For the new generation of residents, an apartment’s value extends well beyond its four walls.

Comfort, convenience, and community now sit on the same priority list as layout and finishes. As expectations rise, developers are responding with private amenities that elevate everyday living, transforming buildings into complete environments where residents can thrive.

ASX-listed developer Mirvac knew they were setting new benchmarks when they began creating the plans for Harbourside Residences, the residential component of the Harbourside Shopping Centre redevelopment on Darling Harbour.

During the design phase, working with its in-house design team and co-collaborators Snøhetta+Hassell and Bates Smart, Mirvac conceived a level of resident amenity rarely seen in inner-city apartment living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141327 project_image_fid=352388]

The focus was firmly on wellness and lifestyle.

The dedicated wellness zone brings together an indoor lap pool, traditional sauna, steam room, ice bath, and a yoga and Pilates studio—features typically found in top-tier resorts, now tailored for daily residential use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141327 project_image_fid=352382]

The building’s social spaces follow a similar philosophy.

A residents’ cinema room, golf simulator, and private lounge—complete with show kitchen and formal dining space—support multiple modes of use, from casual gatherings to large-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141327 project_image_fid=352383]

What truly sets Harbourside apart is the amount of outdoor amenity they’ve been able to deliver.

On the podium level sits a lagoon-style pool framed by garden terraces and shaded pathways that open toward uninterrupted harbour and city views—a rare outlook given the limited new development along the western foreshore.

Cabana seating along the lounge deck offers a sense of retreat seldom found in inner-city developments, creating a calm interface between private life and the city’s edge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141327 project_image_fid=352372]

<article data-scroll-anchor="true" data-testid="conversation-turn-8" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:5fbbf2d6-867e-48bc-88da-0cfee6acf80e-3" dir="auto" tabindex="-1">
Future residents at Harbourside will have direct access to the Darling Harbour foreshore, which is undergoing a $15 billion regeneration. The revitalisation will include a new shopping centre with a series of retail and hospitality venues, adding to an already popular precinct and elevating its prestige to rival its glamorous neighbours, Barangaroo and Circular Quay.

The first-stage release of apartments in November last year achieved more than $700m in pre-sales in a single sell-out weekend with more than $800m total pre-sales to date.
</article>

The development giant has now released the most coveted apartments in the building: the three- and four-bedroom homes positioned toward the top of the 48-storey tower.

Construction of Harbourside Residences is well underway. Mirvac—designing, building, and delivering its own projects, a model that reduces risk and ensures consistency—expects completion in late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=141327]

Staff Writer

Mirvac matches Darling Harbour doorstep amenity with private resident amenity at Harbourside

Developer-builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dasco-australia">DASCO</a> has pushed beyond the now-standard inclusions of rooftop pools and landscaped podiums at its recently launched new Epping project, Senso.

It has laid out over 4,000 sqm of resident-only amenity in a move designed to compete directly with low-density housing on livability, not just density. The result is a development that supports genuine daily use through purposeful spaces distributed across its five-building, 479-apartment precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4396]

Two rooftop pools form the anchor of Senso. One is a 27-metre lap pool adjoining a heated spa, designed for everyday fitness rather than just summer leisure. The second sits on a lower podium, allowing different buildings to share in vertical access and reducing crowding during peak times.

It is the secondary spaces that start to distinguish Senso from other large-scale suburban projects. A rooftop cinema is integrated into a landscaped terrace, offering open-air screenings with natural ventilation and passive cooling.&nbsp;

The inclusion of a “sensory walk”, an elevated boardwalk that threads through the site, suggests a rare investment in non-commercial, non-essential amenity: space for quiet movement that doesn’t double as access or traffic circulation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4402]

The gym and wellness centre, often relegated to a small ground-floor room in many builds, takes on more substance here. Residents have access to a fully equipped gym, as well as outdoor yoga areas and meditative zones that integrate greenery and natural light.&nbsp;

The Club Lounge is similarly designed to support multiple use cases, with a private dining terrace, kitchenette, workspace, and lockable wine storage. These aren’t superficial additions; their scale and spatial allocation indicate serious intent for frequent resident use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4391]

Importantly, Senso’s amenities are embedded within a site that spans more than 10,000 sqm, allowing for better separation between spaces and reduced noise spillover, a critical but often overlooked factor in high-density developments. This spatial generosity also enables multiple alfresco kitchens and communal terraces without compromising individual privacy or usable space.

While many developments make claims about lifestyle, few back it with this level of built infrastructure. Senso’s mix of dedicated fitness, wellness, social and passive green spaces suggests a conscious response to the post-pandemic shift in housing expectations, especially among owner-occupiers.&nbsp;

DASCO is one of several leading developers who have taken out Resilience Insurance's Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing buyers with a 10-year structural and waterproofing warranty, and giving them the ultimate peace of mind.

Senso is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134954]

The outdoor amenities elevating life at Senso, Epping

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/walker-corporation">Walker Corporation</a>’s flagship residential project in Maroochydore isn’t just bringing new apartments to market, it’s embedding a layered amenity into the foundation of a growing city centre.&nbsp;

Currently under construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sol-by-walker-maroochydore-first-avenue-maroochydore-qld-4558">SOL by Walker</a> will introduce 248 residences and a two-tiered amenity offering designed to support year-round coastal living across leisure, wellness, and social use.

"SOL by Walker establishes a new standard in apartment quality, seamlessly integrating superior craftsmanship with unmatched comfort," says David Gallant, Chief Executive Officer &amp; Managing Director of Walker Corporation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=3393]

The bulk of the facilities are concentrated in a dedicated Level 4 precinct known as The Sanctuary. A 20-metre pool forms the centrepiece of a wellness spine that includes a cold plunge, spa, steam room and sauna.&nbsp;The inclusion of multiple hydrotherapy options is notable, rather than a single-function pool deck, residents are offered a full spectrum of recovery-focused facilities within a single vertical footprint.

A gym with floor-to-ceiling glazing opens directly onto an adjacent outdoor yoga lawn, illustrating the project’s integration of indoor fitness with landscaped open space.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=3397]

Alongside this, barbecue zones and communal long tables serve a practical social function, complemented by a dedicated vegetable garden for resident use. These aren’t standalone inclusions, they form part of a broader layout that encourages informal gathering across structured and unstructured environments.

At the southern edge of the podium, the Sunset Gardens introduce another typology entirely: an open-air green space designed for low-intensity use. Landscaped mounds, firepits, and shaded seating are arranged to capture afternoon light, while providing spatial separation from the more active areas to the north. It’s a deliberate modulation of pace that’s rare in large-scale residential developments, where amenity zones are often over-programmed.

Further elevation, both literal and figurative, comes via the rooftop Sky Terrace. Here, a second pool, co-working lounge, function room and library are paired with expansive views across the Maroochy River and hinterland. The mix of uses reflects changing resident expectations, with spaces supporting remote work, private events, and casual downtime all within a single rooftop setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319847]

Retail and dining offerings at street level extend the building’s amenity profile to the broader precinct. The ground floor will host specialty outlets and cafes, while EV charging stations and bike storage serve both residents and public users. This permeability between private and public domains mirrors the project’s role in the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/maroochydore-qld-4558">Maroochydore</a> City Centre more broadly: not just a housing solution, but a component of civic infrastructure.

As the city prepares for major population and economic growth ahead of the 2032 Games, SOL’s amenity model provides a case study in multi-level, precinct-integrated residential planning. It’s not trying to replicate suburban home features, it’s responding to density with diversity, and backing it with spatial intent.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147777]

Inside the amenities at SOL by Walker, Maroochydore’s newest urban community

A first-of-its-kind culinary precinct is coming to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a>, inspired by global street-food flavours and best-in-class restaurants and entertainment.

Deicorp’s emerging mid-city precinct, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/melrose-central-melrose-park-33-hope-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Central</a>, will become the go-to precinct within the wider Melrose Park community, and at its heart, a first-of-its-kind culinary precinct that brings the buzz of Asia’s most iconic food streets to life.

Spanning more than 4,700 sqm, Melrose Central street food precinct is inspired by the energy and vibrant flavours of street-food neighbourhoods from Hong Kong and Tokyo to Seoul and Singapore.

This new destination will be over three times the size of existing offerings like Burwood Chinatown or Westfield Chatswood’s Hawker Lane, positioning Melrose Central as a must-visit dining hub for all of Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=289878]

Designed by Anthony Ho of Basalt Studio, this street food concept blurs the lines between culinary theatre, art, and entertainment, offering an immersive experience. Neon-lit laneways thread between open kitchens and live grill stations, while murals, interactive displays, and light installations will bring the precinct to life, trading until late, a first for the area.

“We’ve imagined our street food concept as a graduated evolution of everything people love about Burwood Chinatown, East Village and Regent Place, elevated by the immersive artistry creating a city-style dining offer,” said Bilinda Turner, Head of Retail at Deicorp.

“By curating the very best tenants from across Australia, we’re creating a fit-for-purpose town centre for 2025 and beyond. It’s something that people truly haven’t seen before."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=352610]

Melrose Central is far more than a food precinct. Spanning 30,000 sqm across four levels, the shopping centre will be home to approximately 100 retailers, providing a total lifestyle offering from morning until late evening.

Fresh food offerings span a brand new Coles Supermarket, Local Grocer, Korean Supermarket, Bakery and boutique fresh food, as well as a Dan Murphy's, while health needs are covered from a pharmacy, medical centre and allied health. Fitness and wellbeing take centre stage from a dedicated wellbeing hub that includes pilates, recovery, Infrared saunas and a gym, to name a few.

Variety stores will feature throughout, as well as personal care offerings from nail salons to hairdressers, as well as a dedicated early-learning centre on level 1.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=289888]

Situated above the retail precinct will be 495 Turner Studio-designed apartments that open onto 6,000 sqm of lush podium gardens and rooftop terraces.

Located just six kilometres east of Parramatta’s CBD and 15km from Sydney CBD, Melrose Central forms the retail and lifestyle heart of Melrose Park, an urban-renewal precinct that is set to deliver more than 11,000 homes, 22,000 new residents, and 50,000 sqm of park and open space.

A dedicated stop on Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 will arrive at the precinct’s Hope Street entrance, and the forthcoming Parramatta Gateway Bridge will link directly to Sydney Olympic Park and Wentworth Point.&nbsp;

Supported by a 10-minute drive, this growing catchment of 200,000 people, which is projected to grow to 279,000 by 2026, and an average household income above the Greater Sydney average, Melrose Central embodies Deicorp’s vision for transport-oriented, community-focused placemaking.&nbsp;

Melrose Central street food precinct and the wider Melrose Central retail town centre are both slated to open in mid-2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134220]

Joel Robinson

Melrose Central: First-of-its-kind culinary precinct coming to Sydney’s West

A track record of delivering new projects not just across the Sunshine Coast, but in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/bokarina-qld-4575">Bokarina</a> specifically, gave builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> (GVG) all the IP needed to make Bask even more refined.&nbsp;

After completing Zinc Bokarina last year - positioned directly adjacent to Bask - GVG leveraged years of feedback from original purchasers and current residents, enabled by its community-focused approach and ongoing engagement.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=333359]

The feedback pointed to two clear themes: larger apartments with more bedrooms, and amenity suited to the active downsizer.

GVG then designed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bask-bokarina-38-bokarina-boulevard-bokarina-qld-4575">Bask</a> - a collection of one to four-bedroom apartments - tailored to the end user: local downsizers or those seeking more spacious holiday homes than a compact getaway by the beach.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=333361]

A pool was essential, but a lap pool wasn’t. Instead, GVG designed a heated plunge pool, ideal for a refreshing dip. Key to the amenity offering were shared spaces designed to foster community connection. These include shaded garden areas with barbecue facilities, a firepit zone, and a communal herb and vegetable garden.&nbsp;

There’s also a fully equipped gym, designed specifically for the lifestyle exerciser.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=333365]

Another key insight was the desire not just for pet-friendly living - but for a development that embraces it. GVG listened and installed a dedicated dog wash bay, perfect for rinsing off after a trip to the dog-friendly Bokarina Beach, just 250 metres from Bask's front door.

Having already helped establish a vibrant lifestyle precinct with retail and amenity at Zinc, GVG is now expanding the offering with more street-level retail, set to complement the existing restaurants, wine bars, convenience, and specialty stores in the precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=333362]

Bask represents the final new residential offering in the Bokarina Beach precinct. The two buildings, Mydas and Caretta, have been cleverly designed so that every apartment captures glimpses of either the Pacific Ocean, Lake Kawana, or the Glass House Mountains.&nbsp;

Construction is already underway, with GVG expecting residents to move in by summer 2026/27.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=141609]

How GVG is designing for the active downsizer at Bask Bokarina

International DJ Paul Fisher and wife Chloe put a significant emphasis on health, balance, and calm, as much as they did architectural excellence when planning their maiden new Gold Coast apartment development.

The result is <a href="/new-apartments/pescado-palm-beach-228-230-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Pescado</a>, just seven luxury apartments designed in collaboration with renowned <a href="/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>.

For the Fishers, who will retain the two-level penthouse, Pescado is a deeply personal undertaking shaped by their commitment to health and wellbeing.&nbsp;

“Looking after our health and wellbeing is essential for us, it keeps us grounded and connected,” Fisher said.&nbsp;

“Anyone who knows me knows that wellness plays a huge part in my daily life, whether it’s training, surfing, breathwork, or recovery sessions.&nbsp;

“We wanted Pescado to capture that same feeling: a place that brings an immediate sense of calm, while offering real tools to support your wellness journey, from the ice baths to the gym and beyond.&nbsp;

“This is a home designed to help people feel their best every single day, with nature right on the doorstep.&nbsp;

“Whether it’s peaceful walks on the sand, early morning surfs, or heading into the hinterland for hikes and swims in Currumbin and Tallebudgera’s waterfalls, it’s these simple, grounding rituals that shaped the vision for Pescado.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149651 project_image_fid=342045]

Wellness features are woven through Pescado’s design, including a resort-style pool, state-of-the-art gym, cold plunge pools, and peaceful BBQ and dining spaces – all designed to foster relaxation, vitality, and connection.&nbsp;

Chloe Fisher, who led the interiors, said functionality and wellness have been paramount in every design decision.&nbsp;

“It’s about creating a home that makes you feel good every day,” said Mrs Fisher.&nbsp;

“We’ve thought carefully about how each space works, not just how it looks – using organic textures, neutral tones, and premium appliances to ensure every detail contributes to a sense of ease and comfort.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149651 project_image_fid=342044]

Each residence features three bedrooms, a multi-purpose room, and three bathrooms, with expansive open-plan layouts, generous outdoor areas, and high-end finishes that blend elegance with liveability. Kitchens are fitted with Gaggenau appliances, offering the ultimate in performance and precision, reinforcing Pescado’s commitment to quality at every level.&nbsp;

Darren Greenaway, Director of BDA Architecture, said the building’s wave-inspired design reflects the journey from energy and movement to calm and restoration.&nbsp;

“Our goal was to create a building that immediately evokes a sense of peace,” Greenaway said.&nbsp;

“From the soft, flowing forms of the façade to the light-filled interiors, every element is designed to provide residents with a true sanctuary.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149651 project_image_fid=342041]

The collaboration between YLB Property Development and local builder <a href="/builders/hnkn">HNKN</a> ensures construction will progress smoothly, with a focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail.&nbsp;

Sales are being managed exclusively by Pezet Matheson, with construction expected to commence later this year.&nbsp;

Jayde Pezet, Managing Director of Pezet Matheson, said Pescado is already attracting significant interest from buyers who are increasingly prioritising wellness and lifestyle in their property choices.&nbsp;

“We are seeing really strong early momentum for Pescado, which reflects the growing demand for homes that offer more than just luxury finishes,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers today want spaces that genuinely enhance their quality of life, and Pescado delivers that through its thoughtful design and wellness focus.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149651]

Chloe Fisher, who led the interiors, said functionality and wellness have been paramount in every design decision

Wellness takes centre stage as Pescado ignites buyer demand in Palm Beach

National developer Frasers Property Australia understands the importance of creating places that go beyond housing.

After more than a century of delivering spaces for Australians to live, Frasers Property has mastered the art of building community. Not only are they a key contributor to Australia’s housing supply, but their community-first approach sets them apart. They invest just as much thought into how people will live within the communities they develop as they do in designing the homes themselves.

When they secured a 26-hectare former industrial site in Yarraville, their approach was no different. The vision: a new neighbourhood called Bradmill Yarraville, which will eventually comprise around 1,500 new homes, pending future approvals.

The first stage of Bradmill Yarraville—44 all-electric townhouses designed by renowned architecture firm Rothelowman—is fast approaching completion, with buyers expected to move in before Christmas 2025.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134727 project_image_fid=311186]

A key pillar of Frasers Property's strategy is a strong focus on lifestyle and amenity. Rather than treating facilities as an afterthought or cost-cutting casualty, they were central to the design process from the outset. With a future population of over 3,000 residents, they knew the amenity offering needed to be both generous and meaningful.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134727 project_image_fid=311286]

At the heart of the masterplan is Bradmill Quarter, the central hub of the neighbourhood that will seamlessly blend retail, wellness, and community spaces in a walkable, well-connected setting. The Bradmill Quarter Retail Precinct will feature a major supermarket, a childcare centre, a medical centre, and a curated mix of 15 specialty stores.

Complementing the retail is an alfresco dining zone that flows into The Arbory—a landscaped urban plaza designed for play, relaxation, and social connection. This central gathering space is a key expression of the development’s mission to foster authentic community interaction.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134727 project_image_fid=311275]

Also anchoring the precinct is Bradmill Social, a flagship lifestyle and wellness destination housed within the site’s historic industrial buildings. Bradmill Social consists of two distinct components: The Proofing Building and the adjacent Boiler House.

The Proofing Building is being transformed into a full-scale wellness centre, complete with a fully equipped gym, pool, sauna, spa, yoga and Pilates studios, barbecue areas, and a basketball half-court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134727 project_image_fid=311280]

Next door, The Boiler House—a local landmark visible from the West Gate Freeway—is being reimagined as a dynamic lifestyle venue. It will feature a cinema, media rooms, co-working spaces, children’s play areas, private dining and lounge rooms, bookable family event spaces, a community garden, and even dog-washing stations—truly making it a one-stop hub for all aspects of community life.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134727 project_image_fid=311292]

Crowning The Boiler House will be the Lantern Lounge, a rooftop entertainment space for both dining and cocktail events with extensive views of the city skyline and over Port Phillip Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134727 project_image_fid=311270]

In addition to housing and amenity, Frasers Property understands the vital role of nature and landscaping—not only for future residents but also as part of the company’s broader sustainability objectives.

A green corridor of open space will thread through the precinct, connecting to McIvor Reserve and forming part of a larger 26-hectare parkland network. This abundance of green space will enhance the overall quality of life, offering residents places to unwind, exercise, and engage with nature.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134727 project_image_fid=311283]

The amenity offerings across the precinct will be delivered in stages over the next six years, with the Bradmill Quarter Retail Precinct currently scheduled to open in 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134727]

The amenity offerings across the precinct will be delivered in stages over the next six years, with the Bradmill Quarter Retail Precinct currently scheduled to open in 2029

Bradmill Quarter: Bringing community and amenity to life in Yarraville

In today’s competitive apartment market, especially in inner-city precincts, developers are being pushed to think far beyond square metre rates and finishes.

Residents now expect their homes to support every part of their day — from Zoom meetings and fitness routines to rooftop entertaining and mindfulness breaks. This shift has turned modern apartment buildings into vertical communities, complete with shared spaces that blend work, leisure, and wellbeing.

While the level of amenity within a building has increased dramatically over recent years, developer <a href="/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> has been providing a heightened level of amenity for years. The developer boasts 14 towers delivered in Melbourne alone, as well as the likes of the recently completed of the recently completed Queens Wharf Residences in Brisbane and Perth Hub in Perth, to name just a few.

Far East Consortium recently launched <a href="/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke</a>, in the heart of Melbourne CBD at the western end of Bourke Street, with all of the bells and whistles new apartment owners want in their building. They have carved out over 3,000 sqm of private resident facilities throughout the 68-level, Rothelowman-designed tower.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=335427]

Jessica Campbell, Director of Projects Victoria at YPM Avanti who is overseeing the sales campaign, says Far East Consortium are “pioneers of amenity spaces.”

“One thing Far East Consortium has done is delivered exceptional amenity over many many years,” Campbell says.

“Having the experience of knowing what residents want, they’ve delivered over an acre of space just around the corner at Upper West Side, and then more recently at West Side Place. They have hands down delivered the best quality amenities within Melbourne, and I would go as far as to say Victoria and even Australia.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=335409]

Campbell says there’s no doubt there will be something for everyone in the shared spaces at 640 Bourke. Future residents will have private access to a luxury wellness centre with a carefully designed swimming pool and gym space.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang says the team wanted to make the gym and the pool area “an absolute destination.”

“When you traverse across this space, there’s a gentle familiarity to beautiful notions of the Hamamm and the Roman baths, a gentle nod to history.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=335413]

Chang says there are a few “hidden gems” located on each amenity level, from the art therapy room to a piano salon.

"They are highly considered spaces to each function," Chang explained.

"The private dining rooms are a gentle nod to the speakeasy culture of Melbourne.”

Spaces to socialise and entertain guests was a high priority, so FEC and Rothelowman came up with several spaces for residents to gather, like a whisky lounge, mindfulness lounge, games room, movie theaters, and a library.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=335419]

Despite its proximity to Melbourne’s commercial district, working from home is a trend that isn’t going away anytime soon. Residents will have access to meeting rooms and private working rooms, on level 11.

The glass tower of 640 Bourke will rise from the iconic Eliza Tinsley building. The adjacent Langs Lane will be widened and home shopping boutiques and cafes, providing the ultimate convenience for those who will call 640 Bourke home.

Buyers only have until October 2025 to take advantage of the VIC Government's generous stamp duty concessions announced late last year.

*Renders shown are artist's impressions correct as at March 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

“Pioneers of amenity spaces”: Far East Consortium doubles down on facilities at 640 Bourke

Once the ASX-listed developer Mirvac acquired the site of a former hotel across the road from Princes Park in Brunswick, they ticked the location box for prospective off the plan apartment buyers.

Next came the design of the building, and in true Mirvac fashion, as well as designing spacious, light-filled apartments, they wanted to give their residents curated communal spaces within the building, so they didn’t have to solely rely on what was outside their home for leisure or connection.

Mirvac Design worked hand in hand with Bates Smart and Jack Merlo to carefully curate spaces, terraces, and landscaped courtyards, to foster a sense of community just for Prince &amp; Parade residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4802 project_image_fid=269383]

They started from the ground up, with a café to be integrated within the development fronting Park Street, a strategic amenity for those who will head over to the many walking trails throughout the 40-hectare park with a coffee in hand.

There will be a minimum of two additional commercial spaces on the ground floor, fronting Brunswick Road, which will complement the existing offerings along nearby Sydney Road.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4802 project_image_fid=269387]

A private grand lobby, accessed via the Park Street entrance, features a dedicated building manager to welcome residents home. Amenities include electronic parcel lockers and refrigerated storage for cold deliveries (e.g., HelloFresh). The ground floor also offers a separate meeting room exclusively for residents

The lobby leads through to the lifts with access to the five levels in the South building and nine Levels in the North building that will home 167 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments. It also accesses The Commons and The Crown Courtyard, two private central gardens crafted by Jack Merlo to bring the beauty of the park into Prince &amp; Parade.

The private residents’ dining room, with a fireplace and natural stone kitchen, has direct access to the landscaped spaces and can be booked for private events through the building management.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4802 project_image_fid=269385]

While Princes Park offers an abundance of opportunity to exercise with the aforementioned walking trails and various sporting clubs, Mirvac created a private home for resident workouts with a wellness area housing a gym and a yoga studio overlooking landscaped gardens.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4802 project_image_fid=269388]

The Residents’ Library, another purpose-built space for quiet focus or remote work, is designed as a work-from-home space, with shared tables and integrated seating, as well as a carefully curated selection of books that can be enjoyed in the library or back at home.

The crowning glory of Prince &amp; Parade is the rooftop terrace, a private oasis offering expansive views over Princes Park, Royal Park, and the city skyline. Landscaping surrounds alfresco spaces and barbecue facilities, creating the perfect setting for gatherings with neighbours.

Mirvac recently commenced construction on the $280 million, all-electric apartment development, just four kilometers from the CBD and within walking distance to Melbourne’s inner-north suburbs, as well as the University of Melbourne and Royal Melbourne Hospital precinct. Prince &amp; Parade is expected to complete in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4802]

Mirvac recently commenced construction on the $280 million, all-electric apartment development, just four kilometers from the CBD and within walking distance to Melbourne’s inner-north suburbs

Premium amenities match parkside living at Prince & Parade in Brunswick

The standard for amenities in new developments has drastically risen over the past decade, shifting from a focus solely on practical functionality to a holistic approach that considers how the entire building can enhance a resident’s lifestyle.

While a prime location provides inherent lifestyle advantages like proximity to dining and retail offerings, developers and architects are increasingly shaping buyer decisions by optimising in-building amenities, offering residents a more comprehensive and convenient lifestyle. This focus has grown exponentially nationwide, driven by evolving resident needs and expectations of prospective buyers.

ASX-listed developer <a href="/developers/lendlease-development">Lendlease</a> prioritised amenity design in its latest <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands</a> residential offering, <a href="/new-apartments/ancora-at-collins-wharf-docklands-971-collins-street-docklands-vic-3008">Ancora at Collins Wharf</a>. Ancora will be the third building in the Collins Wharf precinct, a previously underutilised wharf at the end of Collins Street which is being developed into a thriving new community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9779 project_image_fid=314802]

The attention to detail starts at the front door, where residents are greeted by a grand hotel-style lobby with triple-height ceilings, providing a distinguished sense of arrival. Each resident at Ancora will have access to concierge services, ranging from accepting deliveries to leisure and entertainment-based services and everything in between.

Collins Wharf aims to enhance the lifestyle of its residents by offering an impressive range of amenities that make living easier through social connection, health, and wellness. To achieve this, they’ve designed not one, but two open-air terraces at Ancora.

Each terrace features spacious alfresco dining areas with barbecue facilities, comfortable seating, beautifully landscaped gardens, and stunning north-facing views of the city and Harbour. These thoughtfully designed spaces are perfect for residents to connect with one another, creating an ideal setting for both casual gatherings and welcoming guests to Ancora.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9779 project_image_fid=314808]

It’s the same concerted effort to promote social interaction that inspired The Collins Room, a residents' lounge and private dining area that enhances the offering of an inclusive, connected community.

There are many components to a healthy lifestyle. Collins Wharf has also laid an importance to the physical aspect of health and wellbeing. In addition to the social spaces, Ancora also offers a fully-equipped, private gym with water views, a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, and a steam room.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9779 project_image_fid=314809]

Beyond what has been included in the building, Ancora benefits from its connected location. Collins Wharf sits at the end of Collins Street, one of Melbourne’s best streets and the cultural heart of the capital. Collins Street is lined with world-class dining, cafes, luxury retail, premium hotels, and major business headquarters. All of the above are just a short walk, or a free tram ride away from Collins Wharf.

Collins Wharf has not just leaned on the convenience of Collins Street to satisfy its future residents. The next stage of Collins Wharf will see over 5,000 sqm of new parkland established to enhance the resident experience by creating a connection to nature, something that is often overlooked in inner-city developments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9779 project_image_fid=318937]

Designed by landscape architect <a href="/landscape-architect/openwork">Openwork</a>, these green spaces incorporate indigenous plantings and will feature fitness stations, play zones, covered seating areas, and open lawns, fostering a sense of community and creating yet another space for Collins Wharf residents to gather without going far from their front door.

Designed by <a href="/architects/warren-and-mahoney">Warren &amp; Mahoney</a>, Ancora offers 302 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments across two different collections; the Waterfront Collection and the Premier Collection, the latter of which offers a range of house-sized living options including skyhomes and townhomes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9779 project_image_fid=314797]

Nick Deans, Principal at Warren and Mahoney, describes Collins Wharf as a remarkable example of placemaking, with a design inspired by its unique waterfront location and urban interface.&nbsp;

“In partnership with Lendlease, we’re creating a distinctive precinct that seamlessly blends the vibrancy and amenities of Melbourne’s CBD with the tranquillity of a waterfront retreat. Ancora redefines apartment living, offering world-class amenities and exceptional outdoor spaces, all set right on the water’s edge.'

Construction on Ancora is set to commence later this year, with completion expected in 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=9779]

Nick Deans, Principal at Warren and Mahoney, describes Collins Wharf as a remarkable example of placemaking, with a design inspired by its unique waterfront location and urban interface

Amenity Watch

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News