A long-stalled Campbelltown development site is back in play, with new plans for 139 apartments set to supersede a mixed-use scheme approved almost a decade ago but never built.

The new proposal for 28 Cordeaux Street would deliver 116 market and 23 affordable apartments in a part 14-storey building, bringing a substantial new project into a Campbelltown market where new apartment supply remains limited.

Plans have been filed over the 3,092 sqm corner site at Moore-Oxley Street, around 600 metres from Campbelltown Railway Station and the city-centre retail core.

The site already carries a mixed-use residential approval dating to 2016. Doroch Architects has now been engaged on a larger replacement scheme, which is progressing as a State Significant Development Application following a Housing Delivery Authority determination in August 2025.

The apartment mix comprises 39 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom apartments make up just over half of the project, while three-bedroom homes account for 20 per cent.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="136dd5b9-3791-4da6-9e31-76f533f5b4de" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da2.png?VersionId=LgOSy9nwf5u.MGswBBwaGGxuX8QpHSl_" />

Of the 139 apartments, 23 will be delivered as affordable housing under the in-fill affordable housing provisions of the Housing SEPP. The affordable component represents 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area and will be managed by a registered Community Housing Provider.

Doroch has sought to break the scale of the building into two distinct elements, with a masonry podium of around four storeys establishing the street edge before the residential tower steps back above.

The corner position has shaped that approach. Cordeaux Street faces toward the commercial and civic centre, while Moore-Oxley Street leads into the lower-scale residential neighbourhood to the south, and the design verification report describes the site as "bridging the commercial core to the north and established residential areas to the south."

The podium will be expressed predominantly in face brick, while the upper levels shift to brushed and grooved concrete cladding with darker metal detailing. Recessed sections, deep balcony edges and landscaping break down the upper form, with an approximately 11.8-metre setback to the northern boundary addressing the adjoining St Peters Anglican School.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b3d2d3-c561-4bfc-a5d9-a68c0c10dac1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da1.png?VersionId=AeAEyJU02Gk2k5noUj2StziCvdQ7fW4B" />

Campbelltown has been starved of new residential developments in the last decade.

The only other notable development set to come to market this year is ALAND's Queen Square, a mixed-use precinct on over two hectares that will comprise apartments above a vibrant ground-level retail and hospitality dining precinct.

Joel Robinson

First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
</main>

Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

Located in the coveted Sackville Ward, The Bradford is Kew's latest boutique development, designed by famed Melbourne architect Cera Stribley. 

Join us on a tour of Pontem's Immersive Sales Experience for The Bradford.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_T-kOPIL3us" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38; text-align: justify;">THE BRADFORD AT A GLANCE</h2>

Address:&nbsp;365 Cotham Road, Kew 
Developer: Jafari Property Group 
Architect: Cera Stribley

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112356]

What strikes me about this development is the connection between old and new highlighted by the sophisticated material selection. The timeless brick facade pays homage to the opulent homes in the area and is softened by a curtain of verdant greenery.&nbsp;

This limited release of 10 luxury apartments gives discerning buyers a chance to join one of Melbourne's most prestigious blue-chip suburbs. With construction challenges, heritage overlays and planning controls, opportunities to buy a brand new home in this area don't come around often.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112356]

Enjoying a prominent corner and set across three levels, the building’s architecture imbues a sense of individuality for each residence. And you are welcomed home each day to a secure hotel-style lobby.

On offer is a selection of two and three-bedroom residences, with two half-floor penthouses.

Each kitchen is an entertainer’s delight with oversized natural stone island benches, complete with bespoke timber joinery, V-Zug appliances and fully integrated fridge freezers.&nbsp;

There's ample storage, a butler's pantry, and penthouses also include a temperature-controlled wine cellar.&nbsp;

<img alt="the bradford" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6cb40d7a-56be-4e80-bf54-f495a1057899" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/the-bradford-kew-365-cotham-road-kew-7d6718c3cc7feedf306695fdb35690a9.jpeg?VersionId=PxdwQq7gXYir43H_0tNX3MkuFLQtl17C" />

Each residence takes advantage of its surroundings with an abundance of natural light through considerable floor-to-ceiling glazing complemented by high ceilings, timber floorboards and considered storage and functionality.

Designed for optimum comfort year-round, you'll be able to enjoy the warmth of your inbuilt gas fireplace in winter or spend time socialising on your expansive terrace in the summer.&nbsp;

And the generously sized bedrooms feature plush wool carpets, with master suites offering walk-in wardrobes and an adjoining ensuite.&nbsp;

With limited residences available at The Bradford, submit your enquiry via Urban to arrange a time to meet with the sales agent and view the project showroom.

Olivia Round

Display Tour Video: The Bradford by Jafari Property Group at 365 Cotham Road, Kew

STH BNK By Beaulah has hit a pivotal milestone, reaching over $600 million in sales since its launch to the market just four months ago.

The impressive sales flurry includes a record-breaking $35 million sub-penthouse, as well as a $15 million sub-penthouse.

Following a sell-out success of stage one on launch day, totalling $400 million, stage two was brought forward to cater to the demand, which also resulted in a sell-out.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8804 project_image_fid=200218]

Two stages remain in the project which are yet to launch, including the Hotel Private Residence collection, which will offer sophisticated urban living with exclusive hotel services, dedicated property management and exclusive amenities, as well as a selection of customised residences, designed purely off the back of the demand.

Two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments continue to be the most in-demand, accounting for close to 70 per cent of the apartments sold to date, with Beulah even redesigning a number of floors to cater for the high demand for larger apartments.

Many purchasers have taken advantage of the customisable ‘Tailored Living’ services by merging multiple apartments into super-sized residences, with the total number of apartments in the project decreasing as a result of more two, three and four-bedroom configurations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8804 project_image_fid=193964]

Beulah Managing Director Jiaheng Chan said the sales achieved are reflective of the market’s confidence in the project, particularly in the face of interest rate rises and a global pandemic.

“Most of our purchasers live in Melbourne and Sydney with a large proportion of purchasers stemming from the immediate area who already love the culture, shopping, sport and entertainment of inner-city living but have been searching for a truly integrated precinct to live in,” he said.

“We’ve also seen a surge of buyers from regional Victoria who are attracted to the same things and see Melbourne city as an attractive place to have a home.”

Chan added that buyers were excited by the fact they can live in a mini-metropolis, with the vertical village offering everything buyers could need and more.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8804 project_image_fid=200219]

“They will be able to enjoy the cosmopolitan lifestyle with world-class amenities and services on the doorstep and can simply lock up and leave when travel calls. There is also the unique opportunity to completely customise their home, all while living in the heart of Melbourne.

“Our partnerships with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and with Centre Pompidou have also added immense value for potential purchasers, presenting a truly unique lifestyle offering, that is only further enhanced by our commitment to holistic wellness throughout the precinct. It has really set a benchmark in liveability and this is something purchasers appreciate.”

In June, it was announced STH BNK By Beulah will be home to the most comprehensive collection of amenities in any Australian skyscraper, including a series of unique residents’ clubs, featuring pools, lounges and wellness areas.

All residents will also have access to STH BNK Concierge Services, which includes things from housekeeping, shopping and child minding to pet services, an on-call doctor, beauty treatments and massages, in addition to the recently announced STH BNK Auto Club, a first-of-its-kind fleet of luxury vehicles including BMWs, Teslas, Porches and Range Rovers, which will be for the use of residents to use at their convenience.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=8804]

STH BNK By Beulah achieves over half a billion in apartment sales

Ever wondered what it's like to live at Mirvac's masterplanned community Tullamore in Doncaster?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Join Urban presenter, Olivia, to experience the unrivalled lifestyle offerings enjoyed by residents and discover FORME, the exclusive final chapter of the coveted Apartments of Tullamore precinct.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7sT47iycf8M" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=100322]

To enquire about the homes available for sale at Tullamore, then submit your enquiry today via Urban.

urban.com.au

VIDEO: A day in the life of a resident at Mirvac's Doncaster apartment development, Tullamore

The under-construction Ovation Footscray is nearing completion, with the final touches being added to the Buckley Street residences.

Platinum Construction have been building the inner-city apartments, which is expected to welcome its first residents by September this year.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5490 project_image_fid=78490]

Landing just 5.6 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, Footscray is one of those rare suburbs that, while possessing a strong village-like atmosphere, it enjoys the same connectivity to that of a city fringe locale.

Located&nbsp;in the heart of Footscray, Ovation reaps all the benefits of these attributes, maintaining proximity to public transport, schools, dining and recreational amenity, while still feeling like its own set place.

Inner-city locals, Keystone Property Group are the developers behind Ovation, which will comprise 131 residences upon completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5490 project_image_fid=78492]

Keystone are no strangers to the burgeoning Footscray area, with the developers boasting a string of already sold out projects, including, The Buckley and Victoria Corner.

<a href="/architects/kavellaris-urban-design" target="_blank">Kavellaris Urban Design</a>&nbsp;(KUD) handled the design of Ovation, with owner, Billy Kavellaris saying the vision was to honour Footscray&rsquo;s unique architectural character, while still establishing a new level of design ingenuity for the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5490 project_image_fid=78493]

&ldquo;Positioned in one of Melbourne&rsquo;s fastest emerging domains, innovation and liveability were of equal importance when designing ovation,&rdquo; Kavellaris said.

Ovation delivers a collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, starting from $585,000.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5490]

Platinum Construction have been building the inner-city apartments, which is expected to welcome its first residents by September this year

Ovation, Footscray apartments, set to welcome residents by Spring

From its design-breaking &#39;floating&#39;&nbsp;transparent sky pool&nbsp;in Embassy Gardens London to its Australian maiden project West Village in Sydney, EcoWorld International&rsquo;s developments strive to make an impact.&nbsp;

Since its first project in 2015, EcoWorld International has expanded rapidly, with the company involved in a number of ongoing and upcoming projects, with a value near to $716 million.

They&#39;ve created seven projects in the UK, all scattered across the English capital. One of their most impressive is Wardian, two towers in the hear of the Canary Wharf business district.

EcoWorld&#39;s recently completed South Yarra apartment development, Yarra One, was a solid addition to the group&#39;s already substantial international portfolio. Their first Australian project was West Village in Sydney&#39;s Parramatta.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3127 project_image_fid=181272]

Carrying on the traditional themes see throughout other EcoWorld projects, the completed Claremont Street development&nbsp;is designed with liveability and lifestyle in mind.

Presenting as the finishing touch to the elite Forest Hill pocket of South Yarra, Yarra One delivers 250 residences, designed by multi-disciplinary international design firm, Fender Katsalidis.

The 27-storey tower offers a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as a collection of penthouses, with floorplans spanning from 56 sqm up to 109 sqm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3127 project_image_fid=182002]

In designing Yarra One, Fender Katsalidis envisioned the birth of a new urban space to unwind and connect for the community and neighbours of Forrest Hill alike.

The location of Yarra One&rsquo;s atrium between the South Yarra train station and Chapel Street makes it a key destination and gathering place for residents and neighbours of South Yarra, while&nbsp;the tower&rsquo;s fa&ccedil;ade and slender linear form speaks directly to the existing language of its neighbouring towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3127 project_image_fid=181270]

One of the biggest drivers in buyers taking up stock in Yarra One comes from the suite of hotel-style facilities on offer.

Buyers will be at home to&nbsp;a residents&#39; dining room,&nbsp;wine cellar, and&nbsp;rooftop terrace with barbecue facilities, along with a gym, yoga room, outdoor spa, sauna and steam room, pet wash and Tesla car share services.

The barrier-breaking approach behind EcoWorld International&rsquo;s many developments has won the company numerous awards, including Mixed-Use Development of the Year by British Home Awards, Best New Place to Live by London Planning Awards,&nbsp;Development of the Year by RESI Awards, Grand Prix Award and Best Regeneration Project by London Evening Standard and&nbsp;Best Residential Development at The Wharf Property Awards.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=3127]

As the group’s second Australian project, Yarra One adds to the group’s already substantial portfolio.



EcoWorld International: The developers behind Yarra One apartments in South Yarra

Four years after the project&#39;s inception, Victorian Environment Minister Lily D&#39;Ambrosio has endorsed an inquiry&#39;s recommendation and found the environmental effects statement for Melbourne&#39;s Suburban Rail Loop project is acceptable.

What does this mean?&nbsp; Effectively, the Suburban Rail Loop has leaped over a major planning hurdle.

It mightn&#39;t be much of a surprise given that early works are already underway, however it is a major milestone for the project.

<a href="/news/victorian-government-unveils-suburban-rail-loop-election-proposal">At the time it was revealed to the public in 2018</a> in the lead up to the&nbsp;Victorian state election of that same year, the project was spruiked as a rail line that would link all except for one of Melbourne&#39;s radial railway lines, taking cars off the road and enabling more intensive development in Melbourne&#39;s middle ring of suburbs.

&nbsp;

Alastair Taylor

Melbourne's Suburban Rail Loop EES gets the green light

The design driven inner city Melbourne developer, Neometro, has secured a site in Fitzroy for a new residential project.

As one of the last remaining development sites in Melbourne&rsquo;s Fitzroy, Neometro paid more than $9.3 million for the 450 Gore Street site, after having recently snapped up a St Kilda site for almost $22 million, which has a lease to Fitness First until 2024.

Fitzroy&rsquo;s Chris James and Chris Kombi sold 450 Gore Street, at the corner of Leicester Street on behalf of a private family, attracting strong interest from buyers, with the campaign generating more than 130 enquiries.

Chris James said they had seen prudent, highly qualified developers compete strongly for the few recent offerings in the area and as expected, 450 Gore St was no different.

&ldquo;Developers looked past inflationary pressures and growing construction costs, recognising this was an unrivalled opportunity to deliver a project in the heart of one of Australia&rsquo;s most liveable locations,&rdquo; James said.

&ldquo;Inner-city locations with excellent lifestyle qualities are particularly popular with Melburnians as flexible working arrangements become commonplace. The market&rsquo;s seen overwhelming evidence for demand in the immediate area across multiple projects.&rdquo;

The significant triple-fronted 900 sqm site is located on the tree-lined Gore Street, just behind the buzzing Smith Street, which was named the coolest street in the world by Time Out.

Fitzroy itself has recently ranked as Melbourne&rsquo;s most liveable suburb by CoreLogic, taking into consideration the abundant and accessible park, health, shopping, public transport and educational amenity.

Sitting within the Fitzroy East and Johnston Street North planning precinct, the site has favourable Mixed-Use zoning, which promotes significant density and development.

Kombi commented on the site&rsquo;s walkability, sitting within walking distance to every possible amenity, including parks, public transport, renowned bars and eateries, as well as Fitzroy swimming pool.

Along with Smith Street, the site is also close by to the Brunswick Street and Johnston Street precincts, as well as the iconic Edinburgh Gardens, and just 1.5 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD.

Neometro&rsquo;s project will be the latest development in Fitzroy, which attracts local, interstate and international guests to the precinct given its world-class offering of retailers, restaurant, cafes and bars.

The suburb is soon to be home to boutique hotel group, The Standard nearby on Rose Street, where a 126-room hotel is set to be opened in 2023.

Piccolo has recently been granted a permit for their $120 million apartment project at 385 Gore Street and sold out its 71-75 Argyle Street project, while the Victorian Government is redeveloping the Fitzroy Gasworks site into a new residential, sports and community precinct.

Nearby is also the rapidly developing Collingwood office market with multiple projects recently completed and underway, including the $111 million Aesop headquarters by Impact Investment Group, global investment group Hines&rsquo; $200 million timber tower, and projects at 51 Langridge Street and 71 Gipps Street.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=114139]

The campaign generated more than 130 enquiries with multiple qualified underbidders competing for the property, with high-end boutique developers, Neometro snapping up the site for $9,305,500.



Neometro add Gore Street, Fitzroy site to residential apartment development pipeline

The small and funky suburb of Windsor has soared in popularity recently.

The area has started to make a name for itself with a growing number of independent restaurants, bars, lounges and retailers calling the suburb home, along with prospective buyers looking for property well-connected and close by to the CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3575 project_image_fid=201754]

Located just 5-kilometres southeast of Melbourne&rsquo;s city centre, the inner-city pocket has a local feel in its grid of streets and as Stonnington&rsquo;s smallest suburb, with a population of just over 7,000, there is a high rental demand for any property investors.&nbsp;

CV Windsor offers a completed and ready to move in option for the area, comprising a mix of one, two, three and&nbsp;four-bedroom apartments.

Landing on the bustling Punt Road, CV Windsor is just minutes from the city centre, nestled between the historic suburbs of South Yarra, Prahran and St Kilda.

Just steps from the building, residents will find easy access to Prahran Railway Station or tram number 6 on the nearby High Street, along with being just a short walk to all the tram options on St Kilda Rd.

While the well-connected site sits among traffic-heavy areas, CV Windsor has been designed as a sanctuary amongst the hustle and bustle.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3575 project_image_fid=201751]

Designed by Carlton-based, deciBel Architecture, CV Windsor&rsquo;s built form comprises a concrete structure, which helps reduce the impact of sound, with complex geometry driving its design.

Delivering a collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, along with a select number of luxury penthouses, each of the residences adjoin to a terrace which has been designed to improve the privacy for the owners, whilst also maximising the views from each.

Residences feature free flowing open&nbsp;plan areas, complimented with secluded working and living zones to allow both&nbsp;joint experiences&nbsp;and individual comfort.

Chevron European Oak engineered flooring lays underfoot in each apartment, while a choice between timber and wool carpet flooring can be selected in the bedrooms.

Kitchen and bathroom benchtops come in a choice of natural or reconstituted stone, complete with terrazzo tiling, as well as a suite of Miele appliances as standard, including the cooktop, oven and dishwasher, Liebherr fridge/freezer.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3575 project_image_fid=201758]

With a calm colour palette and warm timber-lined terraces, CV Windsor will also be constructed with environmental sustainability a high-priority.

Apartments feature dual aspects, allowing access to both northern and southern light, as well as increased crossflow ventilation throughout.

Renowned artist, Kim Westcot has further marked CV Windsor apart from the rest, developing the Punt Road fa&ccedil;ade into an art piece.

deciBel say that through the use of Westcot&rsquo;s printmaking background to reimagine Australian landscapes and the flora and fauna they hold; she has created a facade that exudes experience and growth of a building connected to nature and community.

&ldquo;The client has particular aspiration for providing an owner occupy concept in this intensely competitive market, where dollar per sqm seems the only concern in strategic composition. They plan to not just form a building but create a community that makes a difference.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3575 project_image_fid=201747]

Within the project there are a number of expansive communal spaces, across the ground floor as well as the rooftop level, which deciBel say have been provided to establish and enable creative living interactions between residents and to foster a sense of community.

Across the ground plane are lounge areas, along with spacious kitchen and dining areas.

Level eight will home the shared resident&rsquo;s garden, which will allow residents to grow their own produce and herbs, accompanied by&nbsp;barbecue facilities as well as a spa.

Crowning CV Windsor is the rooftop garden which is set to allow the community to grow vertically into a shared space that benefits from sweeping city views surrounded by lush gardens, as well as private dining spaces, communal cooking areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3575 project_image_fid=201749]

The completed and ready to move in development still has a select number of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences remaining, starting from $545,000.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=3575]

CV Windsor delivers completed and ready to move in apartments to Melbourne's inner-city

Melbourne tops Sydney for smart property investment according to developers Samma Property Group, who has seen a large number of sales of its Ivanhoe project, Samma Place, come from Sydney buyers looking for strong value for money in well-known Melbourne areas.

Having launched to the market late last year, construction on the project is now underway, with an number snapped up by Sydneysiders.

Samma highlighted Ivanhoe&rsquo;s convenient location, affordability and accessibility &ndash; both of which are becoming increasingly hard to come by in Sydney &ndash; as a main driver for the interest in the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107731 project_image_fid=187072]

The sales results come as Melbourne&rsquo;s inner suburbs&rsquo; apartment market continues to defy the wider housing slowdown, with the median apartment price in East Melbourne rising by 6.2 per cent in the first quarter, according to CoreLogic.

Samma Property Group&rsquo;s Head of Project Sales, Christopher Rice,&nbsp;said the innovative project has been well-received by buyers, with the team thrilled with the interstate response.

&ldquo;Our buyers to date have expressed that they are attracted to an affordable price point, in a growth corridor less than 10 kilometres from the CBD,&rdquo; said Rice.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107731 project_image_fid=187077]

&ldquo;Strong rental returns, and the employment hub of the Austin Health Precinct are key for capital growth in the future increasing yields.&rdquo;

&ldquo;In Sydney, you need to travel 40 kilometres from the CBD to find this sort of affordability, and you don&rsquo;t get the added benefit of an established and affluent suburb,&rdquo; he added.

CoreLogic data indicates the median unit price in Sydney is $830,534, while in Melbourne it&rsquo;s just $370,255, and as interest rates continue to rise, apartments will continue to become a more attractive alternative, Rice noted.

Samma Place&nbsp;apartments have been designed to meet Better Apartment Design Standards (BADS) and reach&nbsp;a 4-Star Green rating.

In addition to the apartments, Samma Place Linden, the first stage of the development, will also be home to nearly 1000 sqm of commercial spaces, with subsequent stages set to include a grocery store, a caf&eacute;, and office space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107731 project_image_fid=187073]

Investfox Property Group Director and Sales Agent for Samma Place, Vikrant Malik said they had seen a rapid rise in interest in Melbourne from Sydney buyers, with the city recently being crowned Australia&rsquo;s most liveable city yet again, along with the growth expected over the next four to five years.

&ldquo;Ivanhoe, specifically, is a great place to invest because it&rsquo;s already an established suburb; it&rsquo;s on the Eastern side, schools are great, including Ivanhoe Grammar which is one of the best schools in the locality, La Trobe University is nearby, as is the medical precinct. The Government is planning to spend $5 billion on infrastructure in this area, and there are also plenty of employment opportunities. As an investor, you look for all these things in one place and Ivanhoe has it all.

&ldquo;What&rsquo;s more, the gap between apartment and house prices is huge in Ivanhoe, so I see a lot of potential and a great opportunity to invest in apartments there. Eventually, the gap will close, but it&#39;s&nbsp;unlikely that will happen by a reduction in house prices, so apartment prices will only continue to rise, making investing now a very lucrative opportunity.&rdquo;

Samma Property Group recently announced the acquisition of an expansive standalone site in Melbourne&rsquo;s docklands, along the Yarra&rsquo;s edge.

Construction on Samma Place Linden has successfully continued on-schedule,&nbsp;with completion slated for the early stages of 2023.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=107731]

Having launched to the market late last year, construction on the project is now underway, with an number snapped up by Sydneysiders.


Samma Place, Ivanhoe apartments draw Sydney investors

Making an architectural statement on the leafy streets of Kew, The Studley embodies a sophisticated and contemporary design that seamlessly fits into the highly sought after neighbourhood.

Designed over three levels, The Studley is home to just eight residences, ranging up to 500 sqm, each with an expansive floor plan, allowing for generously sized bedrooms and living spaces, which integrate into the outdoor spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113100 project_image_fid=199815]

David Watson Architect&nbsp;is the boutique practice behind the Kew creation, working in collaboration with John Patrick Landscape Architecture and McKimm to deliver the project.

Established in 2001, the scale of the deliberately small design-driven architecture practice ensures the active involvement of owner, David Watson across all projects, with The Studley being no different.

The Studley’s exterior combines travertine, render and zinc to create a modern built form that remains sympathetic to the leafy streetscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113100 project_image_fid=199818]

The single-floor residences range from two to three-bedrooms, each with two bathrooms and a powder room, appealing to buyers seeking to downsize without compromising on luxury appointments and outdoor space.

Wide oak timber floorboards create a sense of warmth inside the homes, complemented by natural stone benchtops and a neutral colour palette throughout.

Additional luxurious modern features within the residences include freestanding baths and walk-in robes, bespoke joinery, an in-built gas fireplace, and the ultimate chef’s kitchen, complete with Miele appliances, Grand Cru wine fridge and butler’s pantry.

Floor-to-ceiling glass walls optimise light and views in each of the apartments, while the lines between indoors and outdoors have been cleverly blurred through the use of expansive stacking sliding doors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113100 project_image_fid=199820]

The main living spaces open to generous gardens and outdoor terraces, enjoying sweeping views across Kew’s leafy canopy.

In keeping with the air of exclusivity, entry to The Studley is via a secure central lobby with a lift service.

The basement also has secure parking for up to three cars, as well as additional storage for each residence.

Two and three-bedroom apartments can still be snapped up in the Kew project, with prices starting from $2,450,000.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=113100]

David Watson Architect is the boutique practice behind the Kew creation, working in collaboration with John Patrick Landscape Architecture and McKimm to deliver the project.

Latest Victoria Property News

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

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Latest Victoria Property News

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

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