Mark and Roy Makari are expanding their presence in Sydney’s South West with a second major proposal for Leppington, this time envisioning a 900-dwelling mixed-use development just 850 metres from their previously lodged tower trio on Fifth Avenue.

The latest application seeks approval for a multi-building project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/230-rickard-road-leppington-nsw-2179">230 Rickard Road, Leppington</a>. The proposal seeks to establish a new focal point for the precinct through a high-density, transit-oriented development supported by diverse land uses.

According to the Scoping Report prepared for the Department of Planning, the scheme includes around 900 apartments across multiple towers, including 135 dwellings designated for affordable housing. A mix of market and subsidised apartments will be supported by ground-level activation through retail and office space, a childcare centre, and a hotel, forming a comprehensive urban precinct.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34797362-f3dc-4d84-8235-2657fc5f3bde" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Plan.png?VersionId=Uzckrz9tUpDQl5lX1_WMhjnv16bsr8wG" />

The Design Report by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/studiosc-0">Studio SC</a> notes that the project “intends to deliver a high-quality, high-density built form that supports the vision for the Leppington Town Centre, integrating mixed-use outcomes and public domain upgrades.” The development is expected to be delivered in stages, although a precise timeline is yet to be confirmed.

The project will be assessed through a future State Significant Development Application, with the Scoping Report indicating the team will seek design excellence via a competitive process or through an expert design review panel. Early massing diagrams suggest a series of mid- to high-rise buildings framing a central landscaped spine, with emphasis on pedestrian permeability and public space.

The planning documentation flags a strong sustainability agenda, stating that the development will “respond to the urban heat island effect, incorporate water sensitive urban design, and prioritise active transport”.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="369d7b54-1279-4cde-88ec-dcb215594414" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Podium_1.png?VersionId=QArL7B2kkLt63vl5xvL0FNV_ardAlez4" />

The proposal follows in the footsteps of the Makaris’ nearby Fifth Avenue site, where they’ve submitted plans for three towers comprising nearly 500 apartments, with 10 per cent dedicated to affordable housing. That project features commercial podiums, a childcare centre, and a new public park that would occupy more than a third of the site.

Both developments are situated within walking distance of Leppington Train Station and fall under strategic precinct plans promoting higher density housing. The town centre is undergoing substantial transformation, driven by state government planning reforms aimed at fast-tracking housing delivery.

Together, the two projects represent a combined ambition of nearly 1,400 new homes across just under two kilometres of central Leppington.

Staff Writer

First look: 900-home mixed-use precinct planned for Leppington

Leading Australian integrated property development group, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>, has released the signature penthouses crowning its landmark AURA by Aqualand precinct at 168 Walker Street in North Sydney, unveiling Il Magnate and La Divina as the largest and most luxurious penthouses in the suburb.

With prices anticipated to commence from $15 million, and each accompanied by a new Porsche Carrera 911 valued at over $500K, the residences mark the culmination of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA by Aqualand</a>’s decade-long journey and the beginning of its final sales chapter. 
&nbsp; 
Their release follows more than $850 million in record-breaking residential sales and the building’s completion and occupation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=358868]

The Richards Stanisich-designed 284 sqm Il Magnate and 224 sqm La Divina penthouses, collectively known as The Icons of AURA, are conceived as grand luxury homes rather than apartments, with expansive proportions, elevated materiality and curated identities that reflect their status as one-off residences.&nbsp;

Il Magnate features a grande master suite, complete with substantial walk-in dressing area and ensuite, three other bedrooms, second ensuite and another bathroom, powder room, open plan kitchen, scullery, substantial dining area and generous living room divided by a feature fireplace, and a multifunction wintergarden, which is ideal for a study and adjoining office breakout space. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, the La Divina residence offers the same amenities, sans the powder room, on a slightly smaller alternate floor plan configuration.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=358863]

Each occupies half of AURA by Aqualand’s topmost 28th level, comes with four secure car spaces and pairs sweeping Sydney Harbour panoramas with large-scale living spaces, refined detailing and a level of craftsmanship and amenity rarely offered in the North Shore market.&nbsp;

Penthouse residents will also receive Etymon’s ‘Black Key’ private concierge and lifestyle management service, an invitation only offering providing the ultimate in bespoke personalisation, including a range of everyday discrete services, from dinner party management, grocery deliveries, pet feeding or plants watered, dinners, snacks and coffee deliveries, event ticket sourcing, right up to organising travel visas and international airfares. Rarely seen in Australian properties, the service provides residents the benefits of living in a world-class luxury hotel-style home, akin to The Ritz, or the Waldorf Astoria.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=358862]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richards Stanisich</a>’s Director, Kirsten Stanisich, said the studio set out to craft residences that feel profoundly considered, contemporary and deeply connected to their setting.

“From the outset, we approached these penthouses with the sensibility of a grand Parisian residence - generous in scale, elegant in proportion and designed to feel more like a handcrafted home than an apartment," Stanisich said.

“Their elevated position and sweeping harbour outlook informed every decision, creating a rare connection between urban sophistication and natural calm. We shaped each space with expressive materiality, sculptural forms and bespoke detailing that invite touch and interaction.&nbsp;

“The result is a pair of residences defined by volume, light and an inherent softness - refined, flexible and deeply personal. These penthouses are unlike anything else in North Sydney, offering a sanctuary of true luxury framed by some of the city’s most remarkable views.”

For Aqualand’s Head of Sales &amp; Marketing, Alex Adams, the collaboration with Porsche underscores the shared ethos behind the residences.

“Aqualand’s collaboration with Porsche underpins both brand’s sharing an obsession with craftsmanship, design excellence, and enduring value," Adams said.

“Our penthouses are created for those who appreciate the finer details and expect the extraordinary at every touchpoint. Including a Porsche simply extends that experience beyond the residence - it’s a continuation of the lifestyle our buyers already live.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292862]

Aqualand’s Managing Director, Jin Lin, said the penthouses represent both the pinnacle of AURA by Aqualand and an important design benchmark for the company’s future pipeline.&nbsp;

“These stunning penthouses reflect the purest expression of Aqualand’s design ambition," Lin said.

“The unparalleled design intent makes them not only the glistening crown of AURA by Aqualand, but the crown of North Sydney itself. They’re essentially a thank you gift to a burgeoning community that deserves this level of quality and architectural consideration.&nbsp;

“We’re leveraging the unrivalled standard set here as the foundation for what comes next, including our upcoming Anderson Street, Chatswood; 15 Blue Street, North Sydney and Central Barangaroo projects. Purchasers of these penthouses will essentially be living inside the blueprint of Aqualand’s future.

“These landmark residences demonstrate how far North Sydney has evolved and the strength of demand for highly curated, bespoke luxury homes. They’re more than penthouses, they’re legacy residences.&nbsp;

“With AURA by Aqualand now a thriving new precinct with residents well and truly settled, and our in-house world-class lifestyle amenity activated, Il Magnate and La Divina represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure an extraordinary piece of North Sydney’s future.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Joel Robinson

Aqualand launches North Sydney penthouses with free Porsche Carrera 911

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/bokarina-qld-4575">Bokarina</a> Beach has quietly evolved into one of the Sunshine Coast’s most complete coastal lifestyle precincts, defined not just by proximity to the ocean, but by how residential living, local retail and everyday amenity are stitched together.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bask-bokarina-38-bokarina-boulevard-bokarina-qld-4575">Bask Bokarina</a> now represents the final residential chapter in that transformation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=333360]

Over recent years, the Bokarina Beach precinct has taken shape as a walkable, community-oriented neighbourhood, anchored by beachfront access, Lake Kawana to the west, and a growing mix of cafés, specialty retail and public open space.&nbsp;

With Zinc Bokarina already delivered next door by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> (GVG), Bask is the last opportunity to buy a brand new apartment within the precinct, effectively rounding out a fully formed coastal village.

GVG has positioned Bask to strengthen that lifestyle framework. Nine ground-floor retail spaces are planned beneath the residences, extending Bokarina Boulevard’s existing activity and reinforcing the area’s everyday convenience, from casual dining and coffee to local services, within a short walk of the beach.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=333359]

The residential component comprises 135 apartments across two buildings, Mydas and Caretta, with a clear shift toward larger three- and four-bedroom layouts and penthouses. That mix reflects a maturing buyer profile in Bokarina, where demand is increasingly led by owner-occupiers and active downsizers seeking space, permanence, and connection to place rather than short-term coastal accommodation.

Design and amenity have followed the same logic. Residents will have access to a heated plunge pool, gym, private dining room with a full kitchen, landscaped communal gardens with barbecues and a firepit, and a shared herb and vegetable garden, facilities intended to support daily use rather than resort-style turnover. Pet-friendly features, including a dog wash bay, acknowledge both buyer expectations and the area’s dog-friendly beach, located around 250 metres from the site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=333366]

“Bokarina has become one of the Sunshine Coast’s most desirable beachside communities, and Bask represents the very last chance to buy new in this location,” GVG Director Sam Gardner said.&nbsp;

“Our focus has been to create spacious, functional apartments that meet the needs of locals who want to downsize without compromise, as well as those seeking a full-time coastal retreat.”

Positioned between the Pacific Ocean and Lake Kawana, Bask apartments have been oriented to capture outlooks toward the water or the Glass House Mountains, reinforcing the project’s connection to its natural surroundings. With parks, beachfront paths, hospitals, retail and public transport already in place, Bask arrives at a point where the broader precinct is no longer emerging, but established.

Construction is expected to complete in Q3 this year, with apartments ready to move into this Spring.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=141609]

Bask to complete Bokarina’s Sunshine Coast lifestyle precinct as final apartments are released

Property development giant <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/avid-property-group">AVID Property Group</a> is approaching completion, and sell-out, of its Surry Hills apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-rathbone-23-47-flinders-street-surry-hills-nsw-2010">The Rathbone</a>.

The Flinders St project has sold well over half of its 32 apartments, which will sit above two retail spaces.

Now hitting the market are the final 14 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, which start from $1.15 million. AVID is targeting a mid-2026 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5947 project_image_fid=51208]

AVID General Manager New South Wales Danny Boubli said as more apartments are introduced to increase housing options in inner-city areas, homebuyers are searching for a &nbsp;sense of belonging in addition to location, convenience and value.&nbsp;

“There are very few opportunities for new developments in Surry Hills, and since acquiring the site, we’ve even seen one early purchaser merge two apartments plans together, reflecting the demand for a spacious, premium offering in a prime location,” Boubli said.&nbsp;

“Demand has been strong since we launched to market – we don’t see these final apartments staying on the market for long.”&nbsp;

Architectural firm Studio SC has designed the building which pays homage to the former 1900s Rathbone Terraces that once sat on the 990 sqm island site.

Boubil said the team has made every effort to create "truly liveable apartments", through&nbsp;functional floor plans, security, storage, and the inclusion of quality fittings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5947 project_image_fid=51207]

&nbsp;

Sustainable design has also been implemented throughout the development, with natural light flooding each apartment, ventilation throughout, extensive landscaping and where possible, materials with a high level of recycled content and low volatile organic compound paints have been used. &nbsp;

Apartments range in size from 57 sqm for the one-bedrooms to the large-scale 165 sqm three-beds which are priced at $2,575,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5947]

AVID launches final apartments at The Rathbone, Surry Hills

A wave of investment, renewal and precinct growth continues to shape the northern edge of Macquarie Park, where daily life is supported by a rare combination of university activity, corporate employment, major retail, and expansive green corridors. It’s this convergence of amenity and connectivity underpins the setting for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a>, which has now topped out and is tracking toward completion in mid-2026.

Within this pocket of the precinct, residents move easily between the area’s key anchors. Macquarie Centre, home to more than 360 retailers, fresh food offerings, dining and entertainment, sits at the heart of local convenience and functions as a major transport interchange. The Metro, T1 rail line and extensive bus network place much of Sydney within quick reach, while surrounding arterial links support direct access to neighbouring districts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=5829]

Green space remains a defining feature of the immediate environment. Lane Cove National Park stretches along the northern boundary of the precinct, offering bushland trails, cycling routes and quiet riverfront pockets. Shrimptons Creek and the campus grounds of Macquarie University extend these recreational networks, softening the urban setting and creating a daily connection to nature that informs the project’s architectural response.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> have shaped La Vera around these contrasts. The building’s northern elevation adopts an organic, curvilinear form that mirrors the natural topography of the national park. Three sculpted forms soften the tower’s profile and encourage a stronger transition between indoor living areas, balconies and the broader landscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=223737]

Cox Director Felipe Miranda says the building’s outlook played a central role in the design process.

“The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park… The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies,” Felipe Miranda of Cox Architecture said.

Toward the city-facing side, the design shifts to a more urban expression. A gridded facade and extensive glazing capture CBD views, creating a dual strategy that blends ecological outlooks with metropolitan orientation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=5827]

La Vera delivers 169 residences across one- to four-bedroom layouts, reflecting the needs of young families, downsizers, first-home buyers and investors seeking long-term certainty within a high-amenity location. From the project, residents can walk to Macquarie University, Macquarie Hospital and nearby corporate offices, reach national park trails within minutes, and enjoy retail and dining without relying on a car.

The project is delivered by Urban Property Group, a 4.5-star iCIRT-rated developer-builder with more than three decades of experience. The company has become a leader in adopting 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), first introduced on its Parq Bexley development and now embedded into its pipeline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=223727]

La Vera is the first development in Macquarie Park approved to offer this 10-year LDI policy, adding another layer of protection for purchasers and reinforcing the transparency of the construction process.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias says this assurance has become increasingly important for buyers navigating the off-the-plan market.

“Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been… Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share,” Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said.

Urban Property Group's in-house construction team is forecasting a mid-2026 completion, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/home789">HOME789</a> appointed as the project marketer.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

La Vera delivers a nature-connected address within Macquarie Park’s core

Amenity

There's more than meets the eye with the Jolimont development, Florin Parkside, offering family-sized apartments in the heart of leafy suburb.

While connection and transport across the greater region is a breeze, residents will be hard pressed to find a reason to want to leave Florin, with the development home to a lifestyle that’s inspired by nature.&nbsp;

Stirling Capital designed the 63 residences to fit into the verdant neighbourhood, with the amenity offering suiting the locale.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108682 project_image_fid=200529]

Downstairs, Florin features arbours that are surrounded by landscaping, creating the perfect spot to have a barbecue with friends and family, with the space complete with dining facilities, shaded and unshaded seating, an indoor/outdoor kitchen and a fireplace.&nbsp;

A private lounge room is also on offer for residents, creating a comfortable escape that connects seamlessly to the outdoors, while also acting as an extension of the homes. The lounge features multiple seating zones and work-from-home space, along with a central fireplace that sets the mood for the relaxing retreat.

Conceived with a healthy and active lifestyle in mind, the neighbouring park offers the prime spot for a walk, while Florin’s fully-equipped gym offers a convenient way for residents to get a workout in.

Acting as a health and wellness zone, the area slo includes an outdoor yoga terrace, surrounded by lush green landscaping in a private and secluded zone.&nbsp;&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108682 project_image_fid=200534]

Resident’s furry friends aren’t forgotten either at Florin, with pet wash facilities on site for an after-walk pamper.&nbsp;

A mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments are still available at Florin, with floorplans spanning from 86 sqm to 289 sqm.&nbsp;

Construction on the six-storey development is slated for completion by early 2024.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108682]

alisonwarters@gmail.com

A lifestyle inspired by nature: A look at the amenity on offer at Florin Parkside

The amenity offering in residential developments is always a hot topic, with many developers of late forming their own exclusive clubs within their projects.&nbsp;

The likes of resort-inspired pools, sun lounges, gyms and even teppanyaki grills are becoming standard, as more developers look to elevate homebuyers lifestyles’.&nbsp;

At Mirvac’s Ashford Residences at Everton Park in Brisbane’s inner-north, more than $2.5 million has been invested in the Ashford Club, offering a suite of residential facilities overlooking a one-hectare eco area to the Kedron Brook parkland.

Featuring a pool with a splash area for children, lounge chairs, a teppanyaki grill, fire pit, barbecue facilities, a turfed area for entertaining and a gym, the club is appealing to purchasers across the board, from first home buyers, to professionals, families and downsizers.

The ASX-listed group have notched up more than $80 million in sales since launching the Ashford Residences, with the final four homesites now officially launched to the market. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28504 project_image_fid=207507]

Mirvac General Manager Residential Queensland, Warwick Bible, said buyers were embracing the Ashford Club, designed to raise the bar for luxury living in Brisbane’s inner-north.

“We’ve seen lifestyle becoming an increasing emphasis for homebuyers for some time, and this has been accelerated even further post Covid-19,” he said.

“People are looking for a home that delivers more. Many are moving from apartments where they have had access to resort amenities, and they want the same level of lifestyle in a new community.

“These facilities also create a space for residents to form a real sense of community and connection, to host family and friends and enjoy facilities like the pool, gym and teppanyaki bar without owning and maintaining them – all factors that add to their appeal.”

Registered and ready to build on, the final lots range from 405 sqm and are priced from $730,000, offering a rare opportunity to build new, just seven kilometres from the Brisbane CBD.

Jaime Andueza, who purchased a 420 sqm lot at Ashford Residences, said the extensive residents’ facilities were a significant point of difference and key factor in his decision to move to the inner-north, after living southside for two decades.

The Chief Digital Officer and his partner, Aaron, are putting the finishing touches on their new five-bedroom, three living and five-bathroom home, which they anticipate moving into by Christmas.

“The Ashford Club has an elegant design, which is a differentiator from any other development we viewed,” said Andueza.

“There’s an incredibly beautiful view to the Kedron Brook, so you can go to the pool area and absorb the nature around you. It is luxurious and privileged, considering it is so close to the city.”

Andueza said his first impression of Ashford Residences was ‘sensational’.

“I had been looking at what was available in the market and had always wanted to build. When I saw the location of the blocks of land at Ashford Residences, I immediately realised it was a great opportunity,” he said.

“Having compared it to existing homes elsewhere, I felt the value and lifestyle offered was 
significantly greater. We’re looking forward to the neighbourly atmosphere and being part of the Ashford community.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28504 project_image_fid=207502]

Ashford Residences have been a hit among buyers, with the most recent terrace home release selling-out to a waiting list prior to its official launch.&nbsp;

“We held the final four lots for release when they were ready to build on and buyers could see how the community had taken shape, and anticipate they will be in high demand,” Bible said.

“The opportunity to build new in this area is extremely rare and the location alongside Kedron Brook only adds to the desirability, as does the exclusive residents’ facilities in the Ashford Club.

“The proximity to Brisbane CBD and the village charm of Everton Park, home to an expanding mix of restaurants, cafes, bars and shops, is also seeing buyers zero in on the area.”

Ashford Residences will comprise a total of 124 residences upon completion in late 2023, with 80 terrace homes and 43 freestanding homes.&nbsp;

The final property, a heritage Queenslander known as Murphy’s Dairy Residence, is anticipated to launch to market early next year. Refurbishment works are underway on the historic home, which is situated on a rare 900 sqm lot that has been meticulously landscaped.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=28504]

Mirvac deliver resident’s club to entice new homebuyers to Ashford Residences 

Sydney-based Iris Capital’s most recent venture took the group to the booming region of Broadbeach on the Gold Coast.

The $800 million dual mega tower, Victoria &amp; Albert, has launched both towers to the market, with Iris fast tracking the second and final collection of apartments due to the successful stage one launch.

Taking its name from the Broadbeach streets it lands on, the Victoria &amp; Albert towers comprise 398 residences, including premium apartments, sky homes and penthouses, which benefit from exclusive private amenity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=198887]

The towers boast a sprawling line up of residential amenity, setting the benchmark for projects on the Goldie, with a subtropical recreational podium linking the towers together, containing two levels of office and commercial facilities, along with fresh food and dining on the street level.

Designed by the award-winning local architecture firm, DBI, V&amp;A has been created to complement the lifestyle and convenience of its location in the heart of the cosmopolitan coastal suburb.

“From the moment you step inside the spectacular lobby at V&amp;A, it is clear you have arrived somewhere truly special,” Iris Capital noted.

“All the shared spaces within the buildings have been carefully composed to provide residents with the best of resort-style living, without having to leave home.”

The east and west towers of V&amp;A rise on the site of Niecon Plaza and stretch across an entire city block from the Broadbeach Mall at Victoria Avenue to Albert Street.

Each tower boasts its own premium lobby entry, with each tower offering its own amenity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=198888]

“V&amp;A offers a quintessential resort-style lifestyle every day of the year,” said Colliers Residential Director, David Higgins.

Starting from the ground floor, residents are at home with a vibrant retail and dining precinct, before finding further amenity on the linking podium level with the Victoria Club.

The expansive fourth-floor space offers a wonderland of indoor and outdoor amenity, including two swimming pools, a gym, wellness room, yoga lawn, residents’ lounge, children’s area, cinema, outdoor dining, barbecue pods, all set amongst verdant, green landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=198886]

Stepping higher into the Victoria tower, residents will find the Victoria Sky Lounge on level 56, with the space incorporating first class facilities with encompassing views across the skyline and beyond.&nbsp;

Two separate lounges are sleekly furnished, complimented by two private dining rooms, each with an adjoining kitchen, one galley-style, along with a private wine cellar.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=198885]

The space also includes a sports lounge as well as a second yoga studio, along with&nbsp;a range of outdoor spaces, set amongst a considered landscaping design, creating a subtropical paradise.&nbsp;

Considering the continued working-from-home lifestyle that has prevailed through the Covid-19 pandemic, a number of private meeting rooms can also be booked by residents, along with separate lounge areas for a more informal setting.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=107928]

Taking its name from the Broadbeach streets it lands on, the Victoria & Albert towers comprise 398 residences, including premium apartments, sky homes and penthouses, which benefit from exclusive private amenity.

The best communal facilities in Broadbeach? Inside Victoria & Albert's resident amenity

Forming part of the redefining Mount Pleasant, Canning Bridge Precinct, Cirque Duet rises high into the Perth skyline.

With its bold, contemporary design, at the heart of the long-established community, Stirling Capital's latest residential development&nbsp;connects Ogilvie and Kirshorn Roads with a new public walkway, featuring a chromaflow wall art instillation.

Designed by award-winning architects, MJA Studio, the vision for Cirque Duet is based on four core pillars; community, sustainability, wellness and luxury.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8516 project_image_fid=191444]

Stirling released the accompanying tower apartments back in 2019&nbsp;, achieving a sell out on the first stage along with a string of awards for the project, including&nbsp;consecutive Urban Development Institute of Australia Awards, as well as a number of Australian Institute of Architects Awards.

Inspired by a five-star resort lifestyle, Cirque’s expansive podium deck connects the two towers above street level, providing more than 3,000 sqm of communal facilities and amenities for the exclusive use of its residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8516 project_image_fid=191444]

Residents will be at home with a host of resort-style facilities, including a heated swimming pool, spa, sauna, and gym, along with private dining rooms, cabanas, a cocktail bar, barbecue facilities and a children’s playground.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8516 project_image_fid=191444]

The buildings’ unique form brings optimum sun into the communal area creating a variety of light-dappled, landscaped lawns and gardens dotted with intimate, alfresco chill out spaces all wrapped in panoramic views.

Indoors, there’s also a library and a luxury cinema, while at street level, Cirque Duet’s hotel-inspired lobbies feature a concierge desk and access to a business centre with a separate meeting room.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8516 project_image_fid=191444]

Comprising a mix of one, two and three bedroom residences, Cirque Duet’s residences have been designed to take advantage of the panoramic views across the Canning and Swan Rivers, to Perth’s CBD and the Eastern Hills.

Two and three-bed apartments can still be snapped up at Cirque Duet, with sprawling floorplans from 145 sqm, right up to 314 sqm.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=8516]

Inspired by a five-star resort lifestyle, Cirque’s expansive podium deck connects the two towers above street level, providing more than 3,000 sqm of communal facilities and amenities for the exclusive use of its residents.



Inside the resort-inspired facilities at Cirque Duet, Perth apartments

<html><body>
Demand for housing in Australia has seen the annual number of apartments constructed <a href="https://rba.gov.au/publications/bulletin/2017/jun/pdf/bu-0617-1-houses-and-apartments-in-australia.pdf">triple since 2009</a>, and just last year apartments accounted for one-third of all residential building approvals. This statistic suggests the need for apartments to possess a competitive edge when vying for potential buyers, so we've rounded up 6 apartments with offer something a little different.

<h2>#1 PET-FRIENDLY APARTMENTS AT <a href="/buildings/banc-527-coronation-drive-toowong">BANC, TOOWONG</a></h2>

Location: 527 Coronation Dr, Toowong

Architect: WMK Architecture

<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/1519_1.04_exterior_regatta_r004new-e1447644527285.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="BANC apartments overlooking the river. Credit: WMK Architecture" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="354" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1519_1.04_exterior_regatta_r004new-e1447644527285.jpg?itok=jewpe3MR" title="BANC apartments overlooking the river. Credit: WMK Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>BANC apartments overlooking the river. Credit: WMK Architecture</figcaption></figure><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/feats-hero3-banc.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The house-sized apartments have been designed to welcome residents with pets. Credit: BANC "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="260" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/feats-hero3-banc.jpg?itok=Sa112Gb4" title="The house-sized apartments have been designed to welcome residents with pets. Credit: BANC " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The house-sized apartments have been designed to welcome residents with pets. Credit: BANC</figcaption></figure>Banc is one of the meagre <a href="https://idealau.com/pet-friendly-apartments-still-a-rare-find-in-brisbane-cbd/">3% of apartments in central Brisbane</a> which allows owners to have pets and has gained significant interest from empty nesters with new four-legged friends in tow.

<blockquote>
“Many of our recent buyers have been mature professionals whose children have left home, so their pets are an important part of the family unit.” 
</blockquote>

- John Li, Ideal Property

The building is situated right on the riverfront, giving residents direct access to great walking tracks and neighbouring parks.

<h2>#2 MOONLIGHT CINEMA AT FV <a href="/buildings/the-flatiron-179-alfred-street-fortitude-valley">FLATIRON, FORTITUDE VALLEY</a></h2>

Location: 179 Alfred Street, Fortitude Valley

Architect: Elenberg Fraser

<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/fv-completed.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="FV FLATIRON exterior view. Credit: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="782" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fv-completed.jpg?itok=feIjOn8D" title="FV FLATIRON exterior view. Credit: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>FV FLATIRON exterior view. Credit: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><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/twe-fv-01-1100x550-c-center.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="FV's in-house movie theatre. Credit: Gurner"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/twe-fv-01-1100x550-c-center.jpg?itok=aIAcdKXh" title="FV's in-house movie theatre. Credit: Gurner" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>FV's in-house movie theatre. Credit: Gurner</figcaption></figure>The Elenberg Fraser-designed FV FLATIRON has become a landmark in the Brisbane skyline, just like New York’s own Flatiron Building. Inspired by the iconic New York design, Gurner has brought a slice of the big apple to Queensland.

Everything FV has to offer takes apartment living to the next standard of luxury – it’s gym is commercial sized; there are not one, but four pools and among the entertainment offerings is a moonlight cinema complete with luxurious chaiselongs and VIP service.

<h2>#3 FREE SPA TREATMENTS AT BANYAN TREE, KANGAROO POINT</h2>

Location: 48 River Terrace, Kangaroo Point 

Architect: Woods Bagot

<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/btr_brisbane_aerial_sunset.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Banyan Tree Residence aerial view. Credit: Banyan Tree"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/btr_brisbane_aerial_sunset.jpg?itok=C4mvBMNT" title="Banyan Tree Residence aerial view. Credit: Banyan Tree" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Banyan Tree Residence aerial view. Credit: Banyan Tree</figcaption></figure><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/153046216.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bayan Tree spa facility. Credit: Accor Hotels"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/153046216.jpg?itok=mjpNMq-G" title="Bayan Tree spa facility. Credit: Accor Hotels" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bayan Tree spa facility. Credit: Accor</figcaption></figure>Resort-style luxury is what the Banyan Tree hotel group are known for – so even permanent residents are invited to enjoy the same luxury pampering year-round. All property owners within the complex receive one free spa treatment per month for the first two years, as well as a free week’s accommodation at any Banyan Tree Resort worldwide for the first five years.

<h2>#4 NAUTICAL THEMED AT <a href="/new-apartments/the-boatyard-bulimba-21-byron-street-bulimba">THE BOATYARD, BULIMBA</a></h2>

Location: 21 Byron St, Bulimba

Architect BVN

<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/download_0.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Boatyard exterior. Credit: BVN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/download_0.jpeg?itok=Or9WNxPt" title="The Boatyard exterior. Credit: BVN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Boatyard exterior. Credit: BVN</figcaption></figure><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/image15-2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Boatyard's nautical themed interior design. Credit: BVN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15-2.jpg?itok=vqaAVgO6" title="The Boatyard's nautical themed interior design. Credit: BVN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Boatyard's nautical themed interior design. Credit: BVN</figcaption></figure>The Boatyard’s curved white façade and iconic nautical colour palette pay homage to its site’s former boat workshop Norman R. Wright &amp; Son. The maritime theme is complimented with rustic wooden finishes, horizontal lines, curved parapets and even the kitchen cabinetry was designed to resemble the ‘bulkhead’ in boats. Situated right on the marina, The Boatyard also offers five berths available for purchase which fit 55ft boats.

<h2>#5 UNDERWATER SOUNDSYSTEM AT <a href="https://www.lucentgasworks.com.au/location">LUCENT, NEWSTEAD</a></h2>

Location: 18 Longland St, Newstead

Architect: Cavcorp

<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/lucent.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lucent exterior lobby. Credit: Cavcorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/lucent.jpg?itok=ZYu4KXHl" title="Lucent exterior lobby. Credit: Cavcorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lucent exterior lobby. Credit: Cavcorp</figcaption></figure><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/screen_shot_2019-04-29_at_3.41.47_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Lucent's 55m infinity pool. Credit: Cavcorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-04-29_at_3.41.47_pm.png?itok=RUba7Kyo" title="Lucent's 55m infinity pool. Credit: Cavcorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lucent's 55m infinity pool. Credit: Cavcorp</figcaption></figure>Known to residents as Club 55, Lucent Newstead is home to Australia’s longest rooftop pool. The 55-metre infinity pool has an in-built underwater sound system so guests can enjoy music while swimming. 

<h2>#6 ORGANIC GARDENING AT <a href="https://www.thejamesteneriffe.com.au/">THE JAMES, TENERIFFE</a></h2>

Location: 217/38 Helen Street, Teneriffe

Architect: Cavcorp

<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/00449390_img_01_1600x.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The James apartment complex exterior. Credit: Cavcorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/00449390_img_01_1600x.jpg?itok=She2AExh" title="The James apartment complex exterior. Credit: Cavcorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The James apartment complex exterior. Credit: Cavcorp</figcaption></figure>When you think of apartment-living, tending a vegetable garden doesn’t always spring to mind. Keen to break the trend, The James in Teneriffe will offer its green-thumbed residents the use of an organic communal vegetable garden, where they can harvest premium grade produce year-round. The ground level garden lane also provides residents with a tranquil respite from the busy city for the ultimate subtropical lifestyle.

Lead image credit: BVN
</body></html>

Olivia Round

Looking for something special in QLD? Here are 6 of Brisbane's unique apartments

<html><body>
Brisbane-based landscape contractor Martin Brothers is shining a light upon the increased utilisation of rooftop spaces across a host of Brisbane-based apartment projects.

So much so, in release penned by the landscape construction and maintenance firm, they posed the question; is rooftop amenity the new standard inclusion for residential development? The fortitude Valley-based builder has extensive experience in a range of high density and detached residential, commercial projects, and has 40 staff on its books.

In an inner city residential context, Martin Brothers contend that the new Great Australian Dream is an apartment, particularly for young Australians looking to own their first home. The sustained growth in apartment living in Brisbane, and the continued differentiation of product in the market, has seen amenities, particularly useable rooftop space, take precedence.

<blockquote>
As apartment living becomes a standard choice for not only Millennials but also many downsizing retirees, developers need to think about how they improve their customers’ quality of high density living.

Especially in cities like Brisbane, that enjoy a temperament climate year-round, planning the inclusion of beautifully landscaped rooftop amenity can not only help developers capitalise on once-overlooked space, but also improve the capital value of their residents’ apartments over the long term.

Brisbane City Council’s ‘Buildings that Breathe’ guidelines have resulted in rooftop amenity being increasingly recognised for its potential, and for subtropical tailored infrastructure, developers are utilising rooftop space as an asset, which in turn becomes a major talking point for their development.
<cite>Jack Martin, co-founder and Director</cite>
</blockquote>

The prime example is Silk One who's recently launched marketing and sales campaign saw its rooftop terrace space become the primary selling aspect of the apartment project. Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/silk-one-secures-woolloongabbas-best-seat-in-the-house">covered the project last month</a>; it boasts Brisbane's only rooftop Skystand which will include tiered seating and unobstructed views over The Gabba.

<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/image32_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Silk One's Skystand. Image: CBRE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="338" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image32_17.jpg?itok=SIIJuFfQ" title="Silk One's Skystand. Image: CBRE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Silk One's Skystand. Image: CBRE</figcaption></figure>Martin Brothers has recently completed three major rooftop amenity areas atop high-density residential projects in inner Brisbane. The lead image depicts the firm's build for Oxley and Stirling, a 16-storey South Brisbane project designed by Elenberg Fraser.

Atop the tower is a 1,300 square metre communal rooftop space which includes a pergola laden with greenery, a lap and plunge pool, al fresco barbeques, day beds and terraced seating areas. Martin Brothers describe the South Brisbane project's rooftop amenity as a national benchmark.

On the back of developments such as Oxley and Stirling, Martin Brothers are urging developers to capitalise on a huge opportunity to leverage what is traditionally a ‘second thought' on most projects.

<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/image33_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pinnacle@Duxton's rooftop garden. Image: ArchitectureLab"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="421" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image33_15.jpg?itok=hbb-YLRI" title="Pinnacle@Duxton's rooftop garden. Image: ArchitectureLab" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pinnacle at Duxton's rooftop garden. Image: ArchitectureLab</figcaption></figure>In terms of benchmarking, Mr Martin has found overseas projects particularly inspirational.

<blockquote>
Looking abroad to more densely developed cities such as Hong Kong, Tokyo and Singapore, developers have long leveraged the potential offered by rooftop spaces.

In Hong Kong, for example, the rooftop amenity at Skypark in central Kowloon is geared towards young professionals seeking a lifestyle balance, with developer New World creating a setting primed for socialising and relaxation, offering lawned gardens, a green clubhouse and park spaces with amphitheatre-style outdoor seating.

Mr Martin also singled out Singapore’s Pinnacle at Duxton building, winner of the CTBUH’s award for Best Tall Building Asia &amp; Australasia in 2010, which features the world’s two longest linear sky gardens at 500 metres each.

At 50 levels above ground, the higher sky garden features publicly accessible, tropically-landscaped recreation zones, separate green zones and children’s play equipment, which is prime greenspace for such a high-density urban area.
<cite>Jack Martin, co-founder and Director</cite>
</blockquote>

Martin Brothers has also had a hand in the emerging South City Square development in Woolloongabba. Once complete the project will include six rooftop gardens across five residential towers and a hotel building onsite.

<blockquote>
We worked closely with Pellicano and Oculus to rethink the boundaries of green space in a high-density urban area. Buyers are looking for apartments that offer state-of-the-art design, bespoke fittings and resort-style experiences.

A well-planned rooftop amenity is invaluable, especially in high-density areas that are lacking in green space and outdoor facilities.
<cite>Jack Martin, co-founder and Director</cite>
</blockquote>

 

Lead image: Aria Property Group
</body></html>

silvermb

Martin Brothers sees the rooftop amenities area take precedence across Brisbane 

<html><body>
...where are they all?

It's been well documented that a cyclical movement has swung the pendulum from one end of the scale to the other. Investment grade apartment stock around Melbourne's CBD is out, with demand now high for lavish, large two and three bedrooms dwellings in certain suburbs as developers now chase the well-heeled buyer.

But where exactly are these high-end two and particularly three bedroom apartments located around Melbourne?

An article in yesterday's Domain demonstrates the <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/news/melbourne-apartments-number-of-bedrooms-hard-to-pinpoint-as-developers-reign-20170203-gu35rn/">perceived lack of clarity</a> regarding the apartment mix of any given suburb, or project for that matter.

<blockquote>
So you’d be forgiven for thinking that you could easily find out exactly how many one-bedroom apartments were suddenly in your street. After all, we know how many houses there are.

But it turns out trying to pinpoint the number of neighbours you may have is actually harder than you might think. Local councils, usually responsible for approving such developments, are not required to collate information on the exact number of different types of apartments.

Not even the state government or Australian Bureau of Statistics regularly keep tabs on the diversity of apartments approved across the city and whether there will be enough to cater for families.
<cite>Christina Zhou: Domain 5/2/2017</cite>
</blockquote>

The State Government or Australian Bureau of Statistics may not, but Apartments.com.au certainly does.

Of the 1300 plus current residential projects within the Apartments.com.au Project Database, the vast majority of projects retain numbers relating apartment types, whether they be one, two, three bedroom, studio, penthouse or otherwise. In fact it's not difficult to track a given projects apartment breakdown, but rather maintaining accurate figures during the often lengthy period between planning approval and sales commencement can be a tricky undertaking owing to developers changing their mix's to mirror current buyer trends.

Which brings us to the heart of the matter. Where are all the 3 bedroom apartments situated across metropolitan Melbourne right now?

<h2>Pouring over the Apartments.com.au Project Database</h2>

As always there's a smattering of three bedroom apartments in forthcoming apartment projects Melbourne-wide.

The larger number of three bedroom apartments though are skewed across certain suburbs south and east of Melbourne's CBD, in line with existing demographics. More affluent stretches of Melbourne gain a proportionately higher share of the three bedroom market. Bayside suburbs, South Yarra, Glen Iris and Bentleigh are but a few.

Unsurprisingly established blue chip suburbs such as East Melbourne and Toorak also garner more than their fair share of three bedroom apartments.

More so it's very much site specific. Location, amenities and views will dictate that certain apartment projects can attract a higher number of three bedroom dwellings, compared to other projects in the same suburb or even the same precinct.

<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_4370.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="No 3BR within Fishermans Bend's first tower"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="479" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4370.jpg?itok=KuRSwXMJ" title="No 3BR within Fishermans Bend's first tower" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>No three bedroom apartments on offer within Fishermans Bend's first tower build</figcaption></figure>And a cautionary word for all those who espouse the notion that Fishermans Bend will be a haven for three bedroom apartments, as has been touted by various planning authorities. Submitted planning numbers and as yet unreleased development schedules for pending apartments project launches that Apartments.com.au have been privy to still show a proportionately small number of three bedroom apartments within the urban renewal area.

Fishermans Bend like anywhere else across Melbourne is a case of matching the right product with the right location, and the precinct as yet doesn't have the market depth to warrant a mass of three bedroom apartments being offered.

<h2>Examples that define the three bedroom surge</h2>

Prime examples in the shift to larger apartments/increased bedrooms include Magnate Developments upcoming apartment project at <a href="/new-apartments/ville-638-malvern-road-prahran">638 Malvern Road, Prahran</a>. With planning approval in place and registrations of interest commenced, the developer has seen it fit to head back to planning with the intention of providing fewer apartments within the development for the sake of additional three bedroom and a four bedroom apartment within the approved envelope.

Much the same has occurred at Espace within Middle Park, with the approved development shrinking from 27 dwellings to 8 larger abodes. Nearby, Barana Group's pending <a href="/buildings/saint-moritz-st-kilda-14-16-the-esplanade-st-kilda">14-16 The Esplanade</a> on St Kilda's foreshore has seen overall apartment numbers shrink from 300 to 236, with the corresponding number of three bedroom apartments nearly tripling from 31 to 86.

<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/image2_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Metier3's take on The Esplanade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="334" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_10.jpg?itok=JLvQW2WV" title="Metier3's take on The Esplanade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Metier3's take on The Esplanade</figcaption></figure>The most recent example to hit the Apartments.com.au Project Database  is <a href="/buildings/the-botanic-collection-30-anderson-street-south-yarra">22-30 Anderson Street, South Yarra</a>, with the proposal backed by Kayrope Properties Pty Ltd exclusively the domain of three bedroom apartments. Designed by Robert Mills Architects, the ten oversize apartments look to continue the suburb's ability to absorb larger apartments.

Whilst three bedrooms apartments look to be garnering their fair share of media attention and increasing their overall reach throughout Melbourne's apartment market, it still remains a case of matching the right product with the right location, as it has always been.
</body></html>

Three bedroom apartments are in vogue, but...

<html><body>
In a low key process held mostly over the summer break, land owners and developers have had the chance to offload their prime Fishermans Bend holdings to a blue chip buyer, with The Victorian School Building Authority, Department of Education and Training and the Fishermans Bend Taskforce jointly on the prowl for additional sites capable of accommodating further education facilities.

An <a href="http://www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/Pages/Fishermans-Bend-EOI.aspx">Expressions of Interest</a> campaign is currently drawing to a close, requesting private landowners and developers to sell or lease land located within one of Fishermans Bend's four major precincts: Montague, Lorimer, Sandridge and Wirraway.

Parameters for the Expressions of Interest campaign include a site ideally no less than 4,000 square metres and with multiple street frontages.

The eventual site or sites will likely mirror South Melbourne Primary School's <a href="/news/hayballs-south-melbourne-vertical-school-wins-on-an-international-scale">internationally award-winning design</a>, with that project's construction beginning in earnest after the festive break.

<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/image17fbv.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="South Melbourne Primary School. Image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="365" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17fbv.jpg?itok=sTFUqJh0" title="South Melbourne Primary School. Image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>South Melbourne Primary School. Image: Hayball</figcaption></figure>Appointed builder ADCO Constructions will deliver the new multi-level, Hayball-designed campus alongside expansive community spaces, with the intent of effectively integrating the new school with its Montague Precinct surrounds. The main school building is expected to begin rising above ground during April, after onsite excavation is complete.

The Victorian School Building Authority's push into vertical campuses across the inner city and the requested Fishermand Bend site of 4,000 square metres plus suggests that additional open space is also on the agenda, side by side with new vertical education facilities.

The benefits of Integrating community into the design of new schools is outlined by Hayball’s Sydney Studio Director David Tordoff, <a href="http://www.educatoronline.com.au/news/opinion-integrate-community-into-the-design-of-schools-229649.aspx">within this article</a>.

As was <a href="/news/vertical-schools-to-feature-at-australian-smart-skyscrapers-summit-2017">outlined last week</a>, vertical schools will also be on the agenda for the upcoming Australian Smart Skyscrapers Summit which will be held next month in Melbourne.

<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/image18fb.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The first, with more to follow within Fishermans Bend. Image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="365" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18fb.jpg?itok=ZW4s3N8f" title="The first, with more to follow within Fishermans Bend. Image: Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The first, with more to follow within Fishermans Bend. Image: Hayball</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

First one, now more schools on the agenda for Fishermans Bend

<html><body>
A section of Village Street Docklands, between Bourke St and Fishplate Lane is set to be converted into a one-way street, with traffic to flow in a northerly direction towards Etihad Stadium, in order to create a pedestrian and cycle-friendly precinct.

Long thought of as a street level 'wasteland', Docklands continues to be the focus of attention with the continued push to overhaul the precinct at urban/user/street level.

Places Victoria will begin work in the coming weeks to transform Village Street into a shared green zone capable of hosting street festivals and other events. According to Simon Wilson, Places Victoria General Manager Precincts, the work would take around four months to complete because of the need to remove concrete slabs from under the existing road.

Mr Wilson said Places Victoria had taken on board feedback from local businesses regarding loading access and overall the sentiment of the businesses in the area was extremely positive.

<blockquote>
Our traffic study has shown that this section of Village Street is ideally suited for conversion into a shared zone, which will see less vehicles using the street and to give pedestrians and cyclists priority.This will allow the area to be a more people-focused space, taking advantage of its location close to some of Docklands’ fantastic restaurants, as well as Etihad Stadium.

The restaurants and cafes can see a real opportunity to activate this space.  

As part of this transformation, removable bollards will be installed to enable Village Street to be used for events. There is also quite a bit of work to be done to enable new trees to be planted on Village Street. We will be working with our contractors to ensure disruptions are kept to a minimum.

-Simon Wilson, Places Victoria General Manager Precincts
</blockquote>

The transformation forms part of the <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/building-and-development/urban-planning/local-area-planning/Pages/docklands-public-realm-plan.aspx">City of Melbourne's Docklands Public Realm Plan</a>, which identifies improvements to key streets and public spaces to ensure the delivery of public spaces in Docklands that provide better connectivity and experiences within Docklands and surrounding areas.

<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/fullsizerender_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Village Street's current condition."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fullsizerender_1.jpg?itok=3eh5jerO" title="Village Street's current condition." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Village Street's current condition.</figcaption></figure>The overall vision seeks to create a seamless network of welcoming public streets and waterfronts and a well-linked family of diverse public spaces that provide a choice of experiences, activities and journeys, for many people at various times of the day and night and throughout the seasons.

Identified as a secondary street within the Docklands Public Realm Plan, Village Street has the potential to provide a greater experience to visitors, workers and residents beyond its current state as per the extract below:

<blockquote>
Secondary streets 

1.3 Design secondary streets primarily as a setting for pedestrian and cyclist movement, shopping, socialising, recreation, art and architecture and ensure they provide links to key public facilities and spaces. 

Secondary streets are characterised by mixed use including retail at ground level. These play a significant role in supporting community life and fostering local identity as they provide opportunities for a community focus. They also provide connections to community facilities and key public spaces including the waterfront.

- Docklands Public Realm Plan, City of Melbourne
</blockquote>

The proposed works include:

• Creation of a ‘shared zone’ using bluestone pitchers to create a flush road and footpath surface; 

• Installation of green spaces in the form of planter beds and more street trees;

• Additional seating, bike hoops and lighting.

Work on the Village Street upgrade is set to commence in late-January/early-February, 2017, and is expected to be completed by June 2017.
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

Docklands continues to embrace its surrounds with the Village Street upgrade

<html><body>
Has the baby been thrown out with the bathwater? Quite possibly.

It has been a week since Planning Minister Richard Wynne introduced <a href="/news/interim-central-melbourne-planning-controls-the-detail">significant and immediate changes</a> to central city planning that will inhibit the scope in which much of Southbank and Melbourne's CBD can be developed into the future.

In recent days, various sources have sought to analyse the changes applied to the Planning Scheme for the aforementioned areas. Alan Davies via <a href="http://blogs.crikey.com.au/theurbanist/2015/09/07/are-these-planning-changes-mostly-symbolic/">The Urbanist</a> has provided comment, Ratio Consultants have provided a <a href="http://www.ratio.com.au/changes-to-central-city-planning">concise summary</a> of changes implemented, yet perhaps the best indicator has come via Apartments.com.au's forum where the changes have garnered pages of discussion since their implementation.

Of the many forum posts on the topic, one factor has become abundantly clear: a week's discussion has led to contradiction and uncertainty when trying to interpret and notionally apply the new rules. And therein lies the blunder in how the new changes have been implemented.

I have yet to see one person, representative or peak body state that the changes applied to the Melbourne Planning Scheme are unnecessary. The Victorian Government on the face of it does indeed have the best of intentions in mind; essentially promoting quality residential development over poorly conceived, maximum yield-driven developments.

Perhaps the best summary of the main issue surrounding the changes was from the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA):

<blockquote>
While the Institute will support the intentions of the Central City Planning Review, it has vigorously opposed the Minister’s action to introduce interim controls of this nature overnight, without any consultation with the urban development industry.

The merits of addressing issues such as amenity and preserving Melbourne’s liveability are very much supported by the urban development industry. However the blunt action by the Minister in introducing interim controls without warning has set the tone for this important and complex discussion.

Swift, uncanvassed action such as that taken overnight by the Planning Minister serves only one purpose – to undermine investor confidence, which can only lead to reduced activity.
<cite>Danni Addison, Victorian chief executive, UDIA</cite>
</blockquote>

This is where now the baby is in danger of disappearing down the gurgler entirely.

It is all well and good to implement changes to the Melbourne Planning Scheme, but where was the tact or transparency in the process? By going about it the way they have, the Andrews Government has left the door ajar to stymie investment in central Melbourne. The ambiguity now cast over the approvals process is tantamount to inviting trouble.

I would assert that the method these changes have been implemented may undermine investor confidence, specifically in the short to medium term. And of course I refer to the rivers of investment capital flowing from Asia into Melbourne. This investment and subsequent boom in construction in Melbourne's heart represents a hefty and buoyant portion of the Victorian economy at present, with billions of dollars in play.

If prospective investors (of which there are no shortage) perceive the changes and the heavy-handed manner in which they were implemented to be counter beneficial, they will simply shun Melbourne altogether. Investment capital in this sense relates to the foreign-backed developers and is liquid; it will find the path of least resistance. Whether the capital remains in Melbourne or whether we are shunned in favour of other Australian or international cities remains to be seen, but on the face of it the events of the last week certainly will not help the cause.

This potential to forsake an untold amount of investment in Melbourne would have surely been enough to prompt the current Victorian Government to approach changes to the Melbourne Planning Scheme in a more thoughtful, encompassing manner… apparently not.

Lead image courtesy fastcodesign.com
</body></html>

Amenity

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Amenity

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.