When apartments are the minority in a suburb, their success often hinges on what’s available without needing a car.&nbsp;

Raya by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/core-developments">Core Developments</a> arrives at a time when apartment options in Gungahlin remain limited, and demand for well-located, walkable housing continues to grow.

Located on Ernest Cavanagh Street, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/raya-gungahlin-ernest-cavanagh-street-gungahlin-act-2912">Raya</a> places residents within the most active part of Gungahlin.&nbsp;

Retail, dining, education and transport are all within close walking distance, with many of the suburb’s primary amenities located within a 150 to 300 metre radius.

“Raya has got the best to both worlds. A great looking building, that will be built impeccably. It will stand the test of time, and add enduring value for any buyer. And, this is quite simply the best residential location in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/gungahlin-act-2912">Gungahlin</a> with immediate access to every amenity Gungahlin has on offer. You could quite easily sell your car if you move here,” James Herbert of <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/project-marketer/lj-hooker-project-marketing-act-0">LJ Hooker projects</a> said.

<img alt="Raya, Gungahlin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="266b0b21-f56b-4d93-9039-e9e17a2c4b71" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/e450173a099aaad8055757c92e45efb1-1600x0-c-default.png?VersionId=4X06Ja6e9pQTjOo4QKBEfKiRP1T7hR68" />

Marketplace Gungahlin - the suburb’s main shopping precinct - is less than a two-minute walk from the site. It offers access to major retailers including Woolworths, Aldi, BIG W and Kmart, along with a variety of services, medical centres, and fitness providers.

Dining options in the surrounding blocks are diverse and expanding. Longstanding local favourites like Le Bon Mélange and EQ Café are now joined by new arrivals such as Ikigai Ramen, The Usual and Sunday Canberra, reflecting Gungahlin’s emerging reputation as one of Canberra’s up-and-coming café and dining destinations.

While apartment living often calls for easy access to open space, Raya benefits from its proximity to several parks and recreational facilities. Yerrabi Pond District Park is just minutes away and offers walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots, as well as outdoor fitness equipment and a skate park.&nbsp;

Gungahlin Enclosed Oval and the Gungahlin Leisure Centre are also nearby, supporting a range of community and sports activities.

<img alt="Raya, Gungahlin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6b2ebc21-8257-4144-ad11-3970a73d5125" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/RAYA_2Bed-Living_nochair_3000-2000x0-c-default_0.png?VersionId=BJUJN_k6tZL9p9Lzq13m9OzyyKPstKQY" />

Public transport is a core strength of the location. The Gungahlin Place Light Rail stop, one of the network’s terminal stations, is located less than 100 metres from the development, providing direct access to Canberra’s inner north and CBD. Several local bus routes also operate from the same area, making car-free commuting a realistic option.

The immediate area also includes a number of schools catering to all levels, from early years through to college. Franklin School is within walking distance, while Gungahlin College and Burgmann Anglican School are both around two kilometres away. Childcare centres, health services and veterinary clinics are all established in the precinct.

Medical clinics, pharmacies, allied health services and a public walk-in centre are all available within the town centre footprint.

<img alt="Raya, Gungahlin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b35a7c5-dbee-491a-8ec4-ee41c06505b5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Raya_INT03_Rooftop_FP_3000-1600x0-c-default_0.png?VersionId=mTcDlZi3gAUq_spekHAWlWd5kvCbTiH3" />

Raya comprises 166 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, each with a private outdoor area. Balconies start at eight sqm, with some larger configurations offering upwards of 50 sqm of external space - a feature that aligns with the nearby parklands and active public spaces.

Buyers can secure an apartment now with a five per cent deposit, ahead of the project’s 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149952]

Joel Robinson

Raya: Rare apartment living in Gungahlin’s town centre

Leeka Group has gone down the path of bringing a heightened level of wellness to its recently unveiled Melbourne apartment development, Comme Prahran.

It isn't in the form of a suite of amenities, given the building is more boutique in nature with just 32 apartments, but with clever inclusions designed to uplift their residents lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/comme-prahran-182-194-commercial-road-prahran-vic-3181">Comme</a>, directly opposition the iconic Prahran Market on Commercial Road, has been designed by renowned architecture studio <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> and&nbsp;will introduce the first-of-its-kind multi-dimensional wellness offering, where physical, mental, social, environmental, and cultural well-being are embedded throughout.

“Prahran has long been a destination for culture, community and quality of life, and Comme builds on that in a deeply intentional way,” says Leeka Director, Chek Ming Cheng.&nbsp;

“This project introduces a new kind of urban sanctuary, one that adapts to individual definitions of wellness, whether that’s through nutrition, rest, movement, design or connection. Every space has been thoughtfully shaped to support the diverse rhythms of modern life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108413 project_image_fid=353544]

There will be a rooftop with a&nbsp;Zen garden designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/plume-studio">Plume Landscape Architects</a>, offering&nbsp;a sensory experience that activates all five senses, an edible herb wall to taste, calming botanicals to smell, reflexology paths to feel, lush plantings to see and the gentle sounds of water and birdsong to hear.

Inside each residence, wellness is deeply personal, and Comme embraces this individuality with a suite of customisation options designed to enhance both health and lifestyle. Residents can tailor their homes with circadian lighting automation, supported by research linking it to improved well-being, better rest, and even longevity.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108413 project_image_fid=353546]

Other add-ons residents can opt for include real-time air monitoring and purification systems, ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment, while blackout blinds help optimise sleep quality. Additionally, the option to include integrated smart home technologies and security measures with multiple controlled access points offers ease, convenience, and peace of mind, supporting day-to-day living and contributing to overall mental well-being.

Kitchens can be fitted with healthy cooking appliances such as steam ovens and taps for instant filtered, sparkling or hot water, while ensuites can be transformed into spa-style sanctuaries complete with steam showers, heated floors, rain heads, smart toilets, and sensor night lights to support restful sleep cycles. In the penthouse residence, further options include an outdoor spa for enhanced recovery and indulgence.

“Comme isn’t just about design, it’s about how space can support your day-to-day life," Chek added.

"Whether you like a steam shower, checking your indoor air quality, simply enjoying a quiet moment in the rooftop garden, or reflecting on the artworks in the building, wellness is part of your everyday routine, not an afterthought."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108413 project_image_fid=353543]

The residences will feature open-plan layouts compliant with Better Apartment Design Standards (BADS), with floor-to-ceiling windows that maximise ventilation, natural light and thermal comfort. Finishes such as natural stones, timber flooring and low-VOC paints are complemented by facade design that filters dappled light and aids in thermal comfort.

Cera Stribley, Co-Founder, Domenic Cerantonio, said the first thing you notice is the light.

"Natural light floods the living spaces, casting a soft glow that instantly lifts your spirits. It's as if the outside world melts away, and you're cocooned in a peaceful oasis."

The gallery-style residential lobby will feature circadian-inspired lighting and artwork, while the ground-floor will offer retail and hospitality spaces.

The building’s mixed-use design fosters connection, with ground-floor retail and hospitality creating a vibrant, welcoming destination. These spaces are thoughtfully designed to enhance the precinct and bring it to life.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108413 project_image_fid=353545]

Sustainability and environmental responsibility are integral to Comme Prahran’s DNA. All homes are gas-free and designed to a 7-star energy average, with double glazing, WELS-rated plumbing, and EV charging capabilities available. A light-coloured exterior has been chosen to minimise heat absorption, supporting thermal efficiency and reducing reliance on artificial cooling.

Honouring the cultural richness of Prahran, the project reimagines an Edwardian-era landmark, integrating its historic character into a contemporary architectural form. Art experiences will activate the residential and retail lobbies, and a dedicated artwork on the external eastern facade will enrich the building’s street presence, embedding it into the creative fabric of the neighbourhood.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108413]

Comme Prahran launches opposite Prahran Market

Apartment developer Third.i has seen "overwhelming interest" in its recently unveiled new harbourside apartment project, The Rushcutters.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-rushcutters-51-57-bayswater-road-rushcutters-bay-nsw-2011">The Rushcutters</a>, which is being delivered in partnership with James Packer's NPACT, will comprise just 13 luxury two- and three-bedroom apartments.&nbsp;

Demand is predominantly coming from local downsizers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144646 project_image_fid=351903]

“We’ve been absolutely blown away by the level of interest in The Rushcutters,” said Luke Berry, Director and Co-founder Third.i Group.

“It’s clear that buyers are seeking more than just a place to live, they’re looking for a lifestyle upgrade. The ability to amalgamate apartments into expansive, whole-floor homes is a game-changer for downsizers who want space without the maintenance of a traditional house.”

The Rubinstein Group is marketing the project alongside Hume Residential and JLL.

“It’s no surprise that if you’re downsizing from a five-bedroom house in Bellevue Hill, for example, you want to maintain that sense of space and luxury when looking for your next home, "&nbsp;Gavin Rubinstein, Founder of The Rubinstein Group, said.

“The Rushcutters is a great fit. Amalgamating apartments to create a bespoke, whole-floor home is a natural progression for buyers who aren’t willing to compromise on size and/or quality.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144646 project_image_fid=351901]

Amalgamating apartments has become a common theme among high-end buyers across Third.i's portfolio including Muse in Potts Point, and Elevate Hume Place in Crows Nest, which set a Lower North Shore apartment record with the $15.1 million sale of an amalgamation of a penthouse and sub-penthouse.

“We’re witnessing a clear shift towards more amalgamations in a number of our projects across Sydney,” said Jason Fraser, Principal at Woods Bagot.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144646 project_image_fid=351899]

“The ability to combine apartments is enabling buyers to create truly unique, house-sized residences with high-end finishes, and proximity to vibrant urban precincts. The desire to amalgamate apartments to bespoke, house-sized residences is becoming a defining feature of Sydney’s evolving luxury apartment market."

Due to the City of Sydney’s no net dwelling loss policy, Thirdi is only able to offer one level for amalgamation at The Rushcutters, combining two apartments into a single, expansive residence.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144646]

The Rushcutters a "great fit" for downsizers

Lower North Shore developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> has secured development approval for its ultra-luxury residential project on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/34-burran-avenue-mosman-nsw-2088">dress circle Burran Avenue</a>.

The project, just&nbsp;50 metres from Balmoral Beach within Mosman’s prestigious Golden Triangle, will commence construction in early 2026,&nbsp;following the successful completion of its nearby Hampden Mosman project.

Lodged in April 2025 and approved in September 2025, the development will comprise three whole-floor residences, each designed to capture panoramic harbour views through Sydney Heads.

<img alt="34 Burran Avenue, Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f4c7816-0ac8-4ef7-be0a-8ef23b693b68" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/BURRAN%20EV01%20R04%20option%201%20%281%29.jpg?VersionId=gVzI8pT6_K59Nhzaz0FLEvY6Kj9Kc8Fg" />

Set on an elevated 550 sqm corner site at the junction of Burran Avenue and Stanton Road, the building has been designed to sit within Balmoral’s natural slope. The façade mixes stone and metal cladding with angular forms, while oversized terraces and full-height sliding doors create a connection between interior living spaces and outdoor entertaining areas.

The delivery team from Abadeen’s Hampden Mosman project, which includes construction company Reform Projects and interiors company Mathieson, has been retained to bring the same level of execution and craftsmanship to Burran Avenue.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/platform-architects">Platform Architects</a> has been appointed project architect, bringing extensive experience from recent luxury residential projects in Manly, Fairlight and Freshwater.

&nbsp;

Justin Brown, Executive Chairman and Founder of Abadeen, said sites of this calibre, this close to Balmoral, are incredibly rare.

“Burran Avenue is an extraordinary site; its location, its scale and its outlook make it truly one of a kind. Receiving DA approval marks an exciting milestone for Abadeen."

"We’re proud to be moving forward with an exceptional team to deliver a project that will set a new standard for ultra-luxury living on Sydney’s Lower North Shore. Construction is planned to commence in early 2026, and interest is already strong from discerning local buyers who recognise the uniqueness of this address."

Brown anticipates prices will set new Mosman benchmarks above $20 million. Sales are expected to launch in March 2026.

Abadeen approved for Mosman's priciest apartments

Lifestyle developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gurner">GURNER™ Group</a>, in partnership with Costa Property Group, has announced plans to reimagine Cunningham Pier in Geelong, one of Victoria's most recognisable heritage landmarks.

The announcement follows the City of Greater Geelong’s release of its Draft Geelong Waterfront Master Plan, which seeks to revitalise the waterfront with new energy, tourism, and investment. GURNER and Costa Property Group’s vision aligns with the Council’s ambitions to create a vibrant, connected, and economically powerful precinct for the community.&nbsp;

The future of Cunningham Pier will draw inspiration from Sydney Harbour’s luxury waterfront residences through to Dubai’s sculptural pier-edge towers, blending architectural excellence with &nbsp;resort-style living, hospitality, and public amenity.&nbsp;

The concept, described as “Saint Moritz on the Sea”, is envisioned to include:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Six-star hotel accommodation and services&nbsp;</li>
	<li>World-class restaurants, bars, and public spaces&nbsp;</li>
	<li>High-end residential offerings&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Entertainment and cultural venues&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Potential cruise ship port facilities, integrating Geelong into the global travel network&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The transformative project aims to become a magnet for tourism, investment, and innovation, while &nbsp;ensuring continued public access and connection to Corio Bay’s pristine waterfront.&nbsp;

Cunningham Pier has been operated by Costa Property Group for more than 15 years, with the City of Greater Geelong expressing strong support for strategic commercial partnerships that unlock &nbsp;tourism-led economic development for the region’s fast-growing population.&nbsp;

Tim Gurner, Founder &amp; Executive Chairman, GURNER™ Group, said the project is a "once-in-a-generation opportunity to put Geelong on the global map," adding that their version will be of what icons like the Opera House, Story Bridge or Empire State Building have done for other great cities.

“We’ll be working hand-in-hand with the Mayor, Council, the local community, and State Government to deliver something truly iconic that positions Geelong on the world stage. This project brings together everything we’ve built our brand on – world-class design, hospitality, &nbsp;lifestyle, and experience – all in one place. From six-star hotels and restaurants to the possibility of a &nbsp;new cruise ship terminal and luxury residences, the vision is extraordinary.”&nbsp;

City of Greater Geelong&nbsp;Mayor Stretch Kontelj said he welcomes the "bold and inspiring vision reimagining our beloved Cunnigham Pier as a global destination."

"This ambitious plan and the opening of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre next year have the potential to take our already world-class waterfront to even greater heights.”

Sydney Harbour, Dubai pier towers, to influence Gurner's Cunningham Pier, Geelong development

ADCO Constructions

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<a href="/developers/victoria-university">Victoria University</a> has just announced the creation of a brand new learning hub in Melbourne’s west as part of a partnership with the Victorian Government and the Ian Potter Foundation. The exciting new addition to Ballarat Road in Sunshine has been designed by world-class architectural firm <a href="/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, with a clear vision to combat a skills shortage across Melbourne and achieve a 5 Star <a href="/news/5-of-melbourne-s-environmentally-conscious-new-development-highlights">Green Star environmental rating</a>. 'Sunshine Skills Hub' will offer TAFE courses in disciplines such as health, community services and trades, with an outstanding selection of technology available to students.

A hands-on approach to learning has inspired the design team to create simulation experiences, utilising state-of-the-art technology such as 3D modelling software, virtual reality goggles, robots, computerised mannequins, simulation hospital wards, the latest coding software and more. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ssh5_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ssh5_1.jpg?itok=5IIO_F--" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sunshine Skills Hub. Credit: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>As the job market changes, Victoria University is continuing to develop new programmes to assist with the transition of workers into emerging industries. In 2018 the University launched a  digital technology qualification, which sparked the idea to create three innovation spaces: the ideation space, the software centre and the prototyping room. The rooms will be equipped with advanced technology with a goal to encourage the development of lateral thinking and problem-solving skills.

<blockquote>
“Teaching methodologies are shifting to problem-based learning and traditional space typologies are being challenged in the design response. The Skills Hub is a series of cross-sector spaces designed to help bridge the gap between education and industry."

- Sarah Ball, Woods Bagot Principal
</blockquote>

The three-story hub will feature a kitchenette for student use, a cafe, staff accommodation for 20 employees, ‘informal learning facilities’, IT and research support services, student services centre and a learning commons.

Sunshine Skills Hub's sawtooth design aims to maintain thermal comfort while reducing the need for air conditioning. It also acts as a reference to the harvester work factories previously found in the Sunshine area. 

Undertaking the build of the project will be ADCO Constructions (<a href="/news/deakin-burwoods-new-student-accommodation-building-embraces-the-space">who built Deakin Burwood campus' student accommodation</a>), with a goal to complete the facility by December 2019. Sunshine Skills Hub is Victoria University's second development to take place this year, following the partnership with ISPT to create <a href="/news/ispt-set-to-deliver-victoria-universitys-new-vertical-city-campus">the university's first vertical campus</a>.
</body></html>

Olivia Round

Victoria University announces innovative new vocational training facility targeting Melbourne’s skill shortages 

<html><body>
Student accommodation and design prowess don't necessarily go hand in hand, in fact many of Melbourne's dated student accommodation buildings are an affront to the senses.

Generally very repetitive in every aspect of their design, very few cut through and resonate with a sense of design nous. One such project that does deserve its moment in the sun is Deakin University's freshly completed Burwood student accommodation project sited on Uganda Street.

Delivered by ADCO Constructions, the new Burwood facility differentiates itself from many, if not all of its inner city counterparts is that it has an asset that seldom few can boast; space, and an abundance of it. Perhaps the best feature of the Burwood student accommodation project is that this space isn't treated as an afterthought, it is integral to both the new building and the wider precinct.

Thoughtful use of the space surrounding the new complex manifests itself by way of landscaping and extensive placemaking.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_4179.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Deakin Burwood Campus' latest addition"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4179.jpg?itok=X4jDDDMA" title="Deakin Burwood Campus' latest addition" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Deakin Burwood Campus' latest addition</figcaption></figure>Designed by Nettleton Tribe, the project is spread over three wings, with internal apartments generally configured in a 2, 4 and 6 bedroom format, providing on-campus accommodation for an additional 575 students.

Built over 17 months, key internal features include a central common area with lounge and kitchen/dining zones, multiple communal study zones and student car parking. Rooftop solar panels adds to the buildings credentials but it is at ground level where the new facility excels.

The accommodation's three separate wings has allowed for a network of pathways and green spaces to take precedence. Adjacent to the build is an open plan recreation space which features flexible format furniture, a games area, outdoor entertainment area with BBQ, various styles of seating and lighting to the majority of areas.

These spaces funnel through the ground level plane of the new complex, effectively creating a focal point.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_4245.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Green space and considered placemaking is apparent"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4245.jpg?itok=530BVCi2" title="Green space and considered placemaking is apparent" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Green space and considered placemaking is apparent</figcaption></figure>Nettleton Tribe's latest design also links with their 2012 student accommodation building and beyond. Deakin University's considerable investment also sees placemaking initiatives such as the <a href="http://www.deakin.edu.au/locations/melbourne-burwood-campus/building-projects/burwood-link">Burwood Link</a> currently under construction.

Impressive as Deakin University's new Burwood student accommodation project is, it doesn't stand alone as a shining example of the typology in Melbourne's suburbs. Mention should go to RMIT Bundoora's McKimmies Road facility and Monash Clayton's Student accommodation Precinct; both of which go to great lengths in melding new buildings effectively with their surrounds by way of extensive landscaping.

See below further images of Deakin University's new student accommodation building.
</body></html>

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