<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/smith-by-valli-collingwood-224-228-smith-street-collingwood-vic-3066">Smith Collingwood</a> is a new boutique apartment development bringing a refined, design-led approach to one of Melbourne’s most established inner-city neighbourhoods.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pandolfini-architects">Pandolfini Architects</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/lisa-buxton-interiors">Lisa Buxton</a>, Smith by Valli sits on iconic Smith Street and comprises just 22 residences tailored toward owner-occupiers seeking a more considered style of apartment living.

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The design of Smith focuses on a north-facing orientation across all residences, a relatively uncommon feature in dense inner-Melbourne settings. Each apartment has been planned to maximise natural light and outlook, alongside a material palette defined by warm tones, custom joinery, and a full suite of Gaggenau appliances.

The development comprises a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with pricing currently ranging from just under $1 million to around $4.85 million for the premium penthouse-level residences, reflecting growing demand for luxury owner-occupier product in Melbourne’s inner urban market.

Residents will also have access to a private rooftop garden designed as an elevated retreat above the city, &nbsp;featuring curated landscaping, veggie boxes, intimate seating areas and spaces for relaxed gatherings. Sustainability has also been integrated into the project through a 7-star energy rating and two secure bicycle facilities for every residence.

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Smith by Valli sits in the heart of one of Melbourne’s most established retail and hospitality strips, within walking distance of venues such as Falco Bakery, Carnation Canteen and Alimentari, alongside parks and everyday services. With a Walk Score of 99, the location reinforces the project’s positioning toward buyers prioritising walkability and access over car dependency.

With only a limited number of residences, Smith reflects growing demand for smaller, highly curated apartment developments that prioritise design quality, liveability, and connection to neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140747]

Joel Robinson

Smith by Valli delivers a refined collection of luxury residences to Melbourne’s inner north

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a>’s 640 Bourke Street stands as a testament to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a>’s ability to bridge its storied past with a bold vision for the future.&nbsp;

Rising above the heritage-listed Eliza Tinsley building, the development reflects a broader shift toward adaptive reuse in the city, where historical assets are retained and reinterpreted as part of new residential development.

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> incorporates the Eliza Tinsley building as its foundation, housing a grand gallery and lobby space that serve as both a functional and symbolic centrepiece. The heritage façade informs the tower’s design, creating a connection between Melbourne’s past and its contemporary skyline.

"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.

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Above this historic base, the 68-storey tower will deliver just over 600 residences, a notable reduction from earlier schemes, reflecting a deliberate move toward larger-format apartments and a stronger owner-occupier focus.

Unlike traditional CBD developments that prioritised investor stock, 640 Bourke Street has been repositioned to respond to changing buyer expectations.

"The discussion was all around making 640 Bourke Street the best residence to live in, to be much more focused on the people in the building rather than people looking at the building," Marsland explained.&nbsp;

This shift is evident in the development’s interiors, which emphasise practical luxury with spacious layouts, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.&nbsp;

“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," Lauren Sheldon, Far East Consortium’s Director of Sales and Marketing, said.&nbsp;

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Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang added, "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."&nbsp;

Amenities spanning more than 3,000 sqm across multiple levels further reinforce this focus on resident experience. These include a pool, gym, co-working areas, and a range of hospitality-inspired spaces such as a whisky lounge, library, and private dining rooms, many drawing reference from traditional bathhouses and Melbourne’s laneway culture.

"We wanted to make both the pool and the gym area to be absolutely destinational, and when you traverse across to these spaces, there is a gentle familiarity to the beautiful notions of the hammams and the Roman baths, a gentle nod to history," Chang noted.

At street level, the project contributes to the ongoing transformation of the western CBD, with upgrades to Langs Lane and the introduction of retail, hospitality, and gallery spaces designed to activate the precinct and strengthen its connection to the surrounding city fabric.

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The location places residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, and the Docklands waterfront, positioning the development within a rapidly evolving inner-city neighbourhood.

"We believe it's the best site left in the city of Melbourne," Craig Williams, Executive Director at Far East Consortium, said.&nbsp;

640 Bourke Street is Far East Consortium’s 14th building in Melbourne’s western CBD.

"A very elegant designed building. It's going to be a Melbourne statement for many, many years to come."

One-bedroom apartments are priced from around $640,000, with 640 Bourke Street targeting completion in 2029.

Renders shown are Artist's Impressions correct as of May 2026.

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Heritage-led design anchors Far East Consortium’s 640 Bourke St, Melbourne

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD Group</a> has set a new residential price record in Queensland with the $30 million sale of the penthouse at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-burleigh-88-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads-qld-4220">ONE Burleigh</a> development in Burleigh Heads.

The sale equates to around $37,500 per sqm.

The two-level, 800 sqm penthouse, featuring five bedrooms, five bathrooms, five car spaces, and a private infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean, was acquired by a Gold Coast-based entrepreneur, highlighting continued demand for ultra-premium beachfront product.

Selling agent Freddie Tehle of PRD Burleigh Heads said the result reflects tightening supply of high-quality, large-format apartments in Burleigh.

“There’s very limited opportunity to secure this level of scale and absolute beachfront position in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/burleigh-heads-qld-4220">Burleigh Heads</a>,” Tehle said.

“Buyers are increasingly seeking apartments that genuinely replace a standalone home, and this penthouse delivers that with its size, privacy, and direct ocean frontage.”

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The sale comes as construction progresses on ONE Burleigh, a boutique development of 17 full-floor residences at 88 The Esplanade, scheduled for completion in early 2027.

Developed by MAYD Group and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mas-architecture-studio">MAS Architecture</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/sici-design">Sici Design</a>, the project has been positioned as a collection of house-sized beachfront apartments, each occupying an entire floor with around 381 sqm of internal and external living space.

When construction commenced, MAYD director Todd Mould pointed to the long-term resilience of premium coastal real estate as a key driver behind the project.

“Real estate, particularly at the premium end, remains one of the most resilient and proven long-term investment avenues,” Mould said.

“Our ambition is that anyone who buys a MAYD-built product can genuinely feel the care, craftsmanship and commitment we bring to every detail.”

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Each residence has been configured with four bedrooms, multiple living zones, a private office, and expansive ocean-facing terraces. Interiors draw on a restrained material palette, including travertine stone, timber joinery, and integrated premium appliances.

Interior designer Sici Design said the approach was to reflect the project’s coastal setting through both materiality and spatial planning.

“ONE Burleigh is our vision of luxury living, designed to bring the essence of Burleigh Heads' vibrant coastal beauty into an unparalleled residential experience.”

Residents will have access to a suite of wellness-focused amenities, including pools, sauna facilities, and dedicated relaxation spaces, reflecting a broader shift toward lifestyle-driven apartment design on the Gold Coast.

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The project occupies a southern Esplanade site with uninterrupted beachfront frontage, an increasingly rare offering in Burleigh Heads, free from the Norfolk Pines that line much of the coastline and often limit direct ocean outlook.

Mould said the design intent was to balance that outlook with a sense of retreat.

“Living at ONE Burleigh is about how your day naturally unfolds, morning light across the ocean, coffee on the balcony, and being in Burleigh but elevated above the noise.”

The result further reinforces Burleigh Heads’ emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held and supply-constrained beachfront markets, where boutique, owner-occupier-focused developments are increasingly setting new price benchmarks.

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MAYD Group sets Queensland record with $30 million penthouse sale at ONE Burleigh in Burleigh Heads

Apartment developers in the Gold Coast are finding new, creative ways to differentiate themselves from competing projects, as new supply starts to flow through up and down the Coast.

Developer BIG Projects brought in the renowned Sydney-based design studio YSG Studio to craft the interiors for The Frederick, BIG Projects' new Mermaid Beach project and YSG Studio's first move into the multi-residential development space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5346]

It was a strategic move for BIG Projects to bring in a Sydney eye to the development.

“Our role is to give our design partners the space and freedom to explore,” says Matt Barrett, Director of BIG Projects.

“We wanted YSG Studio to capture the essence of Nobby’s, to design a building that embraces life, light and connection, while creating a genuine sense of place.”

There are only 39 apartments in The Frederick, including a striking beach house, just 100 metres from the booming Nobby Beach precinct.&nbsp;

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Yasmine Ghoniem, Director of YSG Studio, says their vision&nbsp;for The Frederick "reinvents coastal living."

“Nobby’s has such an iconic energy, it’s one of those rare pockets of the Gold Coast where the community, the beach, and the streets all feel connected,” Ghoniem says.

"Responding to the neighbouring coastline, soothing curves add a relaxing regional overlay, while unique detailing really sets it apart. It’s a place that feels lived in from the moment you step inside.”

A standout feature of The Frederick is its rooftop terrace, an uncommon inclusion for a boutique, low-rise building, where amenity is typically concentrated at ground level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5360]

Positioned to capture panoramic views from the hinterland to the ocean, the rooftop has been designed as a series of intimate zones. It includes a pool, sauna, sun decks, workspaces and dedicated entertaining areas.

“The rooftop was conceived as a collection of spaces where residents can unwind and connect, an extension of the Nobby’s lifestyle,” Barrett says.

Architecture for the project was led by Plus Studio, with landscape design by LDG Landscape Architecture.

SRQ Projects Director Nick Clydsdale, who is handling sales at The Frederick, says the majority of enquiry is coming from South East QLD and Victorian buyers who have been actively searching between Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach for some time.

"They’ve reviewed a number of projects, however this one has stood out for its unique detailing and compelling design,"&nbsp;Clydsdale says.

Site demolition is slated for this month, with construction commencing soon after. BIG Projects is targeting a late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110588]

Sydney’s YSG Studio makes Gold Coast multi-residential debut with BIG Projects at The Frederick

Melbourne-based property developer ALTA Property has this week achieved planning approval for the adaptive re-use of a former commercial tower into a $200 million, 169-apartment project at 10 Queens Road, one of the last developable sites along the Albert Park Lake-fronting boulevard.&nbsp;

Set within one of Melbourne’s most sought-after precincts and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser and Partners</a>, the illustrious building will offer unparalleled views across Albert Park Lake, Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne CBD.&nbsp;

The mix of 1, 2 and 3-bedroom residences will be complemented by a ground-floor amenity featuring private dining, a lounge bar, gym and wellness spaces, co-working, outdoor communal gardens, and retail.&nbsp;

The 17-storey building is a masterclass in adaptive re-use, with the existing commercial building’s façade, shell and internal structure to be retained, before high-end residences are built from the ground up in a newly built Albert Park facing addition to the building.&nbsp;

Sitting atop the building will be two 320+sqm penthouses with private rooftop terraces, which are expected to be priced between $9 - $11 million.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa11211b-5581-43f9-940c-fc84d30a0e61" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/C_04.png?VersionId=Yhf5p_1EgGDu_zOIMFgvA8Ug8j3sTFQs" />

Architecturally, the building will feature a curved, geometric façade that celebrates and elevates the existing structure, with warm, muted tones which were selected to extend the materiality of the existing building rather than contrast it.&nbsp;

Interiors will bring together three metre high ceilings with waffle concrete in some spaces, natural timber, granite and Australian materials, culminating in crafted, generous and considered spaces that are defined by authenticity.&nbsp;

The adaptive re-use means that the Queens Road project will be a sustainability led, high-quality finished product, with a 62% saving in carbon emissions by re-using the existing structure rather than knocking it down and rebuilding.&nbsp;

ALTA Property was launched by Nigel Givoni in 2023, bringing over 25 years of experience in multi level residential delivery.&nbsp;

Melbourne’s property market growth is currently led by apartments. According to RPM VIC Apartments &amp; Townhomes Market Report (April 2026), units are outpacing houses, especially in the middle ring suburbs where median prices hit $757,500 – a four-year high that represents 2.9 percent growth quarter-on-quarter.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="647e13d7-b4bc-433a-9bc9-fe3c3dd4f2ec" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/V_06.png?VersionId=ou4NUCWUgA3NAy.6CQJlEdKX50j3dOk6" />

For ALTA Property Founder Nigel Givoni, this performance speaks to the confidence he has in the Melbourne market.&nbsp;

“Queens Road represents a rare opportunity to continue to shape our presence in the Melbourne market.,"&nbsp;Givoni says.

"With a considered project team and a premier site along one of the city’s most sought-after boulevards, we look forward to contributing to the fabric of this established address.

“Other Australian markets are getting a lot of attention, but I believe the depth of value in Melbourne is being overlooked. The fundamentals are strong, population growth is steady and, based on our preliminary conversations with a leading builder, construction costs are beginning to normalise, creating further opportunity."

Givoni says the project is a&nbsp;highly considered example of adaptive re-use, delivering quality, high-end residences, premium hotel-inspired amenities and an architecturally striking façade, all achieved without the need to remove the existing structure.

"We are really looking forward to the market’s response,” he said.&nbsp;

ALTA Property to deliver $200 million Queens Road apartment tower

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?

Bespoke Melbourne apartment developer Wickton has appointed Balmain &amp; Co. to deliver their upcoming Linacre Rise apartment project in Hampton.

The appointment follows the completion of site clearing works on site at 8-10 Linacre Road, <a href="/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>, with the next stage of excavation.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/how-wickton-brings-confidence-to-the-off-the-plan-apartment-market-with-an-in-house-team-five-minutes-with-blanco-norton-and-will-leaf">How Wickton brings confidence to the off the plan apartment market with an in-house team: Five minutes with Blanco Norton and Will Leaf</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=229694]

<a href="/new-apartments/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton">Linacre Rise</a>&nbsp;will feature just 27 two and three-bedroom apartments next to Linacre Private Hospital and a few hundred metres from Peace Park, Sandringham Golf Club and Sandringham Beach.

Architecture firm <a href="/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> has designed the low-rise project which will sit in landscaping by <a href="/architects/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick Landscape Design</a>.

The 15 two-bedroom apartments start from $1,275,000, while the 12 three-bedroom apartments are priced from $2.05 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=229698]

<a href="/developers/wickton">Wickton</a> has created <a href="/new-apartments/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton">Linacre Rise</a> to be environmentally responsible and energy efficient for residents.

The inclusion of solar panels aims to decrease dependence on traditional energy sources to lower electricity bills and reduce carbon footprint.&nbsp;

<a href="/builders/balmain-co">Balmain &amp; Co.</a> is anticipating a Q1 2025 completion for Linacre Rise.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Balmain & Co. is anticipating a Q1 2025 completion for Linacre Rise

Wickton appoints Balmain & Co to deliver Linacre Rise

Melbourne developer&nbsp;<a href="/developers/chapter-group">Chapter Group</a> has appointed <a href="/builders/cobild">Cobild</a> as the builder for their latest development, Fitzroy Fitzroy.

<a href="/new-apartments/fitzroy-fitzroy-411-421-smith-street-fitzroy">Fitzroy Fitzroy</a>, a striking mixed-use project in the heart of <a href="/developments/fitzroy-vic-3065">Fitzroy</a>, is a joint venture between Chapter Group, run by Dean Lefkos,&nbsp;<a href="/developers/cdl-australia">CDL Australia</a>, and <a href="/developers/crema-group">Crema</a>.

The Smith Street development has seen a wave of buyer demand since its launch, recently hitting a new high following the sale of three amalgamated apartments that sold for around $10 million, the priciest sale in Fitzroy

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/confidence-in-melbournes-off-the-plan-apartment-market-soars-with-record-10-million-fitzroy-sale">Confidence in Melbourne's off the plan apartment market soars with record $10 million Fitzroy sale</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14394 project_image_fid=183067]

“Fitzroy Fitzroy initially launched with 56 apartments and six townhomes but following a number of amalgamations, the project make-up has shrunk to 52 apartments and five townhomes,” says Dean Lefkos.

Buyer interest has been predominantly from local owner-occupiers, including downsizers, empty nesters, and young professionals. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14394 project_image_fid=183063]

Designed by <a href="/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a>, Fitzroy Fitzroy sits behind a grand heritage brick facade, once home to MacRobertson’s Garage and Workshop, and reaches nine storeys high, complete with angular rooftops and a chamfered western side to create sunlit internal spaces and generous viewlines.&nbsp;

At ground level, an internal laneway connects Smith Street to the residents’ lobby, inspired by the local arcades in Melbourne’s CBD, complete with ground-floor residential amenities and two retail tenancies.&nbsp;

Fitzroy Fitzroy is 70 per cent sold and is currently under construction. Custom floorplans are still available, with completion scheduled for Q4 2025.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=14394]

Buyer interest has been predominantly from local owner-occupiers, including downsizers, empty nesters, and young professionals

Chapter Group appoint Cobild as builder for Fitzroy Fitzroy

A Hong Kong-linked developer has been given the green light for a mixed-use development in one of&nbsp;Melbourne's Major Activity Centre-nominated suburbs.&nbsp;

The Box Hill development at 810-812 Whitehorse Road will include&nbsp;three distinct towers of varying heights, 23 storeys on Elgar Road, 26 storeys on Whitehorse Road, and 32 storeys to the rear/ centre of the site, along with residential amenity and open space, four commercial storeys, retail tenancy, five basement levels, and 424 car parks and 165 bicycle spaces.&nbsp;

Ricardo Energy Environment and Planning prepared a planning report on behalf of Hanex Investment Ltd who own the land, with the investment firm a subsidiary of Harbour Guidance Pty Ltd, the company that currently owns Jeanswest.

<img alt="Hong Kong developers lodge plans for Fender Katsalidis-designed mixed-use Box Hill tower" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-24%20at%2011.10.34%20am.png?VersionId=vlpbxMymC17fV5BuOWVw51ZRE0i1D2GM" />Render of the proposed Box Hill development.&nbsp;

The group engaged renowned architects&nbsp;<a href="/architects/fk-australia" target="">Fender Katsalidis</a>&nbsp;to design the project, which the town planners say is set to critically shape the Box Hill MAC.

"It delivers a highly resolved, modern architectural development befitting of the site’s future urban context, and will enhance the public realm through landscaped forecourts and the ground level retail uses that will activate this section of Whitehorse Road, Elgar Road, and Prospect Street," Ricardo Energy Environment and Planning said in their report.&nbsp;

"The strategic role of Box Hill is arguably the key MAC in the&nbsp;<a href="/developments/melbourne-vic" target="">Melbourne</a>&nbsp;eastern suburbs, giving it a stand out role, while the site also sits within Built Form Precinct F which permits taller buildings enabling increased density."

The site is currently occupied by a three-storey commercial/office building which is occupied by Stanley &amp; Decker, BMM Test Labs and Box Hill Super Clinic.&nbsp;

The surrounding land is currently occupied by mid-rise office buildings, taller mixed-use towers, and (on the opposite side of Elgar Road) post-war housing. However, there is a visible shift towards higher-density development.

There will be 368 apartments constructed within the towers, with 114 one-bedrooms, 57 one-bedroom plus study, 143 two-bedroom and 54 three-bedroom floorplans.&nbsp;

Commercial and retail spaces will occupy the ground floor with seperate entrance lobbies for the residential and office components of the project.

Identified as a gateway site into Box Hill, Fender Katsalidis has incorporated a layered design, with three distinct tower forms that step down to lower shoulders to the west and north.&nbsp;

<img alt="Hong Kong developers lodge plans for Fender Katsalidis-designed mixed-use Box Hill tower" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-24%20at%2011.06.46%20am.png?VersionId=pCC9M0AV1vaOnr_8cok7hhLBN.KcK4qV" />Render of the proposed Box Hill development.&nbsp;

The shape of the northern and western shoulder towers has been curved to increase sight lines through the site, while articulation has been achieved through curved horizontal concrete profiles and vertical bronze banding.

The tower will comprise a light coloured off-form precast concrete panel, with clear glazing to the windows and balustrades, while the upper levels will feature glazing and concrete precast panel treatment in a light grey, coupled with metal or metal look banding elements in bronze and horizontal landscaping.&nbsp;

A suite of residential amenity will be on offer across the towers, with an 851 sqm outdoor terrace planned for level four, along with 1,446 sqm of seating and dining, a swimming pool, spa and gym.&nbsp;

A second terrace is proposed at level 24, providing a further 327 sqm of open space for residents.&nbsp;The group are also planning to enhance a currently under-utilised pocket park at 808 Whitehorse Road.

An array of convenient amenity surrounds the site, with the Whitehorse Road site well-connected through public transport links, including&nbsp;<a href="/news/suburban-rail-loop-in-focus-box-hill" target="">Box Hill Train</a>&nbsp;Station, which is located 400-metres away, and the Box Hill Bus Interchange further east of the train station. There's also several bus routes located along Whitehorse Road and Elgar Road, while tram services operate along the Whitehorse Road corridor directly in front of the site.&nbsp;

Box Hill Gardens is located within 500 metres of the site, while Kingsley Gardens is within 250 metres. Box Hill Public Hospital, Epworth Eastern Private Hospital and Elgar Medical Suites are also within close proximity, as is Box Hill Lawn Bowls, Box Hill TAFE, and the suburb's Town Hall and library.&nbsp;

Identified as a gateway site into Box Hill, Fender Katsalidis has incorporated a layered design, with three distinct tower forms that step down to lower shoulders to the west and north.

Fender Katsalidis apartment tower approved for Box Hill

2022 and 2023 have been the year of the downsizer and rightsizer demographic in the Melbourne off the plan apartment market

<a href="/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a>'s $2.8 billion <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">Melbourne Square</a> precinct has proven to be one of the most popular projects on Urban in 2023, and continues to be in 2024, with newly completed and off the plan opportunities.

OSK has the final apartments in the completed East and West Towers on Kavanagh Street, as well as the recently launched <a href="/new-apartments/blvd-at-melbourne-square-19-hoff-boulevard-southbank">BLVD</a> which is slated for completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=255378]

Downsizers have come from all over to take advantage of the rare opportunity to move closer to the city. Williamstown downsizer Moira has been living in Melbourne Square for the last two years. The 63-year-old and her partner secured a three-bedroom apartment in one of the completed towers.

Moira said the unprecedented quality of finish and amenities at Melbourne Square, as well as its location and security, were the driving factors behind their&nbsp;purchase.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=200857]

Each completed tower features two levels of amenities on the podium, including a 50-metre swimming pool, a gym, seating and lounge areas, and several dining spaces.

"I use the eighth-floor gym up to five times a week, helping me keep fit and do bone-strengthening exercises for my osteoporosis," Moira says.

"We have used the outdoor pool with grandkids often, mainly in summer," Moira says, adding that the 54th-floor spa serves as a retreat for both her and her partner, offering a space for relaxation and de-stressing. Both her sons and grandsons have used the recently opened basketball courts outside.

"The diversity of age groups and ethnicities is also very warming to see, young and old. All life-stages live here, and enjoy the great location and amenities."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=201013]

Moira has also used the bookable function rooms when she's entertained family and friends.

"The quality of the rooms and facilities is excellent, from the premium lounger through to the dining room and demo kitchen on the eighth floor. There is a function room to suit nearly all occasions, and based on our extensive review of other inner-city apartment options, has by far the best facilities we saw."

Over 6000 sqm of public space has been included across the ground floor of the towers, with a landscaped public park, along with several green spaces and walkways, in addition to a full-line double-storey Woolworths and retail and dining options&nbsp;including a restaurant, café and bottle shop.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=200843]

Moira says she heads to Woolworths almost every day, given it's so close to the building, and she visits the sushi bar, Malaysian restaurant Sama Sama, and the fresh bakery frequently.

Moira and her partner have embraced the Melbourne Square community and are kept updated through the building’s WEWumbo app on all social initiatives, from wine clubs and book clubs to occasional big events like the&nbsp;Grand Prix or Lunar New Year that ignite the precinct.

Melbourne Square is also drawing lots of locals, showcasing the precinct's appeal as a central hub for residents and visitors.

"With its garden areas for dog walkers, other meeting areas, and retail venues having been introduced, it is clearly drawing lots of locals to Melbourne Square, beyond the current towers' residents," Moira suggests.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=255379]

The walkability factor at Melbourne Square was another major drawcard for Moira and her partner.

"We love to walk whenever we can and the central location to everything is a main attraction of living at Melbourne Square. We walk to the footy, to the city, to the markets - everywhere we can. My son came over from the UK and he walked around the Botanical Gardens, Albert Park Lake and down to the beach, South Melbourne Market, and into the city. Everything is on our doorstep here."

The final apartments remain in Melbourne Square's complete East and West Tower, while BLVD is Melbourne Square's latest off the plan tower.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=2929]

Why I bought an apartment at Melbourne Square: Urban Buyer Q&A

Melbourne-based developer ICD Property has created two of Melbourne's tallest residential towers in the last five years.

Their Aspire tower was the fastest-selling project in 2019, selling a significant number of the near 600-apartment project quickly following its launch.

Since then the team has also moved into different markets.

They're currently undertaking a restoration and redevelopment of the <a href="/new-apartments/sydney-house-194-204-pitt-street-sydney">City Tattersall Club</a> in the <a href="/new-apartments/sydney-nsw">Sydney</a> CBD, while in Adelaide they're creating over 230 apartments in a new mixed-use precinct called Market Square.

With everything going on at ICD, we caught up with their Managing Director Matt Khoo to talk about ICD's approach to development.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/15Cb1qjvkVg?si=1rlSTaSYrGZJo2gk" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Since ICD was founded 15 years ago, they've delivered over 1,500 homes across Melbourne.

"Each one of them we've got the same philosophy: we want to build something that stands the test of time and really deliver value for our purchasers," Khoo says.

Khoo believes you're only as good as your team when it comes to creating a new project.

"We obviously employ the right people internally, but it's about the consultants, it's about the builders. We&nbsp;would only ever trust the build and the build quality, of something like <a href="/buildings/aspire-melbourne-301-king-st-melbourne">Aspire</a> or <a href="/buildings/eq-tower-127-abeckett-street-melbourne">EQ Tower</a>, or our project in Adelaide or Sydney, to tier one builders.

"We're crafting and designing it, they're only the tools, putting the materials in. They're backing themselves to say that it's going to last to the purchaser.

"We invest a lot with having the best consultants and the best builders. With the idea of doing the right thing, we can sleep comfortably at night knowing we have engaged in the absolute best."

To read more about ICD Property, visit their <a href="/developers/icd-property">Urban Profile here</a>.

With everything going on at ICD, we caught up with their Managing Director Matt Khoo to talk about ICD's approach to development

Michael Bird

Why an apartment development is only as good as its team: Five minutes with ICD's Matt Khoo

Prominent Melbourne fringe developer Salvo is set to kick off the demolition phase of its now-unveiled Southbank tower, Moray House.

Moray House, rising 56 levels on a prime corner site across <a href="/new-apartments/moray-house-42-moray-street-southbank">42 Moray Street</a> at 11-13 Hancock Street, will be the first major inner-city high-rise apartment&nbsp;development to launch this year.

More than 240 of the 305 apartments have already been snapped up by a various cohort of demographics, from&nbsp;parents purchasing apartments for their children, professionals seeking a city base, families moving back to inner Melbourne post-COVID, and investors.

The $200 million project is primarily made up of two and three-bedroom apartments designed by interior designer David Hicks, as well as two double-level penthouses with&nbsp;never-to-be-built-out views. Moray House also comprises eight levels of office space, hi-tech co-working facilities and two floors of residential amenity with wellness and relaxation at its core.

Resort-grade facilities located in the most premium parts of the building include health and wellness zones such as luxury day spa, yoga and steam rooms, pool, gym and massage suite accessed by a spiral staircase. Additional amenity includes a hotel-style reception, concierge, ground floor café and bar, private dining rooms, outdoor BBQ areas, residents’ lounges and additional storage spaces.&nbsp;

<img alt="Salvo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f2c307cb-5479-4f69-88f2-f2e95f8077b3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-01%20at%2010.38.00%20am.png?VersionId=1qKYTj.5NK6als2YjEQiGODQ9i6KENdK" />

Residents can&nbsp;also make use of state-of-the-art co-working spaces complete with 40 hot desks, meeting rooms and collaboration zones, video conferencing, printing and other services.

The residences feature uninterrupted views of the city skyline, Albert Park Lake and Port Phillip Bay, enhanced layouts, abundant natural light and full-height glazing.

<a href="/developers/salvo">Salvo</a> Managing Partner James Maitland said Salvo’s&nbsp;Now Generation&nbsp;blueprint underscores the project’s design approach to how people live, work and relax today, based around health and wellness, connectivity, work-life balance, and practical luxuries.

“The pandemic accelerated a shift in the way people live and awareness of the critical role that internal and external environments play in our physical and mental health and wellbeing," Maitland said.

“Traditional apartment living has evolved to vertical communities and urban placemaking where residents can make new social connections in various communal indoor and outdoor spaces. They also expect resort-style amenities and connectivity with their local environment."

<img alt="Salvo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7704b2df-7166-4145-bda3-1755b267be4a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-01%20at%2010.38.14%20am.png?VersionId=gaf7n7yIjEcY8iMnw4Wg57n9NVcxWRl0" />

Maitland said <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a> has matured from an urban regeneration precinct to an established suburb with world class lifestyle infrastructure.

“Moray House enjoys a prime location with a walk score of 98%. Residents are an eight minute walk to South Melbourne village and market, Albert Park Lake and MSAC, as well as Southbank’s dining and entertainment precinct. A city commute also takes just a few minutes with two tram lines within 100 metres,” he said.

The development is due to be completed in late 2026.

The project’s two-bedroom apartments range from $639,000 to $765,00, and three-bedroom apartments start from $1.075 million.

Industry data reveals 16,000 dwellings are required in the City of Melbourne alone over the next three years to meet demand, research from Urbis Apartment Essentials; City of Melbourne report showed.

Data from Charter Keck Cramer also shows only 2,600 new apartments were launched in Melbourne in 2023, the lowest in a decade. Recent ABS data has shows apartment approvals in Victoria declined to a 17-year low.

<img alt="Southbank" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e99bc97c-12e9-4b59-90bb-479c9a170658" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-01%20at%2010.37.54%20am.png?VersionId=3b3TDqwN9rD0va73yxpLuC3F.mOlgowL" />

“We’re keen to see the right investment and planning settings that provide confidence for both developers and buyers regarding the delivery of key infrastructure in urban renewal projects to enable multi-unit developments to do the heaving lifting to boost housing supply,” Maitland added.

“On the demand side, revisiting off-the-plan stamp duty exemptions and reducing taxes on foreign investors would go some way to speed up the much-needed delivery of housing and easing the rental crisis.”

Salvo has had success in Southbank previously. Last year they completed <a href="/buildings/stature-southbank-119-clarendon-street-southbank">Stature Southbank</a>, also designed by Rothelowman.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144998]

Salvo Managing Partner James Maitland said Salvo’s Now Generation blueprint underscores Moray House's design approach to how people live, work and relax today, based around health and wellness, connectivity, work-life balance, and practical luxuries

First look: Salvo set to launch Southbank apartment tower Moray House

Melbourne developer MunCorp has quickly sold half of its newest residential development in Blackburn.

MunCorp’s flagship <a href="/new-apartments/blackburn-vic-3130">Blackburn Quarter</a>, a collection of three and four-bedroom townhomes, have been snapped up by locals following their recent launch.

The townhouses at 3 Whitehorse Road, on the border of Box Hill, started from just under $1 million.

MunCorp collaborated with the leading architectural and interior design firm&nbsp;<a href="/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>&nbsp;to design each residence with contemporary and natural fusion and a harmonious balance of aesthetics and functionality.

MunCorp is focused on providing high-quality affordable housing solutions in Melbourne, specialising in developing townhouses and house and land projects that meet the needs of the local community and promote a high quality of life for residents.

They are committed to making their homes accessible to a wide range of buyers, including first home buyers, downsizers, and investors.

MunCorp Managing Director Jake Munday said the company is&nbsp;doubling down in 2024 to grow our pipeline to $400 million delivered in the next four to five years.

“We are bullish on the Melbourne market with townhouse and house and land product in the right areas," Munday says.

"Our developments are located in some of the most desirable areas in Melbourne, providing easy access to public transport, schools and other amenities.

“We believe that our homes should be more than just a place to live, but a community where residents can thrive.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=2725]

Muncorp quickly sell half of Blackburn Quarter townhouses

It's been four years since Abbotsford, in Melbourne's inner north-east, has seen a new apartment development launch.

That was Walmer on the Yarra by Salta, which is now fully complete and occupied.

There are two sides to <a href="/developments/abbotsford-vic-3067">Abbotsford</a> however. The Walmer is on the fringe, near Victoria Gardens and on the river. Abbotsford's newest project however is more of an inner-city project, bordering the cool and thriving suburbs of Fitzroy and Collingwood.

Soon to launch, New Johnston by&nbsp;<a href="/developers/dcf-property">DCF Property</a>, sits at 398 Johnston, near Victoria Park Station and Victoria Park. It will comprise 46 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments across nine levels, on top of ground-level retail spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110322 project_image_fid=259891]

Designed by MA+CO Architects, New Johnston's architecture took inspiration from Abbotsford's industrial heritage, incorporating concrete, red brickwork, and metal detailing reminiscent of the area's historic warehouses.&nbsp;

Strategic use of depth and shadow adds visual interest, while a north-facing stepped façade welcomes natural light and provides sweeping views of Victoria Park for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110322 project_image_fid=259890]

The 46 apartments will feature open floor plans, private balconies, and dual-aspect views, with interiors showcasing high-quality fixtures, warm natural timbers, concrete, and modern finishes.

At the heart of each apartment lies a kitchen boasting white terrazzo-style stone benchtops, engineered timber floorboards, and stone and mirror finishes, complete with premium Westinghouse appliances and innovative storage solutions.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110322 project_image_fid=259897]

With a WalkScore of 90, New Johnston's location offers residents easy access to a range of amenities, including the Yarra River, Victoria Park, and prestigious schools.

Jellis Craig Projects Director Stephen Bowtell is marketing <a href="/new-apartments/new-johnston-abbotsford-400-johnston-street-abbotsford-vic-3067">New Johnston</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110322]

The 46 apartments will feature open floor plans, private balconies, and dual-aspect views, with interiors showcasing high-quality fixtures, warm natural timbers, concrete, and modern finishes

Abbotsford set for injection of new apartments as New Johnston project revealed

Melbourne developer Ross Pelligra is set to take on one of his largest projects to date, lodging plans for a huge multi-stage precinct in Melbourne's growing Fishermans Bend precinct.

Having worked extensively with the Fishermans Bend Precinct and the City of Melbourne over the last 18 months, development manager&nbsp;<a href="/developers/citinova">Citinova</a> has proposed a four-tower development that will bring over 1000 apartments to the chronically undersupplied Melbourne market.

One of the towers will be dedicated build-to-sell, while there will be more build-to-sell apartments in tower two that will also home 200 hotel rooms and extensive amenity.

Tower three will be a commercial office tower, that may be suit a co-working provider, and tower four will be build-to-rent apartments. All the towers will be linked by a podium that will feature&nbsp;vibrant laneways with an arts and culture hub, retail tenancies and an urban grocer.

The five-stage project will also include an unencumbered 3,075 sqm public open space.

<img alt="Lorimer Citinova Fishermans Bend" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f5dd647-53cd-461e-955b-9ab18dbd1a31" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-29%20at%2012.41.19%20pm.png?VersionId=ctG7Mm7moC8foVvLzSQNgeOawY4vrpgM" />

The 1.77-hectare site at&nbsp;99-109 Lorimer Street, Australia's flagship Subaru dealership at the gateway to Fishermans Bend, was secured in 2021.

Since then the stakeholders have been in planning mode, commissioning&nbsp;Architectus to put the designs together for the towers which will be connected by a raised podium. The main residential tower will have 452 apartments and tower two, shared with the hotel, will have 244.

Citinova Director Nathan Minicozzi said since the proposal was submitted, they've received positive feedback from the council.

"There are considerably more stakeholders for precincts of this size and scale," Minicozzi says.

"You're not just going to council and submitting plans for a new development. Before you get to that stage you've spent 12 months working with the Fishermans Bend Taskforce, the DELWP, and the City of Melbourne Council, as well as their design team, to work out best practices and what will be the best project for the site."

<img alt="Citinova" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ca6eea5b-4956-44a3-94d6-d6db1566c528" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-29%20at%2012.41.23%20pm.png?VersionId=LEepCS79t04UNE_9r1gg3u5gTOiiHorg" />

Minicozzi says there's a lot of front-end work with these types of developments, but that allows designs to evolve and consistent feedback to be given throughout the process.

"It's almost like a pre-lodgement meeting where you're squaring off any concerns before submission, which should translate into a better proposal, a higher quality project, and a speedier approval process."

Landscape architect Mala Studio has been part of the design, as have planning consultants Tract.

The development will connect to the Yarra River and expand on Melbourne’s “Green Spine” with landscaped pedestrian and cycling links, creating a new neighbourhood green hub for Lorimer Street.

<img alt="Citinova" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="710b8fb7-5b84-4361-91af-40bff32b97c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-29%20at%2012.41.14%20pm.png?VersionId=6_rrDddxKXFWCR6tQiWjSv4_I9JaDb0u" />

Architectus says the project has been designed as a "cohesive 'family' of towers."

"Each building will still have a unique identity and scale-shaped by its use and siting," they said.

"Materials and textures will take inspiration from the precinct’s industrial and maritime origins.

"Staggered and oriented toward the site’s southern boundary, the towers will integrate seamlessly with the evolving Fishermans Bend skyline while minimising overshadowing to adjacent green spaces."

Citinova Director Nathan Minicozzi said since the proposal was submitted, they've received positive feedback from the council

First look exclusive: Citinova plot multi-tower development in Fishermans Bend

The Victorian Government's property developer, <a href="/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a>, has revealed detailed plans to redevelop the <a href="/developments/ivanhoe-vic-3079">Ivanhoe</a> water tank site, and its looking for a development partner.

The 6,220 sqm site at 421 Upper Heidelberg Road, which includes a decommissioned Yarra Valley Water tank that has been inactive since 2004, sits near the Austin Hospital on the corner of Bell Street and Upper Heidelberg Road.

Around 275 apartments designed by Architectus are envisioned for the site, with a minimum of 10 per cent for affordable housing.

Development Victoria is working with Banyule City Council, the Ivanhoe community and other stakeholders on a Development Plan for the decommissioned Yarra Valley Water tank site. The Development Plan includes provision for up to 12 levels of housing that would suit several development outcomes, including build-to-sell, build-to-rent, retirement and aged care.

<img alt="Ivanhoe Water Tank Site - building" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2970f7d1-5ed6-4898-b167-ab386de00bc5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Redevelopment%20of%20the%20Ivanhoe%20Water%20Tank%20Site%20-%20building%20orientation.png?VersionId=Cze_kErZezu03REetfdGxZhidJvS8Y48" />

Development Victoria's plan includes a new council par. kIn addition to housing, the plan emphasises the creation of flexible ground-level spaces capable of accommodating commercial uses and high-amenity communal areas, which will offer park vistas, integrated seating, shelters, barbecues, and gardens landscaped by <a href="/landscape-architect/tract-landscape-architects">Tract</a>.

Underground basement car parking will be provided for residents, alongside sustainable transport initiatives such as cycling facilities, car-share programs, and a suite of sustainable development features.&nbsp;

<img alt="Ivanhoe Water Tank Site - park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="beaa0386-b129-400d-a38c-9d9785e50414" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Redevelopment%20of%20the%20Ivanhoe%20Water%20Tank%20Site%20-%20Park.png?VersionId=p20_ChTxi0wc1sooQyLMCKPrWMvQP00H" />

An Environmentally Sustainable Development (ESD) Report prepared by <a href="/developers/hip-v-hype">Hip V. Hype</a> outlines key targets, including Green Star Buildings 5-star certification, 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and 6.5-star minimum NatHERS rating for each apartment.

Over the coming months, the project will advance to the next phase which involves mitigating risks through demolition and site remediation.

Colliers’ Residential National Director, Jozef Dickinson, said partnership opportunities with esteemed sponsors like Development Victoria are exceedingly rare and we anticipate robust interest from capable developers to form part of this process.

"In an environment where discussion around housing supply has never been more prominent, it a great to see Development Victoria keen to get on with delivering a great vision for the site in an ideal&nbsp;location for housing, close to public transport, the Austin Hospital, quality schools and a thriving retail community,” Dickinson said.

Colliers’ Development Sites Executive, Philip Heberling, said that the asset is a key opportunity to implement a holistic response to sustainable development.

“The Development Plan aims to effectively integrate occupant-focused spaces, reductions in life-cycle carbon emissions, improved resource efficiency, and enhanced natural systems consistent with climate resilient principles," Heberling said.

“The project prioritises sustainable outcomes to realise a high-performing project that benefits people, place and planet."

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