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Wind back to mid last year and it was announced that The Uniting Church would team with Leighton Properties to deliver a new premium office tower opposite Wesley Church on Lonsdale Street, while also hoping to restore the church's place and identity in the heart of Melbourne. Referred to as the Wesley Upper Lonsdale Street site, a planning application for a premium office tower was submitted during January 2015, and is still under assessment.

<blockquote>
The Request for Proposal document made clear to prospective project partners that any development on the site needed to place a high emphasis on building relationships between people and to foster community relationships. It also outlined the need to restore and, where possible, enhance, the historic buildings while respecting the original custodians.
<cite>Crosslight, Uniting Church</cite>
</blockquote>

To that end Cox Architecture were engaged to create a development capable of fulfilling the above requirement, while also delivering a high-end office tower encompassing 55,000sqm of premium space.

<h2>118-148 Lonsdale Street application highlights</h2>

<ul>
<li>Site area: 7,400sqm</li>
	<li>Stables, onsite factory and the Princess Mary Club to be demolished; other structures retained</li>
	<li>33 level commercial tower at 144.55 to its highest point</li>
	<li>55,000sqm of premium commercial space included</li>
	<li>Concave floor plates ranging between 1,700sqm and 2,100sqm</li>
	<li>End of trip facilities for 367 bicycle spaces included</li>
	<li>Level 3-4 car park accommodating 127 vehicles</li>
	<li>1,400sqm of retail and food/beverage space over nine ground floor tenancies</li>
	<li>Series of public realm spaces created around Wesley Place</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image220_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the new commercial building. Image courtesy Cox Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1081" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image220_0.jpg?itok=ZlpsQCkY" title="Artist's impression of the new commercial building. Image courtesy Cox Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the new commercial building. Image courtesy Cox Architecture</figcaption></figure><h2>The challenge at hand</h2>

<blockquote>
While the heritage buildings appear to retain their overall integrity from a distance (with the exception of the very dilapidated Princess Mary Club) the situation is one of buildings much in need of maintenance. The site also provides a low level of amenity due to the car parking operations – the present-day setting for the Church is within a poorly arranged at-grade car park. This is inconsistent with the cultural heritage importance of the place.

A key challenge for the site is that the current buildings, and their condition, do not allow for a viable ongoing use of the site. Whilst a number of the current buildings are being used by the Wesley Church, it is far from optimum and would not be able to continue long term. Also the current use cannot fund the prohibitively expensive repair and restoration work required for the existing buildings on site.

Two of the buildings on site have been identified as reaching the point where they cannot be occupied for safety reasons, being the Princess Mary Club and Wesley House.

The nature and condition of the current buildings, and the impact of the existing car park use on the site constrain the activities of the Wesley Church, and have resulted in the Wesley Mission having to move off site.
<cite>118-148 Lonsdale Street planning report</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Wesley Place: new urban realm</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/image219.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Wesley Park. Image courtesy Cox Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="465" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image219.jpg?itok=hjA_zH71" title="Wesley Park. Image courtesy Cox Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Wesley Park. Image courtesy Cox Architecture</figcaption></figure>In line with The Uniting Church's wishes as outlined above, ground level activation plays a pronounced role in the redevelopment, in that the original structures and uses are to be melded with new facilities in order to increase public utilisation of the site.

In this regard the AECOM acting as landscape consultant have created three separate areas within the grounds which carry differing characteristics:

<ul>
<li>The event and meeting place, addressing Lonsdale Street and forms the setting for the Church</li>
	<li>The Sanctuaries at either site of the Church building</li>
	<li>The city meeting place and retail food courtyard, featuring the cloister yard olive tree.</li>
</ul>
The 'event and meeting place' will see the bulk of foot traffic access the site while the central 'sanctuary' will act as a subdued area either side of Wesley Church. The northern section of the site will be dedicated toward the 'city meeting place' with existing structures adapted into cafes with outdoor seating.

Running north south, Wesley Place will provide a link between Lonsdale and Little Lonsdale with 2,262sqm of the site dedicated to open space. Included in this figure is the 190sqm Wesley Park, 920sqm Northern Plaza and 770sqm Southern Church Forecourt area.

<h2>Closer than ever?</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/image221.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Previous incarnations. Images courtesy studio505 and Leighton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="247" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image221.jpg?itok=AthH-xNq" title="Previous incarnations. Images courtesy studio505 and Leighton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Previous incarnations. Images courtesy studio505 and Leighton</figcaption></figure>The Wesley Church site has over previous decades been subject to differing development schemes, with a number of towers put forward with no great success.

One such scheme was conceived by studio505 who along with project partner Grocon submitted plans for a similarly sized office complex to that of the current design. Under the title ‘Wesley Village’, the development would have also seen the delivery of a new urban space separating new and old structures while also creating "Truly magnificent, sophisticated and elegant architecture that inspires."

While the studio505 design would have brought a visual focal point to Lonsdale Street via its streaky podium, the current Cox Architecture design has taken an opposing path by paring back its initial offering. In perhaps a more respectful nod to the existing church, gone is the diagonal white bracing and crumpled podium features, replaced by more subdued finishes.

With the swirl of speculation surrounding the <a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/relaunched-leighton-properties-sale-pays-dividends-20150318-1m1osl">sale of Leighton Properties</a> in recent months, it remains to be seen if and when the tie-up between Leighton Properties and The Uniting Church will lead to the delivery of this long sought after development.

<h2>118-148 Lonsdale Street planning team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Leighton Properties</li>
	<li>Architect &amp; Urban Context: Cox Architecture</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Heritage Consultant: Lovell Chen</li>
	<li>Landscape, ESD &amp; Public Realm: AECOM</li>
	<li>​Traffic Engineer: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Wind Assessment: Mel Consultants</li>
	<li>Waste: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Quantity Surveyor: RLB</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: Gardiner Group</li>
</ul>
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silvermb

Wesley Place seeks to bring new life to Lonsdale Street

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Recently Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/the-tannery-and-hopkins-street-launch-footscrays-joseph-road-precinct">broke the news</a> that <a href="/new-apartments/footscray-vic-3011">Footscray's</a> Joseph Road Precinct will begin its transformation into an inner-city residential enclave with the release of Riverina Apartments. Located less than five kilometres from Melbourne's CBD, Riverina Apartments also presents as developer AZX Group's vanguard Australian development, with further projects planned along the Eastern Seaboard.

<a href="http://www.cbresi.com.au/about/peopleDetails.aspx?ProfileID=29">Nic Cuni</a> as Director of CBRE's Residential Projects was on hand to guide Apartments.com.au through the now open display suite, providing an overview of <a href="/buildings/riverina-22-hopkins-street-footscray">Riverina Apartments</a> which has seen the project's first stage already garner strong sales.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_2627.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Riverina's display suite model up close"><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_2627.jpg?itok=DX0kXXW_" title="Riverina's display suite model up close" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Riverina's display suite model up close</figcaption></figure>Within close proximity to the <a href="/new-apartments/maribyrnong-vic-3032">Maribyrnong</a> River, Nic Cuni explains that the <a href="/architects/peddle-thorp-architects">Peddle Thorp-designed</a> complex will be split into stages. Initially available for purchase are apartments within the podium and buildings D, C and E; all of which which front Hopkins Street.

Subsequent stages will see the dual 31 level residential towers delivered, creating a heightened level of living to Footscray with unfettered views to all directions. Overall Riverina Apartments will provide in excess of 950 new dwellings while also delivering Melbourne's inner West with a highly visible marker.

To date Riverina Apartments' strong early sales has seen a considerable number accounted for over the available buildings, with a mix of domestic and overseas buyers securing apartments at competitive prices. One, two and three bedroom apartments are available with an entry point of $255,000, while four bedroom penthouses crowning each tower as seen above are also available.

<blockquote>
CBRE have just released Riviera to our Victorian database, only to receive the biggest response ever fielded. So much so we expect to sell out of stage one soon after our grand opening during July.

The market has understood the value proposition that Riverina offers, with Melbourne's affordability issues in part addressed by releasing apartments from $255,000.
<cite>Nic Cuni</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/image239.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Representative kitchen and bedroom finishes"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="256" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image239.jpg?itok=8SPhYOwO" title="Representative kitchen and bedroom finishes" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Representative kitchen and bedroom finishes</figcaption></figure>The display suite demonstrates the bright, open apartment format created by Peddle Thorp. Kitchens and bathrooms are simple, modern and convenient with an emphasis on functionality while bedrooms feature neutral tones.

Floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive living areas point toward the desire of the development team to create apartments that capture the maximum amount of light possible.

<blockquote>
We have addressed quality by using well known appliances and showcasing interiors designed by Peddle Thorp. Buyers get a unique opportunity to buy an exceptional apartment within five kilometres to the CBD from $255,000.

It's an opportunity to enjoy a high yielding investment that has huge growth potential and Riverina's mix of apartments will appeal to first home buyers, downsizers and the local area investor!
<cite>Nic Cuni</cite>
</blockquote>

A feature of Riverina Apartments will be an expansive internal courtyard which opens to Warde Street. Surrounded by hanging greenery, the courtyard and garden area headline project amenities which include rooftop entertainment and barbecue areas, rooftop swimming pool, sauna and spa, private dining/entertaining rooms and a gymnasium.

An activated ground level will see a slew of retail and entertainment options with the project maintaining frontage to four separate streets. Specialty and large-scale retailers will constitute the mix with a supermarket expected to underpin retail activities which stretch across the 9,500sqm 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/image237.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Riverina's penthouses with their distinctive exterior. Image courtesy CBRE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="330" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image237.jpg?itok=UtzAGhvH" title="Riverina's penthouses with their distinctive exterior. Image courtesy CBRE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Riverina's penthouses with their distinctive exterior. Image courtesy CBRE</figcaption></figure>
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Footscray's Riverina Apartments powers ahead

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Such a simple idea that provides such an incisive look at Melbourne's history. Today's article is a shout-out to the increasing popular Past 2 Present which provides an impressive glimpse into Melbourne's past by comparing it to the present.

Covering metropolitan Melbourne, Past 2 Present generates a side by side compilation of dated and current images from the past two centuries. Buildings, significant places, infrastructure and day to day street level life are covered by creator Robert Smith via Facebook, flickr and tumblr.

<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/10275586_1075838669112035_2334594070966671575_o.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A Spencer Street comparison. Image courtesy Past 2 Present"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="196" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/10275586_1075838669112035_2334594070966671575_o.jpg?itok=_hn-X0M0" title="A Spencer Street comparison. Image courtesy Past 2 Present" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A Spencer Street comparison. Image courtesy Past 2 Present</figcaption></figure>A prime example is the snapshot of Southbank above dated 1930 featuring the Robur Tea Warehouse. Built during 1887-1888 and designed by Nahum Barnet, the building appears dominant over the Spencer Street Bridge but now the 19th century warehouse is little more than a footnote on contemporary Southbank.

Another below sees how much (or little) Melbourne has changed over a century. While many parts of the CBD have lost iconic structures, certain pockets still endure as seen by the State Library of Victoria's image in comparison to that of Robert Smith's.

<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/16479952268_4932fb9733_k.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Flinders Street over time. Image courtesy Past 2 Present"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="193" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/16479952268_4932fb9733_k.jpg?itok=bbg9FGRv" title="Flinders Street over time. Image courtesy Past 2 Present" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Flinders Street over time. Image courtesy Past 2 Present</figcaption></figure>As the adage states, "You don't know where you're going until you know where you've been."

It's well worth taking a few minutes to tour old Melbourne and gain a better appreciation for our city by visiting <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Past2Present1">Past 2 Present</a>.
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Past 2 Present: a snapshot of Melbourne's history

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Underpinning the continued popularity of <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick</a> and surrounds as an apartment hotspot, a host of planning applications are before Moreland City Council for assessment. Many sites in question continue the trend of apartment developments subsuming former industrial facilities, while the odd application such as <a href="/buildings/cannatella-625-sydney-road-brunswick">611-621 Sydney Road</a> provide a surprise reuse.

With many projects in the 3-5 level category, Apartments.com.au has chosen to highlight the larger projects currently at planning spread over Brunswick, the always in demand <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-east-vic-3057">Brunswick East</a> and the emerging <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-west-vic-3055">Brunswick West</a>. Notable applications include:

<h2>611-621 Sydney Road, Brunswick</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/image182.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Peter Brown Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image182.jpg?itok=2Hrtg66U" title="Image courtesy Peter Brown Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Peter Brown Architects</figcaption></figure>The Courthouse Hotel looks set to be no more with an application seeking the delivery of an eight level apartment building. Received by Moreland City Council during April, Peter Brown Architects have conceived the design which will include a mixture of one and two bedroom apartments set behind a retained Sydney Road facade.

Ground level facilities see a bar/restaurant included, which will be located above a multi-level basement car park.

<h2><a href="/new-apartments/mesh-apartments-8-florence-street-brunswick">8 Florence Street, Brunswick</a></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/image180_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy CHT Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="260" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image180_0.jpg?itok=FJN-dM84" title="Image courtesy CHT Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy CHT Architects</figcaption></figure>A departure from <a href="/architects/cht-architects">CHT Architects'</a> typical design approach, 8 Florence Street presents as an openable, perforated metal exterior. 16 single bedroom and 8 dual bedroom apartments are spread over five levels, with two restaurants at ground level likely to bring some much needed activation to the area.

Moreland Fencing are the client for the projects which finds itself directly opposite <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">The Commons</a> building within Brunswick's Anstey Precinct.

<h2><a href="/buildings/288-albert-street-brunswick">284-294 Albert Street, Brunswick</a></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/image181.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="334" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image181.jpg?itok=qPUp1Aft" title="Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure>Appearing to be a sister development to the adjoining <a href="/buildings/288-albert-street-brunswick">Brunswick Heart</a> project which is at sales on behalf of CBD Developments, 284-294 Albert Street Brunswick is a fellow <a href="/architects/rothelowman">ROTHELOWMAN</a> design. Spread over eight levels are 56 apartments with retail uses at ground level.

Also known as 343 Sydney Road, 284-294 Albert Street is now at advertising after lodgment with Moreland City council during late 2014.

<h2><a href="/buildings/breese-street-204-206-albion-street-brunswick">204-206 Albion Street, Brunswick</a></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/image178.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Taouk Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="301" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image178.jpg?itok=EjcsZf2j" title="Image courtesy Taouk Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Taouk Architects</figcaption></figure>Royal Nut Company look set to leave their long term home with a recent planning application seeking to replace the low-rise facility with an eight level apartment building containing 63 residences and two retail outlets. 18 single, 44 dual and 1 triple constitute the apartment mix within the proposal while 68 car parking spaces are located within the basement.

As a nod to the site's history <a href="/architects/taouk-architects">Taouk Architects</a> have included a squirrel embossed upon a mesh screen/glazing background over the podium.

<h2><a href="/buildings/b-e-apartments-11-brunswick-road-brunswick-east">11-15 Brunswick Road, Brunswick East</a></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/image179.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Interlandi Mantresso Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="242" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image179.jpg?itok=Fc9LEVMx" title="Image courtesy Interlandi Mantresso Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Interlandi Mantresso Architects</figcaption></figure>Set to span ten levels above a three level basement, 11-15 Brunswick Road finds itself in an increasingly popular apartment pocket with a host of projects either completed or under construction in the vicinity. A single office space and 116 apartments constitute the Interlandi Mantesso-designed structure.

Currently on public display, the proposal was submitted to Moreland City Council during November 2014.

<h2><a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">2-6 Duckett Street, Brunswick</a></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/image184.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Idle Architecture Studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="255" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image184.jpg?itok=UKA1I0Jy" title="Image courtesy Idle Architecture Studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Idle Architecture Studio</figcaption></figure><a href="/architects/idle-architecture-studio">Idle Architecture Studio</a> enter the fray with a six level proposal seeking approval for 36 apartments and two offices. The application was lodged on behalf of Mondrian Developments and is in close proximity to 11 West Street as highlighted below.

The 701sqm site is expected to hold 38 car parking spaces which will service the 11 single and 25 dual bedroom dwellings.

<h2>350-364 Moreland Road, Brunswick West</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/image70_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy ClarkeHopkinsClarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image70_4.jpg?itok=n82ezx8Z" title="Image courtesy ClarkeHopkinsClarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure>Unassuming it may appear from street level, but an application for 350-364 Moreland Road has recently been advertised showing 72 apartments within a five level building. Designed by <a href="/architects/clarke-hopkins-clarke-0">ClarkeHopkinsClarke</a>, the projects seeks approval for 40 single bedroom dwelling, 32 dual bedroom dwellings and a cafe tenancy at ground level.

Situated over a 2,082sqm site, the proposal is midway between Moreland Station and the 55 tram.

<h2>2-8 Barry Street, Brunswick</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/image186_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Architeria"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="163" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image186_0.jpg?itok=ng-VnMdN" title="Image courtesy Architeria" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Architeria Architects</figcaption></figure>After a period of consultation with Moreland City Council's planning department, 2-8 Barry Street has gained approval. Designed by <a href="/architects/architeria-architects">Architeria Architects</a>, 2-8 Barry Street is set to accommodate 36 apartments over four levels plus three offices in a project for <a href="/developers/ouson-group">Ouson Group</a>.

The project is expected to advance to sales in the near future.

<h2><a href="/buildings/the-grove-1-5-olive-york-way-brunswick-west">1-5 Olive York Way, Brunswick West</a></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/image4_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy MAP Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_7.jpg?itok=AtCPiIhc" title="Image courtesy MAP Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy MAP Architecture</figcaption></figure>VCAT only last week ruled in favour of the multi-building proposal put forward by Equity Properties Pty Ltd. Lodged during mid 2013, the <a href="/architects/map-architecture">MAP Architecture</a>-designed project will carry in the vicinity of 350 apartments over the now vacant 5,297sqm site which abuts the Tullamarine Freeway.

1-5 Olive York Way joins the completed 2-6 Olive York Way with 140 apartments and R.Corporation's at sales <a href="/buildings/the-york-8-olive-york-way-brunswick-west">8 Olive York Way</a> in finding new purpose for a previously underutilised tract of land.

<h2>11 West Street, Brunswick</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_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy MOS Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="355" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_0.jpg?itok=PuFcg2MS" title="Image courtesy MOS Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy MOS Architects</figcaption></figure><a href="/news/giving-something-back-12-duckett-street-brunswick">Lauded on Urban.com.au</a> as a development with noteworthy urban realm contributions, 12 Duckett Street has been approved and is now known as 11 West Street, Brunswick. <a href="/architects/mos-architects">MOS Architects</a> have conceived the development which looks to activate a considerable area adjacent to the Upfield rail line.

The latest revision on Apartments.com.au's database includes 184 apartments within the development over 5-8 levels, although this may have been adjusted as the approved version consists of four buildings of up top six levels.

<h2>808-818 Sydney Road, Brunswick</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/image187_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Fieldwork Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image187_0.jpg?itok=s66Eq77i" title="Image courtesy Fieldwork Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Fieldwork Projects</figcaption></figure>Last but not least is 808-818 Sydney Road, Brunswick which found favour with VCAT earlier in the year. Wasting no time after gaining approval, the proponents for the prime Brunswick site have elected to sell the approved <a href="/architects/fieldwork">Fieldwork Projects</a> scheme.

Selling agent CBRE is in charge of the process which will likely see a new owner take control of the 2,032sqm site with 91 apartments and six retail tenancies totalling 478sqm allowed for.
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Brunswick bulks up with a wave of fresh planning applications

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Art meets architecture: it's a well worn line but also highly appropriate for one of Melbourne's most recent additions. The 2 Girls Building in Lithgow Street, Abbotsford is more a case of art becoming architecture with its distinctive facade merely the start of the building's story.

Billy Kavellaris of architecture firm Kavellaris Urban Design (KUD) was on hand to show Apartments.com.au through the newly completed apartment complex, which may just be headed for iconic status among Melbourne's other renowned built form.

The advent of the building's exterior is a story in itself, with developer Domain Hill approaching KUD to incorporate a small element of artist Samantha Everton's “Masquerade” photograph <a href="/news/2-girls-abbotsford-gains-its-facade">within the design of the building</a>. The two young girls featured in the artist's work happen to be the children of the developer. Little did the team at Domain Hill realise Billy Kavellaris had grander intentions, essentially morphing the image onto the buildings facade via the liberal use of DigiGlass and concrete panels set in purpose-build rubber mouldings.

<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_1793.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="2 Girls' entry passage adorned with art"><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_1793.jpg?itok=e0lrOMZl" title="2 Girls' entry passage adorned with art" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>2 Girls' entry passage adorned with art</figcaption></figure>As explained by Billy Kavellaris, architecture becomes photography, photography becomes architecture and the building becomes a hybrid urban built form completely unique to its surrounds. The theme continues internally with every common area featuring artwork of some description.

KUD and Samantha Everton worked closely to ensure a collaborative approach in the placement of varied art forms throughout the project's four levels, with photography the dominant medium. Corridors are exceptionally wide with minimalist white finishes; coupled with track lighting the spaces are full of purpose rather than simply being a transit space from A to B.

While the artworks were mounted upon the building's completion, they now fall under the control of the body corporate.

<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_1815_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artwork adorns all walls within the buildings common passages."><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_1815_0.jpg?itok=Qp5exKBQ" title="Artwork adorns all walls within the buildings common passages." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artwork to the fore.</figcaption></figure>As touched upon, there's a certain rawness to the finishes within the 2 Girls Building's circulation areas. The pared back palette generally consists of recycled timber, polished concrete, simple white finishes, glass and steel.

This theme continues within the living spaces with apartments spread over level 1 while levels 2 and 3 are dedicated toward loft style dwellings. A stair within each loft leads to individual expansive rooftop living spaces. Larger on average than most apartments in the market, their size and composition is a reflection upon the niche sought for the project; owner-occupiers with a keen sense of place and quality.

Billy Kavellaris explains that given every effort was exerted to bring as much character and livability to the building, there was an associated premium placed on apartment pricing. Any apprehensions were dispelled with the uptake of apartments rapid and a reflection of the unique product the development team had brought to 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_1810_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Inside a split level dwelling"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_1810_0.jpg?itok=OP-j9Snd" title="Inside a split level dwelling" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Inside a split level loft</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

I recall building a case for why Brunswick's <a href="http://www.smallgiants.com.au/a-new-eco-village-is-born-the-commons-is-complete/">The Commons</a> was the most impressive apartment project completed in recent times. 2 Girls Building sits comfortably alongside The Commons, both stellar examples of how to create impressive low-rise apartment developments that interact with their surrounds.

While The Commons arguable has more tricks internally, 2 Girls Building's exterior is sheer magnificence, a real stand out from the pack. I can only hope that at some point it's added to the <a href="/tag/open-house-melbourne">Open House Melbourne</a> roster.

Quizzing Billy Kavellaris as to what's next on KUD's radar, the former Kinnears factory in Footscray is set to host multiple residential towers in a large-scale project for the practice, while another project of State significance is also due to be revealed later in the year. Watch this space!

For further images of 2 Girls Building, see <a href="http://kud.com.au/2-girls-building/">KUD's website</a> featuring photography taken by Peter Clarke, to which the lead image of this article is attributed to.
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In focus: 2 Girls building, Abbotsford

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Does the humble display suite still hold prime position in a development's given marketing and sales game plan compared to a few short years ago? In a time where international marketing campaigns and channel sales tend to sop up a fair portion of apartment sales prior to their local release, perhaps the worth of a display suite in on the wane.

While hard numbers sell apartments to those intent on investing, the same can't be said for owner-occupiers who are altogether more discerning when considering their next property purchase. With this in mind Apartments.com.au viewed the 181 Fitzroy Street display suite recently and spoke with Pace Development Group's Georgie Bott on why their display is at the forefront of the sales campaign.

<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/image173_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 181 Fitzroy's southern facade. Image courtesy Pace Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="406" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image173_0.jpg?itok=lsdAy8JS" title="Artist's impression of 181 Fitzroy's southern facade. Image courtesy Pace Development Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 181 Fitzroy's southern facade. Image courtesy Pace Development Group</figcaption></figure>And it's the display suite leading the way with Georgie Bott explaining that the majority of buyers passing through to date have been local; either from St Kilda or surrounding suburbs and with an eye toward returning to the bayside suburb or upscaling their current residence. The long, slender north-south positioned apartments within 181 Fitzroy Street have allowed for a relatively easy amalgamation of apartments where desired; as an example contracts have been signed for a single bedroom dwelling in excess of 100sqm - almost unheard of in Melbourne.

This willingness for prospective buyers to implement changes to the specified floor plans with the intent of tailoring internal spaces to their own wants and desires has been facilitated by the addition of multiple fully interactive touch screens within the display suite which essentially allows prospective buyers to design their apartment as they see fit.

Combining two apartments, removal of a wall, a reconfigured kitchen or applying upgraded fixtures and fittings; whatever the case the interactive screens allow prospective buyers a greater level of input in attaining what they want from an apartment, all with the swish of a finger.

Of all the display suites visited by Apartments.com.au we can't recall this level of empowerment given to the buyer previously. It certainly happens, just not in such an easy to use manner and this is in part why the project has sold strongly to date according to Pace.

<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_2472.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A typical kitchen within the development"><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_2472.jpg?itok=m3z4uTol" title="A typical kitchen within the development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A typical kitchen as per the display suite</figcaption></figure>BR Demolition in recent weeks has brought the existing structure down to ground level, with the car park sub levels to be retained. This in turn has allowed construction of 181 Fitzroy Street to begin immediately.

Slated to be removed later in the year and occupying a corner pocket onsite, 181 Fitzroy Street will be built around the sales suite. The onus on owner-occupier purchasers has prompted a decision to retain the sales suite onsite as long as possible, although this in turn has posed somewhat of an engineering challenge for the in-house build team.

<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_2133.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Onsite demolition works during May"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="340" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_2133.jpg?itok=_5uJKKAe" title="Onsite demolition works during May" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Onsite demolition works during May</figcaption></figure>With 181 Fitzroy Street all but having commenced construction, it joins a more than healthy project book for Pace. Construction has commenced on George Windsor, with the adjoining Henry Windsor building nearing completion. Marquee project The Icon continues to lose its scaffolding, revealing a multi-coloured exterior while <a href="http://www.odeapartments.com/">Ode</a> is the developer's latest exploit in St Kilda featuring an exterior influenced by local artist Matthew Johnson, as per The Icon.

Archer has risen above ground level on its way to delivering 87 apartments in bayside Mentone while 73-77 Wellington Street has a date with VCAT for the sake of expediency rather than any great misgivings Yarra City Council may have about the project. The Collingwood project represents Pace Development Group's first foray into Melbourne's ever-popular inner north.
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Hands on at Pace's 181 Fitzroy Street display suite

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Subsequent to an early 2015 announcement that The Glen would be subject to a considerable expansion, further plans have been submitted for the sprawling Glen Waverley retail hub. Addressing Monash City Council's request for further information on the redevelopment, owner Federation Centres in conjunction with NH Architecture and Contour Consultants have provided updated documents which are now available for <a href="http://www.monash.vic.gov.au/About-Us/News/Proposed-redevelopment-of-The-Glen">viewing online</a>.

Key to the centre's expansion is the addition of 515 apartments over the southern portion of the site, introducing apartment living to the already existing commercial and retail uses.

<blockquote>
The repositioning of the retail mix and a bold proposal for over 500 apartments will ensure that The Glen will attract the savvy shopper and will contribute positively to the emergence of Glen Waverley as a vital activity centre. Indeed, this proposal for The Glen fulfils the aspirations of the Council’s own Structure Plan by anticipating higher densities and providing a seamless connection back into the evolving urban fabric.
<cite>NH Architecture, town planning submission</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>The Glen redevelopment in brief</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/image152.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of Signature Tower. Image courtesy NH Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image152.jpg?itok=GJK_dlN2" title="Artist's impression of Signature Tower. Image courtesy NH Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of Signature Tower. Image courtesy NH Architecture</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Updated planning submission: March 2015</li>
	<li>Land address: 227-235 Springvale Road, Glen Waverley</li>
	<li>515 apartments over three buildings with total residential GFA of 40,573sqm</li>
	<li>​275*1 bedroom apartments + 240*2 bedroom apartments</li>
	<li>Retail expansion of 14,527sqm to 60,940sqm overall</li>
	<li>​Office space unchanged while an additional 2,552sqm supermarket space is included</li>
	<li>3,810 car parking spaces in total</li>
</ul>
<h2>Urban, Axial and Signature</h2>

The Glen's retail expansion will be largely confined to the northern area of the site, allowing for the addition of three residential buildings with frontages to Kingsway, O'Sullivan Road and Springvale Road.

'Signature Tower' is the assigned name accompanying the tallest tower which will reach all of 86.17 metres to its highest point. Metal bands will discern the exterior, while internally the tower is expected to hold a mix of 114 single bedroom and 95 dual bedroom dwellings. The 'Axial' and 'Urban' buildings will between them account for the remainder of apartments, while all three will sit atop a retail podium with activation to all frontages.

A new public square (seen below) will act as an entry point to the 'Axial' and 'Urban' buildings while also providing the surrounding low-rise retail areas with an appropriately scaled entry point to the redeveloped site. Designed to include outdoor dining and recreational areas, the square will be highlighted by a timber clad, two-storey structure acting as a focal point.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image154_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Glen's new exterior. Image courtesy NH Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="419" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image154_0.jpg?itok=kYObnxCp" title="The Glen's new exterior. Image courtesy NH Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Glen's new exterior. Image courtesy NH Architecture</figcaption></figure><h2>The Glen set to flow</h2>

Hand in hand with the addition of new public spaces will be the rebirth of existing frontages, particularly facing Springvale Road. A dark linear ribbon motif will be applied in contrast to a white metal skin over the Springvale Road frontage, which will also wrap around the podium of 'Signature Tower', thus providing continuity.

As mentioned 'Signature Tower' is subject to exterior metal finishes, while 'Axial' is dominated by timber and embossed precast panels, with greenery atop the 178-apartment building. 'Urban' as the smallest building will feature an earthier exterior of pattern brickwork and suspended greenery over its facade.

In this way the three residential buildings combine to provide a new dynamic to the Glen Waverley Activity Centre while also maintaining individual character according to NH Architecture's planning submission.

<h2>Unlocking added value</h2>

Federation Centres, not alone in seeking to bolster returns from an existing asset with a number of other large-scale retail hubs around Melbourne, are also pursuing mixed-use programs. Gandel/CFS Retail Property Trust are midway through construction of an expanded Chadstone Shopping Centre which will see the delivery of a near 16,000sqm <a href="/developments/chadstone-vic-3148">commercial tower</a> while QIC's $665 million Eastland Shopping Centre expansion will feature <a href="/news/ringwood-is-going-places">Realm</a>, a new library, learning and cultural centre.

Elsewhere GPT Group are pursuing <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/west/plans-to-build-2500-apartments-at-highpoint-shopping-centre-in-maribyrnong/story-fngnvmj7-1227301865602">further future expansions of Highpoint</a> which may well include as many as 2,500 new apartments while another GPT Group asset is potentially subject to further expansion. Long expected to hold a commercial tower facing Lonsdale Street, whispers persist that a tower may still eventuate on the prime site which forms part of Melbourne Central.
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Apartments aplenty for The Glen's pending redevelopment

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The commercial sector's apparent disinterest in the western end of La Trobe Street has given rise to one of Melbourne's premier residential development sites. At the foot of Victoria Harbour, 1000 La Trobe Street has emerged as The Millennium Site, a 6,007sqm land holding with the ability to hold approximately 600 apartments.

Land owner Digital Harbour Holdings has chosen to sell the prime site following years of staggered activity within their Digital Harbour Precinct, seeking instead to capitalise upon fervent market conditions which continues to seen strong prices achieved for inner city development sites.

Selling agent Colliers International is preparing for a tide of interest from both local and international developers as The Millennium Site represents the largest single development site currently available in the City of Melbourne. The current approved commercial scheme has been superseded with the below concept, yet still allows for a total of 47,940sqm of residential living gross floor area.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image134_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of a revised 1000 La Trobe Street. Image courtesy Colliers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="980" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image134_1.jpg?itok=MJETN2KL" title="Artist's impression of a revised 1000 La Trobe Street. Image courtesy Colliers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of a revised 1000 La Trobe Street. Image courtesy Colliers</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
The Millennium Site forms part of Melbourne’s waterside precinct which will benefit from the redevelopment of Harbour Esplanade. Situated between Southern Cross Station, Etihad Stadium, New Quay, the waterfront, and the soon to be announced E Gate precinct, The Millennium Site will be a key element within a highly connected precinct linking the Melbourne CBD to the Docklands waterfront.

There is a tram stop on the doorstep of the site and developers will be able to capitalise on the uninterrupted water and CBD views from the upper levels of any potential future development. CBD development sites are becoming increasingly popular among developers as central CBD precincts become more tightly held.”

Melbourne as a city has a diminishing supply of prime residential development opportunities, with development sites increasingly hemmed in by adjoining buildings. Docklands is not as intensively developed on a site-by-site basis, so it is becoming increasingly desirable for residential development because there are more opportunities to optimise both built form outcomes and future view lines.
<cite>Trent Hobart, Colliers International media release</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Docklands is also becoming more connected to the CBD. Whereas once Docklands was thought of as a very separate precinct, new roadways, pedestrian access and tram super stops have seen it become increasingly thought of as part of the western core of the CBD.
<cite>Bryson Cameron, Colliers International media release</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>All washed up</h2>

A string of commercial developments at the Docklands end of La Trobe Street have failed to materialise in recent years, much to the delight of residential developers. Subject to a low-rise commercial development, <a href="/new-apartments/695-699-la-trobe-street-docklands-vic-3008">695-699 La Trobe Street</a> is now with Salta Properties seeking approval for a 303 apartment development while the neighbouring 685 La Trobe Street development site was sold to a residential developer following its unsuccessful commercial leasing campaign.

Diagonally opposite The Millennium Site, Chinese-aligned Capital Alliance Investment Group is delivering <a href="/buildings/m-docklands-679-la-trobe-street-docklands">M Docklands</a>, a mixed-use residential and hotel tower that backs onto Etihad Stadium. The residential prospects of The Millennium Site coupled with the five most recent development site sales in Docklands averaging $7000/sqm points to the inherent value that this emerging Docklands residential pocket holds.
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Opportunity arises from a failed Digital Harbour development

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Figures have been released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics which show that through the March quarter building work has increased markedly in Victoria. Released as part of Urban Taskforce Australia's most recent commentary on the development industry, the statistics underpin the importance that construction and particularly apartment construction has in bolstering the overall Victorian economy which has taken a number of manufacturing-based blows in recent years.

<blockquote>
The key figures that the Urban Taskforce uses to assess production is the value of building work per capita. Victoria produced $1172 per person in the March quarter while NSW only produced $808 per person.

In the last quarter NSW has moved downwards while Victoria has moved upwards.
<cite>Urban Taskforce CEO, Chris Johnson</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/image115_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Total building value per capita. Image courtesy ABS"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image115_0.jpg?itok=-NefVOmd" title="Total building value per capita. Image courtesy ABS" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Total building value per capita. Image courtesy ABS</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
While building construction expenditure is an accurate measure of current activity, it is a result of planning approvals made a year or more earlier. The building construction expenditure therefore needs to be compared with future work flowing from current approvals.

In overall terms the building work activity across Australia is robust which is good news for the jobs that flow from this.
<cite>Urban Taskforce CEO, Chris Johnson</cite>
</blockquote>

As touched upon above, Victoria's current strength is a reflection of the efficient (some would no doubt say liberal) planning approvals process under the previous State Government which only now is starting to bare fruit if inner city Melbourne is used as a prime example. The heightened levels of construction is also a reflection of the multitude of foreign and foreign-backed developers who have been present in Melbourne for a number of years and are only comparatively starting to make their presence felt in Sydney, Australia's supposed global city.

While some fundamentals of apartment living are currently under the microscope, Planning Minister Richard Wynne has kept the approvals ball rolling with a host of high profile project approvals in recent weeks. Add the insatiable appetite of new developers seeking a piece of the Melbourne pie and Western Australia's general economic slowing post the mining boom and it's quite likely that in months ahead Victoria will take the mantle of achieving the highest total building value per capita state across Australia.

<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/image117_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Apartments to the fore"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="365" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image117_0.jpg?itok=-mgPj_W5" title="Apartments to the fore" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Apartments to the fore</figcaption></figure>Of course Victoria's construction strength is reflected in greater Melbourne's vista with approximately 130 tower cranes currently plying their trade. The vast majority of these cranes are dedicated to the delivery on new apartment projects with the latest project receiving its crane being Assembly North Melbourne above.

With a host of large-scale, long term projects such as Fishermans Bend, Footscray's Joseph Road Precinct, Toorak Park and Caulfiled Heath in their construction infancy, Melbourne and Victoria's construction strength looks set to grow further.
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ABS figures an indicator of Victoria's construction strength

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With the spectre of South Yarra Station's entrances and street interfaces <a href="/news/comment-south-yarra-platforms-for-melbourne-metro-rail-ruled-out">remaining unchanged</a> a real possibility in the near to medium term and with a booming high-density population centred around South Yarra's Forrest Hill Precinct, there remains a real likelihood that necessary infrastructure upgrades - such as a norther entry to the station - vital in meeting population increases in the area will not be delivered.

While South Yarra remains a prime example of infrastructure upgrades lagging behind population growth, there remains a broader opportunity to implement over a host of Melbourne railway stations a quality interface between these intensified places and surrounding neighbourhoods with the State Government's level crossing removal program. To that end, Apartments.com.au spoke with Hayball Principal Sarah Buckeridge in order to garner her opinion on what factors are necessary in creating value for surrounding communities through integrated infrastructure upgrades, with rail at the heart of the discussion.

Having worked on proposals such as <a href="http://www.hayball.com.au/projects/proposition-3047/">Proposition 3047</a> and with a current apartment tower under construction in South Yarra's Forrest Hill, Sarah Buckeridge and Hayball at large are qualified to offer considered opinion on the matter.

<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/f107_3595.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Forrest Hill looms large. Image courtesy wongm.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="338" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/f107_3595.jpg?itok=D70BPyvd" title="Forrest Hill looms large. Image courtesy wongm.com" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Forrest Hill looms large. Image courtesy <a href="http://wongm.com/">Marcus Wong</a></figcaption></figure>With an expanded South Yarra Station - adding two new platforms on the Melbourne Metro Rail tunnel - dismissed as too expensive, attention now is shifting toward making the current structure user friendly. While the potential removal of the Cranbourne-Pakenham line from the existing station once the Melbourne Metro Rail project is complete may reduce the numbers of people connecting between lines at South Yarra, Sarah notes that South Yarra Station is very much a single directional facility interfacing only with Toorak Road.

True success for the adjoining Forrest Hill Precinct is largely dependent upon meaningful integration with South Yarra Station and that requires at least another station entrance towards its northern end in order to better serve Melbourne High School and the surrounding apartment buildings. Quizzed as to Forrest Hill Precinct's overall success, Sarah notes that in the truest sense it has achieved what the original policy shift had intended: the transformation of a former industrial pocket into a high-density residential hub in a relatively short period of time.

While the towers may be new, Sarah Buckeridge also cautions on the need for public realm expenditure to mirror that of private investment. Hand in hand with South Yarra Station's increased functionality is the need for City of Stonnington to address key public realm needs within Forrest Hill Precinct such as footpaths, greenery and general amenity. Only then can Forrest Hill Precinct be judged in its entirety.

<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/project-gallery_prop30471.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Integration with a station's surrounds is key. Image courtesy Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="379" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/project-gallery_prop30471.jpg?itok=Di-3c8pp" title="Boradmeadows: integration with a station's surrounds is key. Image courtesy Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Broadmeadows: integration with a station's surrounds is key. Image courtesy Hayball</figcaption></figure>Switching from the microcosm of South Yarra to a broader Melbourne context, Apartments.com.au posed the question of whether existing rail lines and stations could/should be sunk with air rights above offered for development. Sarah explains that there is no 'one size fits all' solution, citing the $70m Ikon Glen Waverley development and pending transformation of Brunswick's Jewell Station as prime examples of public-private partnership which can bring an enhanced outcome to both a given station and its surrounds, without necessarily sinking rail infrastructure.

It's this cooperation between the public (Victrack) and private spheres which Sarah considers vital in producing exciting, integrated infrastructure nodes with long lasting community benefits. Asked if new technologies such as Cross Laminated Timber (which Hayball has used successfully elsewhere) has a place in the building of new railway stations, Sarah replied it remains a possibility owing to its many beneficial characteristics but ultimately the station must be first and foremost functional and integrated with its surrounds.

<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/project-gallery_prop30474.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A reworked Broadmeadows Station. Image courtesy Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="215" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/project-gallery_prop30474.jpg?itok=AiqIGTHE" title="A reworked Broadmeadows Station. Image courtesy Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A reworked Broadmeadows Station. Image courtesy Hayball</figcaption></figure>Overarching the discussion was Hayball's work on devising an integrated outcome for Broadmeadows Station and its surrounds. Initially devised during 2006 as part of Architectural Review Australia’s ‘Proposition’ competition, <a href="http://www.hayball.com.au/projects/proposition-3047/">Proposition 3047</a> saw the redevelopment of the existing Broadmeadows train station with community, sustainability and accessibility at the crux of the design.

Winning the People’s Choice Award and the jury’s first prize at the time for the new inter-modal transit interchange and mixed-use development, it facilitated a new masterplan for a host of key sites within the greater Broadmeadows Transit City area. Prepared for the Department of Planning and Community Development, the 2011 Transit City plan also amounted to nothing, much to the disappointment of Sarah Buckeridge.

Sarah notes that rail station redevelopment can often act as a catalyst for further investment in the immediate area, as it's a central piece of infrastructure that naturally draws people toward it. The Broadmeadows plan was to have been a physical connector in an otherwise disjointed area, bringing with it a raft of community benefits such as increased, useable and engaging public spaces.

Described by Sarah as one of Hayball's best pieces of design, Proposition 3047 is nearly a decade old. Infrastructure investment by the State Government in Broadmeadows in particular has been limited to say the least over that period. As an stand alone design Proposition 3047 was valid then and still is now as an example of not simply redeveloping a given rail station, but taking it beyond to encapsulate a raft of features that can benefit the wider community.
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Sarah Buckeridge on integrated rail investment

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

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Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

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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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

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

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