Just a few months after acquiring a prime Broadbeach site on the corner of First Avenue and Surf Parade, family-run developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/raptis">Raptis</a> has filed fresh plans for a new apartment development.

Raptis is seeking to deliver a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-19-first-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4217">29-storey tower with 73 apartments</a> on the 818 sqm site. It will be the developer's seventh project in the suburb, as they are approaching completion of The Sterling on George Avenue.

There will be a pool, barbecue and outdoor dining area, residents lounge and dining, sauna and steam room, gym, and a Yoga and Pilates studio.

<img alt="Raptis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b554da3f-7344-49aa-b1c9-44cf459af0d7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-05%20at%2010.41.45%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zzjWu1iO1wnuYv4EV4fyOyf5nSXjGYut" />

Raptis Joint Managing Director, Evan Raptis, says they remain&nbsp;committed to developing quality infill sites across the Gold Coast in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

"This project continues our long track record of delivery in Broadbeach, and we look forward to bringing another premium development to this thriving precinct."

The announcement follows strong delivery momentum for Raptis, with The Sterling Broadbeach nearing completion and construction well underway on the final stage of the Waterpoint community adjacent to Harbour Town. The developer's continued investment in the Gold Coast reflects confidence in the region's apartment market fundamentals, underpinned by sustained Southeast Queensland population growth.&nbsp;

The outlook for the region is further bolstered by infrastructure investment tied to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, which is expected to drive continued economic and population growth across the SEQ corridor.&nbsp;

Subject to a favourable response from Gold Coast City Council, construction on the new First Avenue tower is targeted to commence before the end of 2026.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/it-s-all-in-the-family-four-decades-later-raptis-continues-to-shape-the-gold-coast-skyline">It’s all in the family: Four decades later, Raptis continues to shape the Gold Coast skyline</a>

Read more: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/raptis-secures-prime-surf-parade-site-for-next-broadbeach-apartment-development">Raptis secures prime Surf Parade site for next Broadbeach apartment development</a> 
&nbsp;

Gold Coast developer brings seventh Broadbeach project to market, targeting construction commencement before year end

Joel Robinson

First look: Raptis lodges plans for new 29-storey Broadbeach tower 

Brisbane development veteran Kevin Seymour's Seymour Group is set to deepen its presence on one of Brisbane's most tightly held riverfront addresses, lodging revised plans for a luxury apartment development on Oxlade, just a few doors down from The Oxlade, which it completed in 2024.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/70-72-oxlade-drive-new-farm-qld-4005">new project at 70-72 Oxlade Drive</a>, directly north of The Oxlade, will have 27 apartments across a seven-storey building&nbsp;overlooking the Brisbane River and Merthyr Park. It's a revision from a 2021-approved design.

Designed by bureau^proberts, the project has evolved from the previously approved 26-apartment scheme, introducing an additional penthouse level while maintaining a low-density, boutique character. The development will comprise 26 three-bedroom apartments and a single four-bedroom penthouse, supported by two basement levels with 86 car spaces and 34 bicycle spaces.

The architectural response is centred around two distinct building forms separated by a landscaped open-air atrium.&nbsp;"This dual composition captures and embraces Brisbane’s subtropical environment whilst breaking down built form and scale," the submission to the Brisbane City Council noted.

<img alt="First look: Seymour Group returns to Oxlade Drive with revised riverfront apartment plans in New Farm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c12d84d0-bc11-4067-b46f-5bd2d786a34d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/new%20farm%20landscape.png?VersionId=YEPc2k5CAdh6aAPlu4uVpgZadh4MEfRd" />

A defining feature of the design is a deep landscaped void running through the centre of the building, creating what bureau^proberts describes as a "natural ravine" that enhances airflow, daylight penetration and resident amenity. The design report notes that the separation of the two building volumes is intended to maximise natural light, cross-ventilation and outlook while strengthening connections to the surrounding riverfront setting.

Curved balcony edges, integrated planting and extensive landscaping throughout the façade reinforce the subtropical design approach. The building's façade is softened by elevated gardens and planter beds, creating a green edge that complements the established landscape character of Oxlade Drive and neighbouring Merthyr Park.

New Farm has become one of Brisbane's most sought-after suburbs for developers delivering premium downsizer-focused apartments.

GRAYA has been particularly active in the precinct, completing both Chalk and York in recent years, while construction of Moray House, being delivered for Spyre, is now nearing completion. Architect-turned-developer Joe Adsett recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/arcilla-new-farm-by-joe-adsett-28-maxwell-street-new-farm-qld-4005">Arcilla on Maxwell Street</a>, an exclusive collection of just nine apartments.

First look: Seymour Group returns to New Farm's Oxlade Drive with riverfront apartment plans

A new residential tower will be the first piece of a broader mixed-use precinct set to reshape a prominent Newcastle West site, with local developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> bringing its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cambridge-quarter-newcastle-west-12-denison-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Cambridge Quarter</a> vision to market.

The first release, Tempo, will introduce 87 apartments across a 24-storey tower, marking Stage 1 of the residential component of a larger urban regeneration project planned for the western end of Newcastle's city centre, encompassing the former Cambridge Hotel site.

Positioned on Denison Street, Tempo has been designed as the inaugural building within Cambridge Quarter, a precinct that will ultimately combine apartments, retail activation and revitalised public spaces including the revamping of the Cambridge Hotel.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368853]

The tower will comprise a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including layouts with multipurpose rooms, catering to a broad cross-section of owner-occupiers. Apartment sizes range from around 60 sqm to 192 sqm, with a number of residences oriented to capture views across Newcastle Harbour, the city skyline and coastline.

GWH has emphasised liveability in the design, with open-plan layouts extending to generous balconies and terraces. Residents will have a choice of two interior palettes, while specifications include engineered stone benchtops, SMEG appliances, full-height bathroom tiling and secure building access. Premium upgrade packages will also be available.

Multiple rooftop resident retreats will provide communal outdoor space overlooking the harbour and city, offering an elevated amenity layer above the activity of the precinct below.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368851]

The broader Cambridge Quarter vision extends beyond the residential tower itself. Ground-level retail activation and landscaped public areas are planned throughout the precinct, creating a walkable neighbourhood environment connected to the surrounding renewal of Newcastle West. The Cambridge Hotel is also earmarked for future redevelopment into a family-friendly hospitality venue integrated with the new precinct.

The project is strategically positioned within walking distance of Newcastle Interchange, providing access to light rail, regional rail services and direct connections to Sydney. Residents will also be close to Honeysuckle, Newcastle Harbour and the city's beaches and coastal walkways.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368852]

For GWH, Cambridge Quarter represents one of its most significant Newcastle developments to date. The locally based developer, which has operated in the Hunter region since 1995, describes the project as a new chapter in the ongoing transformation of Newcastle West.

GWH Executive Director Jonathan Craig said the project had been shaped by a focus on creating lasting community connections.

"We take pride in creating places that last. Spaces where people feel connected, comfortable and a genuine sense of belonging," Craig said.

"Cambridge Quarter is something we are truly proud of, a place shaped by local knowledge, built with care and designed to be part of Newcastle's next chapter."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135876]

GWH unveils first release at landmark Cambridge Quarter precinct in Newcastle West

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Projects</a>,&nbsp;Rainbow Bay's busiest developer,&nbsp;has officially lodged plans for the largest development in its booming local portfolio, seeking approval for a further 88 apartments on Boundary Street.

The proposal&nbsp;at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">209–213 Boundary Street, Coolangatta</a>,&nbsp;marks the next chapter in the developer's transformation of the southern Gold Coast beachside precinct. It will be its fifth in the area, having already delivered Flow, Awaken and Esprit, while construction continues on the 38-apartment Radia. The new project would rise 57 metres above a consolidated 1,518 sqm site, on the same street as Radia and Esprit.

&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, the proposed development comprises 88 two and three-bedroom apartments across a contemporary podium-and-tower form that integrates extensive landscaping from street level through to the rooftop.

The tower would be delivered above a basement and multi-level podium accommodating resident and visitor parking, with the residential component commencing from level three. The design incorporates cascading planting throughout the façade, landscaped podium edges, and deep planting zones along the Boundary Street frontage.

<img alt="First look: S&amp;S Projects lodges plans for 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="677e6615-b5c0-4b6c-b4f9-efb14fcde1a6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ss%20da%20pers.png?VersionId=YOnPKQm7IFXv0M5H326djEpxk80500Hi" />

A key feature of the development is its expansive rooftop wellness and recreation precinct. Plans reveal a resort-style pool deck, gymnasium, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, rooftop terraces, barbecue areas and landscaped relaxation spaces positioned to capture views across the southern Gold Coast coastline.

The rooftop wellness focus builds on the vision S&amp;S Projects first outlined when it acquired the site for $20.25 million last year.

"We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden," S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun said at the time.

The proposal seeks a 57-metre building height, representing a 50 per cent uplift on the site's mapped 38-metre height limit. Planning documents argue the additional height is consistent with recently approved and emerging towers in the immediate Boundary Street and Rainbow Bay precinct.

Urbis, acting as planning consultant, said the development would provide "88 dwellings, comprising a mix of two and three-bedroom apartments, contributing to housing choice and supply within an established medium to high-rise coastal urban neighbourhood."

The scheme has undergone extensive pre-lodgement consultation with the City of Gold Coast, with the design refined following feedback relating to architectural expression, landscaping, traffic access and podium treatment.

<img alt="S&amp;S" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a2d70fd-62ac-4b83-97c6-b798fc1243dd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-05%20at%209.16.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=yHmghUwKM3IVGpBktQU1mE.0Lpf3WimG" />

The architectural team is led by Brisbane-based Cottee Parker, one of Australia's most active residential design studios, with landscape architecture by Dunn + Moran. The consultant team also includes ADG Engineers, Windtech and Acoustic Works.

S&amp;S Projects has become one of the most influential private developers operating on the southern Gold Coast. Since entering Rainbow Bay in 2022, the company has assembled a portfolio exceeding $1 billion in end value, establishing itself as a key player in the area's evolution into a premium apartment destination. Pezet Matheson will again handle the sales for S&amp;S.

Coolangatta is entering another wave of apartment development, following the delivery of several prominent residential projects in recent years.

John Kearney's Immerse Projects will launch&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kaiya-kirra-beach-5-haig-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Kaiya on Haig Street</a>&nbsp;soon, meanwhile, Palm Beach-based Sherpa Property Group is preparing to bring its debut Coolangatta development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-viver-87-griffith-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Flourish Viveré</a>, to market later this year, subject to approvals.

First look: S&S Projects proposes 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street

A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Affordable Apartments

The recently completed Bowen Hills apartment development, Panorama, is the latest offering from the national developer Arden Group.

Located on the popular Mayne Road, Panorama is anchored by five retail outlets on the street level, providing the ultimate convenience.

Urban has taken a look at the top four selling points of the new project.

1. Affo​rdable apartments

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7711 project_image_fid=182981]

Panorama, made up of&nbsp;256 one and two-bedroom apartments over 25 levels, is more than&nbsp;competitively priced when put next&nbsp;to comparable apartment developments in Brisbane.

Suited to both investors and owner-occupiers, apartments start from an affordable price of $299,000 for a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment, and just&nbsp;$465,000 for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit.

Vacancy rates in Bowen Hills are 50% less than Brisbane city, showcasing the investment opportunities that the suburb presents to buyers.

2. Desirable location

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7711 project_image_fid=182959]

Just over 2 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and less than 10 minutes&rsquo; walk to some of Brisbane&rsquo;s best retail, commercial and employment hot spots, Panorama is in a desirable location.

The 27-storey building is ideally situated in an area that is experiencing continuous expansion and gentrification.

&ldquo;With the introduction of new lifestyle developments, it is an area that presents a truly unique opportunity&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.

The development is located 200-metres from Bowen Hills train station, and just a 10-minutes ride to the Brisbane airport.

Leading schools and universities are also within close proximity, as well as the $2.9 billion RNA Showgrounds urban renewal precinct, which is still underway.

3. Architecture-designed interiors

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7711 project_image_fid=182979]

Designed by Arqus Design, a multi-disciplinary architectural practice, Panorama features well-proportioned floorplans which feature sleek interiors and open-plan living space.

Ideal for entertaining, the home boasts views towards the Brisbane River, Moreton Bay and Islands to Mount Coot-tha.

Boasting the finest quality and style, all apartments are spaciously designed with wide balconies, good natural light and ventilation.

Bathrooms include feature tiling and contemporary vanities, while residences also include built-in robes, timber flooring and Bosch appliances.

4. Extensive amenities

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7711 project_image_fid=182976]

Panorama has been designed to suit the living aspirations of its intended residents, with an extensive list of amenities on offer at the Bowen Hills development.

On the ground level, Panorama provides residents with convenient retail services in a boutique tree-lined laneway, while on level five, the Panorama Retreat features an exclusive resort level for residents to relax.

This floor includes a lap pool with adjoining plunge pool, Zen garden, a landscaped north-facing &lsquo;quiet zone,&rsquo; barbecue, entertainment terrace, gym facilities and sauna.

Level 26 also boasts the Panorama Skydeck with private nooks, cinema, bar and kitchen.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=7711]

Designed to suit the elevated lifestyle of its resident, the building is situated in an enviable location on Mayne Road. 

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Four top selling points of the $299,000 Bowen Hills apartments, Panorama

The Melbourne developer Kincaid has appointed the longstanding Harris HMC to build its Heidelberg West apartment development, Cultivate.

The privately-owned and family-ran company, led by Dale Kennedy&nbsp;since 2006&nbsp;is among one of&nbsp;Australia&rsquo;s top per cent&nbsp;construction companies, having began build​ing in Melbourne back in the mid 1980s.

Having previously completed The Pullman Hotel on Swanston St and the premium 550 Bourke St office tower, Harris HMC currently has a strong workbook of projects, including&nbsp;Penny Lane, the mixed-use commercial residential development for Giancorp in Moonee Ponds, as well as Allison Parkside, 28 boutique two and three-bedroom apartments in Essendon.

They&#39;ve also worked on a $4.6 million fit out of&nbsp;North Melbourne FC&#39;s offices and changing rooms, as well as box suites&nbsp;at Marvel Stadium.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=628 project_image_fid=180701]

They&#39;ll be constructing the dual towers at Cultivate, which is over 50 per cent sold to a good mix of first home buyers, investors and owner occupiers.

Kincaid&rsquo;s development manager Joel Martin said it was a strategic move to engage Harris&nbsp;HMC&nbsp;as the builder&nbsp;for the project. They bring an array of skills to the table given their exposure to commercial, residential and fit out works.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=628 project_image_fid=178983]

&quot;HMC has been doing great work in the construction space for nearly 40 years, delivering very well known projects across the state&quot;, Martin said.

&quot;The team has an expert knowledge of how to create contemporary apartment buildings, and we can&#39;t wait to see Cultivate start rising from the ground.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=628 project_image_fid=180702]

There will be some movement on site at the end of the year, with construction ramping up fully early next year for its late 2023&nbsp;completion date.

Construction commencement tends to trigger price increase among off th​e plan developments, due to the nature of the progression of the construction and further costs associated.

Currently the apartments, which have interiors designed by DKO&nbsp;start from $369,000.

The two-bedroom apartments at the moment are priced from $479,000, over $130,000 less than Heidelberg&nbsp;West&#39;s&nbsp;median two-bedroom apartment price of $610,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=628 project_image_fid=178984]

Cultivate is set to change the face of West Heidelberg, which is sandwiched between the established suburbs of&nbsp;Ivanhoe, Heidelberg and Preston.

The street-level will be revitalized, with retail space at the foot of the buildings, which each have separate and secure entry.

The City of Banyule Council has an extensive redevelopment plan for Bell Street Mall across the road, which will see the mall, dating back to 1956, completely regenerated.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=628]

Kincaid development director Joel Martin said it was a no brainer to bring on HMC for the project

Kincaid appoint Harris HMC to build West Heidelberg apartment development, Cultivate

The pandemic-driven desire for extra living space may have been reflected in bigger apartments being built.&nbsp;

Covid-19 may have influenced home size, although it is still relatively early days in the construction cycle, according to Craig James chief economist at CommSec in the CommSec Annual Home Size Report.

&quot;The experience with Covid-19 has certainly caused more families to look for bigger homes and caused others to add extra rooms to existing homes.&nbsp;

&quot;More Aussies want to achieve a situation where family members are able to live, work and relax at home.&nbsp;

<a href="/news/vic/four-new-melbourne-city-apartments-super-upsizing-the-competition">Read more:&nbsp;Four new Melbourne city apartments super-upsizing the competition</a>

&quot;No doubt, builders and architects have been quick to respond to the new demands by families,&quot; James said.

The average new apartment completed in 2020/21 was at an 11-year high of 138sqm, up 0.4 per cent over the year.&nbsp;

By comparison, the average free-standing house completed in 2020/21 was 229sqm, down 2.9 per cent from 7-year highs.

CommSec commissioned the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) to supply data on the average floor area of new homes built in Australia.

While quarterly data is more volatile, national home size hit a 7-year high of 201sqm in the June quarter 2020 and stood at 200sqm in the December quarter.&nbsp;

<a href="/news/vic/four-new-melbourne-city-apartments-super-upsizing-the-competition">Read more:&nbsp;Four new Melbourne city apartments super-upsizing the competition</a>

Apartment size and house size also spiked higher in the June quarter, especially apartments.&nbsp;

Apartment size spiked to 146sqm in June quarter 2020 &ndash; a record high in the 10 years of available quarterly records and a result on par with the high set 17 years ago for financial year records.&nbsp;

The average size of an apartment hit record lows in 2017/18.

The biggest apartments can be found in Victoria 156sqm followed by South Australia 149sqm and Northern Territory at 141sqm.

The smallest can be found in Tasmania at 91sqm.

The size of NSW apartments built in the last financial year sat at 126sqm, up 3.3 percent.

&middot; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

CommSec commissioned the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) to supply data on the average floor area of new homes built in Australia

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Bigger apartments begin to emerge given impact of pandemic: CommSec's Craig James

The affordability&nbsp;gap is continuing to grow between houses and apartments, having reached record highs earlier this year.

It&#39;s seen a wave of buyers give up on the house hunt, and turn to the fixed price apartment purchases.&nbsp;

There are a number of developments on the market under $400,000 across Melbourne, which we&#39;ve wrapped up below.

1. Cultivate, Heidelberg West 
Developer: Kincaid Projects 
One-bedroom apartments from $399,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=628 project_image_fid=178988]

Cultivate delivers an affordable collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments that border Heidelberg West and Ivanhoe.

Situated on the fringe of Melbourne&#39;s top hospital precinct, minutes from La Trobe University and at the quiet, tree-lined end of&nbsp;<a href="/buildings/37-bell-street-ivanhoe">Bell Street</a>, the development features 146 apartments across two towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=628 project_image_fid=178983]

Cultivate boasts impressive one-bedroom, one-bathroom residences for just $399,000, including the choice between two colour schemes, Smeg appliances and premium finishes.

Residents will have access to a rooftop barbeque area, skyline views and bike parking.

2. Due North, Preston 
Developer: Caydon Property 
One-bedroom apartments from $352,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5502 project_image_fid=155330]

Climbing 12 levels and comprising 107 apartments, Due North is a new fur-friendly apartment addition to Preston&#39;s High Street.

Designed by Caydon Architecture, the 50 sqm one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment is priced at $352,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5502 project_image_fid=155342]

Located just 20 minutes away from Melbourne&rsquo;s CBD and featuring rooftop space, a co-working area and three retail spaces, residents will have everything at their doorstep at Due North.

Splash the day away in the pool and dip into stunning Melbourne views as you kick back on the deck and soak in those holiday vibes.

3. Spring Street, Box Hill 
Developer: Orion International Group 
One-bedroom apartments from $395,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=100675 project_image_fid=170524]

Comprising 312 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, Spring Street is a new development attracting both investors and first home buyers.

Located in the heart of Box Hill, the mixed-use development features the best of both worlds, it&rsquo;s set in a quiet and leafy area while enjoying convenient public transport, local shops and caf&eacute;s.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=100675 project_image_fid=170528]

Designed by Elenberg Fraser, one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments at the residence begin from $395,000, with accessible ground floor retail and dining options. &nbsp;

The development will also feature a 25-metre pool with a spa, a sauna, gym, yoga room and more.

Urban takes a look at three new developments on the market under $400,000 for buyers hoping to get ahead of the anticipated demand

Three best Melbourne apartments under $400,000, offering an accessible pathway to homeownership

First home buyers, investors and downsizers alike will find comfort knowing that you can find a brand-new luxury apartment in Melbourne at an affordable price point.

While continued Melbourne lockdowns threaten to deflate sentiment and stifle the near-term recovery in the apartment market, once borders re-open, demand will likely far exceed moderate apartment supply, JLL&rsquo;s head of residential research, Australia, Leigh Warner told the Urban Developer last month.

&ldquo;Investor demand has clearly picked up in 2021, and this demand has started to flow through to the apartment market,&rdquo; Warner said.

Urban takes a look at five new developments on the market under $500,000 for investors hoping to get ahead of the anticipated demand.

1. Rise, Moonee Ponds 
Developer: Caydon Property 
One-bedroom apartments from $433,500

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5328 project_image_fid=163914]

Comprising of 297 one, two, three bedrooms, Rise is an elegant new development making up the final addition to the Mason Square precinct at Moonee Ponds.

Rising 29 floors, the project boasts uninterrupted city views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as&nbsp;plentiful amenity .

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5328 project_image_fid=164756]

Listed for $433,500, the development&rsquo;s 56 sqm one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment, designed by Fender Katsalidis, features high-end finishes, bespoke fittings and integrated appliances.

The spacious bathrooms include full-width showers, freestanding baths and custom vanities exclusively designed for Rise by Omvivo.

2. Ryrie Home 
Developer: Franz&eacute; Developments 
One-bedroom apartments from $415,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88241]

Located in the fastest-growing regional city in Australia,&nbsp;Ryrie&nbsp;Home provides the ideal sea change for residents hoping to escape the bustle of the Melbourne CBD.

Positioned within walking distance to Eastern Beach, the development is also proving popular with investors, listed as Urban&#39;s most popular investor project for Q1 2021.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=173776]

The development&rsquo;s one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment has a price tag of just $415,000, making it an attractive investment or first home.

Designed by Architectus, Ryrie Home&nbsp;boasts an authoritative and restrained grid fa&ccedil;ade, pedestrian laneways, commercial retail, and F&amp;B spaces, as well as hotel and residential lobbies

3. Due North, Preston 
Developer: Caydon Property 
One-bedroom apartments from $482,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5502 project_image_fid=155337]

Climbing 12 levels and comprising 107 apartments, Due North is a new fur-friendly apartment addition to Preston&#39;s High Street.

Designed by Caydon Architecture, the 57 sqm one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment with a study is priced at&nbsp;$482,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5502 project_image_fid=155332]

Located just 20 minutes away from Melbourne&rsquo;s CBD and featuring rooftop space, a co-working area and 3 retail spaces, residents will have everything at their doorstep at Due North.

Splash the day away in the pool and dip into stunning Melbourne views as you kick back on the deck and soak in those holiday vibes.

4. Cubic House, Alphington 
Developer: Glenvill 
One-bedroom apartments from $420,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107514 project_image_fid=170760]

Cubic House delivers spacious one and two-bedroom apartments in YarraBend&#39;s Artisan Precinct, in a visionary new neighbourhood located alongside the Yarra River.

In the highly coveted suburb of Alphington, the project features impressive 60 sqm one-bedroom apartments for just $420,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107514 project_image_fid=170761]

Designed by DKO Architecture, these apartments include European appliances, high-quality details, open-plan living spaces flooded with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows and easy access to your private balcony.

&ldquo;YarraBend is more than a reinvention of inner-city living. It&rsquo;s an acknowledgement that the way we actually live in the world needs to radically change&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.

5. St Boulevard, Melbourne 
Developer: The Shakespeare Group 
One-bedroom apartments from $410,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1260 project_image_fid=177981]

One of the latest popular developments on the Melbourne CBD fringe is St Boulevard, the three-tower project by The Shakespeare Group.

Recently completed, St Boulevard offers an unrepeatable location, located in a prime position on the corner of St Kilda Rd and High Street, and at the southern tip of Albert Park Lake.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1260 project_image_fid=177965]

One-bedroom apartments start from $410,000 in the Elenberg-Fraser designed development, which features long wrap-around balconies and communal amenities designed to bring neighbours together.

These include a private cinema, a games lounge and children&rsquo;s play area, modern living, and luxe lobby.

Urban takes a look at five new developments on the market under $500,000 for investors hoping to get ahead of the anticipated demand.

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