<p data-end="568" data-start="388">Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.</p>

<p data-end="803" data-start="570">Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.</p>

<p data-end="1041" data-start="805">The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.</p>

<p data-end="1239" data-start="1043"><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.</p>

<p data-end="1239" data-start="1043">[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]</p>

<p data-end="1459" data-start="1241">Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.</p>

<p data-end="1582" data-start="1461">Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.</p>

<p data-end="1777" data-start="1584">"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.</p>

<p data-end="2018" data-start="1779">"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.</p>

<p data-end="2245" data-start="2020">"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."</p>

<p data-end="2245" data-start="2020">[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]</p>

<p data-end="2438" data-start="2247">A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.</p>

<p data-end="2577" data-start="2440">Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.</p>

<p data-end="2772" data-start="2579">The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.</p>

<p data-end="2245" data-start="2020">[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]</p>

<p data-end="2245" data-start="2020">Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.</p>

<p data-end="2996" data-start="2932">"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.</p>

<p data-end="3264" data-start="2998">"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."</p>

<p data-end="3384" data-start="3266">Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.</p>

<p data-end="3531" data-start="3386">"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.</p>

<p data-end="3823" data-start="3533">"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."</p>

<p data-end="3823" data-start="3533">[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]</p>

<p data-end="3986" data-start="3825">Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.</p>

<p data-end="4199" data-start="3988">Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.</p>

<p data-end="4370" data-start="4201">Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.</p>

<p data-end="4516" data-start="4372">"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.</p>

<p data-end="4717" data-start="4518">"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.</p>

<p data-end="4883" data-start="4719">"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."</p>

<p data-end="4947" data-start="4885">The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.</p>

<p data-end="4947" data-start="4885">[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]</p>


Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

<p>New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.</p>

<p>The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.</p>

<p>Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]</p>

<p>Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.</p>

<p>Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.</p>

<p>“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.</p>

<p>“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”</p>

<p>The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.</p>

<p><img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" /></p>

<p>Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.</p>

<p>Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.</p>

<p>Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.</p>

<p>“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.</p>

<p>“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”</p>

<p>“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”</p>

<p><img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" /></p>

<p>Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.</p>

<p>It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.</p>

<p>Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.</p>

<p>Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.</p>

<p>Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.</p>


Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

<p>Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.</p>

<p>Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.</p>

<p>Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.</p>

<p><img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" /></p>

<p>Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.</p>

<p>The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.</p>

<p>The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.</p>

<p>Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.</p>

<p>The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.</p>

<p><img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" /></p>

<p>Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.</p>

<p>The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.</p>

<p>A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.</p>

<p>Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.</p>

<p>A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.</p>

<p><img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." /></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.</p>

<p>Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.</p>

<p>The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.</p>


First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

<p>An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.</p>

<p>Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.</p>

<p>Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.</p>

<p>The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]</p>

<p>All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.</p>

<p>The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]</p>

<p>A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.</p>

<p>OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.</p>

<p>“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.</p>

<p>“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]</p>

<p>La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.</p>

<p>ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.</p>

<p>“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.</p>

<p>“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”</p>

<p>Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.</p>

<p>“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.</p>

<p>“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”</p>

<p>The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]</p>

<p>Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.</p>

<p>The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.</p>

<p>Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.</p>

<p>The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.</p>

<p>Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]</p>


ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.</p>

<p>Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.</p>

<p>The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]</p>

<p>"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.</p>

<p>Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.</p>

<p>"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]</p>

<p>That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.</p>

<p>Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.</p>

<p>Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]</p>

<p>Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.</p>

<p>They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.</p>

<p>The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.</p>

<p>"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]</p>

<p>The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.</p>

<p>With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.</p>

<p>A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.</p>

<p>Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]</p>


Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

Apartments

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<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">GUEST OBSERVER</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Recent statements from the Reserve Bank of Australia about a potential oversupply of apartments in Sydney will act as a brake on bank loans for new housing when much more supply is needed.</span></p>
<p>The NSW Department of Planning says that 33,200 new homes are needed each year for 20 years in Sydney but last financial year only 27,348 new homes were completed.</p>
<p>With a shortfall of nearly 6,000 new homes during the boom times it is essential that more homes are built across Sydney. Our concern is that the RBAs warnings will encourage banks to tighten up on lending for new homes particularly for apartments. Sydney already has housing approvals slowing down due to the council amalgamation process. The amalgamations mean that developers must obtain approval from two councils for planning agreements, a situation which slows down approvals.</p>
<p>Our members believe the market is still strong for new apartments in key parts of Sydney where cosmopolitan living is becoming the norm. They are concerned however that the market could be destabilised by a series of negative actions that combine to lower confidence in the industry.</p>
<p>As well as banks being tighter on lending there is a slow-down in investment from China due to local issues, the local government amalgamations are making approvals more difficult, statements from federal and state governments that hefty value capture taxes will be added to residential development in the near future, all will lessen confidence in the housing industry despite the clear need for more supply. </p>
<p><em>Chris Johnson is chief executive officer of property development industry group Urban Taskforce and can be contacted <a href="https://www.urbantaskforce.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=97&amp;Itemid=126#.Vdaart55dFI" target="_blank">here</a>.</em></p>
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Banks must support more housing for Sydney: Chris Johnson

<html><body>
<p>Icon Co. signage has appeared on two irregular Melbourne developments with the builder pursuing the conversion of two former commercial buildings into high end apartments and an apartment hotel. Conversions of existing structures have historically been a none too common occurrence in Melbourne relative to new build projects.</p>

<p>Developer LAS Group and project partner Qualitas have awarded Icon the $85 million task of converting the former Fawkner Business Centre offices at 499 St Kilda Road into The Fawkner; a parkside apartment development with an end value of $300 million.</p>

<p>Dated 1973, the existing structure will be retained, with all internals and existing facade currently being stripped away.</p>

<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/image6_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Early demolition works and the intended result. Image: KPDO"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="265" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_6.jpg?itok=91BaJwkE" title="Early demolition works and the intended result. Image: KPDO" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Early demolition works and the intended result. Image: KPDO</figcaption></figure><p>The conversion of the former office building will allow for lofty ceilings and large floorplates with design firm K.P.D.O. responsible for creating more than 60 different apartment layouts over nineteen levels.</p>

<blockquote>
<p>An industry leader with 19 years of experience and proven capabilities in commercial and residential construction and development, we believe Icon Co. is best placed to realise the site’s potential and deliver our vision for an unparalleled premium residential offering that showcases the best of apartment living,</p>
<cite>Les Smith, Managing Director, LAS Group</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
<p>This is a significant project for Qualitas, and we needed an experienced contractor who was willing to ‘roll up their sleeves’ to help us unlock the puzzle of the adaptive reuse of the existing building. Icon Co. worked in partnership with us to achieve that outcome, and their recent partnership with Kajima Corporation of Japan provides significant balance sheet strength in support of the project.</p>
<cite>Mark Fischer, Managing Director, Principal Investments at Qualitas</cite>
</blockquote>

<p>The Fawkner amenities include an infinity pool atop the level seven podium, a health and wellness centre, open air courtyard, gymnasium, lounge areas, business facilities, theatre and cellar. Working collaboratively with the client and design team Icon Co. expect the project which is 80% sold to reach completion during mid 2017.</p>

<p>Also on Icon Co.'s agenda is the conversion of nearby 14 Queens Road. Comparatively more advanced than the Fawkner, the Queens Road build which is currently little more than a shell will see the delivery of private apartments and a Tyrian-branded serviced apartment hotel.</p>

<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/image7arthur.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Arthur with test pod and the rendered finish. Image: Hallmarc"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="270" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7arthur.jpg?itok=9Gab8v6B" title="The Arthur with test pod and the rendered finish. Image: Hallmarc" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Arthur with test pod and the rendered finish. Image: Hallmarc</figcaption></figure><p>Developer Hallmarc is behind the mixed-use project which they reportedly purchased for $13 million during February 2013.</p>

<p>Set on a 2,326sqm site Arthur will include near on 100 apartments and Melboune's second Tyrian Serviced Apartments behind the existing 4.5 star Fitzroy location. Included within the build is a rooftop pool, dining, entertaining and fitness facilities.</p>

<p>The addition of the above two projects swells Icon Co.’s current Victorian build portfolio to well in excess of $500 million, with 2016 likely to see the company deliver $1,557 million worth of projects across three states.</p>

<p>Icon Co.'s largest current Melbourne project is Southbank's Shadow Play with the fledgling build valued at $126 million and set to add another 494 apartments upon its expected May 2018 completion date.</p>
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Icon Co. snare two unique apartment builds

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<p>It's a period of intense activity for Melbourne-based Milieu Property with the expanding developer recently notching a significant milestone as a string of boutique projects come to the fore.</p>

<p>Milieu Property has won its first international gong at the recent Asia Pacific Property Awards, taking out the Project Marketing category for the 5-Star award. The recognition relates to Peel by Milieu, the developer's sold out Collingwood apartment project that is currently in the early stages of construction.</p>

<p>The Asia Pacific Property Awards are judged by an independent panel of 70 industry experts, with judging focuses on design, quality, service, innovation, originality, and commitment to sustainability.</p>

<p>An onsite display gallery bolstered by innovative print, online and outdoor advertising formed the backbone of the award-winning sales campaign with exhibitions also held within the onsite building which was heavily modified to create the display suite.</p>

<p>In a novel move, Milieu Property also created the 'Melbourne Milieu Broadsheet’, which had a print run of 20,000 copies and was distributed locally in order to garner awareness for both the development and display exhibitions.</p>

<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_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Peel's construction is set to begin with site piling complete. Image: Milieu "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="268" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20_3.jpg?itok=3mtUTWvK" title="Peel's construction is set to begin with site piling complete. Image: Milieu " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Peel's construction is set to begin with site piling complete. Image: Milieu</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
<p>Reflecting on the campaign from start to finish I could not be prouder of what we have achieved. We are honoured to have our Peel By Milieu marketing campaign recognised and awarded by our peers at the International Property Awards.</p>
<p>At the time, Peel was our biggest project to date and the campaign we created was the next phase for Milieu and a step toward larger scale projects, consequently special attention and care were a must and we set out to attract, engage and inspire our target market.</p>
<cite>Michael McCormack, Director, Milieu Property</cite>
</blockquote>

<p>Milieu Property are hoping to replicate the success of their Peel Street endeavour with their latest project to hit marketing: Nth FITZROY.</p>

<p>Designed by Fieldwork, the project will feature 26 apartments within a skinned building, with operable external louvres set to maintain a dynamic look over the exterior. Interiors for the project have been designed by Flack Studio, with double glazed windows and cross ventilation for each apartment.</p>

<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/image18_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of Nth FITZROY. Image: Milieu"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="320" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_7.jpg?itok=JrJF3hyT" title="Artist's impression of Nth FITZROY. Image: Milieu" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of Nth FITZROY. Image: Milieu</figcaption></figure><p>A display gallery at 3 York Street, Fitzroy North will hope to emulate the format of Milieu's Collingwood display suite. A pop up store and coffee outlet form part of the Nth FITZROY display, with the project's public launch slated for May 7.</p>

<p>Fieldwork have also designed Milieu Property's latest project at 2-8 Barry Street, Brunswick. With approval in place for a four level apartment building containing 36 apartments, Milieu Property have elected to pursue a more modest residential project of 21 dwellings within a four and five storey building.</p>

<p>Although Milieu Property expected the project to hit the market in mid 2016, the scheme is still with Moreland City Council with further assessment sought after the initial application advertising period.</p>
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Milieu Property nabs an international award and launches Nth FITZROY

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<div>It looks increasingly as though 2016 is going to be a becalmed year for Sydney's property markets.<br><br>Some articles doing the rounds this week suggested that apartment prices had already fallen in Sydney, but as you would expect different market sectors and sub-regions have behaved somewhat differently.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Mainly these declines would relate to new stock or "off-the-plan" or high-rise apartment purchases, some of which in my opinion is quite over-priced and quite risky, and some outer suburban or secondary locations where auction clearance rates have tanked. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Residex released its April market update on Friday which showed that <em>median</em> apartment prices in Sydney had increased by +11.5 per cent over the year to March, to a fresh all-time high of $691,500.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Following a +2.4 per cent increase in March, the median unit price growth has all but overhauled median house price growth in the harbour city, which has slowed to +12.2 per cent over the year to March. <br><br>This need not be such a surprise - at this stage in the cycle the stamp duty on detached housing in desirable locations has become increasingly prohibitive, acting as a drag on price growth.  </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Sydney's median house price is now $1,042,500 which is +$271,500 higher than when the latest round of doomsday predictions were rolled out at the beginning of 2014. And this median price is also +$381,500 than in the middle of 2012 when some other crash predictions were being bantered around.<br><br>With the additional stamp duty burden ramping up by nearly $18,000 over the past four years, rational buyers will increasingly look towards properties they can add value to, or scale down their entry price accordingly. <br><br>While auction results are still throwing out some enormous results (for example, this <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-terrace-nsw-potts+point-115126003" target="_blank">Potts Point terrace</a> was resold for a thunderous $13 million this week, almost doubling the record price for a Sydney terraced house) it does look as though the wider market away from the inner suburbs has now slowed in accordance with APRA's wishes. </div>
<div>
<br>According to Residex medians, there was a continued steady growth in the year to March for Brisbane houses (+3.5 per cent) and Brisbane units (+4.2 per cent). <br><br>
</div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Economy more upbeat</span></strong></div>
<div> </div>
<div>There have been quite a few positive signs for the economy of late - an extraordinarily strong NAB business survey saw conditions at their equal highest level in 8 years, and the AIG Performance of Manufacturing Index gauge surging to its highest reading in 12 years. <br><br>Lately there has been a strong bounce in commodity prices, sending some of the oversold major resources companies on a serious bull run.<br><br>The March Labour Force figures showed that the national unemployment rate has kept ticking down to its lowest level in two-and-a-half years, and quite a bit sooner than had been expected. <br><br>More detailed employment figures due out on Thursday will confirm that Sydney's economy is rather enjoying its infrastructure and building boom. </div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="/images/2016/04/18/UE.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/04/18/UE.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div>As for the much-feared "mining cliff", well that  has all but been and gone, meaning that resources construction will no longer be such a significant drag on the economy in about 12 to 18 months time.</div>
<div>
<br>The latest available data only runs to December 2015, but as we are now about three-and-a-half years beyond the peak estimates have shown that some three quarters of the decline may now be in the rear view mirror, while record residential construction activity has helped to offset the decline.<br><br>That said, Western Australia and the Northern Territory still evidently have quite a way to fall back yet.</div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="/images/2016/04/18/C1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/04/18/C1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div>Good news, and futures markets are now less than convinced of the need for a further interest rate cut in this cycle.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Financial Stability Review (FSR)</span></strong></div>
<div> </div>
<div>In other news the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) released its April 2016 Financial Stability Review (FSR) on Friday. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The RBA noted that spreads on Australian banks' wholesale funding costs had increased a little over the past six months, partly due to one-off factors related to international regulation. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>That said, spreads have declined a bit of late as the outlook has brightened, and having successfully issued some $50 billion in bonds since the beginning of the year Australian banks are set to comfortably meet their funding requirements through this calendar year.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Despite the moderate increase in spreads, banks' long and short debt pricing spread to swap remains a world away from where it was in, say 2012, let alone from the unholy spike of 2008.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In any event Australian banks are now less exposed to wholesale funding risk because first deposit funding and now equity funding have been stepped up respectively.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>There has been very little impact on deposit rates. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2016/04/18/FUNDING.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<img src="/images/2016/04/18/FUNDING.jpg" alt=""><br><br>
</div>
<div>Non-performing asset ratios on domestic books are generally speaking in pretty good nick, having continued to improve in the latter half of 2015.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
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<div class="separator"> </div>
<div>For the majors non-performing loans are also in very good shape, although the resources regions and mining towns of Western Australia and Queensland are expected to cop some default action, an unfortunate occurrence which has been known about for some time. </div>
<br><div class="separator"><a href="/images/2016/04/18/FSR2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
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</div>
<div>The RBA highlighted the potential for apartment oversupply and possible related settlement risks, while noting that there has been little evidence of the latter to date, and also little evidence of any meaningful slowdown in demand from China. <br><br>Despite the high levels of apartment construction, I'm coming around the view that with more than half of the dwelling stock effectively financed by offshore investors - overwhelmingly from China - such a ratio of apartments may never make it to the rental market that the actual impact on supply could yet prove to be a fizzer. <br><br><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">No stress?</span></strong><br><br>The RBA remains relatively unperturbed with household debt levels, for although gross household debt has increased so too have aggregated mortgage buffers (balances held in offsets and redraw facilities), up to an enormous 17 per cent of outstanding loan balances - that's the equivalent of more than 2.5 years of mortgage repayments at current interest rate levels.<br><br>The RBA reiterated that most household debt is held by the households that can afford to service it, with half of household debt held by the top quintile of income earners. Meanwhile, indicators of stress on overall loan portfolios remain low. <br><br>However, this review did acknowledge that the households without mortgage buffers are often those in the lower income brackets, which may present a market risk in time. <br><br>As such, housing markets in lower socio-demographic areas may be at greater risk if either interest rates or unemployment rates rise. <br><br>This certainly rings true in the case of Sydney where house prices in the west and at the city fringe have recorded particularly punchy price growth since 2012 - a dynamic which tends to mask any underlying household mortgage stress - but with auction results pointing to ongoing weakness, the fundamentals out west all look rather fragile.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<p><span><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.</em></p>
</div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

The becalmed market: Pete Wargent

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<p>Melbourne's outer west continues to warm to apartment living with news that 90% of dwellings on offer at Newton Apartments within Williams Landing have sold in rapid succession. The success of the suburb's first apartment development also points towards further higher density projects both in the suburb and the region in general.</p>

<p>A triumph for developer Cedar Woods Properties, the breakdown of apartment buyers within Newton Apartments hints toward the pent-up demand for apartment living in a region that has traditionally been the stronghold of detached housing estates.</p>

<p>31 purchasers for the project live in Williams Landing or adjoining suburbs, with a breakdown of their locations as follows: </p>

<ul>
<li>13 from Williams Landing</li>
	<li>5 from Point Cook </li>
	<li>4 from Truganina </li>
	<li>3 from Derrimut </li>
	<li>2 from Tarneit </li>
	<li>1 from Laverton </li>
	<li>1 from Wyndham Vale </li>
	<li>1 from Werribee </li>
	<li>1 from Deer Park</li>
</ul>
<p>With Newton Apartments - the suburb's first apartment development - the project has managed to gain traction with investors, downsizers and first home buyers according to the development team. The project includes 57 one and two bedroom apartments over four storeys.</p>

<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/image13_7_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Construction is imminent for Williams Landing's first apartment project. Image: Cedar Woods"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="336" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_7_1.jpg?itok=X4wecQ1J" title="Construction is imminent for Williams Landing's first apartment project. Image: Cedar Woods" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Construction is imminent for Williams Landing's first apartment project. Image: Cedar Woods</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
<p>It’s great feedback for us when existing customers are investing in, and living in our developments, because it means they can see the value that we’re adding to the area.</p>

<p>Newton Apartments supports the suburb’s growth sustainably by offering higher density dwellings that meet market demand.</p>
<cite>Nathan Blackburne, Victoria and Queensland State Manager of Cedar<br>
 </cite>
</blockquote>

<p>Urban.com.au has maintained a keen eye on the masterplanned 275 hectare Williams Landing development located between the Melbourne CBD and Geelong. As the first apartment development within Williams Landing and one of only a handful currently in development in Melbourne's west, the success of Newton Apartments points toward further apartment projects being rolled out in the region.</p>

<p>Williams Landing itself is a <a href="/news/placemaking-for-success-in-the-citys-west">Priority Development Zone</a> with the expectation that the majority of development within the suburb into the future will involve higher density, mixed use projects. This will be a departure from Williams Landing's early development which focused on detached housing.</p>

<p>According to Cedar Woods Newton Apartments in part responds to consumer, state government and local government demand for higher density in Melbourne’s south western sub-region to cater for population growth. According to a September 2015 Urbis report on Williams Landing, the south western sub-region is expected to accommodate some 1.1 million people by 2031, an increase of approximately 400,000 from today’s population of 700,000. </p>

<p>Other apartment projects currently in development in Melbourne's west include The Lighthouse in Werribee South and 116 Watton Street, Werribee. </p>

<p>Whilst these projects are in isolation successful developments, combined they also show that apartment living in Melbourne's west is slowly gaining traction; traction that may be accelerated rapidly should the East Werribee Employment Precinct be awarded to the likes of the <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/west/state-government-names-australian-education-city-as-preferred-developer-for-east-werribee/news-story/88a77d7022ab3001bc976e646b7f227d">AEC consortium</a>, with the development set to act as a catalyst for the region.</p>
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Will success breed success in the west?

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<p>West Melbourne continues to evolve with the suburb subject to a steady flow of new developments, as evidenced by the roughly 3,000 apartments in development and currently noted within Apartments.com.au's Project Database.</p>

<p>With the boom in high density and high rise projects looming large over the suburb, City of Melbourne have gone about enacting two separate pieces of policy in order to better manage and facilitate the rapid change that is descending upon West Melbourne.</p>

<p>With either yet to be finalised, there remains the opportunity for the community to provide feedback on these two key policy implementations which are outlined below:</p>

<h2>West Melbourne Structure Plan</h2>

<p>City of Melbourne continues to work through the intricacies of creating a comprehensive structure plan for West Melbourne.</p>

<p>With community consultation as a cornerstone of the study, the aim is to guide/manage the residential precinct within the suburb as higher density living becomes increasing prevalent in the area. With maintaining the area’s unique character and heritage at the heart of the intended structure plan, an initial round of public consultation has been held in order to garner opinion.</p>

<p>Phase 2 of community engagement for the West Melbourne Structure Plan is imminent according to the <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne">project's webpage</a>.</p>

<h2>West Melbourne Waterfront</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/image27_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Perri Projects' working image for West Melbourne Waterfront"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="301" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image27_1.jpg?itok=1FuBQAmX" title="Perri Projects' working image for West Melbourne Waterfront" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Perri Projects' working image for West Melbourne Waterfront</figcaption></figure><p><a href="/news/industrial-west-melbourne-the-latest-urban-renewal-contender">As outlined</a> by Apartments.com.au earlier in the year, a stretch of West Melbourne waterfront is up for renewal by way of City of Melbourne's Amendment C221 to the Melbourne Planning Scheme.</p>

<p><a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/application/files/1514/5972/5680/Amendment_C221_West_Melbourne_Waterfront_Development_Plan_-_Exhibition_11_March_2016.pdf">WMW Developments</a> is a venture between Perri Projects and Qanstruct, who are jointly seeking the right to develop the land which would first require rezoning from Commercial 2 Zone to Mixed Use Zone.</p>

<p>In keeping with the Dynon Urban Renewal Area objectives, buildings of up to 14 levels are expected while 7% of the 28,337sqm site area is slated to be dedicated open space. Residential, commercial and retail uses are prevalent, with the project split over four stages.</p>

<p>Currently the public has the opportunity to provide <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/c221">written feedback</a> on the proposed amendment until 20 May 2016.</p>

<h2>Comment</h2>

<p>West Melbourne Waterfront looks to be a lay down misère, but it's West Melbourne's structure plan that is of interest, specifically the <a href="http://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/westmelbourne">published comments</a> associated with the first round of public feedback.</p>

<p>Some patently ridiculous comments such as turning West Melbourne into an arts precinct and E-Gate into a park or maintaining a two level height limit throughout (something about a horse and gate) provide little by way of meaningful responses. These suggestions tend to come across as the opinions of those who aren't living in the land of reality.</p>

<p>But of course in between the pointless droll there are ideas with merit. Extending the tram line north along Spencer Street, improved pedestrian access, a new bus link to the Parkville Employment Precinct and mandatory inclusion of green space for higher density projects shape as ideas of merit.</p>

<p>Invariably with manure comes the opportunity for enlightened ideas to grow; ahh the joys of public opinion!</p>
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Two key planning policies set to reshape West Melbourne

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<p>Doncaster Hill is set to receive another substantial apartment development. 600 Doncaster Road is currently holding at Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit with a full planning permit essentially a formality.</p>

<p>Located on a prominent site bound by Elgar Road, Elgar Court and Doncaster Road, the twelve level project sits on the crest of Doncaster Hill and will maintain unfettered views toward Melbourne's CBD.</p>

<p>Created by BKK Architects, the project has spent the best part of two years in planning, but is now on the verge of adding to the architecturally diverse Doncaster Hill activity area.</p>

<h2>600 Doncaster Road, Doncaster 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/image25_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Angles in play. Planning image: BKK Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="449" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image25_5.jpg?itok=ZaK-tRVP" title="Angles in play. Planning image: BKK Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Angles in play. Planning image: BKK Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Development site area: 3,231sqm</li>
	<li>Current use: single storey office buildings</li>
	<li>Proposed: 12 level apartment building at 38.9 metres to parapet</li>
	<li>Built form to cover 61% of site area</li>
	<li>174 apartments: 84 x 1BR, 83 x 2BR,  7 x 3BR</li>
	<li>701sqm commercial office space</li>
	<li>Three basement levels: 236 vehicle bays, 53 bicycle bays, 177 storage cages</li>
	<li>Ground floor 174sqm residential lounge</li>
	<li>Estimated development cost: $45 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>A green touch</h2>

<p>After a process in which the design was amended while at planning, the resultant form employs a highly angular built form with a design highlight provided by a green 'vein' that runs the height of the building.</p>

<blockquote>
<p>A key feature of the overall design response is a feature orchard landscape treatment across the western side of the site. The orchard feature is proposed at both ground level and extends up through the centre of the western facade resulting in a “Vertical Garden” anchored by canopy trees.</p>

<p>The vertical space is to be a common area accessed by all future residents from Levels 1-10, inclusive. A third landscape area is provided along the eastern side of the building adjacent to the office floorspace and the residential club lounge.</p>
<cite>Council report regarding 600 Doncaster Road</cite>
</blockquote>

<p>A heavy tree planting schedule is also proposed at ground level, elevating the project above all other recent apartment project completions in the area which provide little by the way of greenery or a softened interface to the pedestrian realm.</p>

<h2>Diversity on the Hill</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/image34_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Current Doncaster Hill apartment projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_5.jpg?itok=CkIWt3ry" title="Current Doncaster Hill apartment projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Current Doncaster Hill apartment projects</figcaption></figure><p>It's a veritable who's who of architecture firms on Doncaster Hill. Eight projects currently under construction have been designed by eight separate architecture entities: CHT Architects, Artisan Architects, ML Design, Peddle Thorp, Ascui &amp; Co, JAM Architects, Woods Bagot and Sgourakis Architects.</p>

<p>The Buchan Group created the recently completed Imperial Doncaster while the paint is still drying on Pearl which is the work of RotheLowman. Architecture firms with projects approved or at sales include Hayball, ClarkeHopkinsClarke, K2LD, De Nova Group and of course BKK with 600 Doncaster Road.</p>

<p>Based on the above, architectural design diversity is not an issue at Doncaster Hill.</p>
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BKK Architects the latest to enter Doncaster Hill

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<p>Recent weeks have yielded some significant planning outcomes for a host of inner city projects.</p>

<p>Whilst 447 Collins Street has justifiably garnered the lion's share of media attention, other projects of note such as 248 Sturt Street have also received the green light. Of the six projects outlined three have a planning permit in place with 447 Collins Street a <em>fait accompli</em>, whilst another has faltered at VCAT and another on tenterhooks following City of Melbourne's dissatisfaction.</p>

<p>An overview of each project is provided below:</p>

<h2>248 Sturt Street, Southbank</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/image137_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Southbank success. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="458" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image137_0.jpg?itok=N768kJ49" title="Southbank success. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Southbank success. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><p>The sleek 248 Sturt Street won approval last month, two years after being submitted. Initially rejected by Planning Minister Richard Wynne, the project has since been granted a permit via VCAT.</p>

<p>Seen above in its initial version is the Elenberg Fraser-designed building which at 123 metres could accommodate in excess of 300 dwellings for long time Melbourne developer Hudson Conway. Finishes for the tower include stainless steel, silver and ceramic frit glazing along with perforated mesh.</p>

<h2>9-27 Downie Street, Melbourne</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/image1_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Various incarnations of 9-27 Downie Street. Planning image: Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="232" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_4.jpg?itok=YXxvI4si" title="Various incarnations of 9-27 Downie Street. Planning image: Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Various incarnations of 9-27 Downie Street. Planning image: Peddle Thorp</figcaption></figure><p>After receiving two 'haircuts' in which the height of 9-27 Downie Street was reduced by approximately one third to 106 metres, the tower has received approval during February. Now at 33 levels (seen above right), the reshaped Peddle Thorp creation is approved to include 100 x 1 bedroom, 173 x 2 bedroom and 2 x 3 bedroom apartments.</p>

<p>66 car parking spaces, two retail tenancies and various amenities are included within the project which is under the control of development entity Einwood Pty Ltd.</p>

<h2>140 King Street, Melbourne</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/image4_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspectives. Planning image: ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_5.jpg?itok=cyIv6i-i" title="Street level perspectives. Planning image: ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspectives. Planning image: ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure><p>Whilst not a final decision, City of Melbourne have indicated their displeasure with Besgate's 140-146 King Street. The slim 187 metre tower designed by RotheLowman has undergone slight design refinements since appearing on Apartments.com.au during 2015.</p>

<p>With 271 apartments included, the tower has fallen foul of City of Melbourne planners with key issues cited including excessive height and inadequate setbacks, the project's impact on the public realm, wind impacts and internal amenity concerns.</p>

<p>The Planning Minister will have the final say as to whether or not the project receives the green light.</p>

<h2>447 Collins Street, Melbourne</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/image7cbus.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Third time's a charm. Image: Cbus Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="247" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7cbus.jpg?itok=HY6hyEmT" title="Third time's a charm. Image: Cbus Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Third time's a charm. Image: Cbus Property</figcaption></figure><p>You may well have been on the moon if not aware of the compromised design outcome between Victoria's Planning Minister and Cbus Property. A degree of discretion was exercised by Minister Wynne in effectively approving the project which will bring a heightened level of design merit and public benefit to Collins Street.</p>

<p>It's been reported the project will commence during September which in all actuality involves demolition of the remainder of the existing structure before any ground works can begin in earnest.</p>

<h2>109-111 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne</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/image8_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site in question. Image: Google Maps"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image8_4.jpg?itok=CievRLIW" title="The site in question. Image: Google Maps" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The site in question. Image: Google Maps</figcaption></figure><p>AFR reported last week that Brady Group's intentions of creating a second Brady Hotel-badged tower have been rejected by VCAT. Following in the footsteps of 30 Little Latrobe Street, the proposed building at 109-111 Little Lonsdale Street was to have been 21 storeys and dedicated solely toward hotel use.</p>

<p>Lodged with City of Melbourne during March 2015 the proposal was initially rejected by Council during October 2015 and subsequently once more at the hands of VCAT.</p>

<p>The rejection raises the prospect of Brady Group retaining a hotel component within <a href="/developments">380 Lonsdale Street</a>, an approved large-scale project in which Brady recently relieved Singaporean developer Hiap Hoe of their half share in order to gain full control of the site.</p>

<h2>65-71 Haig Street, Southbank</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/image11_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Southbank continues to expand. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="281" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image11_7.jpg?itok=FNPTFddu" title="Southbank continues to expand. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Southbank continues to expand. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure><p>March also saw the approval of Sunvale Development's Southbank residential tower, with the initial version seen above.</p>

<p>Down from initially loftier intentions, the approved Fender Katsalidis scheme will be capped at 125 metres and will further fill Haig Street which hes been subject to measured apartment development over the past decade.</p>

<p>65-71 Haig Street's journey through planning spanned near on 17 months.</p>
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A six pack of significant planning decisions

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<p><span>Developer Oliver Hume Property Funds said it is crafting a millennial-specific approach to new developments, who will make up 43 percent of buyers over the next three years.</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p><span>As a result, Oliver Hume will incorporate a ‘lifestyle manager’ into all new developments, such as Nord in North Melbourne, for millennials looking to spend less time on errands and more time socialising and career networking.</span></p>
<p><span>According to the Future Leaders Index 2015, 65 percent of millennials say they feel busy often or all of the time, and 61 percent report having difficulty juggling all the elements in their lives.</span></p>
<p><span>The Pew Research Center, an American think tank, defines "adult millennials" as those born between 1981 and 1996. </span></p>
<p><span>The Lifestyle Manager is on-site to simplify tasks such as signing for parcels, online shopping, giving tradespeople access, organising dry-cleaning, assisting to organise social events within the building and recommending activities in the area, such as taking one of the apartment’s electric bikes for a ride.</span></p>
<p><span>“Given young professionals are the dominant market in North Melbourne, providing these conveniences and benefits has been a key priority for Nord, as we want our residents to be free to enjoy their lives without excessive errands,” says Oliver Hume Property Funds executive chairman Michael Duster.</span></p>
<p><span>Nord will launch its leasing campaign on April 16.</span></p>
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prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

Nord project targets millennials with ‘lifestyle manager’

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<p>Boroondara continues to be an irresistible prospect for apartment developers as evidenced by the seven fresh projects added recently to the Apartments.com.au Project Database.</p>

<p>Spread over Kew, Hawthorn, Hawthorn East and Balwyn North, the seven projects would add hundreds of new apartments to the municipality. Further they take to 18 the total number of new Boroondara projects entered into the database during 2016.</p>

<p>Whilst six projects are at planning, a seventh has already commenced its sales campaign. A summary of each new Apartments.com.au Project Database listing is provided below:</p>

<h2>76-78 Doncaster Road, Balwyn North</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/image51_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Planning application image: DKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image51_1.jpg?itok=8Zsp_0VJ" title="Planning application image: DKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Planning application image: DKO Architecture</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Developer: DCF Property Group</li>
	<li>Architect: DKO Architecture</li>
	<li>60 apartments: 29 x 1 bedroom, 29 x 2 bedroom, 2 x 3 bedroom</li>
	<li>
<span style="line-height: 1.6;">473 </span>square metres<span style="line-height: 1.6;"> of retail space over 3 tenancies</span>
</li>
	<li>90 car spaces &amp; 18 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>Communal areas and rooftop garden</li>
</ul>
<h2>382-386 Burwood Road, Hawthorn</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/image56_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image: CDG"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image56_2.jpg?itok=_pdboBJQ" title="Image: CDG" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image: CDG</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Developer: CDG</li>
	<li>Architect: ROTHELOWMAN</li>
	<li>39 apartments: 13 x 1 bedroom, 26 x 2 bedroom</li>
	<li>
<span style="line-height: 1.6;">330.2 </span>square metres<span style="line-height: 1.6;"> of retail space over 2 tenancies</span>
</li>
	<li>31 car spaces</li>
</ul>
<h2>1159 - 1163 Burke Road, Kew </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/image52_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Planning application image: CHC Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="345" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image52_1.jpg?itok=wFw3YCeX" title="Planning application image: CHC Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Planning application image: ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Developer: BENLUK Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: ClarkeHopkinsClarke</li>
	<li>5 apartments: 1 x 1 bedroom, 2 x 2 bedroom, 2 x 3 bedroom</li>
	<li>
<span style="line-height: 1.6;">1,055 </span>square metres<span style="line-height: 1.6;"> of commercial office space</span>
</li>
	<li><span style="line-height: 1.6;">170 square metre cafe</span></li>
	<li>42 car spaces</li>
	<li>Communal areas and rooftop garden</li>
</ul>
<h2>402-408 Riversdale Road, Hawthorn East</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/image53_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Planning application image: Ewert Leaf"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="279" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image53_0.jpg?itok=t9mdvGcF" title="Planning application image: Ewert Leaf" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Planning application image: Ewert Leaf</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Developer: Steller</li>
	<li>Architect: Ewert Leaf</li>
	<li>32 apartments: 1 x 1 bedroom, 19 x 2 bedroom, 12 x 3 bedroom</li>
	<li>6 x two storey townhouses</li>
	<li>54 car spaces</li>
</ul>
<h2>422-526 Riversdale Road, Hawthorn East</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/image54_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Planning application image: CHT Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image54_2.jpg?itok=2xJlk7J9" title="Planning application image: CHT Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Planning application image: CHT Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Developer: Delta Property Group</li>
	<li>Architect: CHT Architects</li>
	<li>41 apartments: 9 x 1 bedroom, 32 x 2 bedroom </li>
	<li>45 car spaces and 30 bicycle spaces</li>
</ul>
<h2>9 Montrose Street, Hawthorn East</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/rtyujk_zpsml1yeju4.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Image: ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="340" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/rtyujk_zpsml1yeju4.png?itok=1rZTK3MM" title="Image: ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image: ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Developer: MK Emerald Developments Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: ROTHELOWMAN</li>
	<li>34 apartments:12 x 1 bedroom and 22 x 2 bedroom</li>
	<li>27 car spaces and 28 bicycle spaces</li>
	<li>1 commercial tenancy of 51.6 square metres</li>
</ul>
<h2>Derby Place - 369 High Street, Kew</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/image57_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image: Crema Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image57_4.jpg?itok=GDByrHkf" title="Image: Crema Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image: Crema Group</figcaption></figure><p>Derby Place enters the database as the latest project for Port Melbourne-based Crema Group. Designed by Fender Katsalidis and CBG Architects the project will feature 1,2 and 3 bedroom apartments set above an activated streetscape.</p>

<p>The six level project features amenities such as a garden terrace, lounge, library, private dining space and bar. Crema Constructions will build Derby Place.</p>

<h2>Boroondara at large</h2>

<p>With the inception of the above projects, Boroondara now maintains 72 separate project entries in the Apartments.com.au Project Database; that is projects in the development pipeline, but yet to reach completion.</p>

<p>As with most areas of Melbourne the listings are heavily skewed in favour of residential use, although a small number of commercial projects are present.</p>

<p>Working on the assumption that all projects will be realised, Boroondara would see an additional 3,300 apartments spring from the current crop of listings.</p>
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