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Little more than a week after <a href="/news/clifton-hill-in-for-a-dose-of-the-high-life-with-17-levels-planned">unveiling plans for Queens Parade's first high-rise</a>, Apartments.com.au can report on a second intended tower expected to grace the thoroughfare.

Prevalent local developer Gurner has gone to planning with a substantial proposal for 26-56 Queens Parade, seeking approval for a 16 level apartment tower over what is now a low-rise commercial premises.

476 dwellings are called for over the 8,500sqm site which is close to both Alexandra Parade and Brunswick Street. Purchased off-market by Gurner during January for in excess of $40 million, the estimated cost of the project is nominated as $85 million.

Sited with City of Yarra’s Gasworks Precinct, the current building is highly recognisable due to its pink façade, and holds a 120m frontage to Queens Parade.

It's been reported that Gurner has approached one international and three Australian architecture firms in a competitive design process with an aim of delivering a high quality built form outcome onsite. Which architect has the task of delivering the design remains to be seen.

<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/ftznorth.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site in question. Image: GURNER"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ftznorth.jpg?itok=RECS0DCE" title="The site in question. Image: GURNER" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The site in question. Image: GURNER</figcaption></figure>Factoring in those projects at planning or with planning approval, and apartment living is set to take hold along Queens Parade. Gurner, Salta Properties, Wulff Projects and TLC Aged care as noteworthy developers active along Queens Parade, with as many as 1,000 new dwellings in the pipeline.

Nearby and the sizeable former 4-hectare Gasworks site is <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/property/fitzroy-gasworks-back-in-play-20160426-gof0pl">speculated to be heading toward development</a>, with Places Victoria looking to facilitate change over the underutilised land.

The only recent apartment development of note to grace Queens Parade is Graphite at 58 Queens Parade. Developed by BPM, Graphite was completed during 2015 and sees 46 apartments over 5 levels.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image58_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Spanish Club's intended transformatiom. Image: Warren and Mahoney"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="406" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image58_2.jpg?itok=c5CD1MFb" title="Spanish Club's intended transformatiom. Image: Warren and Mahoney" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Spanish Club's intended transformation. Image: Warren and Mahoney</figcaption></figure>26-56 Queens Parade's 476 dwellings are in addition to Gurner's seven projects found within the Apartments.com.au Project Database, which amount to some 670 apartments.

Of those, 375 apartments are under construction by way of 107 Cambridge Street, Ikebana and 24-28 Stanley Street. 74 Eastern Road is awaiting construction after a successful sales campaign while 278-282 Kings Way, 7 Bowen Crescent and The Spanish Club at 57-61 Johnston Street are also at planning.

Gurner was also tied to <a href="https://developmentsites.melbourne/footscray/1-warde-street">1 Warde Street, Footscray</a> with the site which carries approval for 388 apartments now offered for sale with CBRE City Sales.
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silvermb

Doubling up on Queens Parade as Gurner seeks approval for 476 dwellings

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In light of Michael Banak's recent appointment to the role of Principal at national design firm <a href="/architects/rothelowman">RotheLowman</a>, Apartments.com.au thought it an opportune time to chat with the Michael given his extensive credentials in sustainable workplace design.

Holding a membership with the Green Building Council of Australia and accreditation as a Green Star professional, Michael Banak also participated in the Australian Institute of Architects’ mentoring program. Partnering with fellow Principal Ben Pomroy, the duo will spearhead RotheLowman's expansion into the commercial office sphere with a view toward technologically intelligent and sustainable workplace solutions.

Encompassing topics such as RotheLowman's current commercial-driven workbook, evolving expectations and emerging sustainability trends, the chat transpired as follows.

Apartments.com.au: How many current commercial projects are in design on a national scale. Is commercial design a growing sector within RotheLowman?

Michael Banak: RotheLowman is currently working on 14 wide-ranging commercial projects from large-scale office to boutique and mixed-use commercial outcomes. These projects are at varying stages from concept design through to construction across our three national offices.

Our collaborative architecture and interior design teams are specialists at embedding organisational culture into our architectural solutions and as a result it’s a sector that’s expanded in our business. My recent appointment combined with the existing knowledge of our established commercial team has allowed us to provide an increased offering specialising in business spaces.

UM: RotheLowman is particularly strong in residential design in Melbourne. Are there any commercial projects in Melbourne on the radar?

MB: We are also working on a major office development in <a href="/new-apartments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne</a> pending town planning. This project will showcase the firm’s commercial knowledge through an innovative design featuring flexible and efficient office space; green roofs and break-out terraces; atrium spaces with communication stairs that frame key city views; and cutting edge mechanical and lifting systems.

<a href="/new-apartments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a>-based <a href="/developments/burnley-vic-3121">East Edge Botanicca</a> is in planning; cutting-edge strata offices settled amidst the beauty of the Yarra River designed to elicit the professionalism of a tightly held corporate hub. Offices and communal spaces transition the outdoors in using light interplay and generous balconies, while sleek finishes, restrained warehouse-inspired design and communal green hubs facilitate professional interaction.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image17_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="East Edge Botanicca. Image: ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="245" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17_6.jpg?itok=QZ6l8Ntk" title="East Edge Botanicca. Image: ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>East Edge Botanicca. Image: RotheLowman</figcaption></figure>We have recently completed a refurbishment of the RPM Real Estate Group headquarters for a company that has experienced a 370 per cent increase in revenue over the last four years, and has sold 25 per cent of all residential lots available across Melbourne’s metropolitan growth areas over the 2014/2015 period.

The design reflects the people-oriented, sophisticated and approachable nature of the RPM business in a unified manner that overcomes the physically divided office and high proportion of dispersed workers.

UM: Advancing technology has become more prevalent in commercial design. What are the current prevailing technologies influencing green building design?

MB: New technologies I’ve observed in green office buildings, firstly, include connectivity. Ease of communication between workers provides efficiency and therefore reduced use of environmental resources. These technologies allow greater user control of their environments.

The user for example can dial into the office before or after work and control lighting, heating and sound, this can be set to change for different times of the day, moods or seasons. Other technologies that I’ve begun to see regularly integrated include low emittance windows and smart glass; cool roofs and photovoltaic (solar) cell technology that can be used as a thin film applied to glass.

UM: Net Zero commercial buildings. Are they viable, should or will they become the norm via legislation? Is the onus on the architect or the developer to create such an outcome?

MB: Net zero buildings are grid-integrated buildings capable of generating as much energy as they consume through advanced technologies and on-site power generation. This includes power generated from the sun, wind or earth to exceed demands of the building.

To meet our energy reduction targets this type of development is inevitable. It needs to be legislated and supported by government to be successful, in the same way Green Star was supported in the early days by government for all government commercial projects. This paved the way for Green Star rated commercial buildings to be the norm.

It is the architect’s responsibility to promote net zero buildings, to protect the environment and provide a business case to the developer to support this. Generally, a developer will only entertain this idea if they are looking for a long-term investment.

UM: You are a Green Star accredited professional and a member of the Green Building Council of Australia. What benchmarks in design are required to fulfill the requirements as outlined by the two bodies, and are these requirements often changing to meet evolving expectations/benchmarks?

MB: The Green Star accreditation requires further education – I undertook a course and spent six months studying to pass the exam. I ensure that I undertake Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements each year to maintain my accreditation and stay up to date with current trends.

The CPD requirements for the accreditation cover a range of areas including Green Star sustainable developments, rating tools, case studies and innovation. Memberships to the GBCA also provide access to events and resources to ensure that my practice continues to lead and innovate.

UM: How have workplace interiors changes to suit evolving tenant needs/requirements and how do you think they will further evolve into the future?

MB: The emergence of remote working has widespread implications for the traditional commercial office. Technology allowing us to work less at our desks has increased our office mobility, reducing the space required for a typical office.

Architects are now able to design non-designated office space where a mobile workforce can plug in on their days in the office. The trend towards hot-desking has been refined through trial and error – a scaled, team-based version of hot-desking is now most common in project-based commercial offices, rather than an all-encompassing model.

The reduction in use of paper has also meant less storage is required and therefore spaces can exist with a smaller footprint. Activity based work settings are popular at the moment, and I envision in the future that workplaces will incorporate greater control for workers, enabling them to dictate the ambient conditions of their workplace instantly, wherever they choose to be.
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Sustainability in the commercial sphere: RotheLowman's Michael Banak talks to Urban.com.au

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It's the stuff of roosters and feather dusters over the course of the last week. While the western end of Melbourne's CBD will be graced by a building unlike any other in Melbourne, Spring Street is set to receive a tower at the opposite end of the design scale.

As has been widely reported a new $300 million tower designed by international architecture firm Zaha Hadid Architects has been given final approval by the Victorian Government. Expected within developer Landream's 54 level tower, which weighs in at 176 metres, are 420 dwellings and in excess of 10,000sqm of office and retail space.

Designed in conjunction with Plus Architecture, the base of the tower at 582-606 Collins Street will also include ground floor art space, a public plaza to Collins Street and a new pedestrian link and a publicly accessible terrace.

<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/image49_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="582-606 Collins Street. Image: Zaha Hadid Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="340" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image49_3.jpg?itok=yoJhIJix" title="582-606 Collins Street. Image: Zaha Hadid Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>582-606 Collins Street. Image: Zaha Hadid Architects</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
This stand-out design will enhance the city’s skyline, deliver jobs during construction and additional housing for people wanting to live in the CBD.

The late Zaha Hadid has been described as an a starchitect, Melbourne will now have a piece of her artistic flare and I look forward to seeing it come together and provide new public space in the city.
<cite>Jill Hennessy, Acting Minister for Planning</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Working in close collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects, Plus Architecture is deeply privileged to be a part of the team bringing Dame Zaha Hadid’s inspiring design to the Melbourne skyline with the project set to be a monumental part of our city’s urban fabric and architectural narrative.
<cite>Jess Liew, Director, Plus Architecture (local architects on record)</cite>
</blockquote>

To 85 Spring Street now where revised images of Grocon's intended apartment development have appeared over online sales portals.

After much wrangling between the development team and the State planning department, a <a href="http://architectureau.com/articles/grocons-denton-corker-marshall-designed-tower-approved/">revised scheme of considerable design merit won approval during 2015</a> . Fast forward and gone is Denton Corker Marshall's design of note, replaced with a pared-down 39 level edifice.

The current version, seen below right, loses much of its architectural expression and appears externally to be little more than a generic design that smacks of value management.

Unfortunately, it also happens to be in a premier CBD location.

<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/image45_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="85 Spring Street, old and new. Images: ArchitectureAU &amp; realestate.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="373" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_3.jpg?itok=DbiJSh_0" title="85 Spring Street, old and new. Images: ArchitectureAU &amp; realestate.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>85 Spring Street, old and new. Images: ArchitectureAU &amp; realestate.com.au</figcaption></figure>And finally to a design spotted on Apartments.com.au's forum this week of a concept as seen below for Landream by Zaha Hadid Architects once more.

Apartments.com.au covered the story one year ago regarding Landream approaching CASA to initiate discussion on a <a href="/news/260-la-trobe-shapes-as-melbournes-next-big-tower">possible tower for 254-260 La Trobe Street</a>. The tower which was tall enough to challenge the PANS-OPS ceiling would have been of a similar height to the adjoining Aurora Melbourne Central that is now under construction.

The spectacular design that would now not adhere to the interim and soon permanent planning controls, may well be consigned to the history books.

Nonetheless a truly impressive 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/image42zh.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Zaha Hadid Architects' take on 260 La Trobe Street."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="538" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image42zh.jpg?itok=Y_CaZ0Ar" title="Zaha Hadid Architects' take on 260 La Trobe Street." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Zaha Hadid Architects' take on 260 La Trobe Street.</figcaption></figure>
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Momentous designs, both gained and lost in the space of a week

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A development consortium is hoping that a Clifton Hill site which recently went into planning will ultimately become the suburb's first high-rise building.

Plans for 249-261 Queens Parade were lodged with City of Yarra during May for a 17 storey tower of a consisting predominantly of apartments. The small stretch of Queens Parade abutting Hoddle Street has seen a limited number of mid-rise projects thus far, but nothing of the scale which has been designed for 249-261 Queens Parade.

With a development cost of approximately $30 million, 129 dwellings are designed to sit above ground level retail, with two basement levels also included.

Development Manager Wulff Projects carry the following description of the project on their website:

<blockquote>
Neighbouring the Patch Apartments, these adjoining sites were acquired separately and off-market by Wulff Projects on behalf of the Joint Venture comprising Wolf Capital and Salta Properties. Currently, over 100 apartments are planned, striving to be an exemplar of high quality design and all with high level amenity and priority ESD consideration.

This development is expected for completion in 2018.
</blockquote>

The two sites in question are 265 Queens Parade at 310sqm and 249-261 Queens Parade covering 885sqm. <a href="http://www.colliers.com.au/news/2015/off---market-sales-heat-up-in-clifton-hill/#.V4IUB7h9670">According to Colliers</a> the combined purchase price for the land parcels was $8.5 million.

<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_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Colliers graphic for Queens Parade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_7.jpg?itok=oAkGs9kW" title="Colliers graphic for Queens Parade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Colliers International graphic for Queens Parade</figcaption></figure>Formerly light industrial, the eastern side of Queens Parade is gradually being repurposed as higher density development. 

The green plot seen in the Colliers International graphic above relates to Salta Properties and Wolf Capital's planned 17 level tower whilst the mustard site holds approval for an 11 level project at 243-247 Queens Parade. Dubbed <a href="http://patchapartments.com.au/">Patch Apartments</a>, a project website for the development is still operational.

Seen in orange above is aged care provider TLC's site for a 10 level integrated care hub at 217-241 Queens Parade. With revised plans submitted during January, Yarra City Council have the application listed as having a Notice of Decision; the final step prior to a planning permit being granted.

205-211 Queens Parade also shapes a future development with Colliers International recently running a campaign for the 1,440sqm land holding. 

<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/image10_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="243-247 Queens Parade and 217-241 Queens Parade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_6.jpg?itok=JrMMHsL3" title="243-247 Queens Parade and 217-241 Queens Parade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>243-247 Queens Parade and 217-241 Queens Parade. Images: Fieldwork Projects &amp; Baldasso Cortese</figcaption></figure>
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Clifton Hill in for a dose of the high life with 17 levels planned

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The next step in the evolution of Essendon Fields will come by way of an expansive, new private hospital which shapes as the precinct's largest project thus far.

Joint owners Beck Corporation and Linfox Group have initiated an Expression of Interest campaign that is asking for prospective hospital operators to partner with the duo in order to deliver the new facility. Set on vacant land adjacent to the Tullamarine Freeway, Essendon Fields Private Hospital will be built over stages, with the first stage expected to open during 2019.

Once a preferred operator has been announced, most likely by this October, a Major Development Plan for the hospital will be devised.

The hospital will bolster the growing number of people which work in the precinct. Currently 5,000 people work within Essendon Fields across a range of industries, with forecasts suggesting as many as 14,000 additional jobs will be be created over time.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image6_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Concept image of the upcoming hospital facility"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="223" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_8.jpg?itok=7QrqaNry" title="Concept image of the upcoming hospital facility" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Concept image of the upcoming hospital facility</figcaption></figure>PwC is acting as the project's commercial and financial advisor whilst Billard Leece Partnership has been installed as the design lead.

Indicative designs for the facility see a sprawling complex with three buildings to be constructed over varying stages. 300 beds are envisaged for the hospital, with other services such as chemo, pathology and radiology catered for. Car parking for the development will be both at ground and within a multi level facility.

Given the size of the site in question, extensive greenery will also be created in and around each building.

<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/hotel-banner.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hyatt Place is quickly becoming reality"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="247" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hotel-banner.jpg?itok=5onVYM3s" title="Hyatt Place is quickly becoming reality" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hyatt Place is quickly becoming reality</figcaption></figure>The arrival of Essendon Fields Private Hospital follows on from the increased amount of development currently on the go within the precinct. The much publicised $60 million Hyatt Place development is at level five, with builders Hamilton Marino on track to deliver the 166 suite hotel by early 2017.

Adjoining Hyatt Place the Australian Events Centre is due to open during November, providing 1,700sqm of premium, column-free event space. Further, FOURSQ are in the fitout stage of completing 6 English Street which will see 4,650sqm of premium office space added whilst a $20 million redevelopment of the Terminal building will see 3,000sqm of additional office space created.

Meanwhile, Construction Engineering is engaged in building a $10 million, seven storey building that will house the iFly Indoor Skydiving centre along the precinct's western perimeter.
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A new hospital underpins the surge of development within Essendon Fields

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Local and international developers now have the opportunity to run the ruler over what is one of Melbourne's largest permitted CBD development sites. 299 King Street has been placed on the market in the knowledge that it is one of the last remaining super-sized developments within Melbourne's CBD that was not subject to evised planning rules which were introduced during 2015.

Dubbed <a href="http://www.kingstowermelbourne.com.au/">Kings Tower</a>, the 208 metre residential scheme design by Plus Architecture looms as a trophy purchase for the eventual buyer, with CBRE Melbourne City Sales handling the campaign.

Included within the approved 66 level envelope are 400 plus dwellings above a podium featuring a variety of communal uses and provision for both car and bicycle parking. CBRE Melbourne City Sales expect that the eventual buyer may proceed with the residential scheme as is, or introduce other uses such as a hotel, serviced apartments and/or student accommodation, subject to Council approval.

<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/king_street_chinese_v2_cl_02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Kings Tower as rendered from street level. Image: CBRE City Sales"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1305" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/king_street_chinese_v2_cl_02.jpg?itok=cBFdY6DW" title="Kings Tower as rendered from street level. Image: CBRE City Sales" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Kings Tower as rendered from street level. Image: CBRE City Sales</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Only four major development sites have come to the market in 2016, and we are seeing a major uptick in demand from offshore developers who have been waiting for quality sites to become available.

After receiving planning approval, the vendor received several private approaches by local and offshore groups, and has subsequently decided to offer the property to the open market.
<cite>Josh Rutman, Director, CBRE Melbourne City Sales</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
It is interesting to observe the ongoing appetite from Asia for high profile development sites. We have seen almost $300 million of development site sales in Melbourne over the past two months, some with planning approval and others without.
<cite>Mark Wizel, Senior Director, CBRE Melbourne City Sales</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
A lot of the developments in the area are very rectangular," she said. "King Street is a main arterial road for people passing through the CBD and although this building is not at the edge of the CBD grid, it's close enough that it becomes a beacon travelling from the north and south.
<cite>Jessica Liew, Director, Plus Architecture</cite>
</blockquote>

<a href="/news/planning-application-295-309-king-street-melbourne">First appearing on Urban.com.au in early 2015</a>, 299 King Street's design impetus came chiefly from Constantin Brancusi's Bird in Space, Alvar Aalto's Savoy Vase and the iridescent nature of a bubble which captures the reflection and refraction of light waves via its surface. The resultant approved design features pearlescent façade would produce a pink, bluish, purple effect depending on how light is cast over the tower.

The tower also incorporates curvaceous lines with a bulge in form toward its peak, providing it with a point of difference in relation to many of the nearby buildings.

At a floor space ratio of almost 40:1, 299 King Street is an unrepeatable design, with the pending implementation of new planning controls seeing a ratio of 18:1 blanket the CBD and Southbank, although there is limited scope for an increased ratio subject to public benefit clauses.

<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/image3299.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Kings Street frontage. Image: CBRE City Sales"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="758" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3299.jpg?itok=p83UOyFk" title="Kings Street frontage. Image: CBRE City Sales" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Kings Street frontage. Image: CBRE City Sales</figcaption></figure>Located in the CBD's western precinct, Kings Tower is set to add to the continued transformation of the area, which has seen elevated levels of development over the last decade. Upper West Side and the pending delivery of West side Place which includes Melbourne's first Ritz-Carlton underline the degree of change seen within the western precinct.

CBRE Melbourne City Sales have cited government data within their sales material, showing that an estimated 45,000 new dwellings are required in the inner city over the next 15 years to accommodate population growth.
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A king sized opportunity presents itself in the CBD

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The development team behind Southbank's Monarch Tower have positioned the new project at the higher end of the apartment market, far from some of the projects which surround the mixed-use development.

Representatives of Altus Development, Moull Murray Architects and Bella Charlton recently spoke with Apartments.com.au prior to the project's launch, discussing the all-encompassing task of positioning the permium tower in a location where distingiushing one project from another can be difficult.

Post securing the site, Moull Murray Architects were tasked with refashioning the tower whilst remaining within the approved envelope. With the majority of projects nearby appearing as generic blocks, a high degree of variation was employed over Monarch Tower's facade, moving it aesthetically beyond its neighbours.

<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_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Monarch Tower hero perspective. Image: Altus Development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="829" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image66_2.jpg?itok=68cIhmcn" title="Monarch Tower hero perspective. Image: Altus Development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Monarch Tower hero perspective. Image: Altus Development</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The new architectural treatment, reinforces the tall, slender nature of the approved development envelope with an emphasis on vertical forms. The proportions of the tower have been treated In the classic sky-scraper tradition of a base, middle tower, and expressed top.

The podium utilises a grid framework to set up visually scaleable proportions that relate to the streetscape as well as the pattern overlaid on the tower facade. The podium is veneered with apartments on both frontages to reinforce a sense of human interaction with the public realm.
<cite>Moull Murray Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

Adding to Monarch Tower's stocks is the addition of serviced apartment operator Pan Pacific which will operate 130 five-star suites, situated over the lower 19 levels of the project. Not only does the addition of Pan Pacific provide Monarch Tower with a renowned worldwide operator, it also allowed for the expansion of communal areas and facilities within the building.

A pool deck including a fully-equipped gym, cinema, tranquil health spa, outdoor BBQ entertainment terrace and virtual golf range will service both typical apartments and the Pan Pacific suites. The development team also made note of Monarch Tower's proximity to Crown and the Southbank Entertainment Precinct, with either a short walk away.

<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/image67_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Amenities finished to a high standard. Image: Altus Development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="186" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image67_2.jpg?itok=TahmJ7LB" title="Amenities finished to a high standard. Image: Altus Development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Amenities finished to a high standard. Image: Altus Development</figcaption></figure>Premier apartments within Monarch Tower will have exclusive access to the 6-star Sovereign Lounge featuring a bar, spa, sauna, steam room and gym, plus unimpeded views toward the CBD.

Whilst the previously approved plans allowed for one and two bedroom apartments to the tower's summit, Altus Development has completely repositioned Monarch Tower to capture the premium apartment market. Set over the upper 43 levels, total apartment numbers within the project have fallen to 294.

Levels 51 through 58 will include adaptable penthouse and sub penthouse plans, capable of being reworked to a prospective buyer's their needs. Included is the opportunity to create a double-storey, super-sized loft.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image63_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of a penthouse living area. Image: Altus Development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="292" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image63_4.jpg?itok=fkY3VzXl" title="Artist's impression of a penthouse living area. Image: Altus Development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of a penthouse living area. Image: Altus Development</figcaption></figure>Quizzed on Monarch Tower's interest prior to launch, Bella Charlton's Valentino Spyriadis divulged a number of reservations have been taken for apartments, with those to be firmed once the project officially heads to sales.

Further all penthouses within Monarch Tower will be held for the local market, with the high-end stock considered essential to the project's marketing perception and eventual place in the Southbank market. This is in line with the development team positioning Monarch Tower at the owner-occupier and premium investor.

The launch of Monarch Tower coincides with the firming of a head construction contractor for Docklands' Altus Tower, which follows a similar model to that of Monarch Tower. With a new PARKROYAL and private apartments headlining the Docklands project, Altus Development expect the high-end duo will spearhead their Melbourne development pipeline.
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Distinguishing oneself on Southbank as Monarch Tower enters the fray

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Box Hill is booming - no surprise there.

Yet Box Hill's most recent project to be advertised has raised an interesting question - has the heart of the suburb become a victim of its own rapid high-density success via a lack of foresight?

The question has been prompted by the emergence of 16-22 Wellington Street which is yet another residential tower seeking its place in Box Hill. The difference arises with project architect Elenberg Fraser's treatment of the design's ground level which provides both extensive greenery and some built form relief by way of a cavernous plaza at ground level.

This in turn prompted a scan of the Apartments.com.au Project Database to see how many of Box Hill's 30 apartment project listings have included any greenery and/or built form relief to ground level. 

39 Harrow Street and Chloe provide limited greenery to their facades by way of planter boxes, whilst only 109 Carrington Road has its built form set back from the main frontage.

Coupled with existing recent builds and Box Hill's built form environment begins to look somewhat generic.

<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/image33bh.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Plaza and laneway format. Planning image: Rush \ Wright Associates"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="499" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image33bh.jpg?itok=QaghiP2i" title="Plaza and laneway format. Planning image: Rush \ Wright Associates" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Plaza and laneway format. Planning image: Rush \ Wright Associates</figcaption></figure>Which in turn is why 16-22 Wellington Road stands out as a prospective Box Hill development. Elenberg Fraser along with landscape architects Rush \ Wright Associates have conceived something Box Hill has failed to deliver thus far - an intreresting, purposeful and green ground level activation to a tower.

<blockquote>
The proposal incorporates an important public realm initiative in the form of a public, north-facing plaza space/forecourt fronting Wellington Road and the adjacent pedestrian laneway linking to Spring Street. The plaza space is approximately 245 sqm in area.

This space...occupies approximately 41% of the Wellington Road frontage, and approximately 40% of the laneway frontage. Approximately 50% of the space is located below the building form above, but the triple-height space is 8.5m high (clearance), and is oriented north and west, so is expected to provide substantial spatial volume and natural light.

The plaza space is positioned and designed to align with movement flows between the two nearby easy-west pedestrian laneways, along pedestrians moving east-to-west to move across this part of the site, and to spend time in the space. 
<cite>Urban Design Review: SJB Urban</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/image32_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rendered activation of 16 Wellington Street's laneway. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="380" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image32_5.jpg?itok=zknTZ0ET" title="Rendered activation of 16 Wellington Street's laneway. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rendered activation of 16 Wellington Street's laneway. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Has enough been done to encourage benchmarks which would result in designs such as 16-22 Wellington Street becoming the standard? Without having intimate knowledge of City of Whitehorse's planning controls one can only base opinions on what is reality; and reality shows that the vast majority of completed and pending developments in Box Hill have a lack of street level nous.

The sample images below clearly illustrate that.

Whilst many of Box Hill current streets are graced with greenery and a decent level of variation, the sweeping change of higher density development should not come at the cost of public realm. 

Hats off to Elenberg Fraser for creating a standout project for what it brings to the public realm.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image35_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A sample of Box Hill's built form"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="478" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image35_5.jpg?itok=YYBIO42t" title="A sample of Box Hill's built form" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A sample of Box Hill's built form</figcaption></figure>
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Some relief from an otherwise boxy outcome

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Fridcorp and Elenberg Fraser's third joint project within South Yarra's Forrest Hill Precinct looks set to produce arguably the area's most interesting building.

Interesting in that plans currently on display for 627 Chapel Street show a residential tower set above a street interface that shapes as being something unique to the area.

In a recent chat with Apartments.com.au, Fridcorp founder and Director Paul Fridman outlined 627 Chapel Street's intentions of becoming a worthy conduit by way of meaningfully linking Chapel Street with the ever expanding residential population of Claremont Street and South Yarra Station beyond.

The tower itself has been inspired by the story of Jack and the Beanstalk, resulting in a sculptural building form layered with greenery that is expected to accommodate in excess of 450 dwellings.

<h2>627 Chapel 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/image5ef.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The undulating form of 627 Chapel Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="446" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5ef.jpg?itok=syv69bh7" title="The undulating form of 627 Chapel Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The undulating form of 627 Chapel Street. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application lodged June 2015 with a revision dated June 2016</li>
	<li>1,529sqm site, currently inhabited by a commercial building</li>
	<li>Proposed 42 level tower at 133m</li>
	<li>454 apartments: 147 x 1BR, 301 x 2BR, 6 x 3BR</li>
	<li>3 retail tenancies at a combined 297sqm</li>
	<li>Public room: 292sqm</li>
	<li>8 level basements for 286 vehicles and 130 bicycles</li>
	<li>Amenities: private dining and lounge, a sky bar and observatory, a meditative sky garden and a gymnasium incorporating a swimming pool</li>
</ul>
The glazed and balustraded finishes applied to 627 Chapel Street are contrasted by slithers of greenery. The scattered nature of each level's courtyards are tied together via vertical green gardens which accentuate the rippling nature of the design.

Residences are reinforced by three separate common areas over differing levels. Levels 1 and 16 host various amenities while level 40 hosts a north-facing private dining room.

<h2>The 'Public Room'</h2>

Coinciding with the application's semi-covered Public Plaza is the intended beautification of Daly Street. Elenberg Fraser and landscape architects 360 Degrees have taken a holistic approach to the tower's settings, resulting in a space dubbed the 'Public Room'.

<blockquote>
The public room will become an active meeting place for pedestrians travelling up/down Chapel Street and through Forrest Hill to South Yarra Station. It will become a centre for public interaction.

A public art piece will mark Chapel Street's connection through to the Forrest Hill Precinct. This marker will enhance pedestrian corridors and position the Forrest Hill gateway as a primary thoroughfare through South Yarra, directing traffic to the future prospects at South Yarra Station.
<cite>Elenberg Fraser: Urban Context Report</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/image4ef.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Chapel Street perspective. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4ef.jpg?itok=4Df1BtwA" title="The Chapel Street perspective. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Chapel Street perspective. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Should 627 Chapel Street get the green light, both it and 16-22 Claremont Street will frame the Daly Street passage that leads to the heart of the Forrest Hill Precinct.

With Malaysian outfit Salcon Berhad revealed as the new purchaser of 16-22 Claremont Street last week, the prospect of South Yarra's two most ground level-inclusive developments rising in close proximity to one another is a very real possibility. While 627 Chapel Street sports the 'Public Room', 16-22 Claremont Street's best public asset will be a large through passage dubbed 'Claremont Plaza' as seen below.

On a wider note, 627 Chapel Street is the sixth residential development currently in play facing Chapel Street within the Forrest Hill Precinct. Of the six, both it and 671 Chapel Street are the two projects yet to receive planning approval.

<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/image8_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bookending Daly Street. Images: Elenberg Fraser &amp; Colliers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="212" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image8_8.jpg?itok=ftocQwWM" title="Bookending Daly Street. Images: Elenberg Fraser &amp; Colliers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bookending Daly Street. Images: Elenberg Fraser &amp; Colliers</figcaption></figure><h2>627 Chapel Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Fridcorp</li>
	<li>Architects: Elenberg Fraser Architects</li>
	<li>Town planning: Meinhardt</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineers: One Mile Grid</li>
	<li>ESD report &amp; services: Murchie Consulting</li>
	<li>Waste management plan: Leigh Desig</li>
	<li>Wind analysis: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Landscape plan: 360 Degrees</li>
	<li>Land survey: Bosco Jonson</li>
	<li>Structural Engineer: Webber Design</li>
</ul>
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Street to stalk, 627 Chapel Street walks the walk!

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Glen Waverley is on the cusp of realising a handful of higher density projects within its designated activity centre. The tempered flow of projects doesn't necessarily correlate to the underlying demand for apartments within the suburb, if apartment projects such as Ikon and Galleria are any example.

Both managed to sell in near record time, with the latter selling <a href="http://www.plusarchitecture.com.au/plus-glen-waverley-tower-galleria-sells-100-apartments-in-90-minutes/">100 apartments in 90 minutes</a>.

So demand is present and the structure plan is in place. Can Glen Waverley reach the heights of more established suburbs such as Box Hill and Doncaster, in terms of higher density living?

<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/gall.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gone, gone… Galleria. Image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gall.jpg?itok=GgqMGyh2" title="Gone, gone… Galleria. Image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gone, gone… Galleria. Image: Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>Essentially no, not to the same degree.

Box Hill is the unequivocal gorilla of the eastern suburbs apartment market for both number of projects and their sheer size; three more residential projects due to enter the Apartments.com.au Project Database will push Box Hill past 30 separate current projects. Doncaster too, punches hard with 22 separate listings. Lower in height yet denser is the order of the day on Doncaster Hill.

Glen Waverley, on the other hand, is shaping as a secondary eastern suburbs apartment hub, similar in many ways to Ringwood.

Peruse the respective structure plans and Ringwood's <a href="http://www.ringwoodgoingplaces.com.au/ImageLibraryAssets/Resources/040816%20Final%20Report%20August%202004.pdf">Transit City Study Area</a> is discernibly larger than the <a href="http://www.monash.vic.gov.au/files/assets/public/building-amp-planning/monash-structure-plans/glen-waverley-principal-activity-centre-structure-plan.pdf">Glen Waverley Activity Centre Structure Plan</a>. It seems the demand is present within Glen Waverley, but the availability of land holdings ripe for higher density development may not be.

That's not to say Glen Waverley won't be without some landmark developments. In addition to <a href="/buildings/sky-garden-235-springvale-road-glen-waverley">The Glen's redevelopment</a> which will deliver hundreds of new apartments, City of Monash has identified the Central Car Park site as an ‘Opportunity Site’ which is mandated to host a tower in excess of 10 levels.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image3jtx.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="JTX International's Glen Waverley bid. Image: JTX International"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="334" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3jtx.jpg?itok=lrl21Kyj" title="JTX International's Glen Waverley bid. Image: JTX International" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>JTX International's Glen Waverley bid. Image: JTX International</figcaption></figure>Seen above is <a href="http://www.jtx.com.au/project/town-centre-glen-waverley/">JTX International's bid for the Central Car Park</a>. In addition to residential towers, a new town square, library and community meeting spaces are likely to be built in accordance with Council's wishes.

While City of Monash have yet to endorse a preferred bid publicly, the above scheme may give an indication as to what can be expected. It shapes as Glen Waverley's defining development.

In terms of what has actually entered planning, the most recent Glen Waverley high-density project currently before the City of Monash is <a href="https://youtu.be/n4OfREEe9Eg">15-17 Marriott Parade</a>, with the combined site selling for a record residential sales price of over $7 million.

The 2,169sqm plot is now subject to a four-level planning application with 63 apartments included, split between one and two bedroom options. Located on the periphery of the Glen Waverley Activity Centre, 15-17 Marriott Parade is opposite both the Ibis Hotel and City of Monash's headquarters.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/architeria_front_01-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A rendered 17 Marriott Parade, Glen Waverley. Image: Architeria Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="241" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/architeria_front_01-1.jpg?itok=PCRCa-Je" title="A rendered 17 Marriott Parade, Glen Waverley. Image: Architeria Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A rendered 15-17 Marriott Parade, Glen Waverley. Image: Architeria Architects</figcaption></figure>Mel Gawi of Architeria Architects provided the following comments regarding 15-17 Marriott Parade:

<blockquote>
Architeria Architects were engaged to design apartments on this site and the brief was to create a stunning new landmark for Glen Waverley.

The design has allowed for soft and curvy corners, enhancing the principles of Feng Shui. Further, the building is shaped as a number 8, a prosperous number, as the two curves meet in the middle to expand along the sides. The internal courtyard allows for natural cross ventilation throughout all the apartments and creates an oasis for the residents to enjoy.

It has been an absolute pleasure to design an apartment building of this nature. As the site sits on the fringe of all activity, I believe the architecture will not only blend in with the higher density buildings across the road, but be a positive contribution to Glen Waverley in general.
<cite>Mel Gawi, Principal, Architeria Architects</cite>
</blockquote>
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Could Glen Waverley emerge as another eastern suburban apartment hub?

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.

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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.

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Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

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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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