The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Apartments

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South Yarra's Chapel Street - the area generally bound by Chapel, Simmons, Palfreyman and Garden, South Yarra's back blocks in the sense that the area in question plays second fiddle to the more prestigious developments within South Yarra's Forrest Hill precinct - is experiencing a development renaissance of its own.

Historically a low-rise commercial and light industrial pocket of South Yarra, the area has seen constant apartment development over the past 5-6 years owing the the small yet numerous plots which have over time become more appealing as low to medium-rise buildings.

The past 18 months has seen four apartment developments completed, namely SPEC Property Group's WLSN South Yarra, Pure Apartments, Mode Apartments with 38 apartments over eight levels and Kudos Apartments.

<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_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Recent completions"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="638" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1_0.jpg?itok=4oyXUOEE" title="Recent completions" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Recent completions</figcaption></figure>The rapid rate of change continues with three additional builds set to pump 297 apartments into the area. After a delay in excess of three years, Hutchinson Builders are well into construction of <a href="/buildings/echo-33-simmonds-street-south-yarra">Echo</a>, while <a href="/buildings/wil-co-34-wilson-street-south-yarra">Wil &amp; Co.</a> and <a href="/buildings/essence-35-wilson-street-south-yarra">Essence</a> are at basement level works on either side of Wilson Street.

Adding to the queue are <a href="/new-apartments/43-wilson-street-south-yarra">W South Yarra</a> and <a href="/buildings/noir-8-garden-street-south-yarra">Noir</a>, ranking among the largest projects in the area since Hamton's 242-apartment Society South Yarra complex was completed on Bray Street during 2010. Noir also represents the first project backed by a mainland Chinese developer in the area, with Shanghai-based Dahua Group acting as developer.

In this precinct, Apartments.com.au have identified in excess of 700 apartments either completed or currently under construction, spread over 11 separate developments.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image2_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Projects under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="592" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_4.jpg?itok=G9ud3nEN" title="Projects under construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Projects under construction</figcaption></figure>Looking ahead, three significant planning applications for the area are currently with Stonnington City Council.

<a href="/new-apartments/47-garden-street-south-yarra">49 Garden Street</a> would see only 17 apartments over a ten level building, with the scheme for the narrow 228sqm block conceived by ADDARC. Garden Street Investments Pty Ltd are the proponent, seeking one and two bedroom apartments as large at 85sqm within the project. <a href="/new-apartments/14-16-wilson-street-south-yarra">14-16 Wilson Street</a> has been resubmitted for approval and features 24 apartments within a wave-like facade conceived by SAC Building Workshop.

Last but by no means least is the revised scheme by Plus Architecture for <a href="/new-apartments/402-416-chapel-street-south-yarra">402-416 Chapel Street</a>. First <a href="/news/big-on-chapel-402-416-chapel-street-planning-application">highlighted by Urban.com.au during March</a>, the reworked application of behalf of Spotlight Development Group seeks to add a new hotel to South Yarra with 174 suites included within the expected redevelopment of what is now Chapel Plaza.

Also slated for the project are 87 townhouses, one and two bedrooms dwellings plus 2126sqm of retail and 965sqm of commercial space over the lower levels. 402-416 Chapel Street's fate is in VCAT's hands with the body to make a call on the scheme at a scheduled hearing next 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/image7_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pending additions to the streetscape"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="591" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_4.jpg?itok=-EvJ71qU" title="Pending additions to the streetscape" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pending additions to the streetscape. Images courtesy Plus &amp; SACBW</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

The transformation of South Yarra's back blocks continues

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The AFL finals are upon us and Spring has sprung… well, not quite yet. This time of year generally does coincide with a string of apartment developments readying themselves for public launch.

Whether they are looking to capitalise upon the improving Spring weather where buyers are more inclined to be out and about in the search for a new property, or seeking to secure as many sales as possible prior to the Christmas break, Apartments.com.au have identified upwards of 20 new apartment projects which have just launched or are in the process of doing so, with more to follow.

Middle and outer suburbs covered by these new and pending launches are numerous. Oakleigh, Hawthorn, Heidelberg, Bundoora, Cheltenham, Brighton, Preston, Essendon and Doncaster East are represented, as is the effervescent Box Hill with two new releases.

<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/image193_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Apartments in the suburbs continue to grow in popularity"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="709" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image193_0.jpg?itok=hiR9HvaL" title="Apartments in the suburbs continue to grow in popularity" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Apartments in the suburbs continue to grow in popularity</figcaption></figure>Closer to the big smoke and Fitzroy, South Yarra, Prahran, Brunswick East and Footscray will host new projects, with a handful already open to public sales. Footscray's pending release will further enhance Joseph Road Precinct's stance as an emerging apartment sector.

North Melbourne has two freshly released apartment projects but taking the honours is Richmond which continues to lead the way. No less than five apartments projects are in the immediate pipeline, with two currently available for public purchase.

These new releases, coupled with existing projects at sales and 20 plus projects which Apartments.com.au have in our database (at either planning assessment or approved), have Richmond locked in as one of the continuing apartment hot spots for some time to come.

<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/image208.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="There's no shortage of choice for prospective buyers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="985" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image208.jpg?itok=F4uho3IG" title="There's no shortage of choice for prospective buyers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>There's no shortage of choice for prospective buyers</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au garnered the thoughts of leading industry figure and Apartment Register founder Cameron Clarke, regarding the current spate of new apartment releases.

<blockquote>
Spring has historically been and continues to be the peak time of the year to release apartment projects in Melbourne for the simple reason that Melbourne is at its peak, culminating with the AFL Final Series, the Spring Racing Carnival and Spring Fashion Week. Spring motivates the return of local residents and attracts national and international visitors, it is simply a positive time and atmosphere for the most liveable city to be on display.

For this reason consumers have the largest number of development projects to choose from and therefore the largest selection of apartments to pick from. For the discerning owner occupier, investor and downsizer, the privilege of having priority pick in projects before public launch gives the buyer heightened control with the knowledge they accessing premium apartment stock. The sales speed at which particular off the plan developments can be sold is now measured in days as opposed to weeks or months, so any additional time to view a project is an advantage.

Spring is simply the easiest time of year to purchase with the maximum number of opportunities to do so.
<cite>Cameron Clarke</cite>
</blockquote>

For those looking for that extra edge when seeking to buy an apartment this Spring, you can register your interest and suburb preferences with Apartment Register.
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New apartment releases line up for their time in the sun

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GUEST OBSERVER
We’re experiencing unprecedented demand from owner occupiers seeking higher quality one-bedroom apartments, normally the preserve of investors.
These owner occupiers vary from young singles who want to walk to work to downsizers and out of towners wanting a stylish Melbourne pad for regular visits but we’ve found they share a distinct goal – well-considered, larger one-bedroom apartments in unique developments with high levels of amenity and prime locations within Melbourne’s inner ring.
Previously the strongest demand for single bedroom units has been from investors looking for guaranteed returns.  Their requirements are at polar opposites from our owner occupier buyers who seek high levels of design, luxury and amenity both within their apartments and exclusive resident-only facilities.  They regard the higher body corporate fees associated with these amenities as a lifestyle investment that enhances apartment living, rather than a handicap to purchase.
 What sets the owner occupier apartments apart from investor grade stock is about far more than square metres of living space and stone benchtops.
A great example is Royal Como, a $100 million luxury residential project at 663 Chapel Street, South Yarra. Our team from Knight Frank project marketing collaborated with Royal Como’s developers and highly-acclaimed Bruce Henderson Architects from the start, working for months to make each of these apartments as liveable as possible.
Knowing what owner occupiers are looking for, the one-bedroom apartments range up to 69 square metres – many with a separate study.  Each and every apartment has been individually designed, ensuring all bedrooms and living spaces have full-width, full-height windows onto the exterior façade, maximising natural light and air as well as outlooks.  The kitchens are large and spacious, with lots of bench space, and living areas are designed for generous living and dining furniture, not just one or the other.  Some one-bedroom apartments have an island bench, usually unheard of in smaller apartments.
Wherever possible we have integrated study desks and included extra storage spaces like linen closets – we’ve made sure every square metre of living space works hard for the occupant. There’s no wasted space in needless passageways.  Balconies are a regular shape and large enough for a table and chairs and air-conditioning condensers are out of the way. 
On top of highly-considered apartment design, the Royal Como has a raft of unique attributes which gives it strong appeal to owner occupiers including interiors by award-winning studio, Nexus Designs, featuring Australian Blackbutt timber and alpaca or natural wool carpet, and a natural stone lobby with contemporary art and furniture by leading Australian artists and designers.
Buyers love the fact that if you’re in a one bedroom apartment you can still have 15 friends over for dinner or drinks in the residents’ lounge and dining area – it is an extension of your living area. Plus you can keep fit in the pool, gym and yoga room without leaving your building.  
These buyers know it’s all about quality, not quantity.
Richard Drummond is residential director, Knight Frank Australia and can be contacted <a href="https://www.knightfrank.com.au/residential/" target="_blank">here</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Unprecedented demand from owner occupiers in one bedroom flats: Richard Drummond

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Friday marked the commencement of the latest apartment project to call Doncaster Hill home. <a href="/buildings/gardenhill-5-elgar-court-doncaster">Gardenhill</a> has been awarded to Kew-based contractor Hacer, with the $77 million project set for completion at the turn of 2017.

Gardenhill is the seventh apartment project currently under construction within Doncaster Hill, Manningham City Council's vision for an "Integrated planning approach to creating a sustainable, contemporary mixed-use centre, comprising apartment style living opportunities, retail, commercial, social, community and entertainment facilities."

Apartments have ruled the roost since the inception of the Doncaster Hill Strategy during the early 2000's, with the current seven medium and high-density projects under construction an all-time high.

<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/gh.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Woods Bagot-designed Gardenhill"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="381" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gh.jpg?itok=zfxvMOrd" title="The Woods Bagot-designed Gardenhill" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Woods Bagot-designed Gardenhill</figcaption></figure>Present at the ceremony held onsite on Friday was the Victorian Minister for Finance Hon. Robin Scott, along with Malaysian Minister for Industry and Trade Dato’ Lee Chee Leong and Manningham Mayor Cr. Paul McLeish. Gardenhill is a joint project between Melbourne-based Beulah International and Malaysian firm Fajarbaru Group.

Designed by Woods Bagot, the project will see 136 apartments added to Doncaster Hill, creating 200 construction jobs over the life of the build. Also included within the project is a Jack Merlo-designed rooftop garden and entertainment area, plus Australia’s first Dog Park within an apartment complex.

<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/image128.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Recent images of Doncaster Hill's construction progress"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="726" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image128.jpg?itok=ig2oZQIJ" title="Recent images of Doncaster Hill's construction progress" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Recent images of Doncaster Hill's construction progress</figcaption></figure>Hacer has been an active builder at Doncaster hill for some time, recently delivering the 96-apartment Imperial Doncaster project in addition to their current <a href="/buildings/pearl-1-grosvenor-street-doncaster">Pearl Doncaster</a> project on behalf of Singapore-based Ho Bee Land. Due for completion during early 2016, Pearl will see 172 apartments created over two buildings.

Other projects of note at construction include <a href="/buildings/88-doncaster-hill-88-tram-road-doncaster">88 Doncaster Hill</a> and <a href="/buildings/83-on-tram-83-tram-road-doncaster">83 on Tram</a>, with <a href="/buildings/panorama-101-tram-road-doncaster">Panorama</a> at 101 Tram Road also rising quickly. Set back from Doncaster Road is <a href="/buildings/magnolia-doncaster-hill-22-hepburn-road-doncaster">Magnolia Doncaster Hill</a> which is the precinct's tallest build to date at 14 levels with <a href="/buildings/8-hepburn-road-doncaster">8 Hepburn Road</a> nearby also under construction.

These seven projects are in the process of adding 898 additional dwellings to Doncaster Hill while forthcoming builds on 'The Hill' as identified by Apartments.com.au will see in excess of 300 additional apartments constructed over three projects, namely Ellia, Arbor Doncaster and Nest at the Hill.
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Doncaster Hill in construction mode

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Entry level property investors and first time buyers, cashed up older downsizers buying an executive unit following the sale of the family home and international investors are keen for off the plan apartments in Sydney, according to Herron Todd White.
The Herron Todd White residential month in review for September found significant growth for high-rise and high density apartments within the inner Sydney area in suburbs such as Barangaroo, Central Park, Ashmore Precinct, Green Square, Harold Park, Wolli Creek Precinct and Mascot.
Typical price entry points for off the plan below for Zetland, Wolli Creek and Mascot.
<a href="/images/2015/09/04/Screen%20Shot%202015-09-04%20at%209.36.12%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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The report said many Sydneysiders are buying units off the plan and waiting up to three years before occupation is available which is risky in the current market.
"Buyers have seen prices rise from when they originally purchased the unit to when they settle," the report noted.
"Risks associated with buying off the plan is if the market declines they are stuck at the higher price and have to wait it out until the market settles and catches up. In some cases this can take years.
"This has been seen in areas where supply has flooded the market and values have stalled or dropped."
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mick.cee-iDmgDDAmu8

Sydney's Central Park, Wolli Creek and Green Square units in strong demand: Herron Todd White

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The first sod has been turned for the construction of Doncaster's $77 million Gardenhill development by Manningham Mayor Cr. Paul McLeish.
The ground breaking ceremony at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/project-gardenhill-vic-doncaster-600006123" target="_blank">5 Elgar Court</a>, Doncaster was also attended by Victorian Minister for Finance Robin Scott and Malaysian Minister for Industry and Trade Dato’ Lee Chee Leong.
Gardenhill is a joint venture between Malaysian-based Fajarbaru Group and Melbourne-based Beulah International.
The apartment development is designed by Woods Bagot-designed development, with 70% of the 136 apartments sold up in the first three months of release. Construction is slated for completion late 2016.
Key features include a Jack Merlo-designed garden, a rooftop terrace, teppanyaki barbecue and a private enclosed dog park on the ground floor.
 
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Construction starts on Doncaster’s $77 million Gardenhill

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The valuation firm Herron Todd White has issued its latest property clock for units - a simple broad brush means to suggest where property markets are - and what direction prices are moving in.
The valuation firm has included capital and regional cities on the property clock for unit price direction.
<a href="/images/2015/09/03/Screen%20Shot%202015-09-03%20at%202.32.37%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge</a>.
For more information, <a href="https://www.htw.com.au/" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Rockhampton, Horsham, Newcastle units at peak pricing in September HTW property clock

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Gone is the 26 level proposal for Heidelberg which stirred local resentment earlier in the year, with a new scheme in place that developer Caydon hopes will receive the green light. Gone too are initial architects Peddle Thorp, with Fender Katsalidis installed to deliver an altogether different proposal.

Shorter in stature and gaining a handful of apartments over the initial proposal, Fender Katsalidis have endeavoured to bring a heightened level of architectural flair to 443 Upper Heidelberg Road. Heavily curved with multiple setbacks and an articulated podium, Fender Katsalidis continue their run of projects for Caydon which has also seen the firm create apartment schemes in both <a href="/buildings/the-malt-district-154-cremorne-street-cremorne">Cremorne</a> and <a href="/buildings/margaret-st-7-aspen-street-moonee-ponds">Moonee Ponds</a> for the developer.

Submitted prior to Christmas last year, the proposal is set to come to a head during October with VCAT to hear from relevant parties on the merits of the project.

<h2>443 Upper Heidelberg Road 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/image91_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fender Katsalidis' new take on Heidelberg"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image91_0.jpg?itok=c3rBXijd" title="Fender Katsalidis' new take on Heidelberg" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Fender Katsalidis' new take on Heidelberg</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site area: 3,360sqm</li>
	<li>Proposed 16 level residential tower (previously 26 levels)</li>
	<li>54.8 metres in height</li>
	<li>269 apartments (previously 258)</li>
	<li>126 x 1BR / 89 x 2BR / 3 x 3BR</li>
	<li>51 serviced apartments (no change)</li>
	<li>2,208sqm office space &amp; 713sqm retail space</li>
	<li>GFA: 36,756sqm</li>
	<li>296 car spaces &amp; 156 bicycles over four basement levels</li>
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<h2>Design changes</h2>

The total redesign of 443 Upper Heidelberg Road has led to ten fewer levels as opposed to the initial Peddle Thorp design. While the tower has been shortened, the podium has been bulked up which has effectively covered for and expanded upon the initial number of apartments envisaged for the project.

The lower levels have seen a redistribution of retail tenancies which now facing Bell Street, with the layout of intended office tenancies also adjusted. Residential facilities and an external pool have been moved upwards in line with the expanded podium, while expected residential facilities atop the tower have been scrapped.

As opposed to a solid rectangular design, the oval-shaped tower element now consists of two interlocking elements while lower levels now feature planter boxes to all frontages.

<h2>VCAT bound</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/image24_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Peddle Thorp's initial scheme for the Heidelberg site will not proceed"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="364" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image24_2.jpg?itok=Yr2yDM7p" title="Peddle Thorp's initial scheme for the Heidelberg site will not proceed" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Peddle Thorp's initial scheme for the Heidelberg site will not proceed</figcaption></figure>Banyule City Council had upon inspecting the initial plans identified a number of issues with the proposal. Building design and scale, landscaping and tree retention, car/bicycle parking, access and layout, future residential amenity of some apartments plus the strain placed upon the surrounding road network were considered key sticking points.

Consequently an application for review was lodged with VCAT during June, with the revised plans circulated on 21st August. Mid October shapes as the key juncture in proceedings with a VCAT date set to determine the merits of the reworked 443 Upper Heidelberg Road.
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443 Upper Heidelberg Road reborn

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The increasing density of Australian cities calls for innovative apartments that cater to the market’s diverse range of buyers.

Australia’s ageing population is seeing a maturation of apartment buyers, along with a sustained interested from first home buyers wishing to remain close to city centres.

Acting on strong market demand, ROTHELOWMAN in conjunction with developer Hamton have succeeded in creating Australia’s first ever-convertible apartments. These spaces form part of stage three of the wider Sanctuary on the Park development, located in Abbotsford, Melbourne.

From the beginning, the aim of this project has been to establish an exemplar model for higher density design in inner urban developments. As our population continues to grow, big houses are being traded in for cleverly designed apartments with excellent amenities and proximity to existing infrastructure, entertainment and employment hubs. The goal of Sanctuary has been to meet the needs of modern buyers, with beautiful, functional living spaces, while also establishing a sense of community in the new vertical neighbourhood.

Prior to the design development of the wider project, Hamton commissioned our practice to research small living spaces, in order to develop a truly innovative outcome inspired by global design initiatives.

Our team came to the conclusion that the physical imposition of walls used to subdivide space into different zones was one of the primary constraints in most small living spaces. While defined living spaces have long been a feature of the typical Australian apartment, we were keen to see if this physical space could become more pliable.

These investigations focused on generating a layout capable of expanding and contracting as required, while managing to enhance liveability both spatially and psychologically.

A major concern was how we could achieve movable components that require only minimal effort to transition. Whatever the solution, we knew its success depended on its simplicity. Residents couldn’t be daunted by the task of changing the configuration of their apartment; the process of transforming the space had to be one they were happy to go through regularly.

<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/jdb_2015-06-10_0081.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Inside a completed convertible space apartment. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jdb_2015-06-10_0081.jpg?itok=I2FmKmR-" title="Inside a completed convertible space apartment. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Inside a completed convertible space apartment. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure>Honing the living space down to its essentials, we created the convertible spaces model from the ground up, incorporating multiple space-saving solutions to present a holistic, cohesive design. The end result is a convertible design, capable of increasing living space by up to 70 per cent.

The convertible spaces are designed so that bedroom space can be incorporated into living space as required, and functional areas such as corridors can become usable in living and bedroom areas without compromising on access through the apartment.

By expanding the storage space, introducing a foldup bed and movable joinery, these spaces offer residents the flexibility to extend and define their living space to best suit their lifestyle. Whether it’s socialising or solitude the owner seeks, these spaces can be moulded to suit every mood or occasion.

The interiors of the convertible apartments follow a contemporary design aesthetic, with beautiful finishes that create a light, inviting atmosphere. The finishes are robust with durable moving components and detailed corners chosen specifically to withstand repeated movement and prevent chipping.

Also key to this development was creating a sense of community and fostering social connections within the area. Whilst extensive communal facilities are provided for residents, the masterplan encourages an active dialogue between the development and its wider context.

A new public spine bisects the site, connecting the urbanism of Victoria Street to the tranquil natural landscape of the river corridor. The architecture acts as an emulsifier between the two juxtaposed environments and in doing so promotes accessibility, interaction and engagement on both a resident and public level. As a result, the development has become embedded itself into the local fabric, giving life to a new vertical neighbourhood.

The $412 million project features a total of 567 apartments over 220 metres of mostly north-facing river frontage on a unique bend of the Yarra River. Each of the three main buildings (Eden, Haven and Sanctuary) has 12 storeys, but decrease in height (and storey numbers) like a natural geological formation towards the river and public spaces. The curved outline of the buildings further reflects the contours of riverbanks.

A third of the site has been given over to public spaces and the apartment buildings also feature gardens, lobby bars, a pool, gym, a health and wellbeing centre and even a rooftop cinema.

A dynamic walkway and retail precinct with cafes and boutique retail and office spaces winds between the three buildings and connects Victoria Street with the river. All 16 of these retail spaces have already been sold or leased.

Recognising the varied market of buyers in the Abbotsford area, the development brings together a diverse of housing typologies at a price point that caters to first home buyers and luxury investors alike, ranging from $300,000 to $3.96 million. The mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments are sized between 36 and 425 square metres and appeal to single professionals, downsizing couples and growing city families.

Chris Hayton is a principal at <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">ROTHELOWMAN</a> with 20 years of experience working on major projects in Australia and Europe.

See "<a href="/news/inside-australias-first-convertible-apartment">Inside Australia's first convertible apartment</a>" published in July for more images.
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chrishayton

Planning Australia’s first convertible apartments

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The recent appointment of Stuart Marsland to the position of ROTHELOWMAN Principal coincides with a fresh wave of projects to be submitted to town planning over the coming months.

Following eight years with the South Melbourne-based firm, Marsland has now assumed a pivotal role within the practice. In a climate of changing perceptions around higher density living, he has assisted ROTHELOWMAN in gaining a reputation for their expert delivery of apartment developments. Apartments.com.au spoke with Marsland about his expertise.

<h2>About Stuart Marsland</h2>

Growing up in Britain, Marsland attended the Metropolitan University of Manchester before establishing his architectural career in London. Working for local firm Child Graddon Lewis, Marsland gained experience working across warehouse conversions, apartment developments and infrastructure projects including various projects for the London Underground.

After making the choice to immigrate to Australia, 2016 will mark Marsland’s ninth year working with ROTHELOWMAN. Over that period, Marsland’s project catalogue has included all facets of residential design, master planning and urban design.

Marsland has been heavily involved in advising the Stonnington City Council with their Chapel Revision Structure Plan. This advisory role saw Stuart provide a planning guideline framework for design factors such as development, land use, movement, public realm, strategic opportunities, sustainability and economic and social planning.

<h2>A principal within ROTHELOWMAN</h2>

Marsland explains that a principal's role within ROTHELOWMAN is to lead the vision of the practice. The firm currently has seven principals, while associates are entrusted with day-to-day management of projects.

Marsland takes a keen interest in current issues facing the development industry, including the ongoing debate of apartment design guidelines. He is focused on collaborating closely with industry and government to achieve world-class and commercially viably project outcomes.

Design direction within ROTHELOWMAN is described as organic and site-responsive, best known for creating appealing, contemporary and enduring architecture. Marsland echoes this approach, believing in a level of simplicity and purity in design, while striving to find new ways to innovate.

<h2>Business is booming</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_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A selection of projects recently completed by ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="329" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image57_3.jpg?itok=dvUaeQER" title="A selection of projects recently completed by ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A selection of projects recently completed by ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure>The appointment of Marsland as principal has coincided with a surge in the practice’s work nationally. In Melbourne alone, no less than 20 notable projects are slated to reach town planning in the coming months. Encompassing everything from high-rise projects, mixed-use and master planned developments, the number of upcoming projects reinforces ROTHELOWMAN's position as one of Australia's most prolific firms. Melbourne office staff numbers have surpassed 75, with the Brisbane and Sydney offices totalling 52 personnel.

The strategy of geographic diversification has paid dividends, with ROTHELOWMAN content in solidifying their Sydney and Brisbane offices.

<blockquote>
In an increasingly crowded global marketplace, the design excellence of ROTHELOWMAN is pertinent as we strive to help our clients differentiate their product offering,

Our focus is to effectively service a national client base from our Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne studios, delivering world class projects working with each client within the time frame they require it, no matter where they are located.
<cite>Stuart Marsland, ROTHELOWMAN</cite>
</blockquote>
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