Melbourne’ experience</li>
	<li>More to see and do</li>
	<li>Make connections</li>
</ul>
Further, the following design principles have been instilled within the MCM design:

<ul>
<li>Green Spine: Green infrastructure such as semi-advanced tree planting and water sensitive urban design. Rain gardens will tie the open space together as a green spine</li>
	<li>Landscape Structure: The East and West ends of the open space will be designed as urban anchors. Materials and landscape form will be responsive to the design and/or strategic objectives of Sturt Street and Dodds Street</li>
	<li>Landscape Character: The open space will be comprised of three segments responding uniquely to their surrounding context such as street and buildings interface</li>
	<li>Intimate Spaces: Provide a series of small-scale spaces that provide comfortable locations for individual comfortable spaces for day to day use such as lunch, having coffee, studying and reading</li>
	<li>Performance Fields: The design will incorporate a level of spatial flexibility</li>
	<li>Pedestrian Movement: The open space will provide a strong connection between Sturt Street and Dodds Street for pedestrians. Secondary linkages into the adjacent VCA campus will provided. The plans for building 877 will provide a future food or beverage outlet and bicycle storage</li>
	<li>Frontages &amp; Sight Lines: The interfaces with both Sturt Street and Dodds Street will have considered design responds. Critically the interface with Dodds Street will be designed in coordination with the City of Melbourne</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/image36_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Landscape plan for the project. Image: John Wardle/ASPECT Studios"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image36_3.jpg?itok=VbkcEiXx" title="Landscape plan for the project. Image: John Wardle/ASPECT Studios" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Landscape plan for the project. Image: John Wardle/ASPECT Studios</figcaption></figure>To facilitate the above principles, demolition will be required across two sensitive and historic buildings.

Building 877 fronting Sturt Street will be partly demolished, while building 878 is set for full demolition. This demolition will allow for an expanded public realm and the activation of the site's edges with a cafe and end of trip facilities earmarked for the overhauled spaces. Both buildings are partially included under heritage overlay (HO389).

Heritage aside, the new MCM looks to have squared away both its tertiary and public intentions, while also adding itself to the growing list of remedies designed to bring Southbank's somewhat flailing public realm up to scratch.

Construction expected to commence during 2017.
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Southbank street life flourishes under the new Melbourne Conservatorium of Music proposal

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...prolific apartment developer Steller.

Provided you're in the right suburb, chances are when you peer over your back fence you'll be looking at a Steller project under construction.

The Carnegie-based outfit has made a habit of targeting suburban Residential Growth Zones with low-rise apartment projects - and very successfully. Steller has no less than 22 projects currently within the Apartments.com.au Project Database; based on database entries alone they are a veritable quantum leap ahead of the next.

Steller's upswing can be attributed to a number of factors. Primarily, the developer focuses on 3-5 level apartment buildings across Melbourne's southern and eastern suburbs where owner-occupiers are currently all the rage.

Working generally within the 20-40 apartment band per project, two and three bedroom options rule to roost. Single bedroom apartments few and far between.

<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/image27_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bentleigh is the epicentre of Steller's project map"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image27_6.jpg?itok=LrIb8Ru9" title="Bentleigh is the epicentre of Steller's project map" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bentleigh is the epicentre of Steller's project map</figcaption></figure>The slant toward oversized apartments in suburbs which are currently in favour sees Steller log 21 projects within the Apartments.com.au Project Database which are either at Registrations &amp; Sales or Under Construction. Undoubtedly the developer has more up their sleeve as well which have yet to reach the public realm.

The sum of all Steller listings within the Apartments.com.au Project Database amounts at 781 apartments; 36 apartments per project on average, or still well under any of a handful of individual inner city's super towers under construction which carry in excess of 1,000 apartments.

Steller's success has also passed down to their architect of choice, Ewert Leaf. The South Melbourne practice sees a healthy proportion of their database listing attributed to Steller apartment projects.

Steller's increased project exposure flows from the developer's relationship with two key partners, namely APN Property Group and OCP Asia. 

In partnership with APN, the duo have cemented a development partnership which will <a href="http://apngroup.com.au/fund/apn-steller-development-fund/">develop 223 apartments over six medium density projects</a>. Insight is given by APN Property Group as to why their partnership (and by default Steller) is so successful. The manageable size of each project allows for an altogether nimble approach to 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/image28_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bentleigh's Vickory and Hall Street, Cheltenham"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="240" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28_4.jpg?itok=4zmu7PcS" title="Bentleigh's Vickory and Hall Street, Cheltenham" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bentleigh's Vickory and Hall Street, Cheltenham</figcaption></figure>Medium density projects with a fast turn around and lessened inherent risk, located in Residential Growth Zones surrounding public transport is the order of the day, and a recipe for success.

The Australian <a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/property/steller-group-gets-asian-equity-boost/news-story/35cdf02c518251a72e6b5dfbdbaa846c">reported mid this year</a> that OCP Asia as Steller's second partner will provide finance to multiple apartment developments in the pipeline; roughly $800 million worth of apartments across ­Melbourne’s south eastern ­suburbs will benefit from the agreement.

With the sheer volume of projects Steller has on the go, one thing's for sure...they will keep the Apartments.com.au Project Database ticking over for some time to come.
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The dominant developer across the Urban.com.au Project Database is...

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It's been an eventful week or so at Melbourne Airport.

Another new international carrier has inaugurated a service linking regional China with Melbourne, <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/missing-link-toll-road-on-infrastructure-victoria-agenda-for-melbourne-20161003-gru0g8">the rail link is back in the news</a> and last week the annual <a href="http://melbourneairport.com.au/about-melbourne-airport/corporate-information/stakeholder-event-2016">Stakeholder Report for 2016</a> was held. Largely an event held to inform investors, key details on the airport's upcoming landside and airside projects were outlined, as well as its strategic vision for the future.

Missing completely from the hour long presentation was any mention of Australia Pacific Airports Corporation (APAC) Limited's intentions to overhaul the international terminal, as was outlined during the <a href="/news/melbourne-airports-stakeholder-presentation-reveals-a-new-international-terminal">equivalent 2014 presentation</a>.

Dating back to the airport's inception during 1970, Terminal 2 was slated for a regeneration project which was at the time dubbed 'Market Place'. The cavernous new international terminal space looks to have been placed on the back-burner, even though Melbourne is witnessing unprecedented levels of international travel demand.

<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/image15map_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the overhauled T2. Image: APAC Limited"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="240" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15map_1.jpg?itok=YuNrh31G" title="Artist's impression of the overhauled T2. Image: APAC Limited" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>2014 artist's impression of the overhauled T2. Image: APAC Limited</figcaption></figure>On the back of strong Chinese tourist growth, Melbourne Airport witnessed an international capacity jump of 7% over the last year, with actual international passenger numbers increasing 9.5% to roughly 9 million. The figures will further balloon in coming weeks and months, with an average of 5-6 new international flights per day already announced by a variety of operators during the coming summer schedule.

Those out there who regularly use Terminal 2 will understand how difficult the arrivals process can be during the morning international peak period, and will be somewhat relieved to know that more subdued works are still planned within Terminal 2.

Alleviating the stresses within the international arrivals hall will see both pre and post customs areas taking on a new look, as seen below.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image29_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new Arrivals experience. Image: APAC Limited"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="292" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image29_7.jpg?itok=Vf2DWag1" title="A new Arrivals experience. Image: APAC Limited" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Arrivals experience. Image: APAC Limited</figcaption></figure>The presentation also shed further light upon APAC Limited's intentions to expand Melbourne Airport's runway capacity, beginning with an extension of the existing east–west runway, and followed by a new parallel east–west runway which will in time become one of the largest projects delivered since the airport's inception.

APAC Limited are also ramping up their diversification of uses across the wider Melbourne Airport precinct. A new surf park on the facility's perimiter will draw non-aviation patrons to the precinct and is expected to be operational during 2018.

Strong passenger numbers have also seen APAC Limited increase their rhetoric regarding a new airport hotel, while imagery during the presentation depicts a new mid-rise commercial precinct surrounding Gowrie Park Drive, east of the current Holiday Inn. This area has been vacant and underutilised for well over a decade.

According to the presentation, Melbourne Airport expects to handle 40 million passengers by 2023.

<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/image26_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A diversified new commercial precinct within Melbourne Airport. Image: APAC Limited"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="278" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image26_4.jpg?itok=aGc3Zubo" title="A diversified new commercial precinct within Melbourne Airport. Image: APAC Limited" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A diversified new commercial precinct within Melbourne Airport. Image: APAC Limited</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne Airport gears up for expansion, but no international terminal upgrade in sight

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The last week has provided news on a number of pending towers seeking their place in the skyline. Provided below is a summary covering six marquee projects, with each edging closer to reality.

Fresh off Bates Smart's Instagram account is the first image for the reworked <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">555 Collins Street</a>. <a href="/news/fragrance-group-secures-approval-for-the-seemingly-defunct-555-collins-street">First covered by Urban.com.au earlier in the month</a>, developer Fragrance Group has been granted approval to proceed with the tower which would hold up to 625 apartments.

Gone is the vacant commercial tower onsite, and in its place rises a curvaceous form with a pleated exterior.

<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_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="555 Collins Street and Myriad Melbourne at 111-125 A'Beckett Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_12.jpg?itok=azIElO7S" title="555 Collins Street and Myriad Melbourne at 111-125 A'Beckett Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>555 Collins Street and Myriad Melbourne at 111-125 A'Beckett Street</figcaption></figure>Moving on, Tong Eng Group have shown firm intentions regarding their tower at 111-125 A'Beckett Street which they have christened Myriad Melbourne.

<blockquote>
Myriad, centrally located along the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD, is the next iconic landmark along A'Beckett Street. Designed by award-winning architect Elenberg Fraser, the striking residential tower will retain its heritage frontage while its elegant tower provides magnificent views of the bustling Melbourne CBD.

Myriad is poised to be the new benchmark for natural luxury. Watch this space.
<cite>Tong Eng Group</cite>
</blockquote>

The Singaporean developer's first Australian foray, Myriad has yet to receive the sign off from the Planning Minister. It seems that once they do, sales won't be too far behind.

Also in the CBD, Aurumstone Group have been revealed as the purchaser of 295-309 King Street. CBRE City Sales successfully negotiated terms for the 1,292sqm site, which also has approval for a Plus Architecture-designed 66 level residential tower.

While Aurumstone is pursuing a hefty 60 level skyscraper in New York, 295-309 King Street is a significant step up for the developer whose projects across Melbourne to date have been relatively modest.

<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/cror9146_3_qbt_1157x790-1157x790.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The biggest of them all: 1 Queensbridge Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="396" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cror9146_3_qbt_1157x790-1157x790.jpg?itok=NXUvGvD6" title="The biggest of them all: 1 Queensbridge Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The biggest of them all: 1 Queensbridge Street</figcaption></figure>Knight Frank have been appointed as the selling agent for 1 Queensbridge Street.

With formal approval yet to be given, Apartments.com.au's forum is flush with expectations that final approval will be announced shortly. Coupled with an expanded Crown Hotel presence, 1 Queensbridge Street's height and sheer width provide it with a dominating presence.

Ultra-luxury is the target market for the project which is a joint exercise between Schiavello Group and Crown Limited.

The Australian on Friday reported that a syndicate of Asian investors is close to unveiling plans for a premier hotel and apartment development directly behind 1 Queensbridge Street. For those readers not willing to wait, Apartments.com.au has <a href="/news/38-freshwater-places-proponents-ramp-up-their-intentions">already unveiled the revised plans for 38 Freshwater Place</a>, with the 273 metre tower looking to replace a vacant 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/image20_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Plus Architecture's 845-851 Whitehorse Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="458" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20_7.jpg?itok=kPoY3AW7" title="Plus Architecture's 845-851 Whitehorse Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Plus Architecture's 845-851 Whitehorse Road</figcaption></figure>Finally, while it may be comparatively small in stature to the above projects, Box Hill's 845-851 Whitehorse Road is all but assured of packing a wallop relative to its surrounds.

City of Whitehorse granted the project a Notice of Decision last Monday, all but formally approving the hulking scheme which includes hundreds of apartments set above a 150-suite hotel. With an actual permit in the offing, Spotlight Development Group's focus can now turn to the next phase of the project.

At 117 metres, 845-851 Whitehorse Road will rank among Box Hill's tallest towers.
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Super six: news breaks on six of Melbourne's more significant towers

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There's news for Pace Development Group across a variety of fronts.

Firstly, the prolific developer has taken the 2016 Property Development Award at the Australian Property Industry (API) Excellence in Property Awards. St Kilda's 'The Icon' building was granted the citation as part of the event which recognises innovation and outstanding achievement s across the property industry.

Held last Friday evening, the award results from the deliberations of a group of property leaders which critically assessed all entries in their individual fields. The Icon landed the overall Property Development Award on the evening.

<blockquote>
Like any challenging design statement, The Icon created a sense of apprehension initially within the locally community, however with Pace’s expertise in the area, together with architects Jackson Clements Burrows (JCB) and local artist Matthew Johnson – the final result is truly stunning.
One we should all be proud of.
<cite>Michael Holah, Head of Planning and Design, Pace Development Group</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/img_6177_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="St Kilda's 'The Icon'"><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_6177_0_0.jpg?itok=2B2PXPMz" title="St Kilda's 'The Icon'" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>St Kilda's 'The Icon'</figcaption></figure>Now in its 22nd year of operation, Pace Development Group is powering ahead with its development pipeline.

With George Windsor and St Kilda's 181 Fitzroy Street all but complete, construction has commenced on Pace of Northcote. In excess if 60% of the initial stage has sold, allowing Pace of Northcote to progress from sales release to construction in little more than a few weeks.

The developer's Northcote pursuit is joined by Pace of Doncaster East and 808-818 Sydney Road which are both at sales, while Ode St Kilda is also at construction. This quartet is set to deliver approximately 320 new apartments across four separate suburbs.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image73_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A revised 247-259 Johnston Street. Planning image: SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="345" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image73_3.jpg?itok=XZ5pksL1" title="A revised 247-259 Johnston Street. Planning image: SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A revised 247-259 Johnston Street. Planning image: SJB Architects</figcaption></figure>In related news, Pace Development Group's intended residential project at 247-259 Johnston Street, Abbotsford has gone back to Council with a revised scheme.

City of Yarra are now displaying the updated plans which carry an estimated development cost of $45 million. Gone is an earlier scheme for an 18 level tower, with a smaller tower installed in order to respond to the official feedback received from Council's independent Urban Designers. Greater setbacks to Johnston Street and Stafford Street have also been included.

At 12 levels, Pace Development Group is pushing to realise 148 apartments across the project, comprising of 66 x 1 bedroom, 7 x 1 bedroom plus study, 69 x 2 bedroom, 1 x 2 bedroom plus study and 5 x 3 bedroom options.

247-259 Johnston Street along with Collingwood's 73-77 Wellington Street form the backbone of Pace Development Group's future projects stock.
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Pace scores a gong, and looks to score with City of Yarra

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Doncaster East has never been considered an apartment stronghold, although a raft of current projects are doing their best to dispel that notion. Gradually emerging from the shadow of 'big brother' that is Doncaster, Doncaster East is set to welcome at least 1,000 new apartments over the next handful of years.

A sweep through the Apartments.com.au Project Database shows 13 dedicated apartment projects found within Doncaster East, with Baptcare's 107 Andersons Creek Road also qualifying by way of including retirement living apartments as part of a grander mixed-use development.

The latest developer to enter the flourishing Doncaster East apartment market is CasProperty Corporation, releasing Prominence Apartments to the public last week.

<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/image010.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Prominence Apartments Doncaster East. Image: CasUrban Corporatio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image010.jpg?itok=He2zKbw2" title="Prominence Apartments Doncaster East. Image: CasUrban Corporatio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Prominence Apartments Doncaster East. Image: CasUrban Corporatio</figcaption></figure>Located on the axis of Reynolds Road and Andersons Creek Road, Prominence Apartments is not alone in seeking to replace vast tracks of vacant land with higher density living. This blank peculiarity on the Doncaster East landscape has been a magnet for apartment development of late.

Primrose Apartments and Apadena Apartments are at construction, with The Alpine also joining Prominence Apartments at sales. First to develop in the immediate area was JD Group by way of Reynolds Gardens, which was completed two years ago.

Having secured the site at 1 Red Hill Terrace, CasProperty Corporation sought to distinguish the apartments to those of its neighbours. With CHT Architects appointed, Prominence Apartments' overall number of dwellings shrunk relative to the originally approved scheme for the site. 66 apartments constitute the development, with a slant toward larger dwellings and owner-occupiers.

Externally CHT Architects have softened the look of the building by employing timber detailing to balconies, perforated metal screens in lieu of non-structural concrete and a new landscaped 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/image66_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Primrose, Seasons and 1026-1030 Doncaster Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="492" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image66_4.jpg?itok=LbTsD6Et" title="Primrose, Seasons and 1026-1030 Doncaster Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Primrose, Seasons and 1026-1030 Doncaster Road</figcaption></figure>Prominence Apartments aside, other projects at sales within Doncaster East include The Rise, Seasons Apartments, Hank Apartments and Pace of Doncaster East; these four projects alone account for 450 dwellings.

Showing complete faith in the suburb, JD Group have a third apartment project in the wings. Behind Reynolds Gardens and Seasons Apartments, 1026-1030 Doncaster Road holds planning approval for in excess of 100 apartments. Set over a 4,200sqm site the RotheLowman-desigend project looks to be Doncaster East's next major project launch.

While Doncaster East notches 1,000 plus apartments across all projects listed within the Apartments.com.au Project Database, Doncaster for comparisons sake currently maintains a healthy 2,306 apartments.
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Doncaster East's apartment market rises to Prominence

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One of Fishermans Bend's very first planning applications continues its excruciatingly slow journey through the approvals process, with over three years having passed since its submission.

Lodged during June 2013 on behalf of Belsize Nominees, 351-387 Ingles Street was at the time a hulking five-tower development encompassing near on 2,000 apartments, 1,509 car parking bays, 14,038sqm of office space, retail and public urban spaces. After a variety of alterations, project lead Artisan Architects have now released revised imagery for the project.

Initially valued at in excess of $1 billion, the updated 351-387 Ingles Street has been tempered in both its aspirations and size; according to Artisan Architects this is the result of "a series of design workshops/ discussions with the responsible authorities to arrive at this point."

<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/image51_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ingles Street has taken on a new complexion. Images: Artisan Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="224" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image51_4.jpg?itok=PnIvfWEk" title="Ingles Street has taken on a new complexion. Images: Artisan Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ingles Street has taken on a new complexion. Images: Artisan Architects</figcaption></figure>723 apartments have been shed from the original submission, although a still healthy 1,192 apartments are included within the current plans. These dwellings are supported by 725 intended car parking spaces.

The resultant drop in dwellings has seen heights across the site tumble, in line with the sterner stance taken by the current Government regarding Fishermans Bend's perceived laissez-faire planning early in its history. Ranging between 5-34 levels and set atop a six storey podium, the comparative image above speaks to the cutbacks incurred across 351-387 Ingles Street.

Oddly enough the <a href="https://vpa.vic.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/FBURA-Recast-Fact-Sheet-April-2015.pdf">interim height controls</a> for this section of Fishermans Bend which falls within the Lorimer Precinct are set at 40 levels. The impartial observer may ask why this application has been cut back so severely?

Nonetheless, the project's GFA of 141,050sqm still places it among Melbourne's largest developments.

<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/download_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A green area at the foot of the project. Image: Artisan Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="371" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/download_1.jpg?itok=-RZH6OQk" title="A green area at the foot of the project. Image: Artisan Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A green area at the foot of the project. Image: Artisan Architects</figcaption></figure>All but a slither of commercial space has been dropped relative to the original design, with SOHO options across 1,782sqm the closest semblance.

From a public perspective, far more open space looks to have been added across the site with some of this in the form of a public piazza. This open space will be supplemented by a combined community hub/library which spans 2,832sqm, and 3,515sqm of retail space which is an increase above the original expectation.

With 351-387 Ingles Street's expanded retail intentions and the nearby <a href="/new-apartments/261-281-ingles-street-port-melbourne">261-281 Ingles Street </a>expected to offer in excess of 2,800sqm or retail as part of its scheme, the prospects of a new mini retail strip along Ingles Street encompassing a total of 6,377sqm is on the cards.
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Three years on, the new 351 Ingles Street is revealed

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With little fanfare, six notable planning applications have been given the OK via City of Melbourne over recent weeks.

From mid July through to last week, one after the other are now free to proceed at the whim of the developer. And for three of the six a start to construction is precisely what is at the forefront of the developer's thinking.

The most recent approval is that of 269-271 Spring Street, otherwise known as the new home of Australian Unity. Approved last week, the brisk planning process which barely latest three months saw a mildly compromised design outcome for the tower, which is located above sensitive heritage buildings.

Early expectations had the tower operational by some point during 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/1474011971626.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Spring Street will gain a new addition"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="804" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1474011971626.jpg?itok=dykwJbFH" title="Spring Street will gain a new addition" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Spring Street will gain a new addition</figcaption></figure>Also hitting the ground running is 205-223 Pelham Street, with demolition on the Carlton site almost complete. GSA Group will now push the student accommodation project through to immediate construction, after its approval during July.

The DKO Architecture designed building will carry 244 beds over 13 levels, with 152sqm of retail at street level. An early development cost for the project was a nominal $32.5 million.

Also subject to a recent construction tender, 5-17 Flemington Road was given the nod by City of Melbourne last month. Purchased by Singapore-based Centurion Corporation for $60 million during 2013, the current RMIT Village which provides student accommodation will be greatly expanded under the freshly agreed to permit.

Created by Hobart-based firms Architects Designhaus and Jones Moore Architecture, 147 additional beds will soon be added to the Flemington Road frontage.

<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_5_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The first of Besgate Group's Melbourne projects to receive the green light"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_5_0.jpg?itok=68TrmiDQ" title="The first of Besgate Group's Melbourne projects to receive the green light" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The first of Besgate Group's Melbourne projects on Swanston Street</figcaption></figure>September has provided Besgate Group will good news; the first of the developer's three current Melbourne apartment projects is clear to proceed. Designed by Jackson Clements Borrows, 558-566 Swanston Street initially sought 179 apartments over 17 levels when it first entered planning during late 2015.

Besgate Group's remaining projects are with the State Government owing to their size; the duo are either side of 200 metres in height and yet to be approved.

Another residential project to find favour is 684-688 Elizabeth Street, with a planning permit granted during August. The SJB Architects-designed tower is now capable of adding 120 apartments to the growing stock along a stretch of Elizabeth Street directly north of the CBD.

Rounding out the six is Epworth HealthCare's freshly stamped plans for an overhaul and expansion of the Freemasons Hospital. With a nominal development cost of $55 million, the project first entered planning during December of last year.

A joint design between Silver Thomas Hanley and John Wardle Architects, the expansion revolves around a new facility dubbed the Grey Street Centre which will accommodate spaces for education/training, day procedure and theatre rooms and medical consulting suites. 

<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/image9_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Epworth East Melbourne's newly approved wing"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="370" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_15.jpg?itok=coVFoa0M" title="Epworth East Melbourne's newly approved wing" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Epworth East Melbourne's newly approved wing</figcaption></figure>
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City of Melbourne approves six major projects

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.

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ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[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.

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Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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