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By both necessity and opportunity, the owners of Hotel Lindrum are seeking approval for a high-rise tower set behind their historic former Romanesque tea warehouse which fronts Flinders Street.

Entity TMG Developments Pty Ltd is pursuing the development in part due to Hotel Lindrum's pending loss of guest car parking in the adjoining multi-level car park which is subject to a development application. In addition to expanded hotel suites and residential apartments, guest car parking will be consolidated onsite under the proposal.

Bates Smart has conceived a slim tower of some 30 levels, substantially lower than the initial site application which called for 53 levels.

<h2>26-30 Flinders 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/image5lind.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective of the proposed tower. Planning image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="882" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5lind.jpg?itok=uHLLjvwg" title="Street level perspective of the proposed tower. Planning image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective of the proposed tower. Planning image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Existing 5 storey Hotel Lindrum contains 59 suites</li>
	<li>Proposed 30 level mixed-use tower at 100 metres in height</li>
	<li>Hotel suites numbers expanded to 77</li>
	<li>62 residential apartments: 12 x 1BR, 36 x 2BR, 2 x 3BR, 12 x 4BR</li>
	<li>Total Gross Floor Area: 12,448 square metres</li>
	<li>Two basement levels</li>
	<li>1 podium restaurant space at 276 square metres</li>
	<li>Capacity for 80 bicycles and 38 vehicles in a Multiparker system</li>
</ul>
<h2>What remains of the existing structure</h2>

With over 100 years of history, the existing structure was best known as a billiard and snooker centre with the niece of champion billiard player Walter Lindrum managing the business, hence the Lindrum reference within the current name.

Heritage advisory Bryce Raworth prepared a Heritage Impact Analysis as a response to Council queries toward the development of the building which is included on the heritage overlay schedule of the Melbourne Planning Scheme as HO 1034.

Under current plans it's expected that the majority of the existing structure will be demolished for the proposed tower, with the southern facade to remain intact. Approximately half the eastern and western facades will remain as will limited interior walls according to plans.

<h2>53 levels at a stretch </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/image4lind.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hotel Lindrum in its earlier, taller guise. Planning image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="222" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4lind.jpg?itok=8Bz3-uJE" title="Hotel Lindrum in its earlier, taller guise. Planning image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hotel Lindrum in its earlier, taller guise. Planning image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>The initial version of 26-30 Flinders Street was submitted during July 2015 with revised plans put forward in recent weeks. City of Melbourne found a number of issues with the original proposal which would have spanned 183.3 metres in height and included 143 residential apartments above 83 hotel suites.

A 'facaded' outcome and a deviation from "accepted conservation standards" were chief amongst Council's concerns, with a "significant height reduction, increased setbacks and refinements to the architectural treatment of the intermediate levels of the tower" included in the revised plans.

The current version also sees an increase in separation from the existing building to tower above by way of an expanded transitional design element separation the two.

<h2>It's a trend</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/image9_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hotel developments proposed for significant locations"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="220" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_5.jpg?itok=GGQZQkcH" title="Hotel developments proposed for significant locations" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hotel developments proposed for significant locations</figcaption></figure>Hotel Lindrum is the fifth significant building in the eastern reaches of the CBD to see new or expanded hotel facilities proposed. Whilst some projects have faltered, others are poised to advance.

Windsor Hotel and Bourke Street's Palace Theatre are the two highest profile projects, with both now free to pursue expanded or new hotel developments.

The proposed hotel above what was Rosati Restaurant at 95 Flinders Lane failed to eventuate whilst the most recent development incarnation of the Forum Theatre had its processing suspended midway through planning with City of Melbourne.
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silvermb

Hotel Lindrum the latest to seek high-rise development 

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After securing a substantial slice of the former Pentridge Prison during 2013 developer Shayher Group is now poised to push ahead with a masterplanned development covering the 65,000 square metre site.

Dubbed Pentridge Coburg, Shayher Group intend to create 14 new buildings within the bluestone-walled precinct while also dedicating approximately 16,900 square metres to parkland. Coupled with ancillary open space, the overall site area dedicated toward public open space will push toward the 40% mark.

<blockquote>
Our vision for Pentridge is to create a vibrant, well-designed urban village that breathes new life into this historical asset, transforming it from one of Australia’s most prominent jails into a new community hub complete with housing, retail, community areas and open public spaces.
<cite>Anthony Goh, Shayher Group</cite>
</blockquote>

Built form within Pentridge Coburg will be guided by the <a href="http://www.moreland.vic.gov.au/globalassets/areas/planning/reference-documents/moreland-~-pentridge-coburg-masterplan-2014-approval-pentridge-design-guidelines-and-masterplan-2014.pdf">Pentridge Coburg Design Guidelines and Masterplan</a> which will see buildings between 2 and 19 levels created. The development schedule within the document indicates that there will be four precincts within Pentridge Coburg with two precincts capable of handling high-rise development.

Supplementing the numerous expected apartment buildings will be a dedicated retail/dining piazza with Shayher Group's Anthony Goh indicating the developer is contemplating between 20 and 25 outlets.

 

Heritage retention will also be a key design factor within Pentridge Coburg with all existing historic buildings to be retained for public use throughout the site. Additionally, under the masterplan new buildings will be designed to combine and compliment with the existing heritage structures.


<blockquote>
To pay homage to the site’s heritage, the new precinct will host interactive historical displays to retain the site’s character while bringing renewed life to the prison through the careful placement of contemporary architecture to promote liveability and encourage future housing and economic growth.

We will continue to work closely with Heritage Victoria to ensure the practical restoration of old buildings is in line with their history and is undertaken in a manner that will improve their condition and preserve their heritage. We want to celebrate and retain the rich historical elements of Pentridge by creating an authentic place that Melbourne’s arts, community, cultural and small businesses groups want to be associated with.
<cite>Anthony Goh, Shayher Group</cite>
</blockquote>

Shayher Group will also this year oversee the restoration of the former jail’s seven guard towers as part of several years of heritage restoration works and archaeological surveys. Accordingly all buildings identified as significant heritage buildings will be retained and reactivated, including Divisions A, B, E, the former wardens building, the former administration building, prison walls and watch towers.

With NH Architecture responsible for the overall site masterplan, Anthony Goh has indicated that Shayher Group intend to utilise different architecture firms as the roll-out of the precinct proceeds.

<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_3368.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pentridge Village's first stage, Horizon Apartments, has progressed well "><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_3368.jpg?itok=Uspcwh2K" title="Pentridge Village's first stage, Horizon Apartments, has progressed well " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pentridge Coburg's first stage, Horizon Apartments, has progressed well</figcaption></figure>Pentridge Coburg's first apartment project designed by PRO-ARK is well into its build with head contractor Construction Engineering delivering Horizon Coburg. Consisting of over 50 apartments split between two buildings, Horizon Coburg which is due for completion late this year is currently supplemented by infrastructure works covering the site which will enable further projects to be delivered.

Shayher Group intend one of those projects to be 21 Pentridge Boulevard. Currently before DELWP, the apartment project consists of one tower spanning 19 levels with another more modest building of 9 levels. The Buchan Group-designed project could yield approximately 220 apartments over a site area of 6,300sqm.

The public release of 21 Pentridge Boulevard will occur following the completion of the planning permit application process, according to Anthony Goh.
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Shayher Group outline their grand Pentridge Coburg plans

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Super penthouses atop Melbourne's tallest apartment projects may be the headline story, but there is currently a groundswell within the inner and middle suburb luxury apartment sector as a string of new boutique projects on offer. Running hand in hand with these new releases is evidence that luxury off-the-plan property sales are substantially on the rise.

Property sales agent Marshall White Projects recently released figures showing that year on year sales of apartments valued in excess of $650,000 rose from 278 in 2014 to 507 during 2015. Further the agency recorded 51 off-the-plan sales over $1.5 million in 2015, with just 20 logged for the same period in 2014.

This equates to a 250 percent increase in just one year.

<blockquote>
There is no doubt that the off-the-plan market has changed considerably in the past 18 months. Traditionally, off-the-plan sales have suited first home buyers who may not have the capital behind them to buy a freestanding home, and local investors due who were drawn to the tax breaks and savings when purchasing off the plan.

Now, however, developers and sales agents have identified a new market demographic in older downsizers or families who want to spend the same amount of money they would on a terrace home, however they are now seeking out larger luxury apartments as a viable lifestyle option.

Over the past 12 months I would estimate that approximately 30 percent of our owner occupier purchasers have been downsizers, compared with just 15 percent the year before.

With this changing market in mind we are now recommending that our clients have consolidation opportunities already prepared before going to market for all new developments to allow for a substantial weighting towards large, three bedrooms, luxury apartments.
<cite>Leonard Teplin, Director, Marshall White Projects</cite>
</blockquote>

In the broader sense Apartments.com.au has also noted an increase in the inclusion of three bedroom apartments in many of the projects that have entered the Apartments.com.au Project Database of late, with certain projects now containing a majority three bedroom dwellings.

Customisation is also increasing in off in the off-the-plan market according to Marshall White Projects, with older owner occupiers now firmly in the driver’s seat when it came to the personalised design, layout and finish of their new apartment.

<blockquote>
It would be rare in this market if we didn’t sell a project without at least one instance of customisation or amalgamation. Today’s luxury apartment buyers know exactly what they want and they have the money behind them to make it happen. We are constantly seeing buyers purchase two apartments next to each other and working with the architects to create a truly bespoke, three or four-bedroom home.

18 months ago developers wouldn’t dream of creating a three bedroom – two living area or four-bedroom apartment within their projects – let alone a whole building of them – but now we are finding these larger offerings are the first to go, and if a building doesn’t have a three to four bedroom offering buyers will purchase two smaller apartments and customise their own.
<cite>Leonard Teplin, Director, Marshall White Projects</cite>
</blockquote>


Leonard Teplin has also called on the State Government to overturn the controversial Neighbourhood Planning Zones in order to keep up with this growing demand.

<blockquote>
This luxury downsizer market doesn’t want to live in a high rise building in the CBD; they are seeking low-rise, boutique apartment developments in quiet side streets in locations like South Yarra, Hawthorn, Camberwell, Toorak and Armadale. The problem is these new Neighbourhood Zones have now locked up much of the land that is suitable for these developments, which is severely limiting demand and creating undo pressure on the end user.

This will only inflate apartment prices down the track so something must be done to ensure we can continue to feed this demand into the future.

<cite>Leonard Teplin, Director, Marshall White Projects</cite>
</blockquote>


In light of the above seen below are three newly release projects set to further add to the Melbourne's luxury apartment stock:

<h2>Lindsay Brighton</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image15_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Jacmax's Lindsay Brighton. Image: Jacmax"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="276" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15_3.jpg?itok=1d8qDFQX" title="Jacmax's Lindsay Brighton. Image: Jacmax" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Jacmax's Lindsay Brighton. Image: Jacmax</figcaption></figure>Internationally award winning architects, Fearon Hay and property developer Jacmax has combined to create Lindsay Brighton. The first Victorian residential project for the New Zealand based design firm is designed with luxury detail in mind.

Three-meter high ceilings, seven-meter natural stone kitchen bench tops and full-height libraries with associated timber, bronze bookcases and ladders are some of the features included within the three level development.

<blockquote>
We wanted to transform the idea of apartment living through crafting a prestigious residential offering with opulent simplicity, providing a low maintenance, luxury lifestyle. There were no limitations when designing the residence. Fearon Hay were given a completely blank sheet.
<cite>Trent Skurrie, Director, Jacmax</cite>
</blockquote>

11 apartments make up the development with nine two and three-bedroom dwellings in addition to two penthouses. Pricing for the project begins at $1.6 million through to $4 million with apartment sizes beginning at 135sqm and increasing to a Penthouse-sized 297sqm.

<h2>Autun</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/image16_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Marshall White Projects will market Autun. Image: theautunestate.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="282" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image16_5.jpg?itok=uE09nCGf" title="Marshall White Projects will market Autun. Image: theautunestate.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Marshall White Projects will market Autun. Image: theautunestate.com.au</figcaption></figure>Marshall White Projects' latest offering is the Autun Estate low-rise apartment and townhouse project located in a quiet side within Malvern East.

Designed by Conrad Architects and with interiors by SJB, the development will consist of two, three and four bedroom residences with the surrounding gardens created by Jack Merlo Design. Builder Glenvill Homes has been appointed with the high-end project townhouses selling for $1.2 million and beyond.

<h2>Englefield</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image19_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Englefield exterior &amp; interior. Image: Perri Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_8.jpg?itok=o3DNiQgv" title="Englefield exterior &amp; interior. Image: Perri Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Englefield exterior &amp; interior. Image: Perri Projects</figcaption></figure>Perri Projects has created the ‘Tailored Living Residences’ concept that will see home automation, personalised valet services and remote control technology delivered to residents as part of Perri Projects’ new ‘The Englefield’ development in South Yarra. The bespoke development will hold seven penthouse-sized apartments.

<blockquote>
Our experience and research have indicated that there is a new demographic of purchasers seeking out luxury apartments in curated developments that offer convenience as well as space and privacy.

These purchasers are seeking a luxury apartment with either two or three bedrooms, a study and a large outdoor entertaining space, in a low-rise, premium address that affords them the privacy they desire. We have designed The Englefield to embody these principles; every apartment is of a large, discerning size, equipped with the highest calibre fittings and materials, and embellished with incredible lush landscaped surrounds.

We have enhanced the appeal of the project even further by adding unparalleled service and luxury to our owners through our tailored living concept
<cite>David Scalzo, Director, Perri Projects</cite>
</blockquote>
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The luxury apartment market on the rise

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Interdisciplinary consulting firm Urbis has released its latest figures on the state of Melbourne's apartment sector, providing both an overview of what transpired during the latter part of 2015, while also pointing toward prevailing trends for the remainder of 2016.

According to Urbis, Melbourne's off-the-plan apartment activity continued to gain momentum throughout 2015, despite a number of factors designed to bridle growth such as tightening lending criteria, overseas purchaser surcharges and changes to central city planning controls which have been discussed at length on Apartments.com.au during the last week.

Contained within the Urbis Melbourne 2015 Q4 Apartment Essentials report, figures show that the weighted average price of surveyed projects in inner Melbourne for Q4 2015 was $700,000, having ranged from $690,000 to $730,000 over the course of the 2015.

Project surveys over the year recorded apartments with prices ranging from $310,000 to $4,800,000, demonstrating the spread of product type and a diversified purchaser profile in the market.

<blockquote>
Even at a 6% premium, the higher prices recorded in the central precinct remain well below the $1 million average for new apartments in Inner Sydney, reinforcing Melbourne’s value proposition on the east coast.

The Urbis sales survey results serve as a reminder that there are a number of sub-markets operating in inner Melbourne, varied by location, target market and price. With a selection of luxury developments preparing for launch, prices could well extend beyond this range in 2016.
<cite>Mark Dawson, Director of Economics and Market Research, Urbis</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/image3urbis.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Urbis' Q4 2015 apartment price summary"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3urbis.jpg?itok=KzUHJFyr" title="Urbis' Q4 2015 apartment price summary" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Urbis' Q4 2015 apartment price summary</figcaption></figure><h2>Central City Supply Impacted by Planning Controls</h2>

Urbis research shows that 10 apartment projects had sold out at the close of Q3 2015, with a near equal number of projects launching their sales campaign during Q4. These fresh launches totalled 2,000 new apartments that hit the market as developers looked to capitalise upon both the improved weather and holiday season.

In terms of planning and future supply, 2015 witnessed an abnormal spike in planning submissions, particularly in the days leading to June 30 as the Metropolitan Planning Levy was implemented on July 1.

<blockquote>
By the end of the year in Q4, while the bulk of future supply continued to be concentrated in the Central precinct, there were early signs that uncertainty stemming from the interim controls had already started to apply the brakes to future development in the central city.
<cite>Mark Dawson, Director of Economics and Market Research, Urbis</cite>
</blockquote>

<a href="/news/new-permanent-central-city-controls-headed-to-independent-planning-panel">Amendment C270</a>, which plans to restrict the scope of development on both CBD and Southbank sites, raises the prospect of further moderation to future apartment supply numbers in the Central Precinct.

Urbis are currently monitoring 11 new projects in inner Melbourne which they expect to launch during the first half of 2016, with the likelihood that 3,000 new apartments will be taken to market. Urbis have also indicated that a number of these projects will be included within their Q1 2016 report, thus providing a barometer of purchaser demand and development opportunity in what has become a very dynamic Melbourne apartment market.

<h2>Urbis Melbourne 2015 Q4 Apartment Essentials report snapshot:</h2>

<ul>
<li>The weighted average sales price of apartments in Melbourne is $699,705 in Q4 2015, having ranged from $690,000-$730,000 throughout 2015.</li>
	<li>Based on the surveyed data, the Inner North remains the most affordable precinct in Melbourne to buy a new apartment, with an average weighted sale price of $518,230. Inner North suburbs include Brunswick, Brunswick East, Princes Hill, Parkville, Carlton North, Fitzroy North, Clifton Hill, North Melbourne, Carlton, Fitzroy, Collingwood and Abbotsford.</li>
	<li>Based on the surveyed data, Central remains the highest priced precinct with an average weighted sale price of $742,830. Central suburbs include Melbourne CBD, Melbourne (St Kilda Road), Docklands, Southbank and South Wharf.</li>
	<li>The Inner West precinct has seen a weighted average sale price of $570,600, an increase of $54,350 compared to Q3 2015. Inner West suburbs include Flemington, Kensington and West Melbourne.</li>
	<li>The two-bed, two-bath product remained the most popular across all precincts, equating to 45 per cent of total sales.</li>
	<li>Referencing the map above Inner East suburbs include East Melbourne, Richmond, Cremorne, Burnley, Toorak, South Yarra, Prahran, Windsor and Armadale.</li>
	<li>Referencing the map above Inner South suburbs include Albert Park, Balaclava, Elwood, Middle Park, Port Melbourne, Ripponlea, South Melbourne, St Kilda, St Kilda East and St Kilda West.</li>
</ul>
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Urbis research shows apartments to remain a key driver of Melbourne’s growth

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The veil may have been lifted (or lowered) on Southbank's latest notable Arts Precinct project. 

Denton Corker Marshall have via their website provided imagery for what was one of a number of invited competition entrants for Melbourne University's new Melbourne Conservatorium of Music. The facility is expected to eventually consolidate the university's full music program to Southbank within the purpose built complex.

A <a href="http://mag.alumni.unimelb.edu.au/opening-the-southbank-campus-to-melbourne/">three stage development process</a> will see Victoria Police's Mounted Branch vacate their Dodds Street, Southbank address, allowing for the redevelopment of the stables into a new multipurpose facility for the Victorian College of the Arts. This in turn will facilitate the delivery of the new Conservatorium Building on what is now a vacant Sturt Street car park abutting the Southbank Theatre - Melbourne Theatre Company.

<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/image5dcm.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="MTC and the proposed MCM side by side. Image: Denton Corker Marshall"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="268" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5dcm.jpg?itok=7QIo8GH4" title="MTC and the proposed MCM side by side. Image: Denton Corker Marshall" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>MTC and the proposed MCM side by side. Image: Denton Corker Marshall</figcaption></figure>Whilst not successful, the Denton Corker Marshall imagery is representative of the intended building's outcome in both size and transparency.  Denton Corker Marshall's entry would have provided a translucent design featuring a spiral staircase running the height of the building.

The northern facade would have also employed a stone finish in line with that of the neighbouring Southbank Theatre.

Melbourne University's move to relocate the existing Parkville-based Melbourne Conservatorium of Music to Southbank will allow the faculty to be positioned in the Melbourne Arts Precinct with institutions such as the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Hamer Hall and Melbourne Recital Centre nearby.

The new Melbourne Conservatorium of Music and stables redevelopment forms part of the the Victorian Government’s <a href="http://file:///C:/Users/User/Downloads/Melbourne_Arts_Precinct_Blueprint.pdf">Melbourne Arts Precinct Blueprint</a>, which sees a vision for a "connected Arts Precinct that is a must-see part of Melbourne, known for its distinctive character and vibrant arts experiences."

<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/image6dcm.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Veiled and luminous. Image: Denton Corker Marshall"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="359" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6dcm.jpg?itok=y3NlI0qH" title="Veiled and luminous. Image: Denton Corker Marshall" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Veiled and luminous. Image: Denton Corker Marshall</figcaption></figure>The Dodds Street stables development on the other hand is a roughly $40 million conversion with the result being a new visual arts wing for the Victorian College of the Arts.

<a href="http://www.dtpli.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/295586/2-P23016-Heritage-Design-Statement.pdf">Online plans</a> directed toward Heritage Victoria outline the intended conversion of the 1912-1929 structure. The double storey stables wing is expected to become studio &amp; exhibition space while the former riding school wing is earmarked to become performing arts space, leaving the prominent octagon to morph into an events space/gallery, administration and school front of house space.

According to the Melbourne University Magazine the project is supported by the Victorian Government, the University of Melbourne, the Faculty and philanthropic bodies including the Myer Foundation, Ian Potter Foundation and Martyn and Louise Myer.
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Is this the next addition to Melbourne's Arts Precinct?

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A'Beckett Street is arguably the best example of any inner city locale when considering the rapid change that has befallen inner Melbourne in recent years. With 2010 as a starting point, no less than 16 separate projects have or are seeking to maintain a frontage to A'Beckett Street, radically altering its feel and composition.

Apartments projects have been the most popular pursuit, with education-based builds and serviced apartment projects also represented. Moreover, the eastern end of the street, at the intersection with Swanston Street, will bear witness to the 'City North' station as part of the Melbourne Metro which according to available public domain information, will be located directly under Swanston Street between Franklin and La Trobe Streets.

For so long an almost 'sleepy' part of Melbourne's CBD with low-rise buildings lining either side, the new built form along A'Beckett Street has radically altered the streetscape with an overabundance of tall, slim towers with little to no setbacks.

A chronology of A'Beckett Street's evolution since 2010 is as follows:

<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_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A'Beckett Apartments, A'Beckett Tower and City Tempo"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="453" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image51_2.jpg?itok=eCJJc8sd" title="A'Beckett Apartments, A'Beckett Tower and City Tempo" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A'Beckett Apartments, A'Beckett Tower and City Tempo</figcaption></figure>The very modest A'Beckett Apartments was first to reach completion during 2010, followed closely by the altogether mediocre City Tempo serviced apartment development on A'Beckett and Queen. Some Elenberg Fraser-inspired style resulted in the colourful A'Beckett Tower; what essentially became Pan Urban's swansong project with a 2011 completion and the 2011 Dulux Colour Award to boot.

<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/image52_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Swanston Academic Building and 204 A'Beckett Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image52_2.jpg?itok=zDqTmiFi" title="Swanston Academic Building and 204 A'Beckett Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Swanston Academic Building and 206 A'Beckett Street</figcaption></figure>Arguably A'Beckett Street's greatest new built form arrived during 2012 with RMIT's Swanston Academic Building taking its place opposite A'Beckett Tower, with both combining to provide the Swanston Street panorama with an exemplary splash of colour and design dare.

2012 also ushered in the Pegasus Apart'Hotel at 206 A'Beckett Street, a Doig Architecture creation delivered by Merkon Constructions.

<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/image54_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="MY80, Istana and Fulton Lane"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="318" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image54_3.jpg?itok=PCjTCwE9" title="MY80, Istana and Fulton Lane" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>MY80, Istana and Fulton Lane</figcaption></figure>2014 and 2015 saw A'Beckett Street change evolve further, this time at the hands of Malaysian-based developers.

MY80 in many ways set the pace and scale for what would and still continuing to be the building boom in the northern reaches of Melbourne's CBD. Mammoth Empire's success with MY80 was replicated with Magna Prima's Istana and SP Setia's Fulton Lane; Asian developer-backed super-sized projects had arrived on A'Beckett Street!

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image56_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Avant, Empire and EQ Tower"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="826" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image56_3.jpg?itok=oHO908W1" title="Avant, Empire and EQ Tower" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Avant, Empire and EQ Tower</figcaption></figure>At present three substantial residential towers are under construction with all being backed by Asian-affiliated developers.

EQ Tower is well into construction as is Empire on Elizabeth and A'Beckett, while Avant Tower is the most recent start with Probuild tasked with delivering the 57-level tower which will be cloaked in a distinctive hue of pink upon completion.

<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/350_queen_st_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Queens Place will bring a new vigour to A'Brckett Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="426" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/350_queen_st_1.jpg?itok=FtkDic0y" title="Queens Place will bring a new vigour to A'Brckett Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Queens Place will bring a new vigour to A'Brckett Street</figcaption></figure>What shapes to be the biggest build also promises much by way of street level activation. Queens Place is dominated by two hulking residential towers yet it will be at street level where it's hoped the project will shine.

Cox Architecture and Fender Katsalidis have created a highly articulated podium for the project that is very accommodating at street level; should the project live up to the renders it will be a clear winner on a public realm level and may well put its other A'Beckett Street contemporaries to shame.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image57_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="111-125 A’Beckett, 183-189 A'Beckett, 48-50 A'Beckett and 24-46 A'Beckett"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image57_5.jpg?itok=eUGN1B0q" title="111-125 A’Beckett, 183-189 A'Beckett, 48-50 A'Beckett and 24-46 A'Beckett" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>111-125 A’Beckett, 183-189 A'Beckett, 48-50 A'Beckett and 24-46 A'Beckett</figcaption></figure>Four substantial projects are still at planning, headed by Tong Eng Group's 111-125 A’Beckett Street. While it has support from City of Melbourne, another contemporary at 183-189 A’Beckett Street has fallen short of City of Melbourne's expectations. Having said that, the final decision lies with the Minister for Planning.

What was briefly marketed as Uni Tower at 48-50 A'Beckett went back to planning and duly received the green light during December 2015 while the latest entrant to A'Beckett Street is RMIT's fresh proposal for a mixed-use tower opposite their Swanston Academic Building. This is the subject of a <a href="/news/rmits-play-for-a-new-abeckett-street-footprint">separate article</a>.

A'Beckett Street has been transformed in a remarkably short period of time and with a number of ripe development sites tagged for development its evolution from quite CBD street to a prime apartment tower hot spot looks set to continue.
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The chronology and evolution of A'Beckett Street

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RMIT University is hoping to continue its substantial building program with a sizeable mixed-use tower set for a long held A'Beckett Street address.

Entering planning during late 2015, the new proposal designed by Denton Corker Marshall would provide additional educational space and 11 levels of office space, most likely for ancillary university use. Located at 24-46 A’Beckett Street the project also represents Denton Corker Marshall's third tower in the RMIT precinct, joining two active large-scale student housing towers in development.

Although the proposal will result in the loss of an urban park, the site was always expected to be developed by RMIT and has been subject to a proposal as far back as a decade ago.

<h2>24-46 A’Beckett Street, Melbourne 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/image48_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="RMIT's latest precinct addition. Planning image: DCM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="758" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_3.jpg?itok=HHqqyPk5" title="RMIT's latest precinct addition. Planning image: DCM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>RMIT's latest precinct addition. Planning image: DCM</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Current 2,806 square metre site use: temporary urban park</li>
	<li>Proposed 24 level mixed-use tower at 115.2 metres</li>
	<li>Levels 1-13 subject to educational uses over 16,708 square metres</li>
	<li>Levels 13-23 dedicated to 13,954 square metres of office space</li>
	<li>Two ground floor retail tenancies over 472 square metres</li>
	<li>206 bicycle parking spaces, gym, 15 showers and 120 lockers included</li>
	<li>Gross floor area: 46,813 square metres</li>
	<li>Project value: $137.4 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>City of Melbourne generally supportive</h2>

24-46 A’Beckett Street's podium will consist of a lower section of metal cladding with a lighter element above containing voids throughout which act as break out areas and terraces. The tower section gently tapers in and will be finished with a metal clad and glazing similar to the lower aspect of the podium.

City of Melbourne is broadly supportive of the proposal with the terraces recessed into the podium noted as being a strong design initiative. Colonnades have been included along each street front providing contrast to more recent builds in the vicinity.

Post assessment from City of Melbourne planning staff, it has been resolved that the Future Melbourne Committee will support the application, with the final decision on the project to be made by the Minister for Planning.

<h2>RMIT continues to invest in facilities</h2>

The assessment of 24-46 A’Beckett Street comes as construction progresses on RMIT's latest city campus project, New Academic Street. Under the guidance of Lend Lease, New Academic Street will see an upgrade to the lower levels of existing Buildings 8, 10, 12 and 14, opening these buildings up to the surrounding city.

At a cost of approximately $220 million, New Academic Street is set to be delivered incrementally with a target completion date of July 2017.

New Academic Street is a follow-up project to RMIT's Swanston Academic Building and Design Hub on the corner of Victoria and Swanston Streets. Combined these projects and 24-46 A’Beckett Street would push RMIT's investment in educational facilities to well beyond $1 billion.

<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_2374.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lend Lease is progressing with RMIT's NAS."><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_2374.jpg?itok=i0axc8BU" title="Lend Lease is progressing with RMIT's NAS." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lend Lease is progressing with RMIT's NAS.</figcaption></figure><h2>RMIT and VU on the same wavelength</h2>

RMIT's A'Beckett Street proposal draws parallels with another nearby university-driven mixed-use development.

Victoria University holds approval for a similar sized tower of approximately 43,300 square metres at 364 Little Lonsdale Street. Both developments seek to greatly expand the educational capabilities of either institution in a high density format, while also adding a sizeable amount of office space.

Both projects see direct educational facilities over lower levels, with upper levels dedicated to support offices and academic staff work spaces.

Victoria University's project has not advanced to construction as yet, raising the prospect that both towers may potentially rise simultaneously in the years to come.

<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/image49vu.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="VU Tower's intended mixed use. Image: Jackson Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="379" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image49vu.jpg?itok=O5vdRyjv" title="VU Tower's intended mixed use. Image: Jackson Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>VU Tower's intended city campus. Image: Jackson Architecture</figcaption></figure>
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RMIT's play for a new A'Beckett Street footprint

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Footscray is set to accommodate another massive apartment project within the Joseph Road Precinct Urban Renewal Area as developer Growland Group prepares to launch Joseph Place.

Set over a 13,500 square metre former Toyota dealership, the site is currently in the final stages of remediation with the beginnings of a display suite taking shape. It's purpose will be to woo prospective buyers for Joseph Place's apartments which number near on 1,000.

The $600 million mixed-use master planned urban village which is expected to house up to 3,000 residents eventually will consist of six buildings, in addition to amenities such as Melbourne’s first elevated Olympic-sized running track, podium-top gardens and amenities and a retail laneway linking Footscray to the Maribyrnong River.

<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_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Joseph Place has gained a new exterior. Image: Growland Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="464" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_2.jpg?itok=yXeAn8AK" title="Joseph Place has gained a new exterior. Image: Growland Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Joseph Place has gained a new exterior. Image: Growland Group</figcaption></figure>4-8 Hopkins Street has been in the planning system since 2013 with Places Victoria initiating a master planned outcome for the site which along with neighbouring sites forms the backbone of Joseph Road Precinct. Kavellaris Urban Design has been working on Joseph Place as project lead for an extended period of time with State Goverment approval for the development in the offing.

In addition to the roughly 1,000 apartments, a hotel has also been mooted for Joseph Place. Ground level will see 30 retailers split over 4,000 square metres of retail space and public open spaces, with an emphasis on food-driven outlets, continuing the trend of popular eateries in and around the area.

<blockquote>
Joseph Place will elevate what’s on offer in Footscray, bringing its amenity in line with its inner city neighbours. The elevated Olympic-sized running track takes the idea of an apartment gym to the next level, encouraging health and wellbeing outdoors, but not out in the Melbourne traffic.

The aim is to do something different and bring to Footscray a new style of living that celebrates connection and resonates with Footscray’s existing multicultural heritage and established food scene.

People want to interact with each other – it’s partly why cities are growing so rapidly and it informed how we approached the design of this site. We want this area to become a social, economic and residential hub on the city fringe that makes people’s lives better – and that’s achievable through a combination of great housing, world-class amenity and vibrant retail.
<cite>Kavellaris Urban Design director Billy Kavellaris</cite>
</blockquote>

Joseph Place will also likely include a rock climbing wall and theatre, with the array of amenities onsite possible due to the excessively large size of the 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/image42.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Podium top garden. Image: Growland Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image42.jpg?itok=Yt9u35_5" title="Podium top garden. Image: Growland Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Podium top garden. Image: Growland Group</figcaption></figure>In early design iterations Joseph Place was to have maintained <a href="/news/council-apprehensive-over-the-revamped-939-apartment-8-hopkins-street">an all glass exterior</a>, although new renders have seen the project's exterior change markedly in composition but not so in shape. Joseph Place's buildings will still carry an eye-catching undulating form.

Growland Group's advancement of Joseph Place comes as the expanding developer is working on further apartment projects in Moonee Ponds, St Kilda Road and Highett, with the latter <a href="/news/rothelowman-seeks-a-new-high-design-benchmark-of-highett">recently covered</a> by Apartments.com.au, although Joseph Place is expected to be the first project to launch sales.

<blockquote>
Footscray is currently in the midst of a demographic shift - attracting a new wave of students, young professionals and working families who are looking to reside in a well-connected community with easy access to transport services and state-of-the-art retail, dining and leisure facilities on their doorstep.

The inner west has been recognised as one of Melbourne’s most undervalued opportunities and is due for rapid growth over the next two to five years. The future growth potential of Footscray is huge and Joseph Place signals a renaissance in the area.
<cite>Growland CEO Stephen  Yau</cite>
</blockquote>

Pending approval the project's sales campaign will be launched in coming months with construction expected to begin in early 2017.
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Growland Group readies Joseph Place as Footscray's next super project

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Icon Co. signage has appeared on two irregular Melbourne developments with the builder pursuing the conversion of two former commercial buildings into high end apartments and an apartment hotel. Conversions of existing structures have historically been a none too common occurrence in Melbourne relative to new build projects.

Developer LAS Group and project partner Qualitas have awarded Icon the $85 million task of converting the former Fawkner Business Centre offices at 499 St Kilda Road into The Fawkner; a parkside apartment development with an end value of $300 million.

Dated 1973, the existing structure will be retained, with all internals and existing facade currently being stripped 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/image6_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Early demolition works and the intended result. Image: KPDO"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="265" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_6.jpg?itok=91BaJwkE" title="Early demolition works and the intended result. Image: KPDO" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Early demolition works and the intended result. Image: KPDO</figcaption></figure>The conversion of the former office building will allow for lofty ceilings and large floorplates with design firm K.P.D.O. responsible for creating more than 60 different apartment layouts over nineteen levels.

<blockquote>
An industry leader with 19 years of experience and proven capabilities in commercial and residential construction and development, we believe Icon Co. is best placed to realise the site’s potential and deliver our vision for an unparalleled premium residential offering that showcases the best of apartment living,
<cite>Les Smith, Managing Director, LAS Group</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
This is a significant project for Qualitas, and we needed an experienced contractor who was willing to ‘roll up their sleeves’ to help us unlock the puzzle of the adaptive reuse of the existing building. Icon Co. worked in partnership with us to achieve that outcome, and their recent partnership with Kajima Corporation of Japan provides significant balance sheet strength in support of the project.
<cite>Mark Fischer, Managing Director, Principal Investments at Qualitas</cite>
</blockquote>

The Fawkner amenities include an infinity pool atop the level seven podium, a health and wellness centre, open air courtyard, gymnasium, lounge areas, business facilities, theatre and cellar. Working collaboratively with the client and design team Icon Co. expect the project which is 80% sold to reach completion during mid 2017.

Also on Icon Co.'s agenda is the conversion of nearby 14 Queens Road. Comparatively more advanced than the Fawkner, the Queens Road build which is currently little more than a shell will see the delivery of private apartments and a Tyrian-branded serviced apartment hotel.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image7arthur.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Arthur with test pod and the rendered finish. Image: Hallmarc"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="270" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7arthur.jpg?itok=9Gab8v6B" title="The Arthur with test pod and the rendered finish. Image: Hallmarc" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Arthur with test pod and the rendered finish. Image: Hallmarc</figcaption></figure>Developer Hallmarc is behind the mixed-use project which they reportedly purchased for $13 million during February 2013.

Set on a 2,326sqm site Arthur will include near on 100 apartments and Melboune's second Tyrian Serviced Apartments behind the existing 4.5 star Fitzroy location. Included within the build is a rooftop pool, dining, entertaining and fitness facilities.

The addition of the above two projects swells Icon Co.’s current Victorian build portfolio to well in excess of $500 million, with 2016 likely to see the company deliver $1,557 million worth of projects across three states.

Icon Co.'s largest current Melbourne project is Southbank's Shadow Play with the fledgling build valued at $126 million and set to add another 494 apartments upon its expected May 2018 completion date.
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Icon Co. snare two unique apartment builds

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It's a period of intense activity for Melbourne-based Milieu Property with the expanding developer recently notching a significant milestone as a string of boutique projects come to the fore.

Milieu Property has won its first international gong at the recent Asia Pacific Property Awards, taking out the Project Marketing category for the 5-Star award. The recognition relates to Peel by Milieu, the developer's sold out Collingwood apartment project that is currently in the early stages of construction.

The Asia Pacific Property Awards are judged by an independent panel of 70 industry experts, with judging focuses on design, quality, service, innovation, originality, and commitment to sustainability.

An onsite display gallery bolstered by innovative print, online and outdoor advertising formed the backbone of the award-winning sales campaign with exhibitions also held within the onsite building which was heavily modified to create the display suite.

In a novel move, Milieu Property also created the 'Melbourne Milieu Broadsheet’, which had a print run of 20,000 copies and was distributed locally in order to garner awareness for both the development and display exhibitions.

<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_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Peel's construction is set to begin with site piling complete. Image: Milieu "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="268" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20_3.jpg?itok=3mtUTWvK" title="Peel's construction is set to begin with site piling complete. Image: Milieu " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Peel's construction is set to begin with site piling complete. Image: Milieu</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Reflecting on the campaign from start to finish I could not be prouder of what we have achieved. We are honoured to have our Peel By Milieu marketing campaign recognised and awarded by our peers at the International Property Awards.
At the time, Peel was our biggest project to date and the campaign we created was the next phase for Milieu and a step toward larger scale projects, consequently special attention and care were a must and we set out to attract, engage and inspire our target market.
<cite>Michael McCormack, Director, Milieu Property</cite>
</blockquote>

Milieu Property are hoping to replicate the success of their Peel Street endeavour with their latest project to hit marketing: Nth FITZROY.

Designed by Fieldwork, the project will feature 26 apartments within a skinned building, with operable external louvres set to maintain a dynamic look over the exterior. Interiors for the project have been designed by Flack Studio, with double glazed windows and cross ventilation for each apartment.

<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_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of Nth FITZROY. Image: Milieu"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="320" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_7.jpg?itok=JrJF3hyT" title="Artist's impression of Nth FITZROY. Image: Milieu" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of Nth FITZROY. Image: Milieu</figcaption></figure>A display gallery at 3 York Street, Fitzroy North will hope to emulate the format of Milieu's Collingwood display suite. A pop up store and coffee outlet form part of the Nth FITZROY display, with the project's public launch slated for May 7.

Fieldwork have also designed Milieu Property's latest project at 2-8 Barry Street, Brunswick. With approval in place for a four level apartment building containing 36 apartments, Milieu Property have elected to pursue a more modest residential project of 21 dwellings within a four and five storey building.

Although Milieu Property expected the project to hit the market in mid 2016, the scheme is still with Moreland City Council with further assessment sought after the initial application advertising period.
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Milieu Property nabs an international award and launches Nth FITZROY

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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

Mark Baljak

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