<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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365684]

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;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365687]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Joel Robinson

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.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323057]

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.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323055]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323052]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146358]

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;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5347]

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

Construction is set to begin at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/orchard-mews-glen-iris-18-scott-grove-glen-iris-vic-3146">Orchard Mews</a> in Glen Iris, with&nbsp;PC Whitehall &amp; Sons&nbsp;now appointed as the townhome development moves into its next phase.

The development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/montcoeur">MontCoeur</a>,&nbsp;located at 18 Scott Grove, is now around 30 per cent sold, with completion targeted for late-2027.

Orchard Mews comprises a curated collection of three- and four-bedroom customisable townhomes, positioned within one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>’ more tightly held residential streets. The low-density project has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, bringing together a team known for high-end residential projects across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366285]

The development is defined by its focus on flexible living and long-term usability. Each residence includes multiple living zones and a customisable multipurpose room, allowing buyers to tailor spaces to suit changing needs, whether as a home office, additional bedroom, wellness area or entertainment space.

Architecturally, the townhomes emphasise natural light and spatial volume, with dual-aspect layouts and double-height living areas incorporated into the design. Interiors feature natural stone benchtops, premium appliances, and a neutral material palette intended to support everyday functionality rather than statement-driven finishes.

All residences are all-electric and include private lifts and secure double garages, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainability and future-focused housing in Melbourne’s established suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366277]

Outdoor connections are also central to the offering, with a mix of private courtyards and terraces extending internal living spaces and integrating with the landscaped surrounds.

The Scott Grove address places Orchard Mews within close proximity to some of Melbourne’s key lifestyle and education amenities, including Scotch College, Sacré Cœur, Cabrini Hospital and the retail hub of Chadstone. Public transport access is also nearby, with trams and Gardiner Station providing connectivity to the CBD and surrounding suburbs.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150128]

Construction to commence at luxury Glen Iris townhome project, Orchard Mews

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?

Amid the lush greenery and gum trees in the heart of Clayton&nbsp;lies Eastwood Monash, the latest residential project from NX Property Group.

Comprising 147 completed one and two-bedroom apartments, as well as 72 townhouses, <a href="/buildings/eastwood-monash-clayton-29-browns-road-clayton">Eastwood Monash</a> offers dwelling types and configurations to suit a wide variety of buyers.

Nestled in a <a href="/developments/clayton-vic-3168">multicultural neighbourhood, Clayton</a> provides an array of urban amenities while retaining its <a href="/developments/clayton-vic-3168">suburban charm</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5419 project_image_fid=61245]

<a href="/developments/clayton-vic-3168">Clayton</a> is one of Australia's premier hubs for education and research, home to Victoria's largest university, Monash University, and the esteemed Monash Medical Centre – a renowned teaching hospital specialising in healthcare. John Monash Science School is also nearby, serving as a selective school for years 10-12.&nbsp;

Beyond its educational offerings, Eastwood's location also boasts an array of convenient amenity.

With <a href="/developments/clayton-vic-3168">Clayton</a> Station just a 10-minute walk away, residents enjoy easy access to public transportation, while the M1 Freeway is reachable in just seven minutes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5419 project_image_fid=61261]

<a href="/developments/chadstone-vic-3148">Chadstone</a> Shopping Centre is a 10-minute drive, while nature lovers will relish in the abundant open space within the suburb, including Fregon Reserve which is only a short stroll away and Namatjira Nature Reserve which is also nearby.&nbsp;

Residents are within a few minutes of <a href="/developments/clayton-vic-3168">Clayton</a> Aquatics and Health Club as well, along with Huntingdale Golf Club, and <a href="/developments/clayton-vic-3168">Clayton</a> Bowls Club.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5419]

Nestled in a multicultural neighbourhood, Clayton provides an array of urban amenities while retaining its suburban charm

Eastwood Monash: A suburban oasis with unparalleled convenience

The completed CV Windsor, at the south end of Punt Road which runs from <a href="/developments/windsor-vic-3181">Windsor</a> to <a href="/developments/south-yarra-vic-3141">South Yarra</a>, offers residents the ultimate convenient location.

There's two tram stops and a bus stop at the foot of the building at 105 Punt Road, on the corner of Punt Road and High Street. They head toward Albert Park, the CBD, or east to <a href="/developments/prahran-vic-3181">Prahran</a>.

On both Punt Road and High Street are a number of cafes, restaurants and bar, which are also plentiful in the neighbouring suburbs of <a href="/developments/st-kilda-vic-3182">St Kilda</a>, <a href="/developments/south-yarra-vic-3141">South Yarra</a> and <a href="/developments/prahran-vic-3181">Prahran</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3575 project_image_fid=203053]

The SOHO-inspired development designed by&nbsp;Decibel Architecture features facade art by prominent artist Kim Westcott.

&nbsp;

It features a calm colour palette and warm timber-lined terraces, with residents welcomed into a luxurious ground floor, complete with an exclusive residents' lounge featuring a shared kitchen and dining area. The first floor also hosts a well-appointed library with hot desk workstations and meeting rooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3575 project_image_fid=201764]

The apartment interiors feature Chevron European Oak engineered flooring, while the bedrooms have a choice between timber or wool carpet flooring. The kitchen and bathroom spaces offer residents a selection of natural or reconstituted stone benchtops, coupled with terrazzo tiling and top-of-the-line Miele appliances, including a cooktop, oven, and dishwasher.

Sustainability was considered at the 67-apartment building by Freeman Developments. It incorporates&nbsp;Xeriscape technology for the roof garden, ensuring it requires zero maintenance.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3575 project_image_fid=201755]

All the one-bedroom apartments have been sold in CV Windsor. A selection of two and three-bedroom floorplans remaining, available in either single-storey layouts or SOHO-style lofts.&nbsp;

To maintain privacy and enhance the living experience, the apartments have been designed with northern or southern aspects, ensuring that no resident looks in on another.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=3575]

There's two tram stops and a bus stop at the foot of the building at 105 Punt Road, on the corner of Punt Road and High Street. They head toward Albert Park, the CBD, or east to Prahran

Convenience and connectivity the key at CV Windsor apartments

In the thriving suburb of <a href="/developments/keysborough-vic-3173">Keysborough</a>, The Woodlands is making significant strides in meeting the increasing demand for housing in Melbourne's southeast.

Aultun Property Group has sold a third of the 42 double-storey townhouses in the $60 million Loxwood Avenue development which is replacing the former <a href="/developments/keysborough-vic-3173">Keysborough</a> Park Primary School.

They're offering a mix of three and four-bedroom homes which back onto a park.

Read more: <a href="/news/vic/display-tour-video-the-woodlands-by-aultun-property-group-at-21-23-loxwood-ave-keysborough-vic">The Woodlands display suite tour</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108775 project_image_fid=179327]

The prime positioning of The Woodlands ensures easy access to a number of amenities and key transportation routes, such as Mordialloc beach, Mordialloc Bypass, East Link, and Dingley Bypass.

The architecture of The Woodlands exudes a modern and timeless appeal, highlighted by a complementary colour palette featuring greys with timber accents across the facades.

The homes are designed to blend seamlessly into their surroundings, with each benefitting form a double car garage.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108775 project_image_fid=179331]

Residents will also benefit from being near to Parkmore Shopping Centre and Dingley shopping centres, providing everyday essentials on the doorstep of the townhomes.&nbsp;

The Woodlands' location ensures that residents also have a myriad of options for education, with Keysborough South Primary school, the well-established Haileybury College, and Lighthouse Christian College all nearby.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/what-s-within-walking-distance-of-the-masterplanned-keysborough-community-the-woodlands">What’s within walking distance of the masterplanned Keysborough community, The Woodlands</a>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108775]

They're offering a mix of three and four-bedroom homes which back onto a park

Aultun Property sell a third of Keysborough townhouse development The Woodlands

Developer SP Setia is approaching full completion of UNO Melbourne, the newest residential tower to complete in the Victorian capital.

Builder Roberts Co, who began construction toward the end of 2020, topped out the 210-metre A'Beckett Street tower earlier this year. Residents are expected to move in later this year.

Designed by Elenberg Fraser, the soaring building between the picturesque Flagstaff Gardens and Carlton Gardens plays home to 635 one, two and three-bedroom apartments. Around 90 per cent of the building is already sold, with some of the lower level buyers moving in late last year.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3281 project_image_fid=46049]

&nbsp;

The one-bedrooms start from $492,000, and the two-bedroom apartments, which have a car space, are priced from just over $1 million.

The apartments boast generous open-plan living spaces, with natural stone, perforated metals, and top-of-the-line Miele appliances adorning the kitchens.

The bedrooms incorporate an abundance of storage, while floor-to-ceiling windows allows natural light to flood the interiors along with providing panoramic outlooks.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3281 project_image_fid=46050]

Residents will also benefit from a suite of resort inspired amenity throughout UNO.&nbsp;The ground floor houses retail stores and a welcoming lobby, while there's also a private dining area with teppanyaki facilities available, in addition to&nbsp;a well-appointed lounge, breakout rooms, and a media room.

On the ninth floor, a suite of wellness facilities await, including a yoga studio, a fully-equipped gym, swimming pool, steam room, spa, and an outdoor entertainment and barbecue area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3281 project_image_fid=46053]

SP Setia, a Malaysian-based developer, also created the sold out Sapphire by the Gardens on Exhibition Street.

Recently the penthouse shell on level 57 sold for $39 million. It was bought by Adrian Portelli, famous for his purchases on The Block.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=3281]

Builder Roberts Co, who began construction toward the end of 2020, topped out the 210-metre A'Beckett Street tower earlier this year

Melbourne's newest CBD apartment tower soon to complete

The Toorak Road and Chapel Street intersection is one of the most popular in Melbourne. It's at the <a href="/developments/south-yarra-vic-3141">centre of South Yarra's cafe, restaurant and bar scene</a>, while also being a main street into the <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne CBD</a>.

Standing at the gateway to <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's eastern suburbs</a> is Capitol Grand, the completed residential tower by Larry Kestelman's LK Property Group.

At the core of <a href="/buildings/capitol-grand-241-toorak-road-south-yarra">Capitol Grand</a> is renowned architecture and interior design practice Bates Smart. With a rich history dating back to 1852 and a string of prestigious awards to their name, Bates Smart portfolio includes some of Melbourne's finest, including&nbsp;The Melburnian, 150 Clarendon Street East Melbourne, Freshwater Place, and Crown Metropol.

<a href="/buildings/capitol-grand-241-toorak-road-south-yarra">Capitol Grand</a> features an elegant design characterised by its distinctive form, which comprises a series of slender elliptical floorplates, allowing the tower's surfaces to play with light and shadow, offering a unique perspective from every vantage point.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=357 project_image_fid=90653]

Roger Poole, Chairman of Bates Smart, said the façade is a combination of reflective high-performance glass and a fine metallic finish, divided into graduated groupings that draw the eye upwards, bringing pattern and variety to the façade.

"The design modulates the view, providing a unique perspective from each residence and an ephemeral presence for external viewers., Poole said.

“At the upper levels, the penthouses occupy a singular ellipse that allows for unobstructed panoramic views of the CBD through to Port Philip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges, <a href="/developments/toorak-vic-3142">leafy Toorak</a> and down the historic spine of Chapel Street."

Bates Smart's Director and Interior Designer Jeff Copolov said, inside the apartments, lobbies, and residential amenity areas they have&nbsp;curated a timeless and contemporary interior design.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=357 project_image_fid=90659]

"Schemes are comprised of modern restrained colour palettes able to provide a neutral backdrop to residents’ varied furniture and artwork collections. The finishes are rich, layered and textural. The detailing is crafted and bespoke. Materials are high quality with a luxurious feel," Copolov said.&nbsp;

One, two and three-bedroom apartments are still available in the completed South Yarra tower, with prices starting from&nbsp;$579,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=357]

Capitol Grand boasts an elegant design characterised by its distinctive form, which comprises a series of slender elliptical floorplates, allowing the tower's surfaces to play with light and shadow

How Bates Smart designed the completed South Yarra development, Capitol Grand

MAB Corporation's completed <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands development</a>, Escala NewQuay, is fast running out of available residences, with only one SOHO dwelling and a limited supply of apartments remaining.

Designed by Six Degrees Architects, the project has garnered attention due to its unique blend of apartments, lofts, and home offices, all featuring a range of luxurious amenities and a vibrant new piazza.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5197 project_image_fid=37082]

Drawing inspiration from iconic cities like New York and Barcelona, Escala NewQuay aim was to capture the dynamic energy and charm of these bustling metropolises.

The project's name itself, 'Escala,' meaning 'scale' in Spanish, reflects its commitment to creating a journey of discovery through grand public spaces, light-filled corridors, and abundant amenities.

The architectural design combines global influences with a <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">distinctive Melbourne touch</a>. The <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands' rich maritime history</a> serves as a prominent muse for the development, as evident in the palette of materials, including brickwork, stone, stained glass, and lush gardens.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5197 project_image_fid=37070]

With its remaining two and three-bedroom apartments, Escala NewQuay offers generously large living and dining spaces. High concrete ceilings and a fully glazed facade invites an abundance of natural light into the homes, with integrated track lighting adding a touch of sophistication.&nbsp;

Many of Escala's apartments boast dual aspects towards the north and east or west, providing view lines to the surrounding city skyline.&nbsp;

Prices start from $618,000 for the final remaining apartments in Escala, with the last SOHO unit listed at just over $1 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5197]

The project's name itself, 'Escala,' meaning 'scale' in Spanish, reflects its commitment to creating a journey of discovery through grand public spaces, light-filled corridors, and abundant amenities

Final opportunities at MAB's completed Docklands development, Escala NewQuay

AVJennings has reset the record books in <a href="/new-apartments/williamstown-vic-3016">Williamstown</a> at their Waterline Place masterplan.

They've just sold two adjoining penthouses in the Merchant Apartments for a combined $4 million plus, with the buyer intending on amalgamating the apartments to create a 309 sqm spread.

The dual aspect apartment offers views of both Hobsons Bay and the city.

The owner-occupier purchaser, who previously bought in the <a href="/buildings/rosny-waterline-place-55-nelson-place-williamstown">Waterline Place masterplan</a> in a previous stage, intends on residing in the apartment. He's now looking at buying another apartment in Merchant Apartments for his kids to live in.

<a href="/buildings/merchant-apartments-at-waterline-place-williamstown">Merchant Apartments</a>, designed by Elenberg Fraser, is the final apartment release in the sought-after community on Hobsons Bay, which AVJennings has been selling successfully over the last seven years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112774 project_image_fid=197058]

The masterplanned community has received a number of awards, the two most impressive being Excellence in Design from the UDIA VIC.

<a href="/buildings/merchant-apartments-at-waterline-place-williamstown">Merchant Apartments</a> is made up of two seven-level buildings comprising 125 apartments.

Inspired by its coastal topography and local maritime history, the apartments are situated in the heart of the community, with floor to ceiling glazing maximising outlooks, bringing the outdoors in, while each adjoining balcony has been designed as an extension of the home, providing an additional living space in each apartment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112774 project_image_fid=197059]

One, two and three-bedroom apartments are still available in the development, with prices starting from&nbsp;$510,000.

Set out to be a "village within a village" <a href="/buildings/rosny-waterline-place-55-nelson-place-williamstown">Waterline Place</a> will home around 500 residences when it's completed in 2025. The 14 apartment and townhouse buildings are set amid a sea&nbsp;of biophilic and pedestrian-friendly, streets and laneways.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112774]

Merchant Apartments, designed by Elenberg Fraser, is the final apartment release in the sought-after community on Hobsons Bay, which AVJennings has been selling successfully over the last seven years.

AVJennings set Williamstown apartment record at Merchant Apartments, Waterline Place community

Located on the inner edge of Melbourne's CBD, <a href="/developments/coburg-vic-3058">Coburg</a> is rapidly becoming a hotspot for commercial and residential development, drawing attention from both investors and the government's future planning initiatives.

With its access to various transportation options such as tram, train, and bike paths leading directly to the city, along with quick links to the freeway and Melbourne Airport, <a href="/developments/coburg-vic-3058">Coburg's strategic location</a> has become a sought-after destination.

The presence of esteemed educational institutions like Monash University, RMIT, <a href="/developments/coburg-vic-3058">Coburg</a> Primary School, and <a href="/new-townhouses/brunswick-east-vic-3057">Brunswick East</a> Primary School in close proximity also add to its allure.

Among the prominent developments that have transformed <a href="/developments/coburg-vic-3058">Coburg</a> into a vibrant urban hub,&nbsp;Ruiyi Australia's <a href="/new-townhouses/coburg-collective-200-216-sydney-road-coburg">Coburg Collective</a> delivers a mixed-use project to the heart of the inner north, boasting 158 apartments in the main building and an additional 12 townhouses along Cash Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22335 project_image_fid=46009]

More than just residential apartments, the <a href="/new-townhouses/coburg-collective-200-216-sydney-road-coburg">Hayball-designed, eight-level building</a> is also home to significant commercial and retail spaces, as well as two grand lobbies, complete with concierge services, a library, bar, lounge, gym, pool, and sauna. Communal courtyards and gardens grace the ground floor and the rooftop, with the crowning space also featuring a cinema and far-reaching views to Melbourne's skyline.&nbsp;

Hayball said a lack of public open space and amenity in the area prompted them to introduce and maximise high levels of green space to both the public and private realm when designing <a href="/new-townhouses/coburg-collective-200-216-sydney-road-coburg">Coburg Collective</a>.&nbsp;

An internal laneway and onsite retail options along Sydney Road enrich the overall experience, providing residents with a diverse selection of dining, entertainment, and shopping opportunities.

"Additional to the pedestrian through link to Sydney Road, we have introduced a public pocket park, landscaped yards and setbacks to residential entries as well as a rooftop terrace and micro gardens to the upper floors," Hayball advised.

The architectural vision for <a href="/new-townhouses/coburg-collective-200-216-sydney-road-coburg">Coburg Collective</a> is a testament to the suburb's industrial aesthetic, with Hayball blending raw tactility with curated elegance to pay homage to <a href="/developments/coburg-vic-3058">Coburg's historic heart</a>.&nbsp;Inside, the interiors adopt a neutral and refined palette, allowing for individual expression amidst raw, organic materials.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22335 project_image_fid=46010]

"The Sydney Road façade is designed to be highly articulated, presenting a distinct character to the street and entrance to the public realm, while the street wall offers a mix of textured concrete and glass with planter boxes, dramatic metal-profile shopfront canopies, and glazing systems," Hayball added.

"The street wall above, primarily composed of brick is punctuated by alternating openings of infill steel fin balustrades, flush glazing and open voids, offering glimpses to the courtyard gardens beyond.

"The Cash Street Townhouses draw on the local vernacular housing stock to provide a contemporary design response to the surrounding context including the use of undulating roof profiles and articulated brick front fences."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=22335]

The architectural vision for Coburg Collective is a testament to the suburb's industrial aesthetic, with Hayball blending raw tactility with curated elegance to pay homage to Coburg's historic heart

Coburg Collective: A vibrant mixed-use development in Melbourne's inner-north

Pioneering property developer BEKL, took to <a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne</a> for their latest residential development, <a href="/new-apartments/viv-re-on-dorcas-10-16-dorcas-street-south-melbourne">Vivére on Dorcas</a>.

Standing tall above the Voco Hotel <a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/viv-re-on-dorcas-10-16-dorcas-street-south-melbourne">Vivére</a> comprises 36 residences that aptly echo the Latin roots of its name, "to live."

Amenity within an apartment development is one of the most important considerations for developers. Often taking inspiration from the finest resorts across the world, amenity has become more than just a pool.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/how-bekl-and-plus-architecture-paid-homage-to-the-botanic-gardens-at-their-south-melbourne-apartment-development-viv-re-on-dorcas">How BEKL and Plus Architecture paid homage to the Botanic Gardens at their South Melbourne apartment development, Vivére on Dorcas</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108979 project_image_fid=181109]

Residents are first greeted by the grand lobby, separate and private from the Voco Hotel, providing a personal doorstep and mailbox for&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/viv-re-on-dorcas-10-16-dorcas-street-south-melbourne">Vivére</a>.

The hotel's well-appointed gym invites health enthusiasts to maintain their fitness levels while enjoying the comforts of home.

A sociable restaurant and bar cater to the residents' culinary desires, and premium room services provide a touch of luxury and convenience.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/inside-viv-re-on-dorcas-behind-the-sculptural-fa-ade-at-the-new-south-melbourne-apartment-development">Inside Vivére on Dorcas: Behind the sculptural façade at the new South Melbourne apartment development</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108979 project_image_fid=181118]

Curago, spanning two floors and 2,293 sqm of office space, further expands the offering at Vivére. The multi-purpose co-work space is a hub of productivity and connectivity. From private offices to dedicated work desks and hot desks, Curago is fully accessible to all <a href="/new-apartments/viv-re-on-dorcas-10-16-dorcas-street-south-melbourne">Vivére</a> residents. The office space also includes well-equipped private boardrooms, soundproof phone booths, a meditation chamber and a photography studio.&nbsp;

One, two and three-bedroom apartments are still remaining in the development, with prices starting from&nbsp;$490,000.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108979]

Standing tall above the Voco Hotel South Melbourne, Vivére comprises 36 residences that aptly echo the Latin roots of its name, "to live."

When hotels and apartments combine: Vivére on Dorcas delivers unmatched amenity 

Growland continue to achieve milestone after milestone at their <a href="/developments/footscray-vic-3011">Footscray</a> masterplan, <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">Victoria Square</a>.&nbsp;

The integrated community at <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">8 Hopkins Street</a> will comprise six towers and 939 apartments when it's completed.

Apartments in the first stage <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">of the development</a> are completed and settled, with stage two soon set to follow suit after L.U Simon Builders completed the second building.

Renowned <a href="/architects/fk-australia">architecture firm Fender Katsalidis</a> drew&nbsp;inspiration from the surrounding environment for the design. A rhythmic pattern adorns the facade, combining concrete and shading to create a textured and visually engaging exterior that extends into the interiors.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1187 project_image_fid=170413]

<a href="/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a> Interior Designer, Cassandra Fahey, said they want people to feel that they really belong to a place.&nbsp;

“We aimed to find a balance for the interiors between the <a href="/developments/footscray-vic-3011">historical story of Footscray</a> — the down to earth, edgy vibe — and the contemporary urban scene that’s lively and bespoke."

FK Director James Pearce said they wanted to&nbsp;celebrate a sense of ownership and belonging to a place.

"That’s why we’ve weaved the <a href="/developments/footscray-vic-3011">spirit of Footscray</a>&nbsp;and the contour of the river through the design. The pattern isn’t just an afterthought, it’s essential to how the building is constructed and experienced," Pearce said.

A host of world-class amenities are also on offer for residents of <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Victoria Square</a>. The development boasts Australia's first and only Olympic-sized aerial outdoor track, while the 2,400 sqm sky garden, situated atop the four-level podium, provides panoramic views of the city, giving residents a serene oasis within the bustling urban landscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1187 project_image_fid=80716]

There's also a heated indoor pool, with <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's skyline</a> serving as the backdrop to the space, in addition to a gym, private dining room complete with a commercial kitchen and bar, and a thriving retail and dining precinct with a variety of cafes, bars, supermarkets and restaurants.&nbsp;

Beyond the allure of the development itself, the location of <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Victoria Square</a> adds to its appeal. Situated between the trendy neighbourhoods of <a href="/developments/kensington-vic-3031">Kensington</a> and <a href="/developments/yarraville-vic-3013">Yarraville</a>, and just under four kilometres away <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">from the CBD</a>, <a href="/developments/footscray-vic-3011">Footscray</a> serves as a gateway to both the city centre and the western suburbs. The proximity to fashionable suburbs like <a href="/developments/williamstown-vic-3016">Williamstown</a> and <a href="/developments/seddon-vic-3011">Seddon</a>, along with popular beaches, further enhances the attractiveness of this cultural hub.

One-bedroom apartments are priced from&nbsp;$398,000. Two-bedroom units start at $547,000 and the three-bedroom apartments from&nbsp;$850,000.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1187]

Renowned architecture firm Fender Katsalidis drew inspiration from the surrounding environment for the design

Latest Victoria Property News

Heritage-led design anchors Far East Consortium’s 640 Bourke St, Melbourne

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Victoria Property News

Heritage-led design anchors Far East Consortium’s 640 Bourke St, Melbourne

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News