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Two inactive walls spanning 100 metres in a highly visible corner of Melbourne's CBD. Is this really the best design outcome all parties involved could conjure? Maybe it is, but it is a blight on Melbourne's skyline.

Notwithstanding the likelihood that the project in question at 560 Flinders Street will receive a serious paint job, the blank edifices to north and west are ghastly and a reflection of a poor design outcome sanctioned by those vested in maintaining Melbourne's design standards. 560 Flinders Street isn't exactly alone either when it comes to creating vast blank spaces in Melbourne's skyline.

109 Clarendon Street on Southbank, for instance, maintains a precast eastern elevation set back from the podium, thus forever remaining exposed - this is sheer planning stupidity!

Granted certain development sites with common boundaries should maintain blank walls with an eye towards future adjoining development, but there are many which will remain exposed indefinitely. 560 Flinders Street, for example, is surrounded by the 1920's Markillies Hotel to both inactive elevations; the prospects of both blank walls remaining visible permanently is very real.

<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/image5_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A blight on our fair city"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="330" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5_4.jpg?itok=fIkXm1mj" title="A blight on our fair city" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A blight on our fair city; 560 Flinders and Marco currently under construction</figcaption></figure>Planning Minister Richard Wynne's move last year to tweak planning laws will go some way to eliminating these poor design outcomes, with minimum tower separations set in place which will encourage active elevations to all sides for future developments. Simultaneously these planning changes will also highly likely lead to existing blank walls remaining so.

So how should this blight be addressed? Logically no inactive precast walls/elevations above the podium levels is a no-brainer!

Yet how to address certain existing projects with retrospective design changes? Setting aside prohibitive cost and engineering issues for a moment and stepping into a utopian outcome, could green walls be fitted to precast elevations which have no prospect of being covered?

<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/contemporary-eco-friendly-architecture-design-ideas-residential-buildings.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Contemporary and creative but not compulsory. Image courtesy Minimalisti"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="873" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/contemporary-eco-friendly-architecture-design-ideas-residential-buildings.jpg?itok=Sbmtk_KT" title="Contemporary and creative but not compulsory. Image courtesy Minimalisti" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Contemporary and creative but not compulsory. Image: Minimalisti</figcaption></figure>Seen above is a prime example of what can be achieved on a grand scale regarding greening a large elevation. Various examples exist around Melbourne on a smaller scale, with Triptych Southbank's south-facing podium a premier example; could this just not be extended to cover an entire elevation? The equivalent green wall applied to a Melbourne building would be stunning.

Perhaps this strategy could be jointly adopted by the City of Melbourne and the State Government by contributing to initial costs of implementation, with body corp to assume ongoing costs thereafter. City of Melbourne is <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/community/parks-open-spaces/greening-the-city/Pages/green-roofs-walls-facades.aspx">already encouraging greening existing roofs, walls or facades</a>. Why not take it a step further?

Like most problems, if enough money is thrown at it an outcome can be found. But can the outcome justify the expense?

Venturing back to the land of reality, such a scheme would be hamstrung by a variety of factors including structural integrity, safety, drainage, wind forces and of course cost. Yes, the logistics of implementing this idea of retrospective green walls to inactive high-rise elevations is verging on impossible, but it's a far more palatable outcome than some of the precast visual pollution Melbourne has and is being subjected to.

Lead image courtesy Minimalisti &amp; Oh-Yes-Melbourne
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silvermb

A green solution to an unsightly problem

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What are the emerging trends of 2016 in terms of property development? A strong indicator can be gained by assessing what is generally the first step in the development process: site acquisition.

The current batch of development sites listed with various selling agencies does indeed reveal/bolster the emergence of middle and outer suburban Melbourne development sites as the main market driver, where in recent years Melbourne's CBD and Southbank held sway.

A likely cause of the CBD subsiding from recent highs is the absence of premium/high profile sites available. While many of Melbourne's largest developers are yet to act upon major projects in their keep within City of Melbourne, last year's change to planning laws has also resulted in sites capable of obtaining large scale permits decreasing.

Add the proportionately high number of apartments under construction in Southbank and Melbourne's CBD, and a given vendor's ability to capitalise upon strong prices looks to have been somewhat stymied.

So with top end developers scrapping it out in areas such as the CBD, Southbank, Docklands and South Yarra , many mid-tier developers are eyeing off surrounding municipalities and outer suburbs with the intent of developing apartments, which is coinciding with an upswing in attached living preferences in those suburbs.

However, there is one CBD site that will attract much attention.

<h2>The Marquee site</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/image7_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective of 308 Exhibition. Image courtesy CBRE City Sales"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_7.jpg?itok=Wx3EIAbZ" title="Aerial perspective of 308 Exhibition. Image courtesy CBRE City Sales" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective of 308 Exhibition. Image courtesy CBRE City Sales</figcaption></figure>Without question the highest profile site currently on offer, 308 Exhibition Street at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD is set to be divested by Telstra in the wake of the telco's move to shy away from developing a new commercial complex onsite. Telstra's non-move will be a developer's gain, with the 4,100sqm site capable of handling multiple towers.

CBRE City Sales are parading the site which has 138 metres of frontage and is perched above Carlton Gardens. A mixed-use development looks likely with indicative renders suggesting massive dual towers as a likely outcome for 308 Exhibition Street.

<h2>Fishermans Bend movements</h2>

As development continues to take hold within Fishermans Bend, a steady flow of sites have been made available with vendors seeking top dollar in current market conditions.

Latest to list is 85-93 Lorimer Street with Little Projects hoping for top dollar from the sale of the site which comes with approval for 940 apartments. Colliers are handling the Elenberg Fraser-designed twin tower scheme.

The Lorimer Street listing follows hot on the heels of 253-273 Normanby Road, South Melbourne which shapes as a massive land banking opportunity. Incumbent Oxford Press utilises the 7,661sqm site and has the option to stay on through to the end of 2018, by which time the areas surrounding 253-273 Normanby Road will be sprouting with high-rise residential projects.

Underlining the potential of 253-273 Normanby Road are adjoining properties which banded together to submit plans for <a href="/news/1500-new-apartments-slated-for-fishermans-bend">1,500 apartments during 2015</a>.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image9_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fishermans Bend offerings"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_4.jpg?itok=5ZHwdG0Y" title="Fishermans Bend offerings" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Fishermans Bend offerings</figcaption></figure>SPEC Property continues to sell-off approved development schemes with Lemon Baxter and CBRE City Sales appointed to move 51-59 Thistlethwaite Street. After a 13 month battle to gain approval, the Fishermans Bend scheme joins SPEC's former North Melbourne site at 3-5 Shiel Street in being offered to prospective buyers.

Elsewhere and Colliers is handling 11-21 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne which is another site earmarked for residential conversion.

<h2>Suburban sway</h2>

With over 20 current development sites listed in middle and outer Melbourne suburbs, medium-scale residential developments are proving popular. With the tightening in the availability of inner city development sites and the continued upward trajectory of apartment living in the suburbs.

This is reflected by the spread of suburbs with development sites on the market. Ringwood, Coburg, Ivanhoe, Greensborough, Doncaster East, Essendon and Glen Iris are present, with a host of other suburbs in tow.

With the majority of development sites skewed toward the eastern and northern suburbs, Savills for instance have a number of sites set for residential development. 47-49 Norman Street holds a permit for 43 apartments within ever popular Ivanhoe while 541 Sydney Road looms as a likely residential development.

Demolition of the adjoining site has begun in preparation for an 8 level apartment building, raising the likelihood of a new apartment enclave fronting Sydney Road.

<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_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Development sites: possible, potential and probable"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_6.jpg?itok=6TTdPt02" title="Development sites: possible, potential and probable" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Development sites: possible, potential and probable</figcaption></figure>There is of course an exception to the rule. Almost inexplicably 9-11 Ellingworth Parade within Box Hill has yet to find a buyer. Listed with Lindellas for an extended period of time, the property holds approval for 58 apartments, 6 offices and retail space over 12 levels.

Box Hill has been and still remains the suburban Melbourne apartment powerhouse.

<h2>A true test of the market</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/1_06-03-2012_3222.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Boom Property Group is selling 135 The Esplanade, Caroline Springs."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="201" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1_06-03-2012_3222.jpg?itok=qerzyj2Z" title="Boom Property Group is selling 135 The Esplanade, Caroline Springs." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Boom Property Group is selling 135 The Esplanade, Caroline Springs.</figcaption></figure>If ever one site shaped as a true test of developers appetite for, 135 The Esplanade on the bank of Lake Caroilne may just be that site. Caroline Springs is no stranger to apartment living, but a project of the magnitude has yet to see the light of day in the relatively new fringe suburb.

Ray White are handling the sale of the 2,237sqm land parcel which comes with approval for 101 apartments above a retail space. At seven levels it would be the suburb's tallest structure.

Should a buyer promptly snap up 135 The Esplanade it would likely indicate that there's plenty of steam in the market and much belief in the future of higher density living in fringe suburban locations.
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Development sites presently advertised for sale offer a reflection of the current market

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Epworth HealthCare is about to embark upon a large-scale redevelopment of the Freemasons Hospital, providing a new state of the art Cancer Centre in the process.

The not-for-profit hospital has lodged plans with Melbourne City Council that would see the new centre provide a single point of care facility for patients within the East Melbourne Health and Knowledge Precinct. Epworth Freemasons emerges as the finishing touches are applied to major redevelopments of two additional Epworth facilities in both Richmond and Geelong.

Two new buildings are key to the Freemasons project, with one fronting Grey Street and the other Albert Street. Health architecture firm Silver Thomas Hanley is joined by John Wardle Architects for the design of the revamped Freemasons..

<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/image84_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The new Grey Street building. Imahe courtesy Epworth"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="360" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image84_3.jpg?itok=3u3pc1Rg" title="The new Grey Street building. Imahe courtesy Epworth" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The new Grey Street building. Imahe courtesy Epworth</figcaption></figure>Demolition of the existing nurses quarters to Grey Street and the administration ‘flat’ building to Albert Street is expected, with a number of other services relocated to allow for the redevelopment.

Grey Street will host a ten storey facility dubbed the Grey Street Centre which will accommodate spaces for education/training, day procedure and theatre rooms, with the bulk of space absorbed by medical consulting suites. Lower levels of the building will be integrated with the existing Freemasons facility.

Albert Street on the other hand will present as a single level building, yet hold six levels of basement car parking for 309 vehicles below what will become an integrated patient drop off and primary hospital entrance point.

With an estimated cost of development valued at $53 million, Epworth Freemasons follows in the steps of two substantially larger developments underpinned by the healthcare provider.

<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_1112.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Epworth Richmond's Lee Wing is externally complete"><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_1112.jpg?itok=gOkz7uzY" title="Epworth Richmond's Lee Wing is externally complete" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Epworth Richmond's Lee Wing is externally complete</figcaption></figure>Kane Constructions have freshly completed the first phase of Epworth Richmond's Erin Street development. Known as Lee Wing, the building is the first to front Erin Street in a project that when completed beyond 2020 will add an additional 96,000 sqm of Gross Building Area to the existing complex.

Whilst the Silver Thomas Hanley-designed scheme for the entire Epworth Richmond holds an estimated construction cost of $700 million, Lee Wing is valued at in excess of $120 million.

Lee Wing building features include a new Emergency Department, an Intensive Care Unit, new operating theatres, inpatient accommodation and new consulting suites above a five level basement car park with over 250 spaces.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Epworth Geelong. Image courtesy Silver Thomas Hanley"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2_3.jpg?itok=KydN9F6x" title="Epworth Geelong. Image courtesy Silver Thomas Hanley" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Epworth Geelong. Image courtesy Silver Thomas Hanley</figcaption></figure>Brookfiled Multiplex are also approaching the finishing line for Epworth Geelong. Located in Waurn Ponds the $447 million hospital will be developed over four stages with stage one set to be unveiled mid year.

In conjunction with nearby Deakin University the hospital will act as an extension to the education precinct,  whilst also catering toward a host of medical applications. Clinical training for undergraduate/postgraduate medical, nursing and allied health students will be made available within the new hospital.

Epworth Geelong was listed as Victoria’s second largest building project in 2014 in terms of value of permits issued.
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Freemasons to be redeveloped as Epworth continues to develop

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Freshly lodged with City of Yarra, Abbotsford's 247-249 Johnston Street is back in the spotlight with Pace Development Group endeavouring to gain approval for a 14 level residential building.

Although shorter than a failed proposal by the previous developer Abbotsford JV Pty Ltd to gain approval for a residential building onsite, the current 247-249 Johnston Street if approved would still stand as one of the suburbs tallest buildings. Pace Development Group secured the development site during early 2015 and had initially <a href="/news/a-test-of-wills-looms-over-a-prime-abbotsford-development-site">gone to Council requesting a 19 level residential tower</a>.

With the current application lodged four weeks ago, Yarra City Council will not decide upon the merits of the application until at least the end of March.

<h2>247-249 Johnston 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/image77_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the new streetscape. Image by SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image77_0.jpg?itok=Afcft6h9" title="Artist's impression of the new streetscape. Image by SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the new streetscape. Image by SJB Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application submitted February 2016</li>
	<li>Onsite commercial buildings include St Crispin House, over a site area of 2,300sqm</li>
	<li>Proposed 14 level buildings @ 48.84 metres</li>
	<li>167 apartments: 68 x 1BR, 7 x 1BR+S, 85 x 2BR, 2 x 2BR+S, 5 x 3BR</li>
	<li>3 level basement incorporating 214 parking spaces, 205 bicycles and 193 storage spaces</li>
	<li>2 ground floor retails spaces of 153.7sqm and 450sqm</li>
	<li>Communal amenities include pool, BBQ area, deck, lounge/dining space and landscaped area</li>
	<li>Nominal project cost: $45 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Height and heritage</h2>

A previous proposal for 247-249 Johnston Street landed at VCAT during 2012, and although unsuccessful the current development team have taken queues from that case in order to aid their planning application.

Rejected for differing reasons at 17 levels, the current proposal calls for 14 levels where council have nominated 8-10 levels as their preferred outcome under the <a href="http://file:///C:/Users/User/Downloads/JOHNSTON_STREET_LAP_ADOPTED_2015.pdf">Johnston Street Local Area Plan</a> which was adopted during December 2015. Urbis have noted within the current town planning report that "these are heights and street setbacks as guidelines only, with the primary goal being to achieve the design objectives."

In addition VCAT at the time found that “there would be no unreasonable amenity impacts resulting from a tall building (whether it be 11, 14-16 or 17 storeys)” at 247-249 Johnston Street, perhaps indicating that a building of 14 levels for height purposes alone would be acceptable.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image79_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Expected Stafford Street interface. Image by SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="305" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image79_1.jpg?itok=aZG3uaIG" title="Expected Stafford Street interface. Image by SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Expected Stafford Street interface. Image by SJB Architects</figcaption></figure>The existing St. Crispin House facade and other heritage elements within the 1923-built building are to be partly retained and incorporated under the new design with between 2.5 to 5.5 metres setbacks in place behind the retained facade.

Designated as having local historical and aesthetic/architectural significance, St. Crispin House falls under Heritage Overlay (HO410) and as such requires that prior to any demolition being green lighted the proposal needs to “demonstrated that the removal of part of the building or works does not negatively affect the significance of the place.”

To the rear of the site and Stafford Street will host a stand-alone five level residential building on what is now a warehouse in a separate structure to the mid-rise building.

<h2>Northern exposure</h2>

247-249 Johnston Street represents a strengthening of Pace Development Group's activities north of the Yarra after reeling off a string of residential projects in bayside Melbourne. Mentone, Windsor and St Kilda have accounted for nine individual projects in recent years with Evo at 107-115 Manningham Street, Parkville their sole project north of Melbourne's CBD.

The Abbotsford proposal joins existing Collingwood and Brunswick projects with the three producing roughly 360 dwellings for the developer.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image80_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fieldwork Projects have created 808 Sydney Road. Image by 4D Studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="315" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image80_0.jpg?itok=xCHB0eL7" title="Fieldwork Projects have created 808 Sydney Road. Image by 4D Studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>808 Sydney Road. Image by 4D Studio</figcaption></figure>With Pace Development Group's website suggesting 247-249 Johnston Street is expected to launch in the second half of 2016, it joins 808 Sydney Road with that project accounting for 1/3 of available apartments since its launch during February. This follows a successful campaign by CBRE City Sales which saw the 2,023sqm development site sold during 2015.

Pace Development Group have slated demolition for June with excavation/construction to commence on 808 Sydney Road directly thereafter.
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Pace Development Group ups the ante on Johnston Street

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The recent news of local developer OpenCorp's acquisition of a Hawthorn East development site coincides with the firm's push into Melbourne's apartment sector, as evidenced by another upcoming project slated for Ivanhoe.

With a presence spanning three states and in excess of $500 million in development nationally, Apartments.com.au recently spoke with OpenCorp Director Matthew Lewison regarding their their new direction into Melbourne's inner-city market after thus far only being active in Melbourne's peripheral suburbs.

While still seeking strong prospects for the suburban land market, in which OpenCorp is active with Umbra in Melbourne's northern suburb of Greenvale, the change of tact into apartment developments is one of acting when the time is right.

<blockquote>
The changing demographics of our cities is increasing the proportion of multi-residential dwellings being purchased and constructed. We anticipate this trend to continue and certainly see ourselves as being a key player, long term, in the inner-urban form of our major cities.
<cite>Matthew Lewison</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/imagepreview.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Savills' imagery for 757-763 Toorak Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imagepreview.jpg?itok=2eqxCala" title="Savills' imagery for 757-763 Toorak Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Savills' imagery for 757-763 Toorak Road</figcaption></figure>First cab off the rank was the recently purchased 757-763 Toorak Road which was secured via a competitive tender process for $6.5 million. The former VicRoads land holding is now in the hands of RotheLowman with a planning application set to be lodged this month. The quick turnaround time will continue with sales anticipated to commence on the high-end project during early 2017.

The 1,595sqm block holds a frontage of 39.65m and was offered for sale with a development concept for 52 apartments and two retail tenancies.

Matthew Lewison expects an end value of approximately $48m for the Hawthorn East project which will target owner-occupiers and sit aside a fellow upcoming RotheLowman-designed apartment project at 771 Toorak Road.

Keeping within Boroondara, OpenCorp have another project planned for Ivanhoe with initial concept plans expecting 55 apartments or thereabouts. Mid-2017 is the targeted launch for the project.



<blockquote>
We recognised when the Boroondara Council changed their planning scheme there would be a limited supply coming into the market as a result, so we have been aggressively chasing opportunities in that area.
<cite>Matthew Lewison.</cite>
</blockquote>

As for aspirations on a grander scale, OpenCorp do plan to establish a presence in Sydney during coming years, although "We have missed the market cycle in Sydney this time around." Diversifying into different markets is on OpenCorp's agenda with a geographical spread key to taking advantage of different market cycles.

OpenCorp future strategy will see the firm limit itself to Australia's major markets.

<h2>Investing in success</h2>

757-763 Toorak Road is expected to be made available to investors via OpenCorp's Open Access Fund. Essentially a crowd-funded Property Development Fund, the Open Access Fund allows anyone from first-time to elite investors to have a hand in property development.

OpenCorp's crowd-funded model is applied across a host of projects, with a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) in the works for their Hawthorn East acquisition and expected to be ready by April 2016.

This method of development differs from the traditional developer model, allowing participants in the project to receive a share of profits from the development of the project.
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OpenCorp enters Melbourne's apartment market with two projects

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The Hawthorn/Hawthorn East duo continue to bubble along as apartment hotspots with a raft of fresh planning applications before City of Boroondara. Leading the next wave of apartment projects for the popular postcodes is a sleek application headed by Shanghai-based Dahua Group.

Under affiliate Dahua Australia, the leading Chinese developer is pursuing its second sizeable Melbourne apartment project in the form of a 356 dwellings spread over a 12,289sqm site in Hawthorn East.

Following on from Dahua Australia's Noir in South Yarra, 33-53 Camberwell Road would see the demolition of six lowrise commercial and retail buildings. With similar design traits to another of their upcoming projects nearby at 196-202 Burwood Road, RotheLowman have created a flowing lowrise complex with the standout feature a seemingly suspended swimming pool which spans two buildings.

Snapped up by Dahua Australia during mid 2015, the development of 33-53 Camberwell Road would add to the many apartment projects that continue to consume prime development sites along the Burwood Road/Camberwell Road corridor.

<h2>33-57 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East 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/image153_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level perspective. Image courtesy RotheLowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="332" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image153_0.jpg?itok=djeTrC55" title="Ground level perspective. Image courtesy RotheLowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level perspective. Image courtesy RotheLowman</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application submitted December 2015</li>
	<li>Site area: 12,289sqm</li>
	<li>356 dwellings spread over five buildings</li>
	<li>37 x 1BR, 50 x 1BR plus, 63 x 2BR, 169 x 2BR plus, 20 x 3BR, 1 x 4BR, 5 x duplex, 11 x townhouses</li>
	<li>Provision for 474 car parking spaces, 251 bicycle bays &amp; 375 stores</li>
	<li>2,025sqm of retail space split between two large tenancies</li>
	<li>Amenities include: rooftop area, lap pool, sundeck, internal courtyard and public plaza</li>
	<li>NSA residential: 24,659sqm</li>
	<li>GFA: 53,480sqm</li>
	<li>Estimated project cost: $80 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Designed up and down</h2>

The expansive site is partly zoned CZ1 and carries a 14.5 metre height limit. To counter the architects have chosen to sink the site below ground level, allowing for seven levels of residential living when only five are discernible from the street.

Combined with the intense site landscaping and public plaza combined into the design, the design firm is hopeful that the proposal will create a strong benchmark for future developments in the Hawthorn area.

<blockquote>
The primary design driver for the internal faces of the development was the creation of a crafted valley landscape, with a soft tiered edge and a sense of scale within the central zone. Imagery was inspired by the stepped landforms of rice paddy fields and the stone terraces of Machu Pichu.

This concept informed the notion of a central courtyard space, and the facade treatment created by tiered and contoured forms. Horizontal concrete bands with a textured finish are evocative of stone terraces, creating a series of strata like levels, while green glass and external walls in a colour pallete of soft natural tones are drawn from a natural pallette.
<cite>Urban context report, RotheLowman</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image160.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The proposed feature stair leading to the lower courtyard. Image courtesy RotheLowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="313" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image160.jpg?itok=ODzpFfwR" title="The proposed feature stair leading to the lower courtyard. Image courtesy RotheLowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The proposed feature stair leading to the lower courtyard. Image courtesy RotheLowman</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Public piazzas at entry points to the site off Burwood Road and Camberwell Road create openings into the site. Feature stairs cut a pathway into the open contoured space. The sunken courtyard garden within creates a layered spatial experience and provides visual connection, interest and recreation.
<cite>Urban context report, RotheLowman</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Boroondara contends with a number of significant proposals</h2>

33-57 Camberwell Road is by some way the largest current planning application on Boroondara's agenda, but a number of other noteworthy applications are also filtering through.

17-23 Lynch Street is VicTrack's latest disposal of an unwanted land holding. The JAM Architects-designed building would see 107 dwellings created adjacent to the Belgrave/Lilydale Line on what is now a hardware outlet and vacant land. Sales for the project are poised to commence upon 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/image165_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="17-23 Lynch Street, 2 Queens Avenue and 29-31 Queens Avenue"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="606" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image165_0.jpg?itok=y2uzNVuR" title="17-23 Lynch Street, 2 Queens Avenue and 29-31 Queens Avenue" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>17-23 Lynch Street, 2 Queens Avenue and 29-31 Queens Avenue</figcaption></figure>Nearby Queens Avenue in Hawthorn also continues to garner the attention of developers with two projects under consideration. 29-31 Queens Avenue is awaiting a planning permit after receiving a notice of decision for its 72 apartments while Ascui and Co. have lodged plans for 563-565 Burwood Road which also maintains a Queens Avenue frontage.

Combined the four major developments outlined above could add as many as 550 apartments to Hawthornn and Hawthorn East, without factoring in the many smaller active apartments projects in the area.

<h2>33-57 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Dahua Australia Hawthorn Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: RotheLowman</li>
	<li>Town Planning: Contour Consultants</li>
	<li>Project Manager: PDS Group</li>
	<li>Development Manager: United Property Corporation</li>
	<li>Landscape Architects: Jack Merlo Design</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Services and ESD: ADP Consulting</li>
	<li>Waste Consultant: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Bosco Jonson</li>
	<li>Acoustic Consultant: Acoustic Logic</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: Grimbos Building Surveyors</li>
	<li>Accessibility: Morris Access Consulting</li>
	<li>Engineering Consultant: Mordue Engineering</li>
	<li>Fire Consultant: Omnii</li>
	<li>Arborist report: John Patrick Pty Ltd</li>
</ul>
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Dahua Group and RotheLowman look to impress as Hawthorn marches on

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While they may be differing segments of the market, the demand for both pedigree owner-occupied apartments and short stay accommodation in Melbourne is excessively strong at the moment. Enter Melbourne developer Ubertas who have in recent times unveiled plans to capitalise upon both.

Headed by Albert Dadon AM, Ubertas has released for sale a collection of prestige residences at its distinctive 505 St Kilda Road complex, while also preparing to deliver a tower within Melbourne's CBD.

Urban.com.au paid a recent visit to 505 St Kilda Road; the work of Fender Katsalidis, the tower is defined by its asymmetric front and rear and exceptional position overlooking Fawkner Park. Capital Property Marketing founder Bryce Patterson was on hand to provide a guided tour through the tower, highlighting the unique features which define 505 St Kilda Road.

Dubbed the Ubertas Private Collection and held by the developer to this point, the release of in excess of 20 premium 2 and 3 bedroom residences is expected to in part absorb the currently strong demand for high end residences in the Melbourne apartment market.

<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_0071.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Inside one of the oversized apartments on offer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0071.jpg?itok=8pdkWsUR" title="Inside one of the oversized apartments on offer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Inside one of the oversized apartments on offer</figcaption></figure>Spaced between 130sqm and 400sqm, the Ubertas Private Collection are considerably more expansive than the average Melbourne 2 and 3 bedroom apartment, yet are available from a relatively modest $1 million. The largest residence will set a prospective buyer back a cool $4.3 million.

With Ubertas sensing that market demand for premier apartments is at a high point, the Ubertas Private Collection were released with the intention of allowing prospective buyers to move in immediately, in turn maintaining an advantage over rival developments which are in many cases some years away from completion.

Features include the aforementioned larger floor plans and expansive views in addition to a porte corcherè and on call building concierge. In addition Melbourne-based interior design office Fiona Lynch has gone about reworking the Ubertas Private Collection with interiors now featuring marble, timber and plush upholstery finishes.

<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_0070_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The highly distinctive 505 foyer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0070_0.jpg?itok=RziFd6XX" title="The highly distinctive 505 foyer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The highly distinctive 505 foyer</figcaption></figure>The release of the Ubertas Private Collection coincides with the developer firming plans to proceed with 360 William Street. With Melbourne's hotel and serviced apartment sector running hot, the 22 level tower will be positioned in order to capitalise upon the currently robust demand for short stay accommodation.

Designed by Fender Katsalidis as a sister building to 350 William Street which maintains Oaks Hotels &amp; Resorts as an incumbent, the new build fronting Flagstaff Gardens can expect approximately 240 suites. If all of 360 William Street were to be dedicated to hotel or serviced apartments, this would more than double Ubertas' efforts in creating short term Melbourne accommodation suites given 350 William Street holds 220 4.5 star serviced apartments.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image246_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fender Katsalidis' impression of 360 William Street."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="554" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image246_0.jpg?itok=2FpCbgIL" title="Fender Katsalidis' impression of 360 William Street." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Fender Katsalidis' impression of 360 William Street.</figcaption></figure>Albert Dadon has also overseen the delivery of Blue Basement, a jazz venue located at the base of 350 William Street which is now open to the public. Designed by Mills Gorman Architecture, the new 200 seat venue ties together Albert Dadon's two great public pursuits; property and live music.
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Ubertas pounces upon two Melbourne markets in high demand

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Developers continue to see the appeal of landing their projects directly north of Melbourne's CBD. Following the 2012 <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/SiteCollectionDocuments/city-north-structure-plan-2012.pdf">City North Structure Plan</a> which paved the way for intense redevelopment surrounding the Elizabeth Street/Flemington Road spine bounded by Carlton and North Melbourne, there's been a steady flow of projects with more set to follow.

Put quite simply, "City North displays strong characteristics of a Central City environment, with a diverse mix of uses, including well-established industrial, commercial, retail and residential uses dispersed throughout the area, alongside major health, education and research institutions."

Considered underutilised land and in close proximity to the CBD, the clarity provided by the City North Structure Plan has for increased development in the area over recent years. The Apartments.com.au Project Database is currently keeping tabs on 15 active projects within the immediate vicinity of Elizabeth Street and Flemington Road.

The two most recent projects to reach planning and in turn the Apartments.com.au Project Database are:

<h2>684-688 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne</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/image116_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design generators and result. Image courtesy SJB"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="308" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image116_0.jpg?itok=9qphImrq" title="Design generators and result. Image courtesy SJB" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design generators and result. Image courtesy SJB</figcaption></figure>Developer LBP Group Holdings is looking to continue the Elizabeth Street drift toward redevelopment with a $30 million apartment proposal spanning 19 levels. Designed by SJB Architects, 684-688 Elizabeth Street would contain 120 one, tow and three apartments above four basement levels and a ground floor retail tenancy.

Abutting PDG Corporation's under construction Royal Elizabeth, the SJB Architects design will incorporate a high degree of timber over the exterior, in addition to retractable screens.

The existing buildings onsite were afforded a C grade ranking according to a 2013 heritage review, although are not listed as graded heritage buildings. Existing street level facades would be retained and restored with the remainder of the existing buildings to be demolished for the development.

<h2>15-17 Felmington Road, North Melbourne</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/image113_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Haymarket Roundabout perspective. Image courtesy Jomo + designhaus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="404" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image113_0.jpg?itok=YWm4Dffx" title="Haymarket Roundabout perspective. Image courtesy Jomo + designhaus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Haymarket Roundabout perspective. Image courtesy Jomo + designhaus</figcaption></figure>The long expected redevelopment of RMIT Village has landed with Centurion Pty Ltd seeking an expansion for part of the sprawling complex. Hobart duo Jones Moore Architecture and Architects Designhaus have conceived the design which would add to the already strong level of <a href="/news/an-overview-of-melbournes-student-accommodation-projects">student accommodation beds in the Melbourne development pipeline</a>.

<blockquote>
Given the current site circumstance, and statutory development overlay, there is an opportunity to to intensify the corner of Flemington Road and Blackwood Street by replacing an existing low-quality, underutilised 2 storey building with a mid-rise twelve storey building.
<cite>Urban Context Report</cite>
</blockquote>

Approximately one third of RMIT Village is subject to this planning application with an additional 147 student beds across two buildings in mind, allowing for an overall total of 603 student beds. The existing Building A fronting Flemington Road will receive an additional two levels while Building B as a completely new build will accommodate the majority of new dwellings.

A blue, white and grey hexagonal pattern will be the main design feature to Flemington Road.

<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/image112_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Blackwood Street perspective. Image courtesy Jomo + designhaus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="402" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image112_0.jpg?itok=5a2d2SVF" title="Blackwood Street perspective. Image courtesy Jomo + designhaus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Blackwood Street perspective. Image courtesy Jomo + designhaus</figcaption></figure><h2>City North under construction</h2>

The two intended projects above would only serve to bolster the already healthy amount of construction underway within the City North Precinct. Valued in the billions, the level of construction activity is underpinned by the near complete Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre in addition to five substantial apartment projects.

Brookfield Multiplex have just commenced construction on ANMF's new 16,820sqm mixed use facility at 529 Elizabeth Street while The Principal at 69 Flemington Road has sold strongly, in turn positioning itself as the next residential project to head toward construction.

Perhaps the most awaited project is Metier 3's pending project adjacent to the Haymarket Roundabout. In unison with Fortius, the design practice is expected to create a landmark project at 1 Flemington Road and 245 Peel 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/image114_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Projects fronting Flemington and Elizabeth Streets"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image114_1.jpg?itok=kZydnj8O" title="Projects fronting Flemington and Elizabeth Streets" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Projects fronting Flemington and Elizabeth Streets</figcaption></figure>
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Redevelopment continues at pace within City North

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Jockeying they may for approval be but if City of Port Phillip were to have its way these five projects which fall within the Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal Area would be heavily modified in order to gain approval. While the final call lies with the State Government, City of Port Phillip have provided extensive feedback on each of the proposals via recent Council meetings.

The five highlighted South Melbourne projects below also provide a snapshot of the uncertain state of planning within Fishermans Bend due to the uncertain nature of policy implementation in recent years. Two projects have been redesigned to be considerably shorter post the announcement of interim height controls for the area, while another has also been redesigned upwards to meet the maximum height achievable.

According to City of Port Phillip, the two most recent proposals, 91-95 Montague Street and 240-246 Normanby Road, adhere to height limits yet have major flaws regarding setbacks. It is worth noting the State Government's <a href="/news/interim-central-melbourne-planning-controls-the-detail">planning controls implemented during 2015</a> that regulate matters such as tower separation and setbacks does not apply to Fishermans Bend.

Here are the five proposals which City of Port Phillip have passed judgement on:

<h2>15-87 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</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/image11_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Glanstone Street's new look. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="598" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image11_6.jpg?itok=GNSe3wZX" title="Glanstone Street's new look. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Glanstone Street's new look. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>One of Fishermans Bend's earliest approvals, the former MAB Corporation-controlled 5,985sqm site at 15-87 Gladstone Street changed hands during 2015 with Elenberg Fraser now entrusted with the redesign of the expansive project.

Gone is the original Hayball scheme and in its place is a proposal for three 30 level residential towers; each of approximately 100 metres in height. 746 apartments are included, involving 254 x 1BR, 432 x 2BR &amp; 60 x 3BR. 457sqm of retail space, 596 car parking spaces and 235 (155 resident, 80 visitor) bicycle parking spaces round out the amended proposal.

City of Port Phillip do support the amended plans for the most, with one of their requests seeking that not all three towers be of equal height, citing skyline views and streetscape appearance as being factors.

<h2>240-246 Normanby Road, South Melbourne</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/image12_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hayball's envisaged Normanby Road Precinct"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="372" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image12_4.jpg?itok=qQZV8N1x" title="Hayball's envisaged Normanby Road Precinct" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hayball's envisaged Normanby Road Precinct</figcaption></figure>Planning information is now available on the Hayball-designed six tower proposal <a href="/news/1500-new-apartments-slated-for-fishermans-bend">unveiled for Normanby Road during mid 2015</a>. Headed by Planning &amp; Property Partners, the scheme represents the cooperation of various separate property owners.

Sheblon Pty Ltd is behind 240-246 Normanby Road which is known as site 4 within the sub-precinct and would accommodate 12 commercial tenancies, 3 retail spaces, 77 car parking spaces, 250 bicycle spaces and 204 dwellings above.

City of Port Phillip in their lack of support for the project state:

<blockquote>
It is considered that the proposal shows little imagination on a prominent corner of the Montague Precinct, the reduced setbacks proposed would result in adverse streetscape and amenity impacts on abutting land and roads. The development as proposed would not meet the tower separation provisions of the Fishermans Bend Strategic Framework Plan.

The substantial reductions or full waivers of the setback and/or tower separation provisions of the Fishermans Bend Strategic Framework Plan are clear manifestations of the overdevelopment.
</blockquote>

<h2>91-95 Montague Street, South Melbourne</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/image13_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rothelowman's Montague Street tower"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="311" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_6.jpg?itok=lSe_YeXO" title="Rothelowman's Montague Street tower" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rothelowman's Montague Street tower</figcaption></figure>New to the Apartments.com.au Project Database is 91-95 Montague Street which is championed by Thousand Degree Pty Ltd. Rothelowman have designed a 30 storey building comprising a six storey podium with 24 storeys above, chiefly for the purpose of accommodating 126 apartments split between 51 x 1BR and 75 x 2BR spaces.

Lower levels would feature a community space with associated open space.

City of Port Phillip have raised concerns regarding the design and size of the proposed community spaces which they deem not fit for purpose. Issues regarding setbacks and the applicant not owning or controlling the subject site in its entirety, resulting in the need to purchase an abutting lane from Council have been at the core of Council's discontent. To this end Council do not support the proposal.

<h2>51-59 Thistlethwaite Street, South Melbourne</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image14_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Laneway from Thistlethwaite Street. Image courtesy Inhabit Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="646" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image14_3.jpg?itok=ZHZE6xrq" title="Laneway from Thistlethwaite Street. Image courtesy Inhabit Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Laneway from Thistlethwaite Street. Image courtesy Inhabit Design</figcaption></figure>Spec Property's ongoing battle to have their South Melbourne proposal find favour continues with VCAT involved in the process. A third set of plans for the project have been produced resulting in a vastly smaller scheme ranging between 4 and 8 levels, a far cry from Inhabit Design's initial 16 level proposal.

Overall dwellings have fallen from an original 258 to 161, with the new scheme containing 90 x 1BR, 66 x 2BR and 7 x 3BR. Inhabit Design have made substantial changes from the first submission which weighed in at 16 levels

City of Port Phillip maintain that the built height to City Road would be too excessive and that question marks remain over dwelling amenity.

<h2>134-142 Ferrars Street, South Melbourne</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_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rothelowman's old and new creations side by side"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image16_4.jpg?itok=vd8VcVb9" title="Rothelowman's old and new creations side by side" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rothelowman's old and new creations side by side</figcaption></figure>Another of Fishermans Bend's early applications is back in the spotlight, although gone is Rothelowman's expansive tower for the Ferrars Street site. It is instead replaced by another equally impressive design by the Southbank-based design firm.

Sunguard Availability Services Vic DC1 Pty Ltd as the developer has gone with a substantially shorter scheme which has subsequently seen apartments numbers trimmed and fall from 381 to 261. The revised scheme which is still taller than the preferred height limit would consist of a glazed tower form covered by a honeycombed metal finish, providing the area with a highly distinctive building.

Council once more does not support the application.
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Five South Melbourne projects jockey for approval

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Malaysian firm UEM Sunrise has teamed with ARM Architecture for the developer's third Melbourne project. Lodged with Council during late 2015, City of Port Phillip have already indicated that they will support the extravagant conversion of the now commercial complex at 412 St Kilda Road into 182 high-end apartments.

The emergence of an amended planning application comes as Victoria Police are preparing to vacate the building following the sale of the asset during 2015 for $58 million.

In typical ARM Architecture style, the rebirthed 412 St Kilda Road is a statement in colour and flair, with the existing structure set to be gutted and a new facade applied which will in certain ways meld design features from recent ARM Architecture projects The Face and <a href="/news/orbis-south-melbourne-shows-its-wares">Orbis</a> in nearby South Melbourne.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen-shot.png" rel="gallery-all" title="CBRE City Sales' pitch for the asset which was offered for sale during 2015"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen-shot.png?itok=wFUMjIwj" title="CBRE City Sales' pitch for the asset which was offered for sale during 2015" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>CBRE City Sales' pitch for the asset which was offered for sale during 2015</figcaption></figure>At the time of 412 St Kilda Road's sale, UEM Sunrise MD and CEO Anwar Syahrin Abdul Ajid offered the following <a href="http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/business/article/uem-sunrise-buys-rm161-million-office-tower-in-melbourne">quote</a>:

<blockquote>
The intention of this acquisition is to develop an unprecedented ultra-luxurious residential development, potentially with a mix of ground floor retail and serviced apartment components. The Company will continue to evaluate the market condition in order for the development to meet future market demands.

The decision to acquire the 412 St Kilda Road site is part of our strategy to ensure steady flow of overseas projects. The property is in a different location from the two core CBD sites we currently own. Being in the city fringe, it promises a different lifestyle and thus, will appeal to a different market segment.
<cite>Anwar Syahrin Abdul Ajid, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, UEM Sunrise</cite>
</blockquote>

With a new facade consisting of pipework over bronze aluminium panels, copper louvres and frit patterned glass, 412 St Kilda Road is set to become a standout building in an already prominent 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/image79_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Level 18 amenities within the proposal"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image79_0.jpg?itok=pKIvewKm" title="Level 18 amenities within the proposal" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Level 18 amenities within the proposal</figcaption></figure>The reconfigured building will see 13 apartments per floor ranging between 53sqm to in excess of 100sqm, with the majority falling between 70sqm and 85sqm. The development's 182 apartments are split between 42 single bed and 140 dual bedroom options.

In line with the existing building's layout, car parking arrangements will absorb basement level 2 through to level 3 above ground, with a reconfiguration allowing for 155 vehicles. Ground level will be activated by way of a 285sqm cafe while the top two levels will be dedicated to residential amenity.

412 St Kilda Road's design flair is in contrast to UEM Sunrise's initial two Melbourne apartment projects which carry more subdued exteriors. With Aurora Melbourne Central under construction and the nearby Conservatory well into its sales campaign, UEM Sunrise look likely to launch 412 St Kilda Road during 2016 should they seek to keep their Melbourne apartment pipeline flowing.
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UEM Sunrise's next Melbourne foray shapes as a standout project

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.

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"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.

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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."

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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.

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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."

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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.

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Joel Robinson

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

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