Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Apartments

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Developer Milieu Property has stepped up in scale with their latest residential project.

Specialising in small scale developments to date with a slant toward progressive urban design, the firm has now taken 121 Lygon Street on the western side of Lygon Street to planning. Larger than the developer's previous projects, the development would be inserted into an evolving Lygon Street streetscape which over recent years has seen the completion of numerous apartment buildings.

Along for the ride is regular cohort Fieldwork who have created a design outcome very much in line with their signature look.

<h2>121 Lygon Street application summary</h2>

<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/image81_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lygon Street hero perspective. Image: Fieldwork"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="513" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image81_0.jpg?itok=dj_If0G-" title="Lygon Street hero perspective. Image: Fieldwork" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lygon Street hero perspective. Image: Fieldwork</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site area: 1,382 square metres</li>
	<li>Apartments to Lygon Street, townhouses to secondary Edward Street frontage</li>
	<li>56 dwellings: 5 x 1BR, 39 x 2BR, 4 x 3BR, 8 x TH</li>
	<li>Ground floor retail/cafe: 163 square metres</li>
	<li>3 basement levels: 71 vehicles and 76 private/visitor bicycle bays</li>
	<li>152 square metre rooftop terrace</li>
</ul>
<h2>Designing for Brunswick East</h2>

<blockquote>
119A - 121 Lygon Street proposes a bold, considered residential project which responds to the evolving context of East Brunswick. The design speaks to the site’s dual interface: the active, bustling and developing Lygon Street and the finer grain residential character of Edward Street.

Through formal articulation, a considered material palette and sensitive treatment of the ground floor interface, the proposal mediates these two conditions and that speaks to both future and existing contexts.

It sets a strong, contextually responsive precedent for future development of the area which positively embraces growth.
<cite>Fieldwork design report</cite>
</blockquote>

In a broader sense 121 Lygon Street is a continuation of Fieldwork's trademark look that has seen the firm shoot to prominence.

The townhouse component fronting Edward Street takes design cues, particularly in the brick work presentation, from other Fieldwork projects such as <a href="http://www.fieldworkprojects.com.au/projects/ruskin-st-elwood">Ruskin Street</a>, <a href="http://www.fieldworkprojects.com.au/projects/clyde-st">Clyde Street</a> and <a href="http://www.fieldworkprojects.com.au/projects/armadale-townhouses">Armadale</a>. The taller structure fronting Lygon Street is also typical of a mid-rise Fieldwork project.

In this regard 121 Lygon Street is straight out of the Fieldword playbook, and features vertically ribbed concrete panels akin to their other designs such as <a href="http://www.fieldworkprojects.com.au/projects/patch-apartments">Patch Apartments</a> and <a href="/developments/fitzroy-north-vic-3068">249 Queens Parade</a>.

<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/image80_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Townhouses fronting Edward Street. Image: Fieldwork"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image80_3.jpg?itok=w74rlWCQ" title="Townhouses fronting Edward Street. Image: Fieldwork" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Townhouses fronting Edward Street. Image: Fieldwork</figcaption></figure>The Lygon Street application reinforces Milieu Property's liking for Melbourne's inner northern suburbs.

Of late all of the developer's pursuits have been confined to Fitzroy, Collingwood, Brunswick and surrounding suburbs. On the tail end of Collingwood's Peel Street reaching completion, the developer's pipeline includes another Collingwood project dubbed Bedford By Milieu and Breese Street in Brunswick.

According to Milieu Property the latter project is a joint design effort between DKO Architecture and Breathe Architecture, and will include 1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments with a targeted 7.5-star sustainability rating outcome.

<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/image79_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Previous Milieu and Fieldwork collaborations. Images: Fieldwork"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="272" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image79_7.jpg?itok=tuiKST0L" title="Previous Milieu and Fieldwork collaborations. Images: Fieldwork" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Previous Milieu and Fieldwork collaborations. Images: Fieldwork</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Milieu Property moves on Lygon Street's established apartment strip

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Further change to Chapel Street's streetscape could be on the way should a new development application lodged with Stonnington City council from joint venture proponents Franzé developments and Sampieri Group gain approval.

Located across addresses 430-438 Chapel Street and adjacent to the Temperance Hotel, Franzé and Sampieri have proposed a 7 level mixed-use building that would see retail, commercial/office and residential spaces. Located in South Yarra's Activity Centre Zone 1, the site is covered by a heritage overlay.

The retention of the heritage facade 'has provided an opportunity to distinguish two unique retail tenancies' according to the proponents. At 800 square metres, the site was purchased on the market late in 2017 with Jackson Clement Burrows installed as the proposal's design lead.

22 one, two and three bedroom apartments are included. The ground floor retail spaces weighs in at 550 square metres with 1,000 square metres of commercial office space across two levels.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
This project will form an important part of the ongoing development of the Chapel Street precinct which is going through vital progression and change with the recent announcements regarding the redevelopment of the Jam Factory and former Spotlight sites.

“The site has the benefits of two significantly different streetscapes which make it a really exciting project. The Chapel Street interface will provide a more traditional retail and food and beverage offering, aiming to attract premium tenants which will help improve the overall quality of the pedestrian experience and promote further patronage
<cite>Paul Franzé, Managing Director of Franzé Developments</cite>
</blockquote>

The proposal seeks to have two active frontages, one to Chapel Street and one to Bray Street running parallel to Chapel on the eastern aspect of the site.

The Bray Street frontage includes a pocket park that has been designed by Aspect Studios and is intended to be a flexible, functional public space that includes seating, green infrastructure incorporating water sensitive design that according to the proponents will be 'ideal for community and potential food and beverage use'.

Podium heights will differ depending on the street - on Chapel Street the podium is 3 levels and designed to fit comfortably with the scale of neighbouring structures and to Bray Street the podium will be 5 levels in height.

<blockquote>
The three-level frontage to Chapel Street sits comfortably with the scale of the neighbouring structures and the tower form above is generously set back.

A five-level podium to Bray Street hugs the tower form, creating the illusion of three interlocking components and the soft and monochromatic façade is a considered and sensitive transition between the neighbouring contemporary and traditional structures.
</blockquote>

The development application was lodged with Stonnington City Council late last year, and joins additional current project in both Melbourne and Geelong.

<h2>430-438 Chapel Street Project Team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: joint venture of Franzé Developments and Sampieri Group</li>
	<li>Architect: Jackson Clement Burrows</li>
	<li>Planning: proUrban</li>
	<li>Landscape Design: Aspect Studios</li>
</ul>
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Alastair Taylor

Franzé Developments & Sampieri Group eye off Chapel Street

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The year's first large-scale permitted site to be offered for sale will see Dexus Property Group exit as the long-term holder of 32 Flinders Street.

Dexus has over recent years headed a planning push to have the site find a different purpose, eventually gaining approval for two residential buildings onsite that could yield hundreds of new apartments overlooking Birrarung Marr and surrounds. The prospective buyer will not only have the right to develop the property, but could also maintain the existing commercial asset. 

Agent CBRE City Sales have the task of moving on the property which currently holds 546 car spaces and generates a net income in excess of $2 million annually.

<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/image114_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A different perspective at a different height. Image: SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image114_0_0.jpg?itok=3HUlERdS" title="A different perspective at a different height. Image: SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A different perspective at a different height. Image: SJB Architects</figcaption></figure>The site is listed as holding approval for 47 levels to Flinders Street and a more modest 14 levels building to Flinders Lane. This is down from the original version that has sought a 212 metre outcome including 625 dwellings. The height of the SJB Architects-designed tower has fallen to 175 metres AHD so as not to cast a shadow within 15 metres of the north bank of the Yarra.

The development did gain support form planning officers at 191 metres AHD, and Dexus subsequently lodged an appeal with VCAT over the eventual height. With that effort failing, Dexus's apartment yield for the development would have likely fallen in excess of 20 percent since the project's initial visit to planning.

Alongside the apartment towers, the scheme also involves an extensive ground floor reconfiguration, enhancing pedestrian network connections and at one stage had intended to gift the private portion of Spark Lane to Melbourne City Council.

<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/image2dex.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new and improved Flinders Street frontage may eventuate. Image: Dexus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="368" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2dex.jpg?itok=ww9zgK6H" title="A new and improved Flinders Street frontage may eventuate. Image: Dexus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new and improved Flinders Street frontage may eventuate. Image: Dexus</figcaption></figure>Currently, the car park adds little to the Flinders Street urban realm. The prospect if it making way for a new and activated building along with the expansion of the adjoining Lindrum Hotel does raise the likelihood of the rejuvenation of the urban realm in this portion of the CBD.

Under the development application expectations, a rebirthed 32 Flinders Street would:

<ul>
<li>Providing a new pedestrian connection from Flinders Lane to Sargood Lane</li>
	<li>Providing new retail activation &amp; interfaces</li>
	<li>Consolidating vehicular access at Flinders Street, away from the laneways</li>
	<li>Allowing Spark Lane to be optimised by removing the existing 5 level car parking link bridge above</li>
	<li>Providing a new lobby address to Spark Lane by gifting MCC with private land</li>
	<li>Allowing for greater passive surveillance throughout the area</li>
</ul>
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Dexus opts out of Flinders Street and opens the door to a new urban realm

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Melbourne's suburban apartment market is in full swing. With record numbers of active apartment projects across the suburbs, the spike in development activity has allowed a bevvy of small and medium-sized builders to capitalise upon the favourable market conditions.

Citi-con is one such builder that falls into this category; the Footscray-based apartment constructor has increased its project output in recent years, now holding eight current builds across its books. Latest to the ledger are three freshly signed-off apartment projects in Hawthorn East, Malvern East and Essendon.

Brasshouse Apartments which has been in the Apartments.com.au Project Database since early 2015 is the eye-catching project of the trio. At one point fellow builder Trio Construct was listed as Brasshouse's contractor, but Citi-con has since snared the build on behalf of K7 Developments.

Brasshouse repeats the partnership between developer and builder, with Citi-con completing the Rothelowman-designed Canterbury Hill for K7 Developments at the turn of 2017. Also the work of Rothelowman, Brasshouse will include 48 dwellings.

<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/image7_17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Brasshouse. Image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="407" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_17.jpg?itok=6Hlp_y4-" title="Brasshouse. Image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Brasshouse. Image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>Next on Citi-con's agenda is Volume Malvern East. It first surfaced during 2014 and was <a href="/news/some-architects-eat-style-for-malvern-east">likened to Darth Vader</a> in appearance by creator Architects EAT. Although the project has lost its then decisive black and purple exterior, plus an additional level, Architects EAT have remained as architect for the development backed by VOLUME Projects.

On the intersection of Emo and Dandenong Roads, Volume's sales were handled by Est8 Agency. It contains 29 apartments across 4 levels of living.

Volume is one of 22 apartment projects within Apartments.com.au's Malvern East Database capture; it will be the sixth project currently under construction within the suburb, amounting to 666 new dwellings.

<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/image8_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Volume. Image: Architects EAT"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="357" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image8_15.jpg?itok=EK3muDLj" title="Volume. Image: Architects EAT" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Volume. Image: Architects EAT</figcaption></figure>Rounding out Citi-con new trio is the less adventurously designed and named 222 Buckley Street, Essendon.

In a constrained pocket of apartment developments that includes the stylish <a href="https://images.listonce.com.au/listings/305193-buckley-street-essendon-vic-3040/822/00482822_img_05_1600x.jpg?1">195 Buckley Street</a>, 222 Buckley Street will see four levels of living containing 25 apartments above basement car parking. Closest to construction commencement, the design is attributed to The Silver Arc.

Combined the three above projects add 100 plus apartments to the builder's pipeline. Amalgamated with Citi-con's at construction projects, namely Pica, Modern, Punton, Fitz&amp; Co plus Moore Moonee Ponds, and the builder has approximately 275 apartments under construction.

<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/main_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="222 Buckley. Image: The Silver Arc"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/main_5.jpg?itok=MmvMkxEi" title="222 Buckley. Image: The Silver Arc" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>222 Buckley. Image: The Silver Arc</figcaption></figure>
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Citi-Con scores a trio of apartment builds

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One of Fishermans Bend's largest development applications is tonight poised to score a victory of sorts, with City of Melbourne officers urging management to support a massive development at 162-188 Turner Street, Port Melbourne.

Council officers have recommended support for the project of five towers, or nearly 1,500 apartments which would sit on a roughly 21,000 square metre plot abutting both Citylink and the West Gate Freeway. City of Melbourne's support shapes as a boost for proponent Springbank Properties Pty Ltd who have taken the matter to VCAT, owing to the Planning Minister's failure to determine the application within the prescribed time.

Springbank Properties Pty Ltd's Managing Director is Bede Noonan, who also doubles as the Chief Executive Officer of ACCIONA Geotech. Geotech is one of the more active participants in Melbourne development industry, providing geotechnical construction works across a wide range of projects.

In a <a href="https://engage.vic.gov.au/application/files/6715/1355/4309/Submission_104_-_Springbank_Properties_Pty_Ltd.pdf">submission to the Fishermans Bend Planning Review Panel</a>, Mr Noonan outlined the history of 162-188 Turner Street's application which was submitted during 2015, whilst also rejecting proposed planning provisions across the site which would stymie the application in its current form.

<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/image1_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site aerial. Image: Springbank Properties"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="369" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_9.jpg?itok=b00U2dW7" title="Site aerial. Image: Springbank Properties" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Site aerial. Image: Springbank Properties</figcaption></figure>According to City of Melbourne's <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/about-council/committees-meetings/meeting-archive/MeetingAgendaItemAttachments/805/14439/AGENDA%20ITEM%206.3.pdf">report</a> on the Turner Street application, five towers would appear onsite in a staged development process.

The sum result would see 1,483 apartments, 8,856 square metres of office, 2,743 square metres of retail, 876 car parking spaces and 1,375 bicycle parking spaces created via the Rothelowman-designed scheme. Refined over time, the latest iteration sees a drop in apartment numbers, office space more than double and car parking capacity diminish by 20%.

Dual basketball courts plus 297 square metres community space are also included.

Currently their head office, ACCIONA Geotech have indicated they would account for a portion of the office space located across the lower levels of the project when built. Three of the five intended towers would peak at the 40 level mark, with the remaining duo terminating at 36 and 28 levels.

<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/image31_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level perspective. Concept image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="257" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image31_8.jpg?itok=A-0UJ2oE" title="Ground level perspective. Concept image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level perspective. Concept image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>Although supportive of the application, City of Melbourne has sought a reduction in the height of one tower in order to reduce overshadowing to a future open space. Council would also like to implement increased dwelling and land use diversity, plus add a tangible affordable housing component.

Owing to the demise or moderation of a number of other projects within Fishermans Bend, 162-188 Turner Street shapes as one of the largest applications still in play within the Urban Renewal Area.
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The latest Fishermans Bend developer with a spring in their step?

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Not a week after Apartments.com.au noted the submission of a tower for a vacant corner West Melbourne block, plans for the project have been revealed.

What is shown is practice ClarkeHopkinsClarke's definitive foray into high-rise apartment design. Proponent City Gate Pty Ltd is backing plans for a 20-storey development for 404-418 Spencer Street, a site immediately south of the recently finished Spencer Melbourne which is double the height of the prospective tower.

Landing with City of Melbourne during January, 404-418 Spencer Street potentially sees the end of the corner block's underuse; the 1,070 square metre plot has been vacant for some years.

<h2>404-418 Spencer Street application summary</h2>

<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/image94_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Active street level interface. Image: Orbit Visualization"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="281" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image94_2.jpg?itok=6TF6M0H-" title="Active street level interface. Image: Orbit Visualization" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Active street level interface. Image: Orbit Visualization</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application lodged 16/01/2018</li>
	<li>Proposed 20 level tower at 66.3 metres</li>
	<li>177 apartments of consisting of 92 x 1 bedrooms and 85 x 2 bedrooms</li>
	<li>Communal area of 690 square metres</li>
	<li>287 square metres of retail over 3 spaces</li>
	<li>48 car parking spaces within 2 basement levels plus 94 bicycle bays</li>
	<li>16,779 square metre GFA at a FAR of 13.7:1</li>
	<li>Anticipated development cost of $55.1 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Design statement</h2>

Key design factors and assertions regarding the tower's design have been outlined by Urbis within the planning documents:

<blockquote>
At ground level, glazing has been maximised to the retail spaces and the apartment lobby, providing views from the public realm into the development and enhancing pedestrian amenity. Above, darker metal cladding has been used to provide solidity to the podium and the appearance of a stronger street wall. 

Strong white vertical and horizontal banding provides visual interest to the façade, which, when coupled with glazing in varying grey tones, provides visual depth and verticality.

The proposal will not result in unacceptable visual bulk, with the facades highly articulated. As such, the proposal accords with the design objectives of Clause 22.17.

To the north, the proposed 2 metre setback will provide a minimum separation of 8.8 metres, increasing to 12.4 metres to the west. Although the neighbouring development provides greater tower setbacks, the building is 11 storeys higher than the proposed and sits atop a heritage building. Thus, increased setbacks assist to minimise visual impacts of the tower and reduce dominance of the higher built form. 
</blockquote>

<h2>Going green up top</h2>

ClarkeHopkinsClarke have included typical amenities atop the podium by way of a gym and outdoor pool.

It is the roof level though where 404-418 Spencer Street is looking to distinguish itself. Near on 600 square metres is set aside as a heavily greened rooftop terrace which is set to include a substantial area dedicated toward productive gardens, a dining area and breakout spaces.

In and among the heavy planting schedule, four distinct zones are envisaged based upon their respective solar access. These zones will cater for smaller root vegetables and above ground plantings through to potential citrus and walnut groves.

In its submitted form 404-418 Spencer Street would be one of a few contemporary designs and/or developments that fully embraces city of Melbourne's <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/building-and-development/sustainable-building/Pages/rooftop-project.aspx">Rooftop Project</a> initiative.

<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/image95_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective. Image: Orbit Visualization"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="662" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image95_3.jpg?itok=xpyOPWma" title="Hero perspective. Image: Orbit Visualization" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective. Image: Orbit Visualization</figcaption></figure><h2>404-418 Spencer Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: City Gate Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architectural Plans and Urban Design Report: Clarke Hopkins Clarke</li>
	<li>Planning and Landscape Design Report: Urbis</li>
	<li> Visuals: Orbit Visualization</li>
	<li>Acoustic Assessment: SLR</li>
	<li>Arborist Report: Tree Map Arboriculture</li>
	<li>Pedestrian Wind Environment Statement: Windtech Consultants</li>
	<li>Traffic and Transport Assessment: Cardno</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Irwin Consult</li>
	<li>Sustainable and Stormwater Management Plan: Wood &amp; Grieve Engineers</li>
</ul>
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West Melbourne's latest tower on show

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Located at 54 A'beckett Street, the 55-storey Avant has topped out months ahead of schedule, with builder Probuild citing its use of its innovative construction methodology – The Probuild Construction System (PCS) -  as a key factor in achieving this significant milestone.

Designed by Elenberg Fraser for Singaporean developer World Class Global, Avant will upon completion feature 456 residential apartments comprising a mix of one, two and three bedrooms.

The 167m high tower boasts 18,500m2 of distinctive façade with custom coloured glazing and feature diagrid fins that envelop the entire building. Currently installed to level 51, this façade was directly procured by Probuild from premium suppliers in China.

<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/cam066_20180207_19_01_49.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Webcam photo of the now topped-out Avant. Image : Probuild"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cam066_20180207_19_01_49.jpg?itok=WmsvvLAa" title="Webcam photo of the now topped-out Avant. Image : Probuild" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Webcam photo of the now topped-out Avant. Image : Probuild</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
We’re delivering a lot of the future Melbourne skyline right now. With so many high-rise projects on the go, you develop expertise and get very efficient at what you do.

The PCS is our efficiency methodology borrowed from the automotive industry. They’ve been doing this for years. We’re currently in development linking our supply chain system, with IOT monitoring and digital payment system both integrated. It’s a very exciting time in construction.

“The level of efficiency we’re seeing at Avant is equally impressive. PCS has again enabled us to top out months ahead of schedule, and it’s looking like we’ll be handing over to our client World Class Global well in advance as well. 

 - Probuild Victorian Managing Director, Luke Stambolis
</blockquote>

Avant joins a growing suite of other towers delivered or under construction by Probuild in the northern CBD including MY80, its sister building Empire, Victoria One and Aurora Melbourne Central, which will become the tallest tower in the Melbourne CBD.

Architects Elenberg Fraser describe the tower's lace-like facade as reminiscent of fishnets, with the colour of the glazing inspired by their client's family jewellery business. The tower's corners are also chamfered within each facade segment, emphasising the lattice's pattern while also addressing wind concerns. With the neighbouring MY80 building in close proximity, directional fins have been applied to provide privacy while still maintaining views out.

<blockquote>
We weren’t afraid to bring logic to the foreground of Avant – our new slender, 55 storey residential tower on A’Beckett Street. The structural elements that govern the building’s massing are articulated through a geometric pattern spread across the building’s surface.

This distinctive façade clearly shows the structural density is compressed into the base of the building, stretching out to the top. But Avant has a softer side as well: the lace-like exo skeleton and chamfered corners create a delicate fishnet effect – our formula? Super structure + super graphic = super surface.

There is even a story behind the vivid violet glazing – a nod to the heritage of the developer World Class Land and their parent company Aspial, whose family jewellery business patented the precious alloys to create purple gold.

- Elenberg Fraser
</blockquote>

Probuild is scheduled to hand over 203 apartments, up to level 29 this month before handing over the remaining 253 apartments – along with three levels of residential communal amenities - to Wold Class Global in mid-2018.

PROJECT TEAM

<ul>
<li>Client :World Class Global</li>
	<li>Architect : Elenberg Fraser </li>
	<li>Builder : Probuild</li>
	<li>Project Manager : Sinclair Brook</li>
	<li>Town Planner : Urbis</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor : PLP</li>
	<li>Civil Engineer: WSP</li>
	<li>Fire Engineer: Omni Energy</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor : Reeds </li>
	<li>Quantity Surveyor : WT Partnership </li>
	<li>Services Engineer : Murchie Consulting</li>
	<li>Acoustic Engineer : Murchie Consulting</li>
	<li>Landscape Architect : Tract</li>
	<li>Waste Consultant : Leigh Design</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant : Murchie Consulting</li>
	<li>Wind Engineer : Mel Consultants</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineer: TTM Consulting</li>
	<li>Structural Engineer : WSP Structures</li>
	<li>Mechanical Engineer : Murchie Consulting </li>
	<li>Hydraulic Engineer : Murchie Consulting</li>
</ul>
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Laurence Dragomir

Probuild tops out World Class Global's Avant ahead of schedule

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Nightingale 1 now stands directly opposite The Commons in Florence Street Brunswick (which acted as the test bed project for the wider Nightingale series) as the completed first project in the mushrooming series of development which have social, environmental and financial sustainable goals at their core.

Designed by <a href="http://www.breathe.com.au/nightingale/">Breathe Architecture</a>, the project's completion heralds another landmark in the Nightingale series which has expanded rapidly in recent times due to intense public interest; so much so that <a href="/news/nightingale-housing-plans-seven-buildings-across-brunswicks-duckett-street">7 buildings are planned at nearby Duckett Street</a> in a village like configuration.

Urban.com.au has followed the progress of Nightingale 1 closely, reporting on builder Project Group's <a href="/news/nightingale-1-reaches-a-construction-milestone">topping out</a> of the development last year, with it subsequently reaching completion late last year and now fully occupied.

Nightingale 1 is a five-storey building containing 20 apartments, a ground floor tenancy and rooftop communal gardens. The project slant toward sustainability sees it with an average rating of 8.2 stars, and includes a shared 18kW solar array.

Championing sustainability and ingenuity across the entire series of developments, the forthcoming Nightingale 3 at 209 Sydney Road is likely to be built with cross-laminated timber panels provided by XLam.

<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_4525.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nighingale 1's mural dubbed 'Selene'"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4525.jpg?itok=3RyFOx3S" title="Nighingale 1's mural dubbed 'Selene'" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nighingale 1's mural dubbed 'Selene'</figcaption></figure>Nightingale 1's north and south elevations feature deep-set balconies. The southern facade is finished with a glass screen whilst the northern facade will in time sport a green exterior that will help shield direct summer sunlight exposure.

The development's abbreviated podium features a brick finish, a feature which has become commonplace over other projects in the Nightingale series. At street level design studio Urban Commons have provided Foodscape Plot planter boxes to soften the relationship between building and streetscape.

A striking design feature of Nightingale 1 is the commissioned building-wide mural which will unfortunately not be a permanent sight for passers-by. <a href="/new-apartments/mesh-apartments-8-florence-street-brunswick">Mesh Apartments</a> which is currently at sales adjoins the completed building and will in time cover the massive artwork.

In a nice synergy tying in with the buildings heightened design credentials, Branch Studio Architects are now in residence across a ground floor tenancy.

<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/image56_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale 1's various angles"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="566" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image56_5.jpg?itok=aM5lOL9v" title="Nightingale 1's various angles" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale 1's various angles</figcaption></figure>Nightingale 1's completion rolls into the commencement of another in the series. Earthworks have begun on Nightingale 2 located at 72A Station Street, Fairfield.

Hard against Fairfield railway station, the site is now in the hands of builder Atelier Projects. Six Degrees Architects and sustainability agency HIP V. HYPE are overseeing the project which will add 20 owner occupier apartments to the area.

Not far behind in terms of construction is Nightingale Brunswick East with Liberty Builders announcing during December that it has won the right to build the project. 38 apartments were set aside within the development backed by Lucent Capital, effectively resulting in the project being divided in half to accommodate the Nightingale model.

The building will target an embedded energy network, helping to achieve a 7.5 star NatHers energy rating.

<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/1715littlemiller_lucentcapital_external_cafecopy_cg.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale Brunswick East is poised to begin construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="303" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1715littlemiller_lucentcapital_external_cafecopy_cg.jpg?itok=HsTw7F9i" title="Nightingale Brunswick East is poised to begin construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale Brunswick East is poised to begin construction</figcaption></figure>
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Nightingale's initial project reaches completion as more in the series begin construction

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Located just one kilometere from Brighton’s Bay Street retail strip, MAST is the latest apartment development to take advantage of Brighton's bayside location and cosmopolitan lifestyle, which includes a vibrant and diverse mix of restaurants, cafes, bars, nightlife and shopping.

Developed by Graceland and LOI Projects, and designed by The Buchan Group, MAST will comprise 15 boutique residences set across three levels within Martin Village, at 123 Martin Street.

The residences are available in one, two and three-bedroom configurations, with large terraces overlooking the village and providing views to the bay and city skyline. A number of retail spaces are located on the ground floor.

MAST has been designed to take advantage of Brighton’s bayside location and surroundings which include a large range of high-quality services and amenities and with the bay just a short stroll down the road.

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Having a sensitively to the scale and heritage of the village architecture, retaining an existing shop front and the streetscape’s grain and materiality. The building form steps back from the street to mediate scale, and in doing so, creates a sequence of deep terraces and balconies.

A robust design aesthetic is adopted for the apartment building using brick, patterned concrete and zinc cladding, providing a contemporary expression with local authenticity.

The apartment interiors are inspired by the theme of stillness and sanctuary. Soft blue-­‐green undertones, textural elements and natural light evoke a calm, tranquil luxury, delivering a timeless design that acts as a canvas upon which residents can make the apartments their own.

- David Forbes, The Buchan Group Project Principal
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<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/martin_street_-_bedroom.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The apartment interiors are inspired by the theme of stillness and sanctuary says David Forbes of The Buchan Group. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="157" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/martin_street_-_bedroom.jpg?itok=71MJwYtU" title="The apartment interiors are inspired by the theme of stillness and sanctuary says David Forbes of The Buchan Group. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The apartment interiors are inspired by the theme of stillness and sanctuary says David Forbes of The Buchan Group. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>Beller Director of Project Marketing, Heath Thompson cites MAST's spacious open plans, generous storage and luxurious finishes as major selling points, describing the dwellings as "homes more than apartments.” Thompson further outlined the appeal for apartment living in Brighton in a Q&amp;A with Apartments.com.au below:

Apartments.com.au: Do you expect to see further developments like MAST in Brighton?

Heath Thompson: With council planning regulations, land values and developer funding restrictions, these sorts of developments are becoming harder to come by.

In saying that, the marketplace certainly has a strong appetite for apartments with generous living spaces in quality locations, so we hope that more are able to be produced.

UM: Do you think Brighton is an untapped apartment market?

HT: In Brighton, we tend to see very high-end penthouse style residences which can carry some exorbitant price tags. MAST is designed to provide spacious living zones, high-quality fixtures, ample storage solutions, excellent public transport and a Bayside lifestyle without being overly expensive.

UM: Obviously Brighton's bayside location is a major selling point but what are some of the other key aspects of Brighton that make it attractive for developers and prospective purchasers?

HT: The Martin Street village has really developed a cult following. It¹s a quiet strip with fantastic cafes and shops as well as the convenience of the train station. This area hasn¹t reached its peak yet.

UM: What type of buyer demographic will apartment developments such as MAST attract? The down-sizer market or young families? 

HT: MAST is perfectly suited for the down-sizer, professional couple or aspiring first home buyer. The key to this project is the large kitchens and living spaces.

<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/martin_street_living_3.011.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The key to MAST is the large kitchens and living spaces says Beller's Heath Thompson. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/martin_street_living_3.011.jpg?itok=gqh4aJaU" title="The key to MAST is the large kitchens and living spaces says Beller's Heath Thompson. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The key to MAST is the large kitchens and living spaces says Beller's Heath Thompson. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>UM: Beyond the apartments, there will be retail to the ground floor - what sort of retail tenants is the development hoping to attract?

HT: We expect the retail tenancies to be occupied by speciality shops and potentially a café.

UM: How do you see Martin Street evolving over time?

HT: It's well located adjacent to Gardenvale station with the foreshore and bay trail basically down the street. Martin Street has largely been a forgotten gem until the last four or five years.

Now the village has a great feel and has become a destination strip for those seeking an experience away from the hustle and bustle of Bay and Church St. There isn't a great deal of opportunity for future development on Martin Street so there is a good chance that the village will retain its charm over the coming years.
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Brighton's latest development embraces bayside living

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Steller's hefty portfolio of current residential projects continues to tick along, as the developer pursues another multi-level development in Moorabbin.

Sited at 13-15 Taylor Street, the pending project would account for a JAX Tyres outlet, and is a continuance of Steller's preference for apartment projects across Melbourne's South Eastern suburbs. Submitted for approval is a 10-storey mixed-use building created by Steller's in-house design team; a move that sees the developer's long favoured architecture firm Ewert Leaf overlooked on this particular project.

In store are 71 apartments across the 1,254 square metre site which holds a frontage of 30 metres to Taylor Street.

<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/image48_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="13-15 Taylor Street. Planning image: Steller"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="594" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_10.jpg?itok=fn_jFFia" title="13-15 Taylor Street. Planning image: Steller" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>13-15 Taylor Street. Planning image: Steller</figcaption></figure>Steller has veered away somewhat from their stock-in-trade of large two and three bedroom apartments with 13-15 Taylor Street, electing to add 15 studio apartments into the mix. Not often detected through the Apartments.com.au Project Database, the addition of studio dwellings may well be reflective of the target buyer Steller has in mind.

Studio apartments are supplemented by 52 dual bedroom and 4 triple bedroom apartments within the proposal.

3 retail outlets amounting to 268 square metres, an office of 320 square metres and 86 car parking spaces are present across the design's lower levels.

At 32.6 metres in height, the application's east and west facades are its design highlight featuring white angular balconies contrasting against a black background. 

<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_6532_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Taylor Street site with Steller's 11 Central to the rear"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6532_0.jpg?itok=5G0mgJmb" title="The Taylor Street site with Steller's 11 Central to the rear" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Taylor Street site with Steller's 11 Central to the rear</figcaption></figure>This particular pocket of Moorabbin is beginning to receive a heightened degree of residential activity, as suitably sized sites are secured by developers.

First off the rank was PPHA and MAB Corporation's joint 7 level project fronting South Road, followed by Milbex's 10 level Elenberg Fraser-designed apartment project at 6 Station Street Moorabbin.

Most recently completed was Steller's initial high-density project in this pocket of Moorabbin dubbed 11 Central. Settled during 2016, the seven-level buildings is diagonally opposite the Taylor Street development site.

In the event that Steller's latest project gains approval, it would sit next to a Shangri-La Constructions-controlled approved development of 52 apartments at <a href="/buildings/moor-apartments-17-taylor-street-moorabbin">17 Taylor Street</a>.
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