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.

<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/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

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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Clarendon Street's position as a hotel and serviced apartment hub is likely to be strengthened by way of a new tower proposed for 56-62 Clarendon Street.

Already boasting Crown Metropol, Clarendon Street will also see construction commence on a Peppers hotel shortly, and is subject to a substantial hotel proposal as part of the <a href="/news/tea-for-two-southbanks-historic-tea-house-up-for-a-towering-addition">Tea House's prospective redevelopment</a>. In addition to traditional apartments, 56-62 Clarendon Street is proposed to also include 128 serviced apartments across its lower levels.

Submitted late last year, the application on behalf of developer Yang Clarendon.

<h2>56-62 Clarendon 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/image83_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the new Southbank tower. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="925" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image83_3.jpg?itok=BquFwcHB" title="Artist's impression of the new Southbank tower. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the new Southbank tower. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>1,212sqm site current utilised as a Europcar outlet and motor mechanic centre</li>
	<li>Proposed 48 level tower at 151m to roof</li>
	<li>Plot ratio: 22.6:1</li>
	<li>128 Serviced Apartments: 24 x DK 1BR, 56 x DK  Studio, 48 x Studio</li>
	<li>234 apartments: 117 x 1BR, 117 x 2BR</li>
	<li>2 retail spaces fronting Clarendon Street</li>
	<li>372sqm of amenities</li>
	<li>80 car parks &amp; 93 bicycle bays</li>
	<li>GFA: 27,214sqm</li>
</ul>
Fender Katsalidis Architects have designed the tower, with the broader development team having already responded to preliminary DELWP queries during February this year.

<blockquote>
The building facade is designed to give the overall building form a more bold and expressive appearance, with different elements working to define the podium, tower and roof of the building.

At street level the podium appears more bold and dramatic, a point of interest and excitement along the pedestrian street. The tower form appears simpler and lighter, in the background but with the facade design winding its way up towards the top. At roof level the facade folds back along the top, extending the expressive and bold facade up to the roof, to be read from afar at the scale of the wider urban context, if only slightly.
<cite>Urban Context Report</cite>
</blockquote>

At 48 levels, 56-62 Clarendon Street is among the tallest towers in the immediate area; diagonally opposite, BPM's Shadow Play is under construction whilst 334-344 City Road holds approval at 38 levels.

56-62 Clarendon Street carries a similarly themed exterior to a number of other Fender Katsalidis-designed Southbank towers such as Eureka Tower, Australia 108 and 18 Moray Street. Certainly, in the three projects below, gold highlights over a predominantly blue facade has become somewhat of a Southbank norm for the design practice.

<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/image21_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gold over Blue. Images: Yellow Red Fox, Meinhardt &amp; Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="317" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_12.jpg?itok=lgCyXCO6" title="Gold over Blue. Images: Yellow Red Fox, Meinhardt &amp; Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gold over Blue. Images: Yellow Red Fox, Meinhardt &amp; Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure><h2>56-62 Clarendon Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Yang Clarendon</li>
	<li>Architects: Fender Katsalidis Architects</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Breese Pitt Dixon</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: Abdec Building Surveyors</li>
	<li>Structural and Services Engineering: WSP Structural Engineering</li>
	<li>Waste Management: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Wind Consultant: MEL Consultants</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

silvermb

Another substantial Southbank tower emerges

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Brunswick's Nightingale 1 apartment project reached a significant milestone on Friday, with constructor <a href="/builders/project-group-construction">Project Group</a> holding a ‘Topping Out’ ceremony for the build.

Underpinned by the principles of wellbeing and liveability, the Nightingale series of apartment projects are becoming increasingly popular with purchasers, as evidenced by the 2,000 strong waiting list for future Nightingale releases. 

At <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">6 Florence Street Brunswick, Nightingale 1</a> is a five-storey building containing 20 apartments, a ground floor retail space and rooftop communal gardens. The project is aiming for an average rating of 8.2 stars, and includes a shared 18kW solar array.

Nightingale's development and financial model is unique in that it advocates connected communities and sustainability, with capped project profits and a covenant upon resales ensuring affordability is passed on. Nightingale 1 is directly opposite <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-vic-3056">The Commons</a>, which acted as the Nightingale model's test bed project.

<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/image70_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale 1's anticipated outcome"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image70_6.jpg?itok=U1UVailD" title="Nightingale 1's anticipated outcome" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale 1's anticipated outcome</figcaption></figure>Project Group have advanced the <a href="/architects/breathe-architecture">Breathe Architecture-designed</a> Nightingale 1 build to structural completion, and will now ramp up the projects fit out.

Nightingale 1 is one of a swag of residential projects currently under the guidance of Project Group, who have recently added new builds in <a href="/new-apartments/collingwood-vic-3066">Collingwood</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/prahran-vic-3181">Prahran</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/armadale-vic-3143">Armadale</a> to their construction catalogue.

On the occasion of Nightingale 1's topping out, Project Group Managing Director Michael Robertson offered the following:

<blockquote>
We have a passion for delivering innovative projects and Nightingale is an innovative model that creates socially equitable, liveable, and affordable housing for everyday Australians. Getting into the housing market isn’t what it used to be and whilst Nightingale has a waiting list, it’s buying model is based on a ballot and it’s the only residential apartment offering that’s built to support buyers’ wellbeing and liveability.
</blockquote>

<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_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Friday morning's ceremony included the traditional tree hoisting"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="319" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image8_10.jpg?itok=XVJgw9BR" title="Friday morning's ceremony included the traditional tree hoisting" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Friday morning's ceremony included the traditional tree hoisting</figcaption></figure>Nightingale 1 has is expected to be completed later this year, whilst two further projects have also boosted Nightingale's public profile.

<a href="/buildings/nightingale-2-0-30-railway-place-fairfield">Nightingale 2 at 72A Station Street Fairfield </a>has planning approval and in an unusual move garnered over 200 letters of support for the project during its planning phase. In addition, 209 Sydney Road Brunswick has been positioned as Nightingale 3, and holds a Notice of Decision from Moreland City Council for a  seven storey building containing three retail premises, one office and 20 apartments.

Overall there are 18 Nightingale projects in development around Australia.
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Nightingale 1 reaches a construction milestone

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Buyers unsurprisingly are still showing a keen interest in <a href="/developments/collingwood-vic-3066">Collingwood's apartment market</a>, as demonstrated by Pace of Collingwood's strong sales.

Pace Development Group's latest project notched the enviable figure of accounting for 50% of the building's apartments during its first week at sales. This in turn has prompted Pace to commence construction on the project immediately, with an eye toward completion during the last quarter of 2017.

At 75 Wellington Street, Pace of Collingwood will include 77 apartments within the SJB Architects-designed 9 level edifice. As a developer/builder Pace will oversee construction of the project, which joins 808 Sydney Road and Pace of Northcote as fellow current builds under the Pace banner.

<blockquote>
It’s very rare to see construction of a property development of this scale commence so soon after the launch. It’s one of the great benefits of having an in-house construction team and means we can confidently assure our purchasers on delivery timeframes.
<cite>Daryl Wilkinson: Pace Sales Manager</cite>
</blockquote>

<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/pace_coll.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pace of Collingwood's rooftop terrace"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="286" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/pace_coll.jpg?itok=QT2e9yFS" title="Pace of Collingwood's rooftop terrace" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pace of Collingwood's rooftop terrace</figcaption></figure>The strong sales result for Pace of Collingwood bodes well for the suburb's newly released Holme Apartments and the forthcoming release of <a href="/buildings/88-cambridge-88-cambridge-street-collingwood">88 Cambridge</a>.

With a number of projects freshly completed and no sign of buyer intent waning plus a relative dearth of projects at sales, prospective Collingwood apartment purchasers will be limited in what they can secure.

As a point of reference, Apartments.com.au has in the past highlighted the surge in apartment sales and subsequent construction boom that has blanketed many parts of Collingwood. Since late 2014, well in excess of 1,000 apartments have been completed in the area.

As these projects have been completed, others have filled the void, but in doing so have fallen well short of the volume of apartments being offered relative to recent years.

So much so the fresh release of Holme Apartments for sale is the only new release that buyers can peruse in Collingwood. The imminent release of 88 Cambridge will add to available buyer stock, as the Centreland Property-backed project looks to add 93 apartments to the suburb.

<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/image68_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="88 Cambridge is due to launch"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="345" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image68_7.jpg?itok=JynLrRvb" title="88 Cambridge is due to launch" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>88 Cambridge is due to launch</figcaption></figure>
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Collingwood still beats true for the apartment buyer

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On the occasion of OpenCorp's launch of their Eastside Village apartment development, Apartments.com.au recently spoke with the group's Director Allister Lewison regarding the design merits of the Hawthorn East project.

Teaming with architects Rothelowman and interior designer Fiona Lynch, Eastside Village has been put forward as an apartment development designed to cater for the particular market in which it finds itself in. According to Allister Lewison, the target demographic/buyer played a part in forming both the size and layout of the apartments on offer.

Dwellings within the six storey development have been positioned to soak up a certain type of buyer, given Hawthorn East's hefty median home price. With that in mind, prospective downsizers and young professionals and couples are at the forefront of the project's sales campaign.

Prior to Eastside Village's sales launch, a registrations of interest campaign was highly reflective of this particular aspect of the buyer market.

<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/image64_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Eastside Village's rendered interior"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image64_5.jpg?itok=3gwTq6fE" title="Eastside Village's rendered interior" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Eastside Village's rendered interior</figcaption></figure>To that end Eastside Village includes 73 one, two and three bedroom apartments, with internals ranging between 50sqm and 96sqm, whilst certain apartments hold outdoor areas of up to 116sqm. Lewison describes the project's layout as highly flexible, with upgrades and alternative floor plans possible, depending upon the buyer's preferences.

These flexible layouts are backed by incumbent Interior Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) designer of the year Fiona Lynch. Her presence across the project's internals has given OpenCorp confidence in Eastside Village's sales prospects, with Lewison describing Fiona Lynch as a key to luring prospective buyers.

Add Ben Scott Garden Design as landscape architect and Eastside Village's design team has worked together to produce a project reflective of the premier location. 

With amenity at the forefront of the design process, Eastside Village's apartments enjoy aspects over dual sculpted courtyards, which also serves to maximise natural light penetration into each dwelling.

<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/image65_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The project's central garden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="707" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image65_1.jpg?itok=xPaDqo0Z" title="The project's central garden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The project's central garden</figcaption></figure>Externally Eastside Village's exterior will be draped in a distinctive green edifice.

<blockquote>
Toorak Road's façade opens and closes to create an organic architecture that oscillates between private and public landscaped spaces, whilst firmly anchoring down to the ground plane with a curvaceous gesture which frames the entry and holds the street.

Punctuated by large subtractions, the development's form creates landscaped courtyards to the east and west, which provide increased light and internal amenity. The rectilinear vertical façade elements serve to provide a delicate veil of privacy, enclosure and a cohesive architectural expression. The contrasting solid curved forms both frame and soften the edges of the building.

A thoughtfully designed ground floor street interface with landscaping meets the building flowing vertically upwards through a series of balcony planters above. Warm hues and natural finishes offer a warmth to residents both in apartments and shared spaces.
<cite>Rothelowman</cite>
</blockquote>

As for OpenCorp's development fund subscription which underpins Eastside Village, Lewison noted that the standalone fund for the Hawthorn East project was oversubscribed by 30%, pointing toward investors recognition of the project's blue chip location.

Construction is expected to begin during mid 2017, with a completion time frame approximately one year later.
</body></html>

Profiling OpenCorp's Eastside Village development

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Early in the year Apartments.com.au highlighted a squad of <a href="/news/south-melbourne-a-magnet-for-new-residential-tower-applications">new residential towers looking to call South Melbourne home</a>. Fast forward and the considerably lengthy backlog of residential projects at planning within City of Port Phillip is a little lighter, with a number of earlier tower applications given the go-ahead.

A VCAT-issued permit for 2 Bowen Crescent was obtained by Wuzhong International last month, clearing the way for a 19 storey residential building for Chinese-backed outfit. The work of Plus Architecture, 2 Bowen Crescent holds 213 apartments across a 1,800sqm site.

The tower planning application was lodged during December 2015, and at the time included a healthy number of apartments in a single bedroom format. Property advisory and project management practice Gallagher Jeffs have indicated the project will proceed to sales mid this year.

<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/600600p450ednmain17plan_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="2 Bowen Crescent. Image: Gallagher Jeffs"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/600600p450ednmain17plan_0.jpg?itok=rA2tPVZ5" title="2 Bowen Crescent. Image: Gallagher Jeffs" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>2 Bowen Crescent. Image: Gallagher Jeffs</figcaption></figure>A few doors away, and Melbourne-based GURNER is all but ready to advance its 7 Bowen Crescent development to sales after gaining a VCAT-issued permit last year. Currently, the project has been noted as at appeal within City of Port Phillip's planning system, with the supplemental action taking place earlier this month.

Initially submitted with a heavier apartment count, 7 Bowen Crescent's internals have been rejigged to carry just over 120 apartments, with 64 noted as having three bedrooms. 

<blockquote>
Set to be one of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings set on a triangle site with uninterrupted views of Albert Park lake, the bay and Melbourne’s skyline, it will rival the best in the world.

A design collaboration between Elenberg Fraser and David Hicks will provide the market something never seen before!!!
<cite>GURNER</cite>
</blockquote>

Meanwhile another Asian developer is poised for success, as City of Port Phillip have issued a delegated notice of decision last month for 596 St Kilda Road; the final stage prior to a permit being issued.

Having landed at planning mid last year, Singaporean outfit Lian Beng Group are in the box seat to move ahead with the tower designed by Bates Smart. Included are 170 apartments, split between one and two bedroom options. The tower was designed as a mixture of vertical fins, protruding balconies and hanging greenery running the height of the tower.

<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/image41_2_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="596 St Kilda Road. Planning image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="442" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image41_2_0.jpg?itok=Vjmur8I8" title="596 St Kilda Road. Planning image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>596 St Kilda Road. Planning image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>The trio above is in addition to Australian Unity's 114-130 Albert Road which was given the go-ahead late last year. Alterations and additions to the existing commercial building will see an adjoining 19 storey tower constructed.

The approval and pending redevelopment of the Albert Road property into an aged care and retirement development is in addition to Australian Unity squaring away and their new commercial home on Spring Street, with construction due to begin shortly.
</body></html>

Multiple towers given the green light within Port Phillip

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Adept at creating high-end residential projects, Piccolo Developments are chasing another for their portfolio by way of the redevelopment of a historic building at 71-75 Argyle Street, Fitzroy.

On the intersection of Fitzroy and Argyle Streets, Piccolo has submitted plans for the late 19th century brick factory and adjoining at-grade car park. The developer's hope is a 7 storey residential building created by Jackson Clements Burrows that would effectively wrap around the existing building.

In order to gain the nod from Yarra City Council, the application is required to adequately interact with the onsite brick building whose facade is "considered to be 'Individually Significant', meaning it is aesthetically, historically, scientifically, and/or socially significant at the local level and contributory or complementary to the South Fitzroy 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/image26_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="71 - 75 Argyle Street, Fitzroy. Planning image: JCB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="336" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image26_7.jpg?itok=-v3D-upL" title="71 - 75 Argyle Street, Fitzroy. Planning image: JCB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>71 - 75 Argyle Street, Fitzroy. Planning image: JCB Architects</figcaption></figure>The 1,038sqm site is slated for 41 dwellings including 12 x 3BR apartments, 59 car spaces, 57 bicycle spaces and a 129sqm restaurant at ground level.

Also called for is the "Demolition of parts of the existing factory building including the circa 1930s-40s addition, parts of the original north and east walls and the roof." The Victorian factory facades to Argyle and Fitzroy Streets will be maintained, as will be the front corner returns to the side wall, the chimney and the painted signage along the east elevation.

<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_7319.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elwood House is approaching completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7319.jpg?itok=m5i9S6i-" title="Elwood House is approaching completion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elwood House is approaching completion</figcaption></figure>Piccolo's Fitzroy pursuit joins an additional three residential projects in the works for the Carlton-based outfit.

Wood Marsh's spasmodic forays into higher density designs have resulted in 228-230 Dorcas Street. Piccolo describes the South Melbourne project as a "Landmark project designed by Wood Marsh incorporating luxury residential apartments and premium retail space."

Jackson Clements Burrows have a hand in the developer's remaining two projects. Construction is nearing completion on Elwood House; a bespoke residential project within Elwood Village that includes 31 apartments.

Also on the cards is 341-347 Queensberry Street North Melbourne, although a change to the application has been noted by City of Melbourne after initial plans called for a 13 storey building.
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Piccolo gets busy in Fitzroy

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It may still be in its infancy, but the emerging <a href="https://vpa.vic.gov.au/project/arden/">Arden Urban Renewal Precinct</a> has scored its most substantial construction project to date, with Hickory Group winning the Arden Gardens build contract.

The sizeable urban renewal area which is still at master planning has been earmarked for significant growth over the next 30 years. Arden Gardens will rise over Macaulay Road, with secondary frontages to Canning Street and Vaughan Terrace.

It is the latest project to head to construction for CBD Development Group, which also has <a href="/buildings/288-albert-street-brunswick">Brunswick's tallest apartment development</a> under construction.

On the border of Arden Precinct and City of Melbourne's pending Macaulay Precinct, Arden Gardens includes 299 apartments spread over two residential towers supplemented by extensive commercial/retail spaces throughout the podium, with Woolworths the anchor tenant. 

Click here to see the project details of Arden Gardens on Off The Plan 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/image20_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Arden Gardens will soon become reality. Image: Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="529" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20_8.jpg?itok=UPNensGE" title="Arden Gardens will soon become reality. Image: Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Arden Gardens will soon become reality. Image: Buchan Group</figcaption></figure>Although the biggest, Arden Gardens is not the sole project at construction in the area, with a handful of other residential projects on the go.

ABD Group is advancing construction of <a href="/new-apartments/reflections-108-haines-street-north-melbourne">Reflections</a>, which will be a 13 level tower set above 2 basement levels, creating 143 1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments. Adjoining Reflections, MAV Group have all but completed works on <a href="/new-apartments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">1 Shiel Street</a> which will add a further 39 apartments.

Elsewhere in Arden, Manresa Constructions is overseeing <a href="/buildings/charlotte-241-dryburgh-street-north-melbourne">241 Dryburgh Street</a> whilst Built is in charge of Cbus Property's <a href="/buildings/volaire-9-dryburgh-street-west-melbourne">Volaire</a> apartment project at at 9-19 Dryburgh St and 109-121 Ireland, West Melbourne. Ultimately that project will include 154 apartments, retail/commercial/cafe tenancies on the ground floor and basement parking.

<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/image21_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Reflections under construction and the adjoining 1 Shiel Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="236" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_11.jpg?itok=K0CCut4V" title="Reflections under construction and the adjoining 1 Shiel Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Reflections under construction and the adjoining 1 Shiel Street</figcaption></figure>The precinct's increased construction activity follows on from the recent approval of another substantial residential development nearby. 

36-58 Macaulay Road was given the nod at the turn of the year for a mixed-use development consisting of 177 apartments, communal spaces and 176 car parking spaces. The design by Artisan Architects sees apartments spread between dual 10 and 13 level buildings, with an activated plaza included.

Approval for 36-58 Macaulay Road leaves Fridcorp's <a href="/new-apartments/3-15-shiel-street-north-melbourne">3-15 Shiel Street</a> as the major development yet to gain approval in the area.

<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/image17_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new Macaulay Road landmark. Image: Artisan Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="233" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image17_9.jpg?itok=lyuSbLi_" title="A new Macaulay Road landmark. Image: Artisan Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Macaulay Road landmark. Image: Artisan Architects</figcaption></figure>Arden Precinct is expected to include 34,000 jobs and 15,000 residents by 2051. With the precinct still under planning, the flow of planning applications into Arden has lessened over the previous year as developers likely wait for planning landscape to become clear.

What is definitive is the creation of Arden Station, which will provide a bookend to the Metro Tunnel and act as a catalyst for urban renewal in the area upon its completion.

<blockquote>
Arden will represent the next stage of Melbourne’s evolution as a world-class capital city. It will be a flourishing jobs hub that will boost Melbourne’s global competitiveness. Government owns much of the land in Arden, so it has a unique opportunity to ensure its planning is guided by world’s best practice in integrated and sustainable urban renewal.

The scale of this opportunity, coupled with the precinct’s excellent transport connections, make Arden a truly exciting project for Melbourne.
<cite>Victorian Planning Authority </cite>
</blockquote>

<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/arden-precinct-civic-heart-1024x576.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A future Arden. Image: Victorian Planning Authority"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/arden-precinct-civic-heart-1024x576.jpg?itok=ruEaIFBf" title="A future Arden. Image: Victorian Planning Authority" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A future Arden. Image: Victorian Planning Authority</figcaption></figure>For more information on Arden Gardens, follow the project link below.
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Arden Precinct receives a construction boost

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Two almost forgotten planning applications for substantial skyscrapers have re-emerged over the last month, prompting Apartments.com.au to once again highlight the very healthy number of 200 metre plus skyscrapers in the pipeline for Melbourne. 

Most recently, <a href="/new-apartments/63-exhibition-street-melbourne">57-63 Exhibition Street</a> which was first submitted during August 2014, is still active with <a href="/developers/salta-properties">Salta Properties</a> backing the <a href="/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart-designed</a> skyscraper which would nudge 204m if approved. City of <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a> have brought the project back into the spotlight via their Future Melbourne Committee, and have provided in principal support for the project subject to a number of conditions.

One condition being that the Planning Minister reduce the tower's height to 182m. In its current form at 204m, 57-63 Exhibition Street is valued at $255 million and includes 185 hotel suites and 119 apartments within the slim tower.

<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/image30_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 57-63 Exhibition Street. Planing image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="272" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image30_11.jpg?itok=dt-oG7Ge" title="Artist's impression of 57-63 Exhibition Street. Planing image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 57-63 Exhibition Street. Planing image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>Also recently before the Future Melbourne Committee was <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">158-164 City Road, Southbank</a> whose planning history spans back to 2010. Approval at 43 levels was granted along the way, although proponent Eastern International Property Development is still pursuing a taller 69 level, 216m scheme that would yield 556 dwellings, 96 serviced apartments, offices and a supermarket.

The Future Melbourne Committee indicated a lack of support for the higher scheme earlier this month.

<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_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 158 City Road. Planing image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="379" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image31_4.jpg?itok=mdGETMiu" title="Artist's impression of 158 City Road. Planing image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 158 City Road. Planing image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>With light shed upon the two applications above, and with a number of other potential entrants having their height reduced below the 200m mark, an updated list of towers at 200m plus or above across inner Melbourne is provided below.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width:580px;"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
			Name/Address
			</td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">
			Height
			</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">
			Status
			</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/one-queensbridge-street-1-23-queensbridge-street-southbank">1 Queensbridge Street, Southbank</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">323</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Approved</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/51-65-clarke-street-southbank">51-65 Clarke Street, Southbank</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">228</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Planning</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/elysium-54-clarke-street-southbank">54 Clarke Street, Southbank</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">244</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Approved</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">70 Southbank Boulevard, Southbank</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">319</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Construction</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">158 City Road, Southbank</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">216</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Planning</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/38-freshwater-place-southbank">38 Freshwater Place, Southbank</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">273</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Planning </td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">93-119 Kavanagh Street, Southbank</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">226 </td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Sales</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/the-queensbridge-building-southbank-90-queensbridge-street-southbank">88 Queensbridge Street, Southbank</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">208</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Sales</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/swanston-central-168-victoria-street-carlton">168 Victoria Street, Carlton</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">237</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Construction</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/uno-melbourne-117-abeckett-street-melbourne">111-125 A'beckett Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">210</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Approved</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/sapphire-by-the-gardens-63-la-trobe-street-melbourne-vic-3000">308 Exhibition Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">254</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Planning</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/aurora-melbourne-central-224-la-trobe-street-melbourne">224 La Trobe Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">267</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Construction</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/victoria-one-452-472-elizabeth-street-melbourne">452 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">241</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Construction</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/light-house-450-elizabeth-street-melbourne">450 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne </a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">218</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Construction</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/380-melbourne-380-lonsdale-street-melbourne">380 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">218</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Sales</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">383 La Trobe Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">242</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Approved</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/queens-place-157-a-beckett-street-and-370-queen-street-melbourne">350 Queen Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">246 </td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Sales</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/west-side-place-melbourne-250-spencer-street-melbourne-vic-3000">250 Spencer Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">270</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Sales</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/aspire-melbourne-301-king-st-melbourne">295-309 King Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">208</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Approved</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="/buildings/premier-tower-134-160-spencer-street-melbourne">134 Spencer Street, Melbourne</a> </td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">249</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Construction</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/272-282-queen-street-melbourne">272-282 Queen Street, Melbourne </a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">207</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Approved</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">183-189 A'beckett Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">205</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Planning</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/150-queen-street-melbourne">150 Queen Street, Melbourne </a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">226</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Delayed</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">273</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Planning</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/63-exhibition-street-melbourne">57-63 Exhibition Street, Melbourne</a></td>
			<td style="width: 94px;">204</td>
			<td style="width: 93px;">Planning</td>
		</tr>
</tbody></table>
Although there's some conjecture over a number of projects (owing to contradictory or ambiguous information) such as <a href="/new-apartments/293-297-city-road-southbank-vic-3006">295 City Road</a>, <a href="/buildings/97-franklin-street-melbourne">97 Franklin Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/collins-house-melbourne-460-466-collins-street-melbourne">466 Collins Street</a> that have been left off the list, the number of projects confirmed and included above is still immense.

With a quarter of the 23 listed projects above including multiple towers over 200m or more, it's still conceivable that Melbourne will be sporting another 30 skyscrapers beyond 200m in height in the years to come. If nothing else it serves to demonstrate the immense change still to grip Melbourne's skyline.

Although rules that govern the design of tall towers across <a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a> and the <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">CBD</a> have changed, there's still a veritable mountain of skyscrapers yet to fully take their place on Melbourne's skyline; interesting times ahead for our fair city!

As always feel free to provide corrections or additions to the list above.

<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/image36_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne's booming skyline on a sunny March day. Image: Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="451" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image36_4.jpg?itok=LpTktI0H" title="Melbourne's booming skyline on a sunny March day. Image: Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne's booming skyline on a sunny March day. Image: Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

The 200 metre club revisited

<html><body>
The Landence Group has formally launched The Evermore, its flagship Melbourne development designed by local architects Hayball. Located at 58-66 Dorcas Street, at the verge between Southbank and South Melbourne, The Evermore represents Landence's first foray into the Australian market and has been conceived as dual metallic towers with a strong vertical emphasis rising above a shared podium.

This duality in visual expression reflects this threshold condition between the two neighbouring suburbs - allowing the towers to read as individual elements of a larger composition.

The bronze and gold towers have been designed to maximise views and minimise the number of south facing apartments, while employing passive design principles. Balconies and vertical shading addressing the harsh western sun while also allowing the curation of key views.

The project team has sought to provide residents with resort style amenity throughout, with a sweeping port cochère and grand stone clad lobby greeting residents and visitors on arrival. Further to this, residents and their guests will also have access to an entire floor of additional leisure rooms, a gym, a cinema, a 14.5m open-air pool with sun lounges and a series of tropical gardens interspersed throughout to soften the exterior.

The first stage comprising 199 apartments is currently at sales with a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments ranging from ranging from 45sqm to 110sqm respectively. Two penthouses have already been sold with another reserved.

<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/1611_savi_dorcas_street_pool1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The 14.5m outdoor pool set amongst a green oasis. Image: The Landence Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="349" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1611_savi_dorcas_street_pool1.jpg?itok=fYflRLHP" title="The 14.5m outdoor pool set amongst a green oasis. Image: The Landence Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The 14.5m outdoor pool set amongst a green oasis. Image: The Landence Group</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au asked Helen Li, Managing Director of The Landence Group, to provide background on some of the drivers behind the developer's first foray into Australia.

Urban.com.au: What was the attraction of Melbourne as the location for Landence's first and flagship development?

Helen Li: I studied in Melbourne 10 years ago, started a family here and have lived in Melbourne. As a property developer, we choose to develop in locations we are familiar with.

UM: And expanding on that, what was the appeal of The Evermore site?

HL: The project’s close proximity to the Botanic Garden, St Kilda Road and other iconic developments such as The Melbournian, were very appealing to us and the reason we chose to develop this site.

<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/xhi9393_the_evermore_el02_tower_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The dual towers of The Evermore. Image: The Landence Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/xhi9393_the_evermore_el02_tower_1.jpg?itok=AJXHO9Cb" title="The dual towers of The Evermore. Image: The Landence Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The dual towers of The Evermore. Image: The Landence Group</figcaption></figure>UM: Buyers are becoming more and more discerning and demand more from the apartments on the market. Is this largely the reason for providing hotel like amenities and facilities in The Evermore? 

HL: We are in the middle of the lifestyle transition with downsizers and younger families changing their lifestyle from traditional houses to apartments. They still, however, want space to host a function with friends, they still want a garden for peace and relaxation, they still appreciate having access to swimming pools (like they did in their house, perhaps a home gym, library/ dedicated television room.

The Evermore provides over 600sqm of residence amenities, so that purchasers can transit into apartment living without comprising their lifestyle; in fact they are often enhancing it.

UM: Hayball had designed a previous (approved) scheme for the site. What changes were made to transform the design into The Evermore?

HL: The majority of the product mix is one-bedroom apartments, we had worked with Hayball to design more two-bedroom and some three bedroom apartments into the buildings. It is clear that the market demands comes from owner-occupiers and investors who are looking for more quality developments.

We have also increased the variety and extent of amenity to enhance the living experience. 

UM: What are your expectations for the project and will you pursue other development opportunities in Melbourne?

HL: Our intention and expectation is to deliver a signature project in Melbourne that we are proud of. Having lived in Australia since I studied here and having started a family here, I’m excited to deliver a project that I believe is exactly what the market is looking for. 

We are certainly looking to pursue other development opportunities here, and are actively looking for our next project.

<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/xhi9393_the_evermore_el01_view_to_city.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Evermore offers city views. Image: The Landence Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="200" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/xhi9393_the_evermore_el01_view_to_city.jpg?itok=-C0U-zhS" title="The Evermore offers city views. Image: The Landence Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Evermore offers city views. Image: The Landence Group</figcaption></figure>The Landence Group expects construction on The Evemore to begin by the end of 2017, with a construction span lasting two years.
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

Landence launches its flagship Melbourne project: The Evermore

<html><body>
Two major projects within City of Monash will provide the municipality with a development boost over coming years.

Construction will begin this month on The Glen's $490 million development, with Vicinity Centres and co-owners Perron Group officially launching the project yesterday. Marking 50 years of operation, 'The New Glen' will encompass 78,000 square metres of gross lettable area and will include a variety of new retail and entertainment options.

As part of the development that will be completed by 2020, a new Town Square will also be built. Apartments.com.au highlighted the <a href="/news/the-glen-redevelopment-grows-further-with-more-apartments-approved">centre's revised plans</a> late last year, which also allowed for as many as 539 new apartments to be created onsite across 3 separate buildings - no word was given yesterday on their status.

<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/image9_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Glen is in line for a major overhaul. Image: Vicinity Centres"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="308" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_12.jpg?itok=E33fkQ9P" title="The Glen is in line for a major overhaul. Image: Vicinity Centres" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Glen is in line for a major overhaul. Image: Vicinity Centres</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
It is time that The Glen evolves to meet the changing needs of our customers. The New Glen will elevate the customer experience to create a boutique destination where food, fashion and people come together.

The centre’s architecture, featuring a dynamic ‘veil’ effect that unifies the entire project, is inspired by international trends, and the iconic Springvale Road façade is designed to engage the local community.
<cite>Angus McNaughton: CEO and Managing Director of Vicinity Centres</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
This development is all about delivering a boutique and well-crafted design, inspired by our discerning local community. While increasing in size, our objective is to ensure The New Glen remains intimate, accessible and convenient, with a casual sophistication. 
The new centre has been designed for easy access and navigation through a ‘race track’ configuration with several cross malls to improve sight lines.
<cite>Ross Robertson: Perron Group’s Chief Executive Officer</cite>
</blockquote>

The redevelopment will create an estimated 2,350 jobs, including 1,150 during construction and 1,200 permanent positions upon completion.

The New Glen will also act as a hub for the <a href="/news/could-glen-waverley-emerge-as-another-eastern-suburban-apartment-hub">hundreds of additional apartments</a> slated for Glen Waverley's Activity Centre.

<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/image214_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the new Town Square. Planning image: NH Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="218" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image214_0_0.jpg?itok=U5ZpeqmV" title="Artist's impression of the new Town Square. Planning image: NH Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the new Town Square. Planning image: NH Architecture</figcaption></figure>In Oakleigh, diversified property group Pellicano is preparing to move ahead with an apartment development which it has christened Alke.

Valued at $53 million, Alke will include 95 apartments across two buildings divided by a communal residents’ terrace, along with retail at ground level. Designed by SJB Architects, Alke is a far grander expression than Pellicano's first residential project - twelve solid brick apartments in Oakleigh Street - which was completed in the suburb over 46 years ago.

Alke has been positioned to capture the local first home buyer and downsizer market.

<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/image10_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alke will be Oakleigh's latest high density addition. Image: Pellican Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="274" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_9.jpg?itok=M7uU6yjX" title="Alke will be Oakleigh's latest high density addition. Image: Pellican Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alke will be Oakleigh's latest high density addition. Image: Pellican Group</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Pellicano focuses on three main drivers for every project - quality design, in-demand location, and quality residential and lifestyle amenity.

The site for Alke is located on Atherton Road within Oakleigh’s retail precinct, just two minutes from Eaton Mall. The suburb is significant for Pellicano. We are proud to be returning to an area with such a rich culture and established heritage.

We see this development catering to residents in all walks of life. First home buyers, young professional renters, and downsizers who want the convenience of apartment living while staying within their local community can take advantage of this opportunity.
<cite>Pellicano Managing Director, Nando Pellicano</cite>
</blockquote>

The building will join a growing list of apartment projects within Oakleigh, with construction set to commence in the second half of 2017.

<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/image11_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The very first of Pellicano's Melbourne projects. Image: Pellicano Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="308" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image11_13.jpg?itok=FSMjn9KX" title="The very first of Pellicano's Melbourne projects. Image: Pellicano Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The very first of Pellicano's Melbourne projects. Image: Pellicano Group</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

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