<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property</a> has received development approval for Archer &amp; Albert, a 32-storey, mixed-use residential development in the heart of Chatswood.

Located at 57–61 Archer Street and 34 Albert Avenue, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/archer-albert-chatswood-57-61-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">Archer &amp; Albert</a> will deliver 150 new homes, including affordable housing, alongside ground-floor and podium retail, commercial space, a heritage house activated as a café, additional ground-level activation, and a landscaped publicly accessible park designed for community use.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/archer-albert-chatswood-57-61-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">Archer &amp; Albert</a> is one of the few large-scale residential developments in the heart of Chatswood City to progress through a council-led architectural design competition and secure development approval, positioning it at the forefront of design led housing.&nbsp;

<img alt="Archer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33cb754a-1493-4203-bd16-096d320597f6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A%2BA_C03_EXT_StreetScape_ID1.jpg?VersionId=oLUPFVAMxuRUTH1Bwki16R48cEo.vLeB" />

Designed by global architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, long-term collaborators of the Coronation team, the project draws inspiration from the Sydney Blue Gum High Forest and the leafy character of the South Chatswood Heritage Conservation Area. The design integrates a restored heritage-listed home and establishes a landscaped connection between Chatswood’s urban centre and its surrounding residential neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

“This is an important project for us and our first entry into the North Shore,” said Joe Nahas, Managing Director of &nbsp;Coronation Property.&nbsp;

“We are deliberate about where we invest and build, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a> stands out because the fundamentals are already strong. Transport, employment, education, retail and health are all in place. Archer &amp; Albert is about adding new housing into a centre that already works and building on what exists.”&nbsp;

<img alt="Chatswood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="620fcd78-00be-489b-823a-ca353387b91b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A%2BA_C04_EXT_PARK_HA_ID2.jpg?VersionId=NxSl04Zl1rzt94xlXNA6CNzSR9XMyLgP" />

Aras Labutis, Head of Urban Transformation at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property</a>, said the project reflects a disciplined, collaborative approach to city shaping.&nbsp;

“Chatswood sits at an important junction between high-density commercial activity and established residential &nbsp;neighbourhoods," Labutis said.

"Our focus for Archer &amp; Albert was to manage that transition carefully, respecting what’s already there &nbsp;while contributing something new that feels deliberate and enduring."

The approved scheme delivers:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>A 32-storey mixed-use tower comprising 150 homes, including 41 affordable housing dwellings • 530sqm of ground-floor retail, dining and commercial offerings&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A 760sqm wellness tenancy integrated within the podium&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A restored heritage building, thoughtfully reimagined as a café overlooking the park&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A landscaped public park, designed as a calm green retreat in the heart of Chatswood&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Resident amenities include a premium gym, golf simulator, mahjong room, dedicated wellness areas, private &nbsp;dining facilities and a curated wine room&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Deep private balconies designed to capture outlooks and northern light&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A refined material palette of natural stone, timber and terracotta&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=29796]

Joel Robinson

Coronation receives green light for Archer & Albert apartments in Chatswood

Leading Sydney developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a>, in partnership with Metrics Credit Partners, has officially broken ground on its landmark $1.8 billion Kings Bay Village project in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/five-dock-nsw-2046">Five Dock</a>, marking the beginning of construction on one of the most significant urban renewal precincts within the Parramatta Road Corridor.

A sod-turning ceremony was held at the project site on Parramatta Road, with NSW Premier Chris Minns and NSW Planning Minister Paul Scully joining Deicorp Chairman Fouad Deiri OAM and Metrics CEO and Managing Partner Andrew Lockhart, to mark the significant milestone.

Located at 129-154 Parramatta Road, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kings-bay-village-five-dock-53-75-queens-road-five-dock-nsw-2046">Kings Bay Village</a> will transform more than three hectares of underutilised land into a highly connected new neighbourhood comprising 1,185 homes, including 218 affordable dwellings for essential workers, alongside new retail, commercial, and community spaces.

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Designed by award-winning architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/turner-studio">TURNER</a>, the precinct blends crafted brick architecture with a pedestrian-focused urban layout across six buildings of varying scale. The project will deliver 14,700sqm of retail and commercial space, 6,500sqm of public open space, and a new 2,290sqm landscaped park and civic plaza that will form the social heart of the community.

Kings Bay Village is positioned minutes from the future Five Dock Metro Station, supporting the NSW Government and City of Canada Bay Council’s shared ambition for a more connected, liveable and revitalised Parramatta Road Corridor. Deicorp will also contribute more than $80 million towards new and upgraded local infrastructure, including pedestrian laneways, an activated streetscape and significant public domain works.

Fouad Deiri OAM, Chairman of Deicorp, said Kings Bay Village represents a defining opportunity for Sydney’s Inner West.

&nbsp;“Today marks the beginning of a precinct that will deliver lasting benefits for the Five Dock community - new homes, new open spaces, and a vibrant mixed-use environment that brings people closer to transport, services and amenities,"&nbsp;Deiri says.

“We are proud to be delivering much-needed housing, including affordable homes for essential workers, in partnership with the NSW Government and the City of Canada Bay. Kings Bay Village is urban renewal at its best - thoughtful, connected and community-focused.”

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Metrics CEO and Managing Partner Andrew Lockhart said the company is proud to support more housing and infrastructure in a key Sydney corridor. 
&nbsp; 
“Metrics and Deicorp share a proven track record of delivering high-impact projects that align closely with the NSW Government’s housing and infrastructure priorities. Kings Bay Village marks our most significant Sydney development to date, offering quality homes, essential infrastructure, and dynamic public spaces.” 
&nbsp; 
“This project reflects our ongoing commitment to creating value by supporting economic growth, job creation, and delivering excellent outcomes for our investors,” he said.

With Kings Bay Village now underway, Deicorp’s pipeline of apartments under construction across Sydney has increased to 5,102. Kings Bay Village is scheduled for completion in Q2 of 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146120]

NSW Premier and Planning Minister join Deicorp and Metrics to break ground on $1.8 billion Kings Bay Village precinct

When Antoinette Chan and her architect husband, Peter began casually searching for an investment property, they weren’t expecting it to evolve into a life-changing family decision.

But one visit to the display suite of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a>’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/koyo-crows-nest-1-11-rodborough-avenue-crows-nest-nsw-2065">KOYO</a> development in Crows Nest changed everything, and sparked a remarkable story of three generations choosing to live side by side in one of the suburb's most architecturally-striking new developments.

Antoinette, her mother Janet Khoo, and her sister, who is currently living in Singapore, each purchased an apartment in the same building, creating a rare and meaningful multi-generational living arrangement underpinned by modern design, community values, and premium convenience.

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“It wasn’t planned,” says Antoinette, who purchased a three-bedroom garden apartment with her husband and teenage daughter. “Peter came across KOYO and encouraged me to visit because he had a lot of respect for Abadeen’s previous work. As soon as we saw it, we knew it wasn’t just an investment, this was a home.”

Shortly after, Antoinette suggested her mother, Janet Khoo, take a look at the same development. A long-time inner-city resident who had recently sold her property in The Rocks, Janet had experienced some health setbacks and was contemplating a move closer to her daughter.

“I walked into the display apartment, and it just felt right,” says Janet. “I didn’t look anywhere else. The space, the simplicity of the design, the light, everything gave me a sense of peace. It’s a new beginning, but it also feels like home.”

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In a stroke of serendipity, Janet selected the two-bedroom apartment next door to her daughter, completely unaware of Antoinette’s purchase. Around the same time, Antoinette’s sister, who resides in Singapore, viewed the property via a virtual tour and chose to buy the apartment directly above Janet’s.

“We were all drawn to KOYO individually, and it just happened that our homes ended up vertically stacked, ground, first, and second floor,” Antoinette laughs. “It was a coincidence, but also a sign. This is where we’re meant to be.”

Designed by celebrated architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/koichi-takada-architects">Koichi Takada</a>, KOYO delivered on all fronts for the Chan-Khoo family.

“Our garden apartment gives us the feel of a standalone home but with none of the maintenance,” says Antoinette. “All three bedrooms open onto a generous private garden, which is perfect for our dog Archie, and for entertaining. The open-plan layout and high ceilings make it feel airy, calm and luxurious.”

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For Janet, security and accessibility were top priorities, and KOYO offered the ideal balance.

“At my age, I didn’t want to be climbing stairs,” she explains. “The first-floor apartment opens directly to the garden, and the building is small, which gives it a more personal, village-like feel. Yet I’m just steps away from my daughter and granddaughter. That gives me so much peace of mind.”

The family also appreciated the thoughtful amenities that avoided the excesses of some larger developments.

“We didn’t want a complex with too many facilities we wouldn’t use,” explains Antoinette. “KOYO has everything we need, generous storage, secure parking, beautifully landscaped walkways, and a stunning rooftop terrace with BBQ facilities that feels serene rather than busy.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=355428]

The location was another critical factor in the family’s decision. Though they had always lived closer to Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Antoinette says the transformation of Crows Nest was a revelation.

“When we returned from living overseas, we discovered Crows Nest had become this vibrant, walkable hub,” she says. “We love being able to stroll to cafés, restaurants, and shops on Willoughby Road. The new Metro makes the commute into the CBD effortless, and our daughter can walk to her school, it’s just next door."

Janet agree. “I was worried about giving up my inner-city lifestyle, but I’ve fallen in love with this area. It has everything I need, supermarkets, quiet streets, friendly faces, and it’s all a short walk away. I feel safe, independent, and connected.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=356085]

While design and location were important, the family also credits their decision to Abadeen’s reputation and responsiveness. With decades of experience delivering high-quality residential projects, Abadeen’s track record helped build trust during a volatile market period.

“The waiting game was tough, especially after selling my old apartment,” says Janet. “But the Abadeen team kept me updated every step of the way. They were professional, courteous, and transparent.”

Antoinette said Peter works in property and had already heard of Abadeen. "The quality of their work really impressed us, and as the project neared completion, they went above and beyond to keep us informed and supported. That level of communication is rare.”

Only a handful of three-bedroom residences remain for sale, priced from $3.5 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108800]

Three generations, one address: How a family found sanctuary and connection at Abadeen's KOYO in Crows Nest

Sydney-based developer Gold Partners Australia is making its move on the Gold Coast, launching what is one of the most affordable towers to the booming Broadbeach market.

Its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harmony-on-broadbeach-2797-gold-coast-highway-broadbeach-qld-4218">Harmony on Broadbeach</a> project, just 400m from the beach, has prices starting from $975,000 for its two-bedroom apartments that measure nearly 90 sqm internally.

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There will be 113 two- and three-bedroom apartments spread out across the 33-storey tower on the 1,201 sqm site that will front First Avenue. Gold Partners Australia, which has delivered several major projects in Sydney's Norwest and has an active pipeline with projects in Hornsby and Carlingford, secured the block vacant, and want to start preliminary site works early next year through their in-house construction capability.

DBI Architects designed the tower with a four-level podium which will have an open-air swimming pool, sun deck, outdoor lounges, alfresco dining spaces, and a gym with adjoining yoga lawn. A hospitality venue will anchor the building at street level.

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Olympus Property Group is selling Harmony on Broadbeach on behalf of Gold Partners Australia. Olympus Director Deanna Lockett says the project is resonating with everyone from locals, investors, those moving from interstate, and second home buyers from Brisbane.

"There's been nothing new come to the market in Broadbeach at this price point for nearly a year," Lockett recalls. "It hits the sweet spot of affordability, good sized apartments, in a great location."

Construction will commence in Q2 2026, and wrap up, all going well, by the end of 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113098]

Harmony on Broadbeach launches to booming Gold Coast suburb

Display apartments play a crucial role in helping buyers imagine how a space will look and feel once complete.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004">The Albertine</a> in Melbourne, development giant Mirvac has partnered with furniture maker and retailer MCM House to create a fully furnished, full-scale prototype that showcases the proportions, finishes, and design intent of the project’s three-bedroom residences.

As an added incentive, purchasers of any two- or three-bedroom apartment can receive up to $50,000 worth of MCM House furniture, allowing them to curate their new home with the same craftsmanship, contemporary design, and aesthetic showcased in the display apartment.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ae2e947b-2d51-4288-88fa-a35638e3be0f" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004"><img alt="Albertine" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-25%20at%209.27.26%E2%80%AFAM_1.png?VersionId=T5uSwgtTFwd1m5EdQF1inB.tBDgxqbtZ" /></a>

Oversized sofas, solid timber dining tables, and relaxed, low-profile seating demonstrate how the space accommodates real furniture, helping buyers clearly visualise how their new apartment could look, complete with pieces that genuinely suit the scale and design of the home.

The styling is simple but deliberate, with materials that pick up on the apartment’s natural light and neutral tones, creating cohesion without crowding the space.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="355f10d8-ee75-4546-a42e-4a54abcc806e" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004"><img alt="Albertine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e0b920b-3f17-47f0-8885-f67697a5f842" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-25%20at%201.17.07%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=tPcmBls5kt_SLqE2ONXrxgk5SnC1xERs" /></a>

Mirvac is now welcoming buyers through the display at The Albertine. Quietly yet conveniently positioned just off St Kilda Road on Queens Road, the development has attracted strong interest from inner-Melbourne and Bayside downsizers, professional couples seeking luxurious low-maintenance living, and design-focused buyers who want proximity to the CBD.

Apartments have been designed by Mirvac's inhouse design team with owner-occupiers at the forefront.&nbsp;The living and dining areas open directly onto a balcony, reinforcing the project’s emphasis on indoor-outdoor flow, while kitchens feature integrated appliances and soft-curve cabinetry which mirror the larger architectural themes at play throughout the building.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8f9b371-17e1-4122-a615-074113096135" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004"><img alt="Albertine" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-25%20at%209.30.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NCYvtMavnE1_YDhX6slAr7g84MWP0Ymp" /></a>

The Albertine offers one to four-bedroom residences complemented by exclusive resident-only amenity, including The Circadian Club, a wellness centre with an indoor pool and spa, gym, yoga and Pilates studio, and sauna, as well as The Elysian Room, a private dining space on level 10 with sweeping views across Melbourne.

Mirvac will welcome residents to The Albertine in 2026, having recently celebrated topping out the&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a>&nbsp;recently topped out&nbsp; the topping out of The Albertine, with completion expected in 2026.

To find out more about the generous furniture offer with MCM House, enquire below.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138659]

Mirvac unveils The Albertine display, offering up to $50k in MCM House furniture

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;

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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;

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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;

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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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.

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“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.

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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;

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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.

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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

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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
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Olivia Round

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

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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
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silvermb

Martin Brothers sees the rooftop amenities area take precedence across Brisbane 

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...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.
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Three bedroom apartments are in vogue, but...

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

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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.
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Laurence Dragomir

Docklands continues to embrace its surrounds with the Village Street upgrade

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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
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