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Correct me if I'm wrong but I do recall that as far back as a decade ago under the tenure of then Planning Minister Mary Delahunty, West Melbourne was slated to become another high density extension of the CBD. It was said at the time West Melbourne would generally mimic Southbank in that an increase in height and density was considered appropriate for the suburb adjoining Melbourne's CBD.

The subsequent ten years have seen dribs and drabs of development, including a handful of towers generally about the 15 level mark; and some of questionable quality! Only in the recent year or so has West Melbourne fallen under the gaze of developers seeking genuine high-rise developments with the increased number of apartments to match.

Elenberg Fraser in their recent Urban Context Report for 385-405 King Street described West Melbourne as follows:

<blockquote>
The West Melbourne precinct is separated from the Capital City Zone by Flagstaff Gardens. There is a distinct increase in building heights and intensification of built form on the eastern and southern sides of the gardens, including a number of high rise developments currently under construction.

The West Melbourne area presents a visual transition in building heights from the intensive CBD tower developments to the low rise development further north of the site
<cite>Elenberg Fraser</cite>
</blockquote>

Indeed there has been a delineation of sorts between high-rise and medium to lower-density developments proposed for West Melbourne. Dudley Street has shaped as the unofficial border where high-rise proposals taper off to buildings of far fewer levels.

<h2>The current crop</h2>

Seen below are images of <a href="/buildings/flagstaff-green-15-batman-street-west-melbourne">15-31 Batman Street</a> and 385-405 King Street (second and fourth) which are the first public glimpses of those projects. The four towers below constitute the tallest four projects within West Melbourne currently; 420 Spencer Street sets the high benchmark with approval at 131 metres in height.

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-village-377-spencer-street-west-melbourne">371 Spencer Street</a> seen third below also sets the pace for total apartments approved within a single project, capable of adding 704 dwellings to inner city stock.

<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/image82.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The West Melbourne foursome. Images courtesy FK, Inhabit, Bruce Henderson &amp; EF"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="209" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image82.jpg?itok=Gs23Yfu7" title="The West Melbourne foursome. Images courtesy FK, Inhabit, Bruce Henderson &amp; EF" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The West Melbourne foursome. Images courtesy FK, Inhabit, Bruce Henderson &amp; EF</figcaption></figure>Overall a snapshot of the Apartments.com.au Project Database sees 13 separate apartment projects listed for West Melbourne, with a combined total of 2944 apartments on offer. While some are still at planning, others such as <a href="/new-apartments/419-421-spencer-street-west-melbourne">Duo Apartments</a> and <a href="/buildings/alessi-485-spencer-street-west-melbourne">Alessi</a> are into the construction phase.

The next project due for launch is GURNER's <a href="/buildings/ikebana-130-dudley-street-west-melbourne">Ikebana</a> located at 130 Dudley Street. With a display onsite, the development of 241 apartments looks likely to launch by years end.

<h2>Comment - avoiding the errors of Southbank</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/image84.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Batman Street with 385-405 King Street. Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image84.jpg?itok=HbV2Hw1U" title="Batman Street with 385-405 King Street. Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Batman Street with 385-405 King Street. Image © Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>While there'll be an intensely developed pocket of West Melbourne containing up to 40 levels, it's hard to envisage West Melbourne matching Southbank for scale. A smattering of already converted low-rise buildings and new developments built at lower heights will translate to a lack of wall to wall skyscrapers which for mine is a good thing.

Ultimately West Melbourne's street level as vastly different to Southbank's, with or without the expected surge of tall towers. Variable heights allowing for greater sunlight penetration and and generally different street level dynamic has West Melbourne holding a few aces over Southbank.

One critical difference between West Melbourne and Southbank is that a greater number of proposals for West Melbourne have included retail and cafe spaces away from major thoroughfares, thereby intending to inject life to street level - something which Southbank fails miserably to do.

So West Melbourne is due for fundamental change, how much remains to be seen.
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silvermb

West Melbourne the new Southbank?

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Mid last year Nicholas Harrison wrote a piece titled "<a href="/news/sixth-time-lucky-at-the-fun-factory">Sixth time lucky at the Fun Factory</a>" which highlighted the many attempts to realise a large-scale tower on what is South Yarra's premier development site. Spanning as far back as 1989, developers have sought to make good a string of predominantly residential schemes designed for the site, but to no avail.

The most recent attempt found itself at VCAT during 2013, and ultimately gained approval at 134 metres in height. Beyond that point 241-257 Toorak Road &amp; 625 Chapel Street (as it's officially referred to) has since fallen under the control of rapidly expanding Melbourne-based developer <a href="http://lkproperty.com.au/">LK Property Group</a>.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image67.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Render of The Capitol South Yarra. Images © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="584" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image67.jpg?itok=6YOUHq6s" title="Render of The Capitol South Yarra. Images © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Render of The Capitol South Yarra. Images © Bates Smart.</figcaption></figure>In keeping with the site's history and current development trends, a new planning application has been submitted seeking to increase the height and apartment yield for the project. Still under the moniker of The Capitol which surfaced during the failed sales campaign commenced during 2011, the new scheme before City of Stonnington seeks a 190 metre residential tower holding 660 apartments in a higher density format.

Project architect Bates Smart has essentially refined their previously endorsed design, creating a slimmer, taller tower while also reconfiguring the ground floor plane to allow greater circulation. The ground floor figure eight layout will heed 4,530sqm or retail space, adding to the already heavy retail offerings nearby.

While it may tower above all others in South Yarra, the below render shows that The Capitol wouldn't be completely out of place in what is a constantly evolving skyline. Given that the previous 41 storey development of 483 dwellings fell foul of City of Stonnington, it seems likely that VCAT or Ministerial intervention may well determine the fate of the current 190 metre proposal.

<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/image69.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Capitol above an otherwise expanding South Yarra skyline. Image courtesy Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="276" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image69.jpg?itok=vCvCNTTD" title="The Capitol above an otherwise expanding South Yarra skyline. Image courtesy Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Capitol above an otherwise expanding South Yarra skyline. Image courtesy Bates Smart.</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au has now <a href="/news/the-capitol-of-south-yarra">dissected The Capitol's planning application at length</a>, highlighting the magnitude of the proposed development that may well permanently reshape South Yarra.
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190 metre tower sought for South Yarra

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This morning <a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/property">The Australian reported</a> that a large chunk of the former CUB site bordering the CBD had been sold by Grocon to a mainland Chinese developer for $60 million, thus continuing the string of high profile sites purchased for a healthy sum. With the buoyant market seemingly churning out major development sites within days of one another, it's an opportune time to cast an eye over some of the biggest and best development sites currently available in order to assess whether the market still has steam.

Industry leader CBRE currently has a plethora of large development sites capable of handling thousands of apartments on its books, signifying the underlying strength of demand for development sites particularly from Asian-based developers. Below is an overview of current projects according to CBRE's <a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/for-sale/property-land+development-in-victoria/list-1?preferredState=vic">Property Connector</a> widget.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th>Address</th>
			<th>Sire area</th>
			<th>Status</th>
			<th>Remarks</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-melbourne-501241511">551 Swanston Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td>6,561sqm</td>
			<td>Sold</td>
			<td>Multi towers expected</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-north+melbourne-501160639">15-27 Wreckyn Street, Nth Melb</a></td>
			<td>2,271sqm</td>
			<td>Sold</td>
			<td>13 offers. Buyer - Mammoth Empire</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-maribyrnong-501293275">2 Wests Road, Maribyrnong</a></td>
			<td>3,871sqm</td>
			<td>For Sale</td>
			<td>Endorsed plans for 192 apartments</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-dandenong-501265379">285 Thomas Street, Dandenong</a></td>
			<td>2642sqm</td>
			<td>For Sale</td>
			<td>Endorsed plans for 198 apartments</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-hampton-501256431">2 Small Street, Hampton</a></td>
			<td>438sqm</td>
			<td>Sold</td>
			<td>Apartment development site</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-melbourne-501229863">168 Exhibition Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td>748sqm</td>
			<td>For Sale</td>
			<td>54 level apartment tower scheme included</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-parkville-501252367">535 - 541 Royal Parade, Parkville</a></td>
			<td>3,221sqm</td>
			<td>For Sale</td>
			<td>Development site</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-st+kilda-501226535">30 &amp; 71 Inkerman Street, St Kilda</a></td>
			<td>379sqm</td>
			<td>For Sale/Sold</td>
			<td>Dual apartment development sites</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-richmond-501293635">115-117 Church Street, Richmond</a></td>
			<td>1,505sqm</td>
			<td>For Sale</td>
			<td>Endorsed plans for 76 apartments</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-melbourne-501255907">17 - 23 Wills Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td>705sqm</td>
			<td>For Sale</td>
			<td>Endorsed plans for 232 apartments</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-armadale-501233236">117 Kooyong Road &amp; 21-23 Munro Street, Armadale</a></td>
			<td>6,070sqm</td>
			<td>For Sale</td>
			<td>Develpment site</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-south+melbourne-501120655">58 &amp; 66 Dorcas Street, South Melbourne</a></td>
			<td>3,492sqm</td>
			<td>For Sale</td>
			<td>480 apartments at planning</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-southbank-501124939">47 City Road, Southbank</a></td>
			<td>863sqm</td>
			<td>For Sale</td>
			<td>Development site</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-ringwood-501121743">28-30 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood</a></td>
			<td>9,429sqm</td>
			<td>For sale</td>
			<td>Multiple residential towers expected</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>The headline acts</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/image63_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Wills, Exhibition &amp; Dorcas. Images courtesy CBRE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="300" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image63_0.jpg?itok=dwz3aieR" title="Wills, Exhibition &amp; Dorcas. Images courtesy CBRE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Wills, Exhibition &amp; Dorcas. Images courtesy CBRE</figcaption></figure>Taller towers naturally tend to garner more attention and seen above are the three standout developments designed for Melbourne's CBD and Southbank. 58-66 Dorcas Street and 17-23 Wills Street combined would yield 712 new dwellings if realised while the Peddle Thorp concept for 168 Exhibition Street may yield in excess of 300 apartments if followed through.

Absent from the list above is <a href="/buildings/collins-house-melbourne-460-466-collins-street-melbourne">464 Collins Street</a> which was offered for sale by CBRE on behalf of Equiset, only for Equiset to seek additional levels for the slender tower in a recent revised planning application and deny the site had been sold to offshore interests.

<h2>What it all means?</h2>

Strong listings and sales for development sites in and around Melbourne tends to point to an underlying strength in the market. As yet no steam has been lost as developers are still showing an insatiable appetite for well positioned sites capable of handling sizeable apartment projects.

Once listings and sales do taper off it may well point to a change in market conditions. These factors will be explored in a number of upcoming articles outlining the concerns of the current apartment market dynamic but for the time being Melbourne looks set to go from strength to strength, all the time adding new towers to the already impressive skyline.
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Development site sales still booming

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An existing development site has resurfaced seeking approval for a revised planning scheme that would inject a new 199 metre tower into central Melbourne, while also adding two new hotels into the rampant Melbourne market. Gone is the Peddle Thorp-designed 39 level apartment tower with 219 dwellings, replaced by a sleek 56 level tower comprising apartments and 447 new hotel suites.

Conceived for Melbourne-based <a href="http://riversideproperties.com.au/default.asp">Riverside Properties Pty Ltd</a>, 399 Little Lonsdale Street represents the second large-scale project designed by <a href="http://k2ld.com.au/home/">K2LD Architects</a> of late, following the recent planning submission for <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">1-5 Queen Street</a>, also in Melbourne's CBD.

<h2>Project Summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>Revised plans submitted August 2014</li>
	<li>1,080sqm site currently a commercial car park and at grade space</li>
	<li>Approved 39 level design replaced by 56 level mixed-use tower at 199 metres in height</li>
	<li>A 4-star 207 bed hotel and a 3-star 240 bed hotel</li>
	<li>120 one and two bedroom apartments</li>
	<li>Provision for 90 car parking spaces</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/image58k2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The revised tower at 200 metres. Image courtesy K2LD Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="855" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image58k2.jpg?itok=pK65x8AQ" title="The revised tower at 200 metres. Image courtesy K2LD Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The revised tower at 200 metres. Image courtesy K2LD Architects</figcaption></figure><h2>Ownership intrigue</h2>

Riverside Properties have had 399 Little Lonsdale <a href="http://riversideproperties.com.au/current-399.asp">listed upon their website</a> for many years, so much so it's still shown as an intended 20 level building carrying 130 student accommodation rooms. Upon approval of the more recent 39 level, Peddle Thorp designed tower, the site was <a href="http://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/2011027121/for-sale/vic/melbourne/development-land/retail?topspot=1">offered for sale via CBRE</a>.

<a href="http://www.cbre.com.au/aboutus/mediacentre/mediaarchives/Pages/Sale-signals-ongoing-offshore-interest-in-Melbourne-development-opportunities.aspx">Heralded as sold</a> to a Singaporean-based investment firm entitled Well Smart Investment Holdings (Melb) Ltd, the current planning application form shows Well Smart Investment to be the applicant with the owner still listed as Riverside Properties Pty Ltd. Part of developer Clement Lee's Melbourne-based portfolio which includes, Riverlee, Asset1 and WTC Group, Riverside Properties Pty Ltd has apparently come full circle at 399 Little Lonsdale Street.

<h2>Design highlights</h2>

Headline changes to the approved development as taken from the Urbis planning report:

<ul>
<li>Changes from retail component at ground floor, to hotel and residential entrance/lobby with concierge.</li>
	<li>Car parking removed from the podium levels to within the basement with car stackers. Hotel and apartment facilities will now activate the podium levels above.</li>
	<li>Removal of all borrowed light from residential apartments.</li>
	<li>Inclusion of a 3 and 4 star hotel providing 447 rooms.</li>
	<li>Decrease in number of residential apartments to 120 one and two bedroom apartments.</li>
	<li>Increase in floor to ceiling heights to improve amenity of rooms and apartments.</li>
	<li>Increase in average apartment size</li>
	<li>Activation of Findlay Lane</li>
</ul>
With increased height the most noticeable change, 399 Little Lonsdale Street also receives a new external skin to all aspects, comprising angulated façade panels which disturbs the otherwise smooth external finish. This random angulation over certain panels will cast differing shadows over the facade providing the tower with a dynamic aspect.

Much emphasis has been placed upon the ground level sphere in the revised planning report with a host of changes included in order to improve podium activation and the public experience. As mentioned the above ground car park allotment has been relocated to a basement facility while hotel suites and apartments will now activate the podium levels above ground.

Podium edges remain activated with hotel facilities and the concierge area creating increased people circulation over the previous scheme, while Finlay Alley will benefit from increased foot traffic as a secondary passageway.

<h2>From the ground up</h2>

<ul>
<li>G - Dual entrances for residential and hotel guests, services, vehicle access to rear of building</li>
	<li>L1 - gym and offices</li>
	<li>L2 - conference facilities</li>
	<li>L3 - restaurant and bar with associated kitchen, meeting rooms and waiting lounge</li>
	<li>L4 - reception for hotel components</li>
	<li>L5-17 - 3 Star hotel suites</li>
	<li>L18 - plant &amp; 3 Star hotel suites</li>
	<li>L19-38 - apartments</li>
	<li>L39 - plant and 4 Star hotel suites</li>
	<li>L40-54 - 4 Star hotel suites</li>
	<li>L55 - 4 Star hotel suites, bar &amp; lounge</li>
	<li>L56 - plant</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/399ltlpt.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The 39 level approved scheme. Image courtesy CBRE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/399ltlpt.jpg?itok=APXOUHDh" title="The 39 level approved scheme. Image courtesy CBRE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The 39 level superseded scheme. Image courtesy CBRE</figcaption></figure>Should 399 Little Lonsdale Street eventually gain approval it wouldn't necessarily seem out of place as the adjoining property at <a href="/new-townhouses/272-queen-street-melbourne">272 Queen Street</a> currently holds planning approval for a 210 metre mixed-use tower, although that site has been offered for sale for some time.

In its current form Clement Lee's Riverside Properties Pty Ltd may seek construction for 399 Little Lonsdale Street soon after approval. Another of Mr. Lee's recent developments at 206 A'Beckett Street in the northern reaches of the CBD delivered 278 studio apartments and suites under the newly formed <a href="http://www.pegasussuites.com.au/">Pegasus Apart’Hotel</a> brand.

Considering the relatively low number of apartments located within the revised 399 Little Lonsdale scheme and the possibility that another Pegasus Apart'Hotel may account for one of the two hotel sections, the revised design could in theory gain the necessary pre-commitments to proceed to construction shortly after approval.

<h2>Development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Well Smart Investment Holdings (Melb) Ltd on behalf of Riverside Properties Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Architect: K2LD Architects</li>
	<li>Traffic: Salt3</li>
	<li>Wind Impact Advice: MEL Consultants</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>ESD: WSP Sustainable Management Plan</li>
</ul>
Lead image courtesy CBRE.
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399 Little Lonsdale Street hits the heights

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A little over a year ago Apartments.com.au ran a piece on Hawthorn, highlighting the <a href="/news/hawthorn-apartment-market-the-quiet-achiever">increased number of apartment developments</a> aiming to begin construction, with a high concentration around Burwood Road. Fast forward to earlier this week and the latest crane was erected in the area, marking Hawthorn and Hawthorn East as apartment hotspots.

Since the August 2013 article Apartments.com.au has tracked 492 apartments through to completion within Hawthorn over a number of developments, ranging in size from 20 apartments to <a href="/new-apartments/atria-291-burwood-road-hawthorn">Atria's</a> 249 apartments. Providing upwards of 1000 new residents for the suburb, the number of apartments completed is nearly matched by the number either under construction or due to commence.

<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/image36haw.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Syracuse gains its crane, joining the Hawthorn ranks"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="429" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image36haw.jpg?itok=WYm-A2lm" title="Syracuse gains its crane, joining the Hawthorn ranks" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Syracuse gains its crane, joining the Hawthorn ranks</figcaption></figure>Currently tower cranes are present on four of the six major apartment projects under construction in the area. <a href="/new-apartments/brilliant-hawthorn-30-lilydale-grove-hawthorn-east">Brilliant Hawthorn</a>, Syracuse, <a href="/buildings/my-place-hawthorn-10-albert-street-hawthorn-east">My Place</a> and Hawthorn Hill constitute those four projects with Averi and <a href="/buildings/8-montrose-street-hawthorn-east">8 Montrose</a> also in the construction mix. Combined these six under construction projects add a further 447 apartments around Burwood Road, with the exception of Averi which is located south of the strip.

Further west along Camberwell Road, <a href="/buildings/leo-18-camberwell-road-hawthorn-east">Leo Apartments</a>, <a href="/buildings/elmington-96-camberwell-road-hawthorn-east">Elmington</a> and <a href="/buildings/solstice-apartments-138-camberwell-road-hawthorn-east">Solstice</a> are at varying stages of construction. Together these add an additional 264 dwellings to the Camberwell Road strip between Burwood Road and Burke Road which has in recent years become a desireable location for buyers in its own right.

<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/image37haw.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective of Lilydale Grove - Montrose Street. Image courtesy Interlandi Mantesso"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="296" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image37haw.jpg?itok=oRXJigAL" title="Aerial perspective of Lilydale Grove - Montrose Street. Image courtesy Interlandi Mantesso" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective of 18-22 Lilydale Grove and the wider area. Image courtesy Interlandi Mantesso</figcaption></figure>Looking ahead <a href="/buildings/hawthorn-black-5-montrose-street-hawthorn-east">Hawthorn Black</a> at 5 Montrose Street and <a href="/buildings/luton-lane-8-luton-lane-hawthorn">Luton Lane</a> are due to begin construction shortly whilst ICD Property's <a href="/buildings/maple-121-power-street-hawthorn">124 Burwood Road</a> is expected to be released for sales in the not too distant future. Beyond the current group of apartments under construction a number of approved/at planning projects are set for Lilydale Grove with <a href="/buildings/esquire-hawthorn-18-lilydale-grove-hawthorn-east">18-22 Lilydale Grove</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/24-lilydale-grove-hawthorn-east">24 Lilydale Grove</a> in the Apartments.com.au Project Database.

JD Group's <a href="http://jd-group.com.au/projects/domestic/196burwood">196 Burwood Road</a> is a prime example of the multitude of large, low-rise development sites within Hawthorn and Hawthorn East falling under the control of property developers with sizeable apartment projects in mind. And it's for this reason that certain areas of Hawthorn and surrounds are set to continue their rapid transformation into high density enclaves.

To see a current images of Hawthorn and the aforementioned projects, visit the dedicated <a href="/news">Hawthorn forum thread</a>.
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Hawthorn in construction mode

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When there's a matter of 28 kilometres between the The Big Smoke and Ringwood, it's understandable that the spotlight may not reach all the way out toward the leafy eastern locality. Far from the multitude of towers appearing within Melbourne's CBD, Ringwood is going about establishing its own development surge albeit without the kudos.

Anchoring Ringwood's current uplift in development is QIC's <a href="http://www.probuild.com.au/projects/eastland-shopping-centre-stage-5/">Eastland Stage 5</a> expansion, with the build increasing the complex by approximately 50%. Current works are valued at $575 million and upon completion the retail hub will weigh in at approximately 127,000 square metres in size, but of more interest is the new library, learning and cultural centre to be constructed conjointly as part of Eastland's expansion.

<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/contentimages_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Realm. Image courtesy ringwoodgoingplaces.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/contentimages_2.jpg?itok=0_FlRO7W" title="Realm. Image courtesy ringwoodgoingplaces.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ringwood's community hub - Realm. Image courtesy ringwoodgoingplaces.com.au</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Realm will provide enhanced service delivery and develop Maroondah’s educational, cultural and community identity through the establishment of a facility that will be the first of its kind offering seamless provision of service, incorporating an integrated library, Council service centre, community spaces and art gallery.

Realm will be situated in a prime location within the Eastland redevelopment facing and interacting with the new 4000sqm town square and with frontage to Maroondah Highway. It will have direct links to the new $66 million Ringwood Station and bus interchange and forecourt space which the Victorian Government is constructing over the next 18 months.
<cite>Maroondah Mayor Councillor Les Willmott</cite>
</blockquote>

With design input from <a href="http://www.buchan.com.au/">Buchan Group</a> and Acme, <a href="http://www.ringwoodgoingplaces.com.au/content/356/">Realm</a> will sit opposite a new $66 million public transport interchange due to begin shortly. A Victorian Government project, the redevelopment will principally involve upgrading Ringwood Station, a new pedestrian concourse and revamped Ringwood Bus Interchange.

Crucially both Realm and the new Ringwood Transport Interchange will both include traffic calming and diversion measures, intended to lessen vehicle movements and make the area a more pedestrian friendly experience.

<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/image30301.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="DCA and CHT's versions of 301 Maroondah Highway"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="187" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image30301.jpg?itok=CJt6fVaC" title="DCA and CHT's versions of 301 Maroondah Highway" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>DCA and CHT's versions of 301 Maroondah Highway</figcaption></figure>Apartment developments are never far from the action with the <a href="/buildings/ringwood-residences-301-maroondah-highway-ringwood">301 Maroondah Highway</a> currently acting as the marquee Ringwood development. Initial planning approval was given for a <a href="http://www.designconsortia.com.au/">Design Consortia Australia</a> scheme which was to have included 239 apartments over a 14 level structure.

Subsequently Armadale-based <a href="http://www.94feet.com.au/">94 Feet</a> have snapped up the site, listing it on their website as a pending development. A new taller design for the site carries what seems to be the hallmark <a href="http://chtarchitects.com.au/">Carabott Holt Turnicov</a> diagonal pattern which would be highly visible for motorists from the prominent Maroondah Highway/Rinwood Bypass intersection.

A host of other residential projects are also on the radar, most notable of which is <a href="/buildings/233-east-233-maroondah-highway-ringwood">233 Maroondah Highway</a> with 131 apartments on offer. Various other smaller developments have gained approval while two large 'gateway' development sites are currently on the market seeking a new owner. <a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-ringwood-501121743">28-30 Maroondah Highway</a> and <a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-ringwood-501049371">43-55 Maroondah Highway</a> are for sale, with concept plans showing 28-30 Maroondah Highway capable of carrying a tower in the 13-15 level range.

<h2>Future Forecast</h2>

As part of the Melbourne 2031 blueprint, forecasts suggest 5,000 additional dwellings are required to meet Ringwood's expectant demand by 2031 with 800 apartments already having already gained approval. Furthermore Maroondah City Council have implemented a dedicated Ringwood Commercial Precinct with an additional 60,000sqm of commercial floor space envisaged by 2031.

Further information on Ringwood's development surge can be found on the <a href="http://www.cg.ringwoodgoingplaces.com.au/content/315/development-log">Ringwood Going Places</a> website; see below a selection of assorted Ringwood project images.
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Ringwood is going places

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It has been known and talked about in closed circles for some months, but Australia Pacific Airports Corporation Limited have finally unveiled their intention to comprehensively overhaul Melbourne Airport's International T2 Terminal. On Monday evening before 700 individuals representing business, government and the wider community, APAC Limited offered a sneak peek into the future redevelopment of the International Terminal as part of a sustained investment campaign.

Within the 2013/2014 financial year Melbourne Airport's capital expenditure weighed in at $420 million with Melbourne Airport CEO Chris Woodruff stating during the evening "next year alone we expect to invest around $700 million as part of sustained ten year investment period.”

Contained within the <a href="http://melbourneairport.com.au/docs/map-stakeholder-pres-2014_final_low-res.pdf">Melbourne Airport annual stakeholder report</a> are multiple concept images depicting total redevelopment of the previously untouched 1970's edifice. The intended redevelopment follows recent 'waves' of regeneration and expansion to Terminal 2, which currently sees works in play to enlarge the terminal's arrivals 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/image15map.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new visitor/user experience in the making. Image courtesy Melbourne Airport"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="240" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15map.jpg?itok=4jS9Kya7" title="A new visitor/user experience in the making. Image courtesy Melbourne Airport" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new visitor/user experience in the making. Image courtesy Melbourne Airport</figcaption></figure>As for the intended development, <a href="/">Apartments.com.au</a> understands it to be valued in the billions with the visitor/user experience at the crux of the new space. Under the working title of Market Place, a cavernous new terminal space offering a variety of services and retail outlets will stretch over the three existing terminal frontages, with Terminal 2 at its heart.

Departure Drive currently used by vehicles disembarking passengers will be banished, with all arriving transport modes relocated to the multi-level car park forecourt. In doing so it is expected the manic traffic flows to the terminal departure areas will be eliminated in favour of an enhanced user experience once the redevelopment is complete.

Multiple large blue retail pods are shown over ground floor with a vast expanse of space directly behind the sheer glass facade. Elsewhere double height luxury retail outlets will frame the internal space with a multitude of airline lounges set to crown the internal area in what will be a quantum leap forward for all users of the new terminal space.

Apartments.com.au also understands that once regulatory approval is gained via the Federal Government, APAC Limited is keen to facilitate construction as soon as is practically possible.

<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/image16map.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A sign of things to come. Image courtesy Melbourne Airport"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="245" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image16map.jpg?itok=TcFtsNz5" title="A sign of things to come. Image courtesy Melbourne Airport" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A sign of things to come. Image courtesy Melbourne Airport</figcaption></figure>According to <a href="https://www.bitre.gov.au/publications/ongoing/international_airline_activity-annual_publications.aspx">statistics on BITRE</a>, since 2007 Melbourne Airport's international growth has been consistently higher in percentage terms than that of Sydney airport with 24% of all international traffic in Australia now flying through Tullamarine.

In 2007, 20% of Australia's international traffic was moving through Melbourne Airport and this refresh of Melbourne's primary international gateway is sure to leave a better impression of our city on all those who pass through it.

In due course Apartments.com.au intends to cover the proposed International Terminal redevelopment in detail, including all interested parties perspectives on what is expected to become one of the State's flagship infrastructure projects.

With Alastair Taylor.

<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/image17map.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The new terminal follows Departure Drive's curvature. Image courtesy Melbourne Airport"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="242" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17map.jpg?itok=ty_NfB1T" title="The new terminal follows Departure Drive's curvature. Image courtesy Melbourne Airport" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The new terminal interior follows Departure Drive's curvature. Image courtesy Melbourne Airport</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne Airport's stakeholder presentation reveals a new International Terminal

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Near on seven years ago works officially began on the New Royal Children's Hospital and only now are they drawing to a close with the creation of new parkland on the site of the former Children’s Hospital. An extension of Royal Park, the new parkland project is the highlight of current works in a joint effort between City of Melbourne and the Department of Health.

Dubbed '<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://returntoroyalpark.com.au/document/show/21">Return to Royal Park</a>', the reclaimed parkland was made possible with the demolition of the original cream brick Royal Children's Hospital which began during 2012 upon commissioning of the new facility further north along Flemington Road. Included within current Stage 2 works are an underground car parking complex, Art Series Larwill Studio hotel, staff gymnasium, childcare facilities, consulting suites and retail outlets accessible from Flemington Road.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image35rtrr.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Then and now, the built form transportation of the former Royal Children's Hospital site "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="357" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image35rtrr.jpg?itok=HUvtB5yX" title="Then and now, the built form transportation of the former Royal Children's Hospital site " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Then and now; a built form transformation of the former Royal Children's Hospital site</figcaption></figure>Publicly the standout feature is Return to Royal Park which provides near on four hectares of new public space. Beyond information accumulated via a community feedback campaign, Return to royal Park's design was formulated to factor in the technical, social and natural factors required to make the new parkland a functional success.

<blockquote>
Guiding the design principles incorporated into the competition brief for the new RCH was the idea that there are positive therapeutic benefits to patients and staff of contact with natural light and views of vegetation.

As a consequence, where practicable, design considerations have striven to utilize the characteristics associated with natural environments to inject a calmative and inspirational essence into the sterile, artificial, “institutional” attributes necessary to the function of modern hospitals.
<cite>Architecture AU</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Community inspired principles</h2>

<ul>
<li>Create a native park which complements the existing vegetation and landscape character of Royal Park;</li>
	<li>Build a place which provides passive and active recreation opportunities for all members of the community including children, the elderly and people with a disability;</li>
	<li>Create a sense of entry to Royal Park that is accessible and welcoming;</li>
	<li>Design a place for creative and natural play, and</li>
	<li>Provide appropriate level of amenities to support the park users</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/image34rtrr.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design development plan. Image courtesy City of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34rtrr.jpg?itok=onqbrgVc" title="Design development plan. Image courtesy City of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design development plan. Image courtesy City of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>City of Melbourne's <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://returntoroyalpark.com.au/document/show/21">Return to Royal Park</a> document shows seven Wurundjeri seasonal elements included within the design, expected to provide different attractions during different periods of the year. (each of which explained within the document)

<blockquote>
To strengthen the connection of the new space to the predominantly indigenous landscape of Royal Park, opportunities have been sought to encourage discovery and a greater knowledge of indigenous Melbourne.

The seasons provide a structure for the various landscape spaces. Each of the seasons will be expressed with plant selections and landscape detail showing relationships between fl ora and fauna, seasonal change, and cultural associations.
<cite>Return to Royal Park</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_0175.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Beyond the plaza - a new Royal Park gathering point"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0175.jpg?itok=61moNa39" title="Beyond the plaza - a new Royal Park gathering point" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Beyond the plaza - a new Royal Park gathering point</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

It's probably not correct to consider Return to Royal Park a true extension of Royal Park in that it does not continue the minimal intrusion/natural features of the existing parkland. That's not to say the meticulously planned new precinct won't become an immediate drawcard; with so many differing spaces and facilities plus a prominent position, Return to Royal Park looks set te become immediately popular.

The area was slated to open during December 2014, although with the majority of works complete it may well be opened in its entirety earlier than the proposed date.
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Return to Royal Park

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As one of Melbourne's largest independent real estate agencies with over 50 years experience, Beller Group has a fundamental understanding of the current Melbourne apartment market and the nuances which influence it. By way of establishing Beller China and forging an alliance with Beijing-based property agency giant Sagacity, Beller Group have gained an intimate, market-leading understanding of the factors behind the unprecedented rush of Chinese property buyers into the Melbourne market in recent years.

Days after arriving back from a Chinese sojourn, Apartments.com.au sat down with Beller Group Director Andrew Fawell to learn his thoughts relating the wave of Chinese investors seeking their slice of the Melbourne market.

<h2>The Chinese perspective</h2>

To understand the Chinese property buyers attitude toward Melbourne at the moment requires a basic understanding of Chinese domestic affairs. Andrew believes the burgeoning middle class have never before had so many sources of information in order to make considered decisions, thus many Chinese nationals are now taking steps to secure their wealth and long term prosperity.

With the backdrop of China's economy slowing and a shifting political paradigm, middle class Chinese are investing overseas in record numbers - an exodus of wealth as a precursor to potentially leaving themselves. Property is considered a safer, secure method of parking wealth given the Chinese maintain a general aversion to shareholding.

Asked to further elaborate, Andrew stated that whether it materialises or not there is a growing perception amongst Chinese that their economy is susceptible to collapse, and as such those in a position to do so have sought out the safety of markets such as Melbourne in which to park their wealth. With Melbourne's solid fundamentals, excellent quality of life and strong political foundation, it's seen as a prime destination for Chinese.

Base upon first hand experience through Beller China, Andrew also emphasises the ostentatious nature of middle class Chinese who delve into offshore property purchases. A strong number of buyers into markets such as Melbourne are not particularly bothered about a given property's value or it's ongoing capital gain, but rather they want to be seen to be doing something.

This in part has given rise to the "Fly to buy" element of the market as they have been christened. Somewhat incredulously Andrew reeled off numerous instances where Chinese nationals have flown into Melbourne for the sole purpose of purchasing single/multiple apartments, only to leave immediately thereafter.

<h2>The importance of relationships in China</h2>

<blockquote>
We are delighted to announce the new partnership with Sagacity China. Not only will this facilitate introductions to new markets in China, but also importantly, we will be able to facilitate deals with major Chinese developers to buy development sites in Melbourne. Like any good relationship, it will be a two way conversation and one of mutual benefit.
<cite>Andrew Fawell</cite>
</blockquote>

Official PR statements aside, Andrew believes the key to the above comment is the penetration of new Chinese markets. Evidently the current crop of buyers reside in primary or first tier Chinese cities such as Shanghai oe Beijing. As buyer experience and information flow heightens, the buyers sophistication naturally increases.

To that end Beller Group are of the opinion that should the initial wave of first tier Chinese buyers double dip into the Melbourne property market, they will most likely avoid the masses of apartments on offer in Melbourne's CBD next time around and exercise a level of knowledge by purchasing in smaller developments beyond the CBD.

Paraphrasing Andrew Fawell, the initial wave of buyers content to buy into large developments within Melbourne's CBD will dissipate, in turn replaced by a new wave of Chinese buyers from second tier cities who are just now delving into offshore property purchases without the same benefit of hindsight as the initial tranche. Put into perspective those second tier cities such as Tianjin, Chengdu and Changsa and Qindao have metropolitan populations averaging over 10 million which enforces the theory that Chinese investment into Melbourne property and principally apartments will only balloon further.

<h2>The Melbourne perspective</h2>

The vexed question of the current state of the Melbourne property market has been a hot topic in recent weeks. Andrew Fawell considers the Chinese influence on the local apartment market a game changer where fundamentals have been altered, effectively covering some of the market deficiencies that have arisen in recent times.

At this point Melbourne has moved into the top handful of cities preferred by Chinese property investors, usurping Vancouver whose market was stymied by Government intervention. Asked of the prospect of Government responding with similar measures here Andrew suggested that if the current situation is allowed to run unchecked, the specter of such a move would increase.

Andrew Fawell also raised the notion of a two-paced local property market with pitfalls for the unsuspecting investor, whether they be local or international. Certainly in some areas of Melbourne there remains strong buyer and rental demand for smaller, well positioned, higher quality apartment projects, whilst a looming glut of rental stock in and around the CBD may cause havoc even though the demand to buy particularly from offshore parties will remain robust.

Interesting times ahead!
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The China Syndrome: Beller's Andrew Fawell on the Chinese-driven apartment frenzy

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The flow of development to Melbourne CBD's East End began as a trickle relative to surrounding inner city precincts, but the 'Paris End' of late has come into its own. 'Paris End' of course is an ill-fitting moniker (some would also say crass) with current development within the CBD's eastern flank well spread, as opposed to being centralised around Collins Street's historic grandeur.

Bound by Flinders, Elizabeth, Spring and Victoria, Apartments.com.au's Project Database shows a mass of East End developments looking to make their mark. Historically the domain of commercial development, East End was bereft of residential projects as developers favoured proven areas such as Southbank and Docklands, although this trend his has now changed sharply!

Spurred on in part by the phenomenal influx of Asian-based property entities, East End proposals have steadily increased over the last two years as the insatiable push to secure prized sites in the current market shows no signs of slowing; an arms race of property development for lack of a better analogy.

<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/image8ep.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="All shapes and sizes of proposals within East End"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="402" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image8ep.jpg?itok=n5TgfwMI" title="All shapes and sizes of proposals within East End" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>All shapes and sizes of proposals within East End</figcaption></figure><h2>Apartment development leading the charge</h2>

Below is a summary of East End residential projects currently found within the Apartments.com.au Project Database. Given the ever dynamic nature of development and planning at the moment, these may require refreshing in a few weeks time. Regardless, this is the current state of play concerning residential projects within East End.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th>Address</th>
			<th>Apartments</th>
			<th>Developer</th>
			<th>Levels</th>
			<th>Staus</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/empire-melbourne-398-elizabeth-street-melbourne">398 Elizabeth Street</a></td>
			<td>474</td>
			<td>Mammoth Empire</td>
			<td>55</td>
			<td>Registration &amp; Sales</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/abode-318-318-russell-street-melbourne">318 Russell Street</a></td>
			<td>433</td>
			<td>PDG &amp; Schiavello</td>
			<td>57</td>
			<td>Construction</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/crystal-gardens-276-russell-street-melbourne">276 Russell Street</a></td>
			<td>154</td>
			<td>Unknown</td>
			<td>36</td>
			<td>Approved</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>500 Elizabeth Street</td>
			<td>524</td>
			<td>Brady Group</td>
			<td>72</td>
			<td>Construction</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/309-325-bourke-street-melbourne">309 Bourke Street</a></td>
			<td>466</td>
			<td>Unknown</td>
			<td>&gt;10</td>
			<td>Approved</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/35-spring-street-melbourne">35 Spring Street</a></td>
			<td>270</td>
			<td>CBUS</td>
			<td>43</td>
			<td>Construction</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/97-franklin-street-melbourne">97 Franklin Street</a></td>
			<td>367</td>
			<td>Artemis Group</td>
			<td>62</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/63-exhibition-street-melbourne">63 Exhibition Street</a></td>
			<td>328</td>
			<td>Asia One</td>
			<td>67</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/the-trillium-36-la-trobe-street-melbourne">36 La Trobe Street</a></td>
			<td>224</td>
			<td>Unknown</td>
			<td>39</td>
			<td>Registration &amp; Sales</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/metrolitan-melbourne-137-bourke-street-melbourne">137 Bourke Street</a></td>
			<td>104</td>
			<td>VIMG</td>
			<td>19</td>
			<td>Registration &amp; Sales</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">85 Spring Street</a></td>
			<td>303</td>
			<td>Grocon</td>
			<td>46</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/avant-60-abeckett-street-melbourne">54 A'Beckett Street</a></td>
			<td>750</td>
			<td>Aspial - WCL</td>
			<td>81</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/aurora-melbourne-central-224-la-trobe-street-melbourne">224 La Trobe Street</a></td>
			<td>1,206</td>
			<td>UEM Sunrise</td>
			<td>88</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/victoria-one-452-472-elizabeth-street-melbourne">452 Elizabeth Street</a></td>
			<td>622</td>
			<td>Golden Age</td>
			<td>75</td>
			<td>Registration &amp; Sales</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/9-11-exploration-lane-melbourne">9 Exploration Lane</a></td>
			<td>89</td>
			<td>Balfour</td>
			<td>33</td>
			<td>Approved</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">180 Russell Street</a></td>
			<td>506</td>
			<td>AXF Group</td>
			<td>70</td>
			<td>Planning</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/48-50-abeckett-street-melbourne">48 A'Beckett Street</a></td>
			<td>235</td>
			<td>Austwin</td>
			<td>45</td>
			<td>Approved</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">22 Bennetts Lane</a></td>
			<td>25</td>
			<td>Unknown</td>
			<td>12</td>
			<td>Approved</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/light-house-450-elizabeth-street-melbourne">450 Elizabeth Street</a></td>
			<td>607</td>
			<td>Hengyi</td>
			<td>69</td>
			<td>Registration &amp; Sales</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
There are 19 projects are listed above, six of which are at planning assessment. These six have a total unit count similar to that of the remaining 13 in the list. 3,490 apartments are at planning, with the largest project being UEM Sunrise's 224 La Trobe Street carrying 1,206 dwellings, followed by 54 A'Beckett Street with 750.

A total of 4,247 apartments are counted within the remaining 13 projects which have either been approved or are at registration and sales. 1,227 units are under construction. Those apartments under construction represent 16% of the total 7,737 apartments slated for East End according to the Apartments.com.au Project Database, hinting that East End is heading toward a development surge the likes of which have not been seen before within the precinct.

<h2>Other uses in high demand</h2>

82 Collins Street and the forthcoming Telstra building adjacent to their current Exhibition Street headquarters headline the large commercial projects slated for East End, adding in the vicinity of a combined 150,000sqm of premium office space. Commercial space aside, the surge of hotel suites is something to behold.

<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/image7e.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="80 Collins Street, QT hotel and Hotel Forum"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7e.jpg?itok=d42RLtJb" title="80 Collins Street, QT hotel and Hotel Forum" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>80 Collins Street, QT hotel and Hotel Forum</figcaption></figure>In part dragged along by a raft of mixed-use, high-rise proposals, the number of expected hotel suites for East End is robust, even with the scrapping of the <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/new-operators-hope-to-resurrect-1980s-yuppie-haven-in-flinders-lane-20140721-zv8od">Rosati hotel proposal</a> mid 2014.

The current batch of intended hotel locations includes 150 Flinders Street, <a href="/buildings/97-franklin-street-melbourne">97 Franklin Street</a>, <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">180 Russell Street</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/63-exhibition-street-melbourne">63 Exhibition Street</a>, Windsor Hotel and 80 Collins Street's 19 level, 252-room hotel tower. Yielding roughly 1,200 hotel suites, these six projects may be joined by the nearly complete 146-room Brady Hotels tower at 22-32 Little La Trobe and the proposed yet troubled W Hotel development at 20-30 Bourke Street.

<h2>Future impositions?</h2>

It can be argued that as long as strong overseas sales underpin the local apartment market, then the current upward development trend will continue as developers seek new site acquisitions. A prime case in point sees the recent listing of <a href="http://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-melbourne-501229863">168 Exhibition Street</a> by CBRE as offered for sale with a Peddle Thorp development scheme, including a 54 level mixed-use development. 168 Exhibition is symptomatic of the current East End dynamic where bigger is better, but what price for heritage considerations?

The question must be asked: will the influx of many thousands of new residents place too great a burden upon existing infrastructure? Certainly East End has inherent street level qualities and character devoid in areas such as Southbank, and finds itself closer to essential services, amenity and the general 'buzz' of Melbourne. Could existing transport infrastructure be the area most imposed upon by a surging East End population?

A clear positive of Melbourne's East End development surge would be the influx of people, particularly in the commercial dominated areas of Collins &amp; Bourke Street. The resultant surge of residents would serve to activate many after-hour 'dead' spots and encourage new retail/entertainment opportunities to flourish where there were previously none; in effect bolstering and expanding City of Melbourne's <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/COMMUNITYSERVICES/COMMUNITYSAFETY/Pages/24HourCitypolicy.aspx">24 Hour City</a> policy into the eastern reaches of the CBD.

If only a crystal ball were handy to assess whether eastern promises would translate into East End realities!

Lead image courtesy Ryan Seychell.
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Eastern promises - an overview of Melbourne CBD's East End developments

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.

[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."

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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.

<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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

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

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

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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