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Panel by panel, one of Melbourne's truly unique residential buildings is beginning to show its considerable character due to an exterior unlike any other. <a href="/new-apartments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">Orbis</a> is located on Palmerston Crescent, South Melbourne, and is the handy work of ARM Architecture on behalf of South Yarra-based Arno Corporation.

Spanning seven levels and holding 48 apartments, Orbis' sculptured exterior is the development's highlight which sees a golden, concave facade applied over the northern aspect. According to ARM Architecture, a ‘sameness’ and ‘placelessness’ has come to define many of Melbourne's contemporary apartment projects, thus the architect's goal has been to bust the stereotypical apartment 'block' by creating a high quality and dynamic facade which will set the project apart from others.

Citing the project website, ARM Architecture have "chosen a design strategy that involves selective removal from a mass to reveal a figure or image. Employed at the scale of a building, this approach generates facades that go beyond the composition of patterns or forms to create space and make a remarkable contribution to the urban skyline."

The result to date couldn't be any more spectacular.

<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_6332.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Orbis' facade unlike any other"><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_6332.jpg?itok=V9zZLrOu" title="Orbis' facade unlike any other" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Orbis' facade unlike any other</figcaption></figure><h2>The developer's perspective</h2>

<blockquote>
Orbis represents a unique architectural expression.

Using an architectural technique that is more often associated with sculpture, ARM has chosen a design strategy that involves selective removal from a mass to reveal a figure or image. Employed at the scale of a building, this approach generates facades that go beyond the composition of patterns or forms to create space and make a remarkable contribution to the urban skyline.

In order to ensure a complete design package ARM are also responsible for interior concepts. The approach to the kitchens and dining areas is to enhance the sense of openness by creating a furnished rather than a fit out expression and to use natural materials to counterbalance the spectacular exteriors.
<cite>Arno Corporation </cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_6331.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Momentum's facade"><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_6331.jpg?itok=_MiwYAao" title="Momentum's facade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Momentum's facade</figcaption></figure><h2>Maintaining the momentum</h2>

Orbis is joined by adjoining project <a href="/new-apartments/momentum-147-eastern-road-south-melbourne">Momentum</a> which sees the conversion of an existing commercial office block into 54 apartments. Ahead of Orbis in terms of construction progress, Momentum's facade also carries a unique exterior in that it is adorned with balustrades featuring a looping photographic motif of an athlete.

Drawing upon the nearby Albert Park and Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC) for inspiration, the motif is also designed to depict life's never ending journey.

<blockquote>
The architectural goal with Momentum has been to create an apartment building of the highest quality that expresses the vitality of city life
<cite>Ian McDougall, ARM Architecture</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/image66.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Face, St Kilda"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="216" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image66.jpg?itok=vopwEi8I" title="The Face, St Kilda" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Face, St Kilda</figcaption></figure>Momentum and Orbis aren't the first collaboration between Arno Corporation and ARM Architecture, with St Kilda's The Face completed during 2012. Consisting of copper composite panels which were supplied by Spanish-based Alucoil, The Face's exterior provides flair to an already eclectic area surrounding Acland Street and Carlisle Street .

With a number of Salvador Dali painting acting as inspiration on the architect's behalf, The Face and its fascinating facade joins Momentum and Orbis in bringing real character and interest to both the building and the respective building's street level surrounds. One can only hope for more projects between developer and architect in the future.
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silvermb

Orbis South Melbourne shows its wares

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Late last week it was announced that two of Melbourne's more dynamic property developers have teamed in order to jointly deliver what will become one of Melbourne's premier addresses. South Melbourne-based Asian Pacific Group has taken a development shareholding in <a href="/buildings/collins-house-melbourne-460-466-collins-street-melbourne">Collins House</a>, a 57 level residential development, and in doing so has cemented what is expected to become a long-term relationship with fellow developer Golden Age Group.

In fitting with the ethos of both developers to deliver high-end residential and hotel offerings, the former Makers Mark building at 464-466 Collins Street will play entry to a new luxury skyscraper which will see its sales campaign launched during May.

<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/27cca5991d45e8a45aab799578d0c2ac.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the communal area"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="344" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/27cca5991d45e8a45aab799578d0c2ac.jpg?itok=AUpmivjU" title="Artist's impression of the communal area" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the communal area</figcaption></figure>Subject to refinement over the previous two years, the development team has now settled upon the final Collins House format which will see 263 luxury apartments within the tower. Bates smart have designed both the building itself and interiors which are modelled upon hotel style finishes.

As outlined in the <a href="/news/the-pencil-skyscraper-464-collins-street-in-depth">initial Urban.com.au piece</a> on the 2013 planning application, Collins House is expected to employ a unique structural engineering format which will provide the 195 metre tower with its strength, given it's a mere 11 metres wide. Initially used within <a href="http://www.spectator.co.uk/australia/australia-features/9153881/a-knife-blade-on-the-skyline/">Phoenix Apartments</a> on Flinders Street, the system will be supersized for Collins House which is due for completion during 2018.

<blockquote>
The narrow site has required the team to completely rethink construction systems for tall buildings which has resulted in its radically slender proportions to be built from state-of-the-art in situ cast concrete construction techniques.
<cite>Bates Smart</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/db9b16ba4847223fd897346f4c5ab110.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Collins House with Southbank beyond"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="200" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/db9b16ba4847223fd897346f4c5ab110.jpg?itok=swONHfyS" title="Collins House with Southbank beyond" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Collins House with Southbank beyond</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
This partnership with Asian Pacific Group adds immense value to the delivery of the luxury lifestyle we have envisaged for Collins House, further strengthening the unique offer in the market. It is the beginning of what we see as a long-term relationship creating luxury residential projects with a partner that understands quality and Melbourne.

We both have a passion for property in Melbourne and love to play golf, so we have wanted to work together for some time. We look forward to announcing further projects together in the future.
<cite>Golden Age Group founder Jeff Xu</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Through the Art Series brand we have demonstrated a commitment to creating inspired and extraordinary spaces – Collins House is exactly this. Located on Melbourne’s version of Fifth Avenue, Collins Street, this architecturally-designed project will stand the test of the time and bring hotel living to a residential setting.

We are immensely excited about this foray into residential development and are pleased to partner with Golden Age Group, which shares the same commitment to quality as we do.
<cite>Asian Pacific Group CEO Will Deague</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Future intent</h2>

Both Golden Age Group and Asian Pacific Group have additional projects on the horizon. Only yesterday it <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/east/proposal-for-dual-tower-development-in-box-hill/story-fngnvlxu-1227264697791">was reported</a> that Asian Pacific Group have attained unanimous support form City of Whitehorse for their dual-tower scheme fronting Maroondah Highway.

Subject to a VCAT hearing, <a href="/buildings/whitehorse-towers-850-whitehorse-road-box-hill">850 Whitehorse Road</a> would see towers of 36 and 26 levels; the former weighing in as the tallest in Box Hill at 115 metres. In addition to 500 plus apartments, the development will see the Art Series Hotel component named after artist Zhong Chen.

It's been reported the VCAT hearing is a preemptive move on the developers part to quell the intentions of an objector to the project.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image56_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impressions of both Whitehorse Towers and Opera"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="230" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image56_0.jpg?itok=NLqWhfDk" title="Artist's impressions of both Whitehorse Towers and Opera" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impressions of both Whitehorse Towers and Opera</figcaption></figure>Conversely Golden Age Group have their flagship project, <a href="/buildings/victoria-one-452-472-elizabeth-street-melbourne">Victoria One</a>, in its construction infancy as piling rigs begin to lay foundations for the 241 metre, Elenberg Fraser-designed tower. With the vast majority of its 600 plus apartments accounted for, Golden Age Group will soon turn its attention to a prized site at 450 St Kilda Road.

Dubbed Opera, the Bates Smart design is expected to contain roughly 220 dwellings, and is described as follows:

<blockquote>
Our design vision for 450 St.Kilda Road aims to draw on the nostalgic glamour of Airlie Mansion and leverage off its significance and value to our development site. To express this relationship and rapport, our design has taken a more sculptural and contemporary shape to create a landmark which exudes a distinctive, elegant and alluring flavour.

We aim to create a building that not only captures the movement and vitality of St Kilda Road’s glamorous past but also allows the key views across the site to be maximised. The facade is stretched like fabric over this contemporary form. Openings are expressed as cuts which accentuate the sense of movement.

The ground plane draws on the idea of pattern making of traditional paving evident in the grand mansions along St Kilda Road but provides a contemporary twist.
<cite>Golden Age Group</cite>
</blockquote>

With the intent to further collaboration in the future outlined by both parties, could one or both of the above projects be next in line?
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Collins House a precursor of things to come

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A reader rcently forwarded details of a completed residential complex in Turin, Italy. <a href="http://www.thisiscolossal.com/2015/03/a-multi-story-urban-treehouse-that-protect-residents-from-air-and-noise-pollution/">25 Verde</a> holds 63 apartments and sets itself apart from the existing streetscape via the use of 150 trees and plants placed almost haphazardly over its facade. The healthy amount of greenery provides environmental benefits by way of producing 150,000 liters of oxygen each hour, while absorbing 200,000 liters of carbon dioxide an hour at night.

While a design such as 25 Verde is less practical than the norm, it does raise the question: is Melbourne dragging its feet in the drive to green existing and new urban spaces?

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/verde_03.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="25 Verde. Image © Beppe Giardino"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="696" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/verde_03.jpg?itok=55GYKAuA" title="25 Verde. Image © Beppe Giardino" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>25 Verde. Image © Beppe Giardino</figcaption></figure>Prior to addressing that question, below is a description of 25 Verde:

<blockquote>
A potted forest of trees and branching steel beams disguise this 5-story apartment building in Turin, Italy. Designed by Luciano Pia, 25 Verde brings plants up off the ground in an attempt to evade Turin’s homogeneous urban scene and integrate life into the facade of the residential building.

The undulating structure creates a transition from outdoors to in, holding 150 trees that absorb close to 200,000 liters of carbon dioxide an hour. This natural absorption brings pollution protection to its residents, helping to eliminate harmful gasses caused by cars and harsh sounds from the bustling streets outside. The trees’ seasonal progression also creates the ideal microclimate inside the building, steadying temperature extremes during the cold and warmer months. The plants’ full foliage block rays of sun during the summer while letting in warm light during the winter.

The building holds 63 units, each benefiting from the terraces and vegetation just beyond their windows and walls. Each species of plant has been chosen purposefully from deciduous plant life in Turin to provide the highest variety of color, foliage, and blooming. This innovative design provides a childlike dream while also instilling real world benefits to those who live in this urban treehouse.
<cite>Kate Sierzputowski, <a href="http://www.thisiscolossal.com/2015/03/a-multi-story-urban-treehouse-that-protect-residents-from-air-and-noise-pollution/">Vertical Forest: An Urban Treehouse That Protect Residents from Air and Noise Pollution (Colossal)</a></cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>A Melbourne context</h2>

Certainly form a policy perspective City of Melbourne are proactive in the area with an abundance of <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/Sustainability/CouncilActions/Pages/GreenRoofsWallsandFacades.aspx">information available</a> online, in addition to the <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/Sustainability/CouncilActions/Pages/CanopyMelbourneGreenRoofForum.aspx">Canopy public forum</a> which brings together developers, students, practitioners, engineers, designers, industry members, researchers and building owners. Canopy is dedicated toward the sharing of ideas and experience for greening our cities through green roofs, walls and other green urban infrastructure.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image54.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A collection of current and future green Melbourne facades"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="768" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image54.jpg?itok=KWc2JgGo" title="A collection of current and future green Melbourne facades" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A collection of current and future green Melbourne facades</figcaption></figure>There is a smattering of green projects both existing and planned throughout inner Melbourne, with <a href="http://www.archdaily.com/395131/ch2-melbourne-city-council-house-2-designinc/">Council House 2</a> considered a catalyst in the endeavour of greening our buildings upon its completion during 2006. Yet would a project like 25 Verde progress beyond fantasy in Melbourne almost a decade after CH2 was delivered?

Where there's no onus upon the developer to do so, more times than not the answer is no. Green facades are still an anomaly, albeit a pleasant one with numerous benefits.

I'm not advocating that every new building in Melbourne mimic the likes of Milan's <a href="http://www.stefanoboeriarchitetti.net/en/portfolios/bosco-verticale/">Bosco Verticale</a>, but perhaps it's time that minimum green requirements were implemented over the ground plane/podium levels of new developments. Easier said than done but the majority of Southbank and large areas of Docklands would have been all the better for such a scheme.
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Exploring the merits of a vertical forest: has it a lasting place in Melbourne?

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It was revealed in Kuala Lumpur yesterday that prolific Malaysian-based developer UEM Sunrise has chosen Probuild to deliver the group's first Melbourne project: Aurora Melbourne Central. Near on 270 metres, the Elenberg Fraser-designed tower will be the biggest undertaken by Melbourne-based Probuild both in terms of height and apartments involved.

Located on La Trobe Street opposite Melbourne Central, the project will include in excess of 120,000sqm of built area, a direct link to Melbourne Central Station, 941 residential apartments, approximately 250 serviced apartments plus retail and office space through the podium levels.

With the tower's apartments near on 100% sold, Probuild was been chosen as the preferred builder after edging out two fellow Australian tier-one builders based upon technical and commercial merits.

<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/aurora_view_04_ef.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aurora Melbourne Central. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1122" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/aurora_view_04_ef.jpg?itok=owMDJM-o" title="Aurora Melbourne Central. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aurora Melbourne Central. Image courtesy Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
For the next three months, there will be detailed contract negotiations with Probuild on design refinements, contract costs and contract details.

We would like to thank the purchasers of Aurora Melbourne Central for their support of our vision, and we are now set to deliver our promise in the construction of high-quality homes via the partnership with one of Australia’s most capable builders, Probuild.
<cite>UEM Sunrise Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr Anwar Syahrin Abdul Ajib</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We are delighted we have been chosen by UEM Sunrise to be its delivery partner for its flagship project, Aurora Melbourne Central. We are thrilled by the opportunity to hit the ground running on this truly iconic project.
<cite>Probuild Managing Director Mr Simon Gray</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>One marquee project replaces another</h2>

While Aurora Melbourne Central prepares for construction, Probuild's high profile Swanston Square project has recently seen its distinctive facade unveiled, with protective sleeves removed to reveal the full William Barak portrait adorning the exterior.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/173_05-03-2015_7450.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The freshly completed Swanston Square. Image courtesy Probuild"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="415" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/173_05-03-2015_7450.jpg?itok=Ow__AVNo" title="The freshly completed Swanston Square. Image courtesy Probuild" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The freshly completed Swanston Square. Image courtesy Probuild</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The Swanston Square project, adorned with a one-of-a-kind 80 metre façade depicting the portrait of Barak, is four times the height of Mount Rushmore in the USA and was made possible through the use of a new and emerging building material. Probuild oversaw the manufacture and installation of 406 individual panels made from Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP), a resin-based composite used to create the face of Barak.

More commonly associated with the building of aircraft and super yachts, GRP was chosen because of its flexibility, allowing panels to be moulded into any shape; the ideal choice for what is more an artistic sculpture than functional facade.
<cite>Probuild website</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Far and wide</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/image38.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The newly erected Eporo tower crane along with Pacific Werribee. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="288" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image38.jpg?itok=fQS81pd2" title="The newly erected Eporo tower crane along with Pacific Werribee. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The newly erected Eporo tower crane along with Pacific Werribee. Image courtesy Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure>While Aurora Melbourne Central will stand tall within Melbourne's CBD, Probuild's continual spread throughout greater Melbourne has coincided with its amalgamation with fellow builder Contexx during 2013. At present the likes of Victoria One, Eporo, Bouverie St. and Empire Melbourne headline their large-scale residential projects under construction.

On the flip side current retail projects include Chadstone Shopping Centre's expansion, Pacific Werribee and the roughly 40,000sqm expansion of Eastland Shopping Centre while South East Water's new Frankston headquarters ranks amongst their commercial pursuits.

As for Aurora Melbourne Central, site works are expected to begin during June with the tower to be delivered in stages; the last of which is due for completion in mid-2019.
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Probuild crown their workbook with Aurora Melbourne Central

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Apartments.com.au recently spoke with AXF Group Managing Director Richard Gu regarding all things property, and the future intent of the now well established Melbourne-based developer.

Created during 2005 (with the help of Shanghai-based parent company Xiangfu), AXF Group first cut its teeth in the apartment sector with a medium-density complex located at 18-26 Bell Street, Heidelberg. While the Heidelberg project was completed during 2010, the current day AXF Group holds a stable of development opportunities with one common goal: the delivery of high quality living spaces.

Imperial Doncaster heads the current crop of apartment developments with construction well advanced on the project. Located on Doncaster Hill and maintaining views over Melbourne's CBD, the project is near on two months ahead of schedule with contractor Hacer Group expected to reach completion during June.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image6_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Imperial Doncaster. Images courtesy Hacer Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="472" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_0.jpg?itok=4DuZUNjf" title="Imperial Doncaster. Images courtesy Hacer Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Imperial Doncaster. Images courtesy Hacer Group</figcaption></figure>Stressing the development's quality location and ample apartment formats, some of which are at 200 square metres, Richard explained that a recent Chinese New Year limited-time offer to waive stamp duty on any purchases within Imperial had helped push sales ahead. With practical completion in sight, AXF Group are now releasing the developer’s reserved stock within the Buchan Group-designed project.

It's the market positioning, intrinsic quality and subsequent success of Imperial within a cluttered Doncaster apartment market which has in part helped AXF Group define their development course for the immediate future. 85% of purchasers within Imperial are noted as owner-occupiers with 15% of apartments offered sold for in excess of $1 million.

According to Richard, AXF Group like many other developers was heavy with developments slanted toward investors rather than owner-occupiers. Yet with the success of Imperial the focus has shifted toward attracting the premium owner-occupier in forthcoming developments.

Subsequently two high profile development sites have or are in the process of being moved on by AXF Group. Footscray's Kinnears Rope Factory site with the prospect of 1400 dwellings and 1,000sqm of retail space has sold to a mainland Chinese developer, while the well publicised 545 Station Street in Box Hill is also for sale. With approval for 419 dwellings and a potential serviced apartment component, Richard is confident the site and endorsed plans will attract a buyer.

This shift in AXF Group's paradigm is well demonstrated in Melbourne's CBD. Based upon the group's observations Richard believes that the influx of recent apartment projects has lead to a glut of investor-grade apartments while the top-end resident has been neglected to a degree. While tight-lipped about a specific address, Richard says AXF Group will soon unveil a new development in the 'Paris End' of the CBD, well away from the investor-driven towers sprouting up in the western and northern areas fo the CBD.

This CBD project will be front and centre in AXF Group's efforts to target the owner-occupier market.

Asked on the progress of another intended project at 180 Russell Street, Richard revealed that the marquee tower has received some design refinement based upon discussion with State planning officials and that the project is still firmly on track. First revealed by Apartments.com.au, the Buchan Group-designed mixed-use tower would include a hotel component, apartments and an active civic scape fronting the Chinatown precinct and Russell Street.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image7_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 180 Russell Street's street level activation. Image courtesy Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="421" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_2.jpg?itok=sm0W2c-N" title="Artist's impression of 180 Russell Street's street level activation. Image courtesy Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 180 Russell Street's street level activation. Image courtesy Buchan Group</figcaption></figure>In line with the realignment of expectations, AXF Group has elected to suspend the planned roll-out of their So Stay serviced apartment brand for the time being.

Further afield AXF Group have spread into the Sydney market with similar high-end intentions in mind. While both Parramatta and Liverpool maintain robust apartment markets, AXF Group intend to emulate the traits of Imperial in targeting the premium portion of the market. There is no surprise at Richard's synopsis of the current Melbourne and overall Australian apartment market; while there is oversupply in certain market sectors, excellent opportunity and undersupply exists for refined, quality apartments,

That's an opportunity which AXF Group intends to capitalise upon.
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Richard Gu on the refined intentions of AXF Group

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In isolation it's a typically dashing ARM Architecture design that would provide a visual focal point in an area already heavy with architecturally dominant buildings. Yet place the freshly submitted 696-708 Elizabeth Street planning application in context and the overall picture becomes somewhat obscured.

During 2013 Jobs Australia Ltd's 696-708 Elizabeth Street site formed part of a larger development plot with <a href="/news/the-ecstacy-of-bronze-690-708-elizabeth-street-melbourne">intended joint partner</a> PDG Corporation. For reasons unknown both parties chose to develop their own sites separately, which now sees PDG Corporation's <a href="/buildings/royal-elizabeth-151-berkeley-street-melbourne">Royal Elizabeth</a> at construction under the guidance of Hamilton Marino builders.

It is of course not 696-708 Elizabeth Street's frontage to Elizabeth Street or Pelham Street which may raise eyebrows, but the close proximity it seeks to hold in relation to Royal Elizabeth, in addition to the gutting of the existing historic structure's interior.

<h2>Project summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image18_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="696-708 Elizabeth Street in isolation. Image sourced via ARM architecture plans"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="391" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_0.jpg?itok=UMlm1L86" title="696-708 Elizabeth Street in isolation. Image sourced via ARM architecture plans" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>696-708 Elizabeth Street in isolation. Image sourced via ARM architecture plans</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Current 380sqm site use: former 1880's bank branch</li>
	<li>Planning application received 3rd March 2015</li>
	<li>Proposed 20 level residential tower @ 75.7 metres</li>
	<li>89 apartments: 9 two-bedroom apartments and 80 one-bedroom apartments</li>
	<li>307 square metres of office space, continuing the existing use</li>
	<li>0 car parking spaces &amp; 19 internal/12 external bicycle spaces provided</li>
	<li>25sqm cafe and communal garden included</li>
	<li>GFA: 6,984sqm</li>
</ul>
<h2>At arm's length</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/image21_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Windowed facade and precast paneling. Images courtesy Elenberg Fraser, PDG and ARM Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="261" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_1.jpg?itok=be-Ygc53" title="Windowed facade and precast paneling. Images courtesy Elenberg Fraser, PDG and ARM Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Windowed facade and precast paneling. Images courtesy Elenberg Fraser, PDG and ARM Architecture</figcaption></figure>Royal Elizabeth's <a href="http://www.royalelizabeth.com.au/design">project website</a> which currently hosts a set of marketing images depicts glazed windows wrapping the exterior of the building, including seemingly to the rear of 696-708 Elizabeth Street. If these are indeed windows and integral to the design of Royal Elizabeth, they will be confronted with sheer precast walls at close proximity should 696-708 Elizabeth Street be approved.

Based in the 696-708 Elizabeth Street planning application drawing set, the Elizabeth Street frontage sees both towers flush against one another as seen below. As part of 696-708 Elizabeth Street's key planning considerations the impact to adjoining properties has been taken into account:

<blockquote>
The proposal provides a design that is highly cognisant of its impacts on adjoining properties. Of note, is the relationship of the proposal having regard to the property to the south and east:

<ul>
<li>The proposal provides a scheme that is highly responsive to its neighbouring properties to the south and east which is was recently granted a permit for its development. We note that this site is located at 690 - 694 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne and forms part of the PDG 'Royal Elizabeth' Development</li>
	<li>The proposed development seeks to build to its southern boundary- which currently presents as series of 'green fins' when viewed along Elizabeth and Pelham Streets</li>
	<li>The proposal fronts a council laneway to the east. Beyond the laneway is the northern portion of the PDG development. The proposal seeks to screen windows along its eastern boundary to mitigate overlooking issues</li>
	<li>Having regard to the matters above, it is considered that the proposal will have little to no impact on adjoining properties</li>
</ul>
<cite>Extract from the Urbis Planning and Urban Context Report</cite>
</blockquote>

One can only assume that the northern-facing windowed facade over Royal Elizabeth adjoining the 696-708 Elizabeth Street has been scrapped?

<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/image23_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Is a precast wall set to abut a windowed facade? Image sourced via ARM architecture plans"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="397" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image23_0.jpg?itok=T6ZPxYAy" title="Is a precast wall set to abut a windowed facade? Image sourced via ARM architecture plans" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Is a precast wall set to abut a windowed facade? Image sourced via ARM architecture plans</figcaption></figure><h2>Heritage considerations</h2>

<blockquote>
It is proposed to demolish the internal volume and cast and south walls of the existing former bank, retaining only the street facades, a short section of corner return walls at first floor level and part of the roof structure including one chimney. Conservation works will be undertaken on the retained facades.
<cite>Bryce Raworth Pty Ltd, Assessment of Heritage Impacts report</cite>
</blockquote>

Designed by architect Peter Matthews and dating back to the 1880's, the existing building was once the Haymarket Branch of the Commercial Bank of Australasia Ltd. The classically inspired structure is a rendered brick exterior finish atop bluestone foundations, and is of heritage value.

The Planning and Urban Context Report explains that the intended tower is set as far back as possible from the existing Commercial Bank of Australia heritage building, with the existing facade restored and rejuvenated.

<blockquote>
We recognise the significance of the existing Commercial Bank of Australia building and will work with expert heritage consultants to ensure the heritage facade will be restored and rejuvenated to its former glory. The form of the proposed tower is set as far back as possible, to allow the form of the bank some breathing room, the new build cut back to ensure that the "tailing" edges of the old bank are visible from Pelham and Elizabeth Streets.

Likewise the tower cut back reveals the roof pitch and chimney. The "Flat Iron" shape of the new tower with its sweep of the leading edge reinforces the corner, porch an idpediment of the original.
<cite>ARM Architecture</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>696-708 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Jobs Australia Ltd</li>
	<li>Urban Context Report and Architectural Plans: ARM Architecture</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering Assessment: Traffix Group</li>
	<li>Wind assessment: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Wastech</li>
	<li>Heritage: Bryce Raworth</li>
	<li>ESD: Simpson Kotzman</li>
	<li>​Environmental Site Assessment: Kleinfelder</li>
</ul>
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At arm's length: 696-708 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne

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What better way to judge the health of the construction sector than by ushering in the first Apartments.com.au crane count for 2015. And the sector must be booming given the current number of tower cranes plying their trade, blitzing any previous count to set a new record at 131 units.

It's not necessarily the inner city shouldering the burden either with tower cranes spread far and wide. Ringwood for instance has seven in use while Werribee, Knox, Frankston and Melbourne Airport also add to the spread.

At our assertion there's currently 131 tower cranes in use, comfortably outnumbering previous periods where the count averages roughly 110. While a variance of a handful of units is always factored in, there's no doubt that at this point in time Melbourne has never seen so many projects under construction. The importance to the employment rate and Melbourne's overall economic health can be extrapolated from the very healthy current numbers.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th>Sector</th>
			<th>Cranes in use</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Residential / aged care</td>
			<td>91</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Commercial office</td>
			<td>13</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Education / affiliated student housing</td>
			<td>8</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Health and medical research</td>
			<td>7</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Retail shopping centres</td>
			<td>10</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Demolition of existing structures</td>
			<td>2</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Considered the wheel house of our city's property development sector, the City of Melbourne accounts for a relatively light one third of all the tower cranes currently in use, with the remainder throughout greater Melbourne.

As always crane use for residential projects is at the heart of the census, accounting for 70% of all tower cranes erected at the moment. While those dedicated to commercial use have seen insignificant change over recent years, the number dedicated toward student housing and retail purposes have served to spike the crane count.

<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_0453.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ringwood's Eastland development providing a boost"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="309" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0453.jpg?itok=Jf7gj9NV" title="Ringwood's Eastland development providing a boost" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ringwood's Eastland development providing a boost</figcaption></figure>Probuild are handling large-scale expansions of Eastland Ringwood, Chadstone and Pacific Werribee, which now account for ten tower cranes dedicated toward the retail aspect of these three projects. The combined monetary value of these three developments is about the $1.5 billion mark, with The Glen and Westfiled Knox also shaping up for regeneration during the latter part of 2015, which is valued at a combined $1 billion.

The high demand for cranes in Melbourne has seen new operators flood into the market in recent years. Latest to appear on the Melbourne skyline is Sydney-based Titan Cranes who provided cranes for Leighton Contractors' Melbourne Airport expansion, and are now present at Knox Private Hospital in Wantirna.

<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_0864.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Titan Cranes at Melbourne Airport during late 2014"><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_0864.jpg?itok=NwHIEM3b" title="Titan Cranes at Melbourne Airport during late 2014" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Titan Cranes at Melbourne Airport during late 2014</figcaption></figure>Peering into the next Apartments.com.au crane count toward the last quarter of 2015, a host of high profile apartment towers will keep demand for tower cranes buoyant. The likes of Lighthouse, Australia 108, Victoria One, Tower Melbourne and EQ Tower are set to receive multiple tower cranes each over the course of 2015, with the shortest of these five being EQ Tower at 200 metres.

Elsewhere a rash of projects in Docklands will see the precinct attract its fair share of tower cranes while Doncaster looks like a construction hot spot to watch in the latter part of the year.
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The biannual Urban.com.au crane count - March 2015

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A website has surfaced in recent weeks which compares the Melbourne of today to that of 1945. The stark differences can be viewed at <a href="http://1945.melbourne/">Melbourne 1945</a> which provides contrasting aerial imagery using Department of Crown Lands and Survey photography mashed with current Mapbox capabilities.

<a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/a-birdseye-view-of-melbournes-transformation-from-1945-to-2015-20150227-13pd5v">Recently highlighted</a> in The Age, Melbourne 1945 provides a tangible resource that charts Melbourne's immense growth over a sustained period. While providing a visual glimpse at Melbourne's past, it also points toward what lies ahead for Melbourne if the current path is maintained. That is further suburban sprawl with implications for both sustainability and the environment.

<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/image92.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne's sports precinct then and now"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="353" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image92.jpg?itok=xjwRjrD5" title="Melbourne's sports precinct then and now" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne's sports precinct then and now</figcaption></figure>A description of Melbourne 1945 as provided by Nathan Jeffrey:

<blockquote>
The aerial map of Melbourne in 1945 was commissioned by the Department of crown Lands and Survey, and conducted by Adastra Airways. This is a snapshot of the city immediately following WWII, and preceding the suburban sprawl of the postwar period.

You'll notice that there are some missing portions in the 1945 map - notably the areas around Wantirna, Blackburn and Frankston. Unfortunately the original photos covering these areas seem to be lost to time.
<cite><a href="http://1945.melbourne/">Nathan Jeffrey, Melbourne, 1945</a></cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image93.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Only a fraction of our population recall Doncaster during 1945"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="329" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image93.jpg?itok=_Rp-_mcE" title="Only a fraction of our population recall Doncaster during 1945" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Only a fraction of our population recall Doncaster during 1945</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

As the old adage goes, "You don't know where you're going until you know where you've been."

Melbourne 1945 is an intriguing glimpse into the past while also giving a fair indication as to how Melbourne has constantly expanded since the days of its founding during 1835. This in turn poses the question: will Melbourne continue its sprawl outward over the next 30, 50, 70 years or will suburban sprawl at some point be deemed counterproductive?

To think that Warburton is 72 kilometres from the CBD and still considered part of greater Melbourne is mind boggling! Will the greater Melbourne decades from now stretch beyond a 100-130 kilometre radius from the CBD? That sounds implausible, but I'm sure the equivalent was said during 1945 about locations we now consider middle and outer ring suburbs.

Replicating what has been done for the past 70 years by continually pushing Melbourne outwards is not the way forward, and the Melbourne 1945 website aides by providing an excellent visual representation of what has been. Build up in a responsible manner, not outwards!
</body></html>

Melbourne: How you've changed in 70 years - but for the better?

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First there was the Sky Park Tower proposal with its five level park at the tower's summit. Then came a protracted Council and VCAT process which ultimately saw approval for a redesigned proposal. A few short months ago proponents Shanygi Group listed for sale 17-23 Wills Street as a prime development site with permit in place, and now after years of maneuvering Wills Place is finally slated to begin its apartment sales campaign next month.

Wills Place as it is will be known has had a very public profile since it's inception, with the peak of public interest and debate surrounding the proposal's desire to build to its northern boundary, effectively dimming the adjoining 'light shaft' of the Wills Court development. In order to negate the possibility of plunging the adjoining building's balconies into perpetual darkness, 17-23 Wills Street received setbacks and a colourful new facade to boot.

The proposal and its VCAT success were <a href="/news/seeing-the-light-the-revised-17-23-wills-street-development">covered in depth</a> on Apartments.com.au during November 2013.

<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/kud001-v01c-a-940px-copy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective of Wills Place. Image courtesy KUD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/kud001-v01c-a-940px-copy.jpg?itok=GXYtgvtA" title="Hero perspective of Wills Place. Image courtesy KUD" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective of Wills Place. Image courtesy KUD</figcaption></figure>Subject to a variety of different configurations in the past including a hotel component, Wills Place will now deliver 200 apartments above the retained Art Deco podium. Gone is the Sky Park in favour of a more traditional tower format, albeit with a vibrant exterior which will set the tower apart from its immediate neighbours.

The latest of a string of apartment tower developments in the north-west corner of Melbourne's CBD, Wills Place follows the recently completed Istana and Grand 8 apartment projects. <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">386-412 William Street</a> and the adjoining Victoria Market dual residential tower scheme look set to be the next residential projects of note in the popular pocket.

<h2>Kavellaris Urban design on Wills Place</h2>

<blockquote>
The Wills tower is a departure from the typical extruded plan typology. Our objective for this project was to design an alternative vertical building form from a series of stacked floor plates expressed as individual volumes, as opposed to one large extruded volume with a repetition of window and balcony expressions. The result is a highly articulated rectilinear building that is expressed and narrated horizontally. The penetrations and balconies are intergrated within each volume which creates the architectural syntax.
<cite>Kavellaris Urban Design</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/wills-tower_image005.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The retained Art Deco facade. Image courtesy KUD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/wills-tower_image005.jpg?itok=CDHhvXes" title="The retained Art Deco facade. Image courtesy KUD" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The retained Art Deco facade. Image courtesy KUD</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
A beautiful 1930’s Art Deco building covers the entire footprint of the small site which we retained and integrated as part of our design response. The tower building is inserted within the envelope of the Deco building and sits on a series of large columns that penetrate through and beyond the existing building thereby creating a complete separation between the old and new.
<cite>Kavellaris Urban Design</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Shangyi Property increase their presence</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/image88_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Spectrum as rendered and under construction. Render courtesy KUD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="295" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image88_0.jpg?itok=YRlcRT6Y" title="Spectrum as rendered and under construction. Render courtesy KUD" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Spectrum as rendered and under construction. Render courtesy KUD</figcaption></figure>One of the pioneering Chinese developers which entered the Australian market in 2008, Shangyi Group completed their first Melbourne project during 2011 - an eight level apartment block dubbed 'Sunshine' in North Melbourne. With a focus on residential projects the developer currently has <a href="/new-apartments/box-hill-vic-3128">Spectrum Apartments</a> under construction in Box Hill.

While Spectrum and Wills Place carry the same architect and the same penchant for exterior colour, Shangyi Group are also behind a current townhouse project in Doncaster, and are due to follow with another project in Box Hill shortly. Located on Wellington Road and within an area experiencing intense urban regeneration, it's expected Shangyi Group's new project will be in the vicinity of six levels.
</body></html>

Shanygi Group's Wills Place headed for a sales launch

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The development scene is heating up in Geelong with a quartet of commercial proposals vying to secure a handful of key tenants currently seeking to lock away their long term homes. If realised the projects would add close to 50,000sqm of floor space to the buoyant Geelong commercial sector, underpinned by WorkSafe Victoria and the National Disability Insurance Agency flagging their intentions to establish their respective headquarters in the city.

<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/image64_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Recent and current Geelong commercial proposals"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="381" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image64_0.jpg?itok=_3595_n9" title="Recent and current Geelong commercial proposals" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Recent and current Geelong commercial proposals</figcaption></figure>Seen above are the office buildings striving to make their mark upon Geelong. Clockwise sees:

<ul>
<li>Fender Katsalidis' current 12-storey angular proposal located on Myers Street. Holding in excess of 10,000sqm of premium office space, the blue tower replaced an initial Tetris-like design for the site.</li>
	<li>Techne Development have planning approval for a honeycomb-like office building fronting Malop Street. The Woods Bagot creation is valued at $120 million and would carry 17,269sqm within the 5 Star NABERS-designed complex.</li>
	<li>Barwon Water are due to commence the redevelopment of their existing Ryrie Street building shortly. According to the Geelong Advertiser the $25 million project will see all office-based staff consolidated in a single location.</li>
	<li>Last is Quintessential Equity's approved 1-7 Malop Street commercial proposal. The 12-storey, $90m commercial building would hold 13,500 sqm of space upon completion.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Enterprise Geelong</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/image58_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images courtesy ARM, Epworth and BSA Building Surveyors"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="460" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image58_0.jpg?itok=49FDP6J9" title="Images courtesy ARM, Epworth and BSA Building Surveyors" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images courtesy ARM, Epworth and BSA Building Surveyors</figcaption></figure>Of course commercial projects aren't the only major works underway in Geelong at the moment with a host of civil and civic projects on the go. Most spectacular is ARM's Geelong Library and Heritage Centre which is described below:

<blockquote>
The distinctive dome design reflects existing great library reading rooms such as at the State Library of Victoria. The concept takes a sphere and deliberately ‘erodes’ sections to blur the boundary between Johnstone Park and the building. The design is intended to meet the highest standards of innovation, functionality, amenity and construction quality.

The building will serve as a symbol for Geelong at national and even international level. A pointedly contemporary design is seen as the best response to the existing heritage buildings and landscaping in the precinct. One of the goals of the project is for the new Geelong Library and Heritage Centre to serve as a catalyst for further development and increased activity in central Geelong.
<cite><a href="http://www.geelongaustralia.com.au/glhc/design/article/item/8cf915e29f77d7d.aspx">City of Greater Geelong</a></cite>
</blockquote>

For sheer size Epworth Geelong cannot be matched with three tower cranes erected over the sprawling complex which is valued at $277 million. Seen above, the project is located next to Deakin University and will deliver a raft of services including 262 overnight inpatient beds, an Emergency department and 11 operating theatres. Completion date is set for mid 2016. The Epworth project follows the recent completion of a $128 million expansion to University Hospital Geelong.

<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/bg3wy09ccaaelkm.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy ARM Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bg3wy09ccaaelkm.jpg?itok=EmTozsUl" title="Image courtesy ARM Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy ARM Architects</figcaption></figure>Prime amongst remaining porposals is the potential redevelopment of an international convention and exhibition centre on the Geelong waterfront, with an end value in the hundreds of millions. Seen above is ARM's concept render for a renewed Yarra Street Pier, hotel and Convention Centre which would certainly bring a new dynamic to Geelong.

To see what other projects are contributing to Geelong's major construction and redevelopment boom, visit the <a href="http://www.enterprisegeelong.com.au/cityscope-geelong-investment-news">Enterprise Geelong</a> website for further details.
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The second city alive and pumping

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

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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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

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Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

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

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

Mark Baljak

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