A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Joel Robinson

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

Apartments

<html><body>
Flemington Road has provided an interesting and nonuniform entry point for many a visitor to Melbourne for many a decade. A mixture of low and high-rise buildings spanning many eras and many uses are present on the strip which was once the premier entry point to Melbourne from Adelaide and in more recent times to Melbourne's CBD from Tullamarine Airport.

As with many other parts of Melbourne, Flemington Road and the immediate back blocks are being driven to change by developers seeking prime sites within close proximity to the CBD. Where retail space, offices, medical centres, warehousing and light industry defined Flemington Road and surrounds for generations, the southern side of Flemington Road is now almost exclusively being developed as high-rise apartment blocks.

<h2>The current Flemington Road crop</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/image30.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Calling Flemington Road home"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="509" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image30.jpg?itok=rxiyftah" title="Calling Flemington Road home" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Calling Flemington Road home</figcaption></figure>Three apartment developments have recently sold well and have found themselves at similar stages of construction. Helio and Nord are a matter of doors apart and are at both at the bulk excavation and wall retention stage.

United Asia Group's North apartment complex was <a href="/news/uag-unveils-north-33-flemington-road">first revealed</a> on Apartments.com.au during September last year. The largest of all Flemington Road apartment developments, the tower opposite the new Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre will soon appear above ground and will eventually hold 454 apartments.

Although not on the strip, a gaze east along Flemington Road will soon enough include one of the more conspicuous apartment developments in the area. The distinctive green facade of Royal Elizabeth is the work of Elenberg Fraser and PDG Corporation. With the majority of its apartments accounted for the undulating building will soon start construction, providing a highly visible built form bookend to Flemington Road.

<h2>A new entrant</h2>

The most recent project seeking approval is 67-73 Flemington Road which is currently under assessment with City of Melbourne. Sharing the intersection with Villers Street, the project would replace an exsting low-rise commercial building with a part 15/16 level apartment complex.

Interestingly enough David Watson Architects list the project with a completion date of 2016 on their website - best hustle along.

<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/flemingtonrd01-99f017e00f_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="67-73 Flemington Road. Image © David Watson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flemingtonrd01-99f017e00f_1.jpg?itok=1EWLbRxi" title="67-73 Flemington Road. Image © David Watson Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>67-73 Flemington Road. Image © David Watson Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Proponent: Obiter Investments Pty Ltd.</li>
	<li>Architect: David Watson Architects.</li>
	<li>Nominal project cost: $40 million.</li>
	<li>15/16 levels at 50.29 metres over a 1,042sqm site.</li>
	<li>165 apartments - 82 x 1BR, 80 x 2BR, and 3 x 3BR.</li>
	<li>115 car parking spaces and 100 bicycle spaces over four basement/lower ground levels.</li>
	<li>280sqm retail space at ground floor level.</li>
	<li>Landscaped communal roof top terrace.</li>
</ul>
<h2>The sum of all parts</h2>

In recent years notable projects such <a href="http://ckarchitects.com.au/Commercial/commercial-the-george">George</a> and <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.everbrightgroup.com.au/index.php?s=/index/estate_nr/id/20">Villiers Apartments</a> led the push to a higher-density Flemington Road, between them adding 334 apartments to the area, some of which are student dwellings. The under construction <a href="/buildings/helio-91-flemington-road-north-melbourne">Helio</a>, <a href="/buildings/nord-melbourne-81-flemington-road-north-melbourne">Nord</a> and <a href="/buildings/north-19-flemington-road-north-melbourne">North</a> are in the process of adding 710 additional apartments directly to Flemington Road with 67-73 Flemington Road waiting in the wings.

Push back a block or two from Flemington Road and North Melbourne is gripped by multiple apartment projects from planning through to construction such as <a href="/new-apartments/20-24-vale-street-north-melbourne">20-24 Vale Street</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/68-courtney-street-north-melbourne">68-74 Courtney Street</a>, 101 Canning Street and <a href="/buildings/33-north-33-racecourse-road-north-melbourne">Moments</a>. The next major project looks to be Mammoth Empire's Wreckyn Street in North Melbourne which word has it will accommodate in excess of 120 apartments.

<h2>Comment</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/img_4727.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gone with the... excavator"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4727.jpg?itok=SydYrEkB" title="Gone with the... excavator" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gone with the... excavator</figcaption></figure>The image above taken earlier in 2014 symbolises the change sweeping Flemington Road. Quaint dwellings are under increasing pressure to meet their end as prime sites at both the eastern and western end of Flemington Road are eyed for residential redevelopment. The above cottage has since made way for Helio Apartments and bit by bit the loss of a certain amount of character in the area advances.

Which is not to say development is necessarily a bad outcome. Prime real estate so close to the CBD and opposite multiple medical and educational institutions was bound to become a high-density enclave at some point. The demolition of low-rise commercial buildings for apartments near the Haymarket roundabout was a lay down misère but will friction arise when more of the above dwellings are called on to make way for apartment projects.

Howls of discontent haven't exactly emanated from the area, even from local residents group 3051 Integrated.
</body></html>

silvermb

Flemington Road's apartment surge gains momentum

<html><body>
185 Rosslyn Street West Melbourne is a prime 9,200sqm site which has been earmarked as a benchmark for development in the area, although which is currently offered for sale as a development site with the associated planning application attached. Currently before the State Government, the Australia Post-owned site has the potential to support a development which can revitalise the immediate precinct and provide key improvements to the public realm.

Designed by Rothelowman, the island site currently a two-three storey warehouse and at-grade car park, located within 400m of the CBD. With delivery expected over three stages, the development will ultimately comprise five buildings accommodating 501 residential units, 1,205sqm of retail space and 396 car parking spaces.

In addition to a northern public forecourt, north-south block access is included providing connectivity to a range of retail/commercial spaces within the site and beyond.​

<h2>185 Rossyln Street 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/185_rosslyn_street_pic01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="185 Rosslyn Street streetscape. © Rothe Lowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="224" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/185_rosslyn_street_pic01.jpg?itok=3JWS_tWt" title="185 Rosslyn Street streetscape. © Rothe Lowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>185 Rosslyn Street streetscape. © Rothelowman</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Current 9,200sqm site use: Australia Post call centre.</li>
	<li>Planning application lodged July 2014.</li>
	<li>Five buildings with the tallest at 18 levels.</li>
	<li>501 apartments: 246 1BR + 255 2BR.</li>
	<li>Total GFA: 55,802sqm.</li>
	<li>​1,205sqm retail space over eight tenancies.</li>
	<li>396 car parking spaces and a bike workshop.</li>
	<li>Site and associated planning application currently for sale.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Rothelowman statement</h2>

<blockquote>
185 Rosslyn St is a community focused campus style residential development located within West Melbourne, at the edge of Melbourne’s CBD.

Our proposal for Rosslyn St consists of several buildings designed to open up a previously closed off inner urban block, and provides a variety of public spaces in additional to retail and commercial tenancies. The urban design strategy of our development has centred on the creation of a significant public piazza along Rosslyn Street which connects through to Dudley Street via a pedestrian link.

The apartment buildings follow a site-wide courtyard typology which allows for a large central space to be developed into communal facilities for the use of all residents. The taller built form has been transferred to the south west corner where it relates to the density of the Docklands and eGate precinct, with the building mass then gradually stepping down towards the heritage building to the south east corner of the site.

The various façade treatments seek to provide articulation and screening to the project, visibly, environmentally and acoustically.

A palette of high quality materials provides varied texture and subtle distinction in the expression of the main elevations and importantly focuses on controlling solar gain to aid in the sustainability of the development as a whole.
<cite>Rothelowman</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Design principles</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/design_principles_diagram.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design principles diagram. © Rothe Lowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="206" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/design_principles_diagram.jpg?itok=rrt9nfMW" title="Design principles diagram. © Rothe Lowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Design principles diagram. Image © Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>Rothelowman have favoured a courtyard - an almost 'donut' shaped arrangement - in their planning for the buildings onsite, after investigating and dismissing a more linear arrangement. Not only does this increase the overall apartment yield, but also results in greater separation between building forms while, improved amenity and views to all apartments with less south facing apartments.

Additionally this allows for greater flexibility in staging, while reducing the amount of overlooking from building to building and to neighbouring properties.

<h2>Building massing and context</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/site_in_context.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="185 Rosslyn Street massing in context. © Rothe Lowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="364" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/site_in_context.jpg?itok=jWKtnIhS" title="185 Rosslyn Street massing in context. © Rothe Lowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>185 Rosslyn Street massing in context. © Rothe Lowman</figcaption></figure>Located within the evolving West Melbourne which is in part slated for urban renewal, 185 Rosslyn Street presents as a key nexus to E-Gate, Docklands, Melbourne's CBD and North Melbourne. The proposed development sits comfortably within its future context that is generally of a similar nature in height and scale, with the exception of 420 Spencer Street which at 131 metres will tower over all others in the area.

The taller massing is generally located to the south to allow for solar access to the common courtyard and a high degree of amenity to apartments. The 18-storey tower is located to the south-west to form the transition in height between West Melbourne and E-Gate.

Surrounding town planning approvals for residential development are highlighted above which includes 420 Spencer Street and the neighbouring 13 level <a href="/new-apartments/419-421-spencer-street-west-melbourne">Duo Apartments</a> which is currently under construction.

Response highlights:

<ul>
<li>A courtyard typology achieves greatest distance between buildings whilst minimising overlooking. Minimum of 9m separation between all buildings.</li>
	<li>Podium street wall heights of four storeys, providing articulated and activated frontages and a clearly defined streetscape.</li>
	<li>Levels above podium have setback a minimum of 3m from boundary.</li>
	<li>4.5 metre setback from east to allow for future developments on adjacent site.</li>
	<li>Breaks in building mass allow visual separation, staging and access. Tallest building orientation and shape takes into consideration the effects of wind.</li>
</ul>
<h2>185 Rosslyn street application team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Proponent: Australia Post</li>
	<li>Architect: Rothelowman</li>
	<li>Landscape architect: Aspect Studios</li>
	<li>Planning Consultant: Urbis</li>
	<li>Structural Consultant: 4D Workshop</li>
	<li>Services Consultant: O'Neill Group</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Wind Consultant: Mel Consultants</li>
	<li>Waste Consultant: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant: Ark Resources</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

We deliver > Australia Post and 185 Rosslyn Street, West Melbourne

<html><body>
Another month sees another batch of significant development sites come onto the market. 2014 has been an excellent year for both vendors and agents as the rush of predominantly Asian developers into the local market has in turn coaxed further landlords to sell their properties in the hope of excellent returns.

Recent weeks have seen some publicly recongisable development sites listed with Nylex Richmond and the Sir Charles Hotham Hotel in Melbourne's CBD headlining the list; the most notable of which are seen in further detail below.

<h2>A grand lady of the CBD</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.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images courtesy CBRE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="376" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image25.jpg?itok=xFOwhSb7" title="Images courtesy CBRE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images courtesy CBRE</figcaption></figure>The magnificent Sir Charles Hotham Hotel is back for sale after last changing hands during 2012. With an area in excess of 2,000sqm the site has been touted as having strong redevelopment potential for one if not two towers.

Elsewhere, one of the CBD's big development sites has also been offered for sale at 572-580 Lonsdale Street. With a concept design in excess of 250 metres in height, it's sure to arouse the interest of local and international developers.

<h2>Doing what it does</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/image16.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="81-87 City Road &amp; 295 City Road. Images courtesy CBRE &amp; Vinci Carbone"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="461" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image16.jpg?itok=ygzVsKnt" title="81-87 City Road &amp; 295 City Road. Images courtesy CBRE &amp; Vinci Carbone" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>295 City Road &amp; 81-87 City Road. Images courtesy Vinci Carbone &amp; CBRE</figcaption></figure>Southbank keeps churning along with three new listing appearing in recent times. Seen above are concept designs for 295 City Road and <a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-southbank-501334863">81-87 City Road</a> while <a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-south+melbourne-501312255">42 Moray Street</a> is also on offer. They join <a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-southbank-501321951">88 Queensbridge Street</a> which interestingly enough has yet to secure a buyer after some months on the market.

295 City Road above is more than interesting given the concept render associated with the sales pitch. The tower seen above scales to in excess of 300 metres; quite impressive for a site of 1,280sqm.

<h2>This Richmond soufflé rises again</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/image2_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Colliers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_1.jpg?itok=AH2RuD-Z" title="Image courtesy Colliers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image courtesy Colliers</figcaption></figure>Buy, sell, hiatus, repeat. Colliers have listed for sale 2-8 Gough Street, Richmond - better known as Richmond Silos or Nylex site with its famed clock.

Its most recent chapter saw Planning Minister Matthew Guy announce a grand redevelopment for the site which would included dual 20 level towers, only for the project to fizzle out. As it stands the Nylex/Richmond Malt site is still one of Melbourne premier development sites, with a public profile to match.

<h2>A litmus test?</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/image19.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images courtesy CBRE &amp; Colliers"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="269" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19.jpg?itok=yAQwBgCs" title="Images courtesy CBRE &amp; Colliers" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images courtesy CBRE &amp; Colliers</figcaption></figure>Two Fishermans Bend sites within close proximity to one another will act as barometers of sorts for the Urban Renewal Area. With a number of proposals gaining approval this year, the focus will slowly shift toward delivery of these towers.

MAB Corporation is seeking to offload <a href="http://cbre.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-south+melbourne-501343255">15-87 Gladstone Street, South Melbourne</a> complete with planning approval for three towers and 733 apartments while the nearby 93-95 Montague Street, South Melbourne is available for sale with no plans as yet in place. With the precinct subject to no new planning applications of late, buyer demand for both projects will tell the tale.

<h2>Western exposure</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/image22_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images courtesy Clarke Hopkins Clarke and DTZ"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="768" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_0.jpg?itok=kw6mRndN" title="Images courtesy Clarke Hopkins Clarke and DTZ" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Images courtesy Clarke Hopkins Clarke and DTZ</figcaption></figure>Melbourne's west continues to churn out sites capable of handling substantial apartment developments. The two most recent are 72-76 Paisley Street, Footscray and 1 Devonshire Road, Sunshine, both with concept designs seen above.

The abundance of large formerly industrial sites coupled with local councils intent on encouraging urban renewal has led to many notable projects in Footscray, Sunshine and Maribyrnong. <a href="/buildings/boat-house-2-joseph-road-footscray">2 Hopkins Street</a>, Footscray and 2 Wests Road, Maribyrnong are also on the market, both with endorsed plans for multiple apartment buildings.

<h2>Comment</h2>

2014 has definitely been year of the Asian developer, but will the trend continue? Having spoke to a handful of industry participants on the topic the overall consensus is that if current conditions/parameters remain the same then the answer is yes.

Put simply Asian-based or Asian-backed Australian developers work at different economies of scale. Where a local developer may size up an inner-city development site for say 300 apartments based upon initial capital expenditure, project financing costs and likely sales targets etc, an Asian developer may view the same site as worthy of 1000 apartments based upon their evaluation figures for the same criteria.

Therefore the 'excessive' prices being paid for development sites in recent times by Asian developers may not be the out and out frenzied buying as if some sort of fad as has been observed domestically, but a reflection of different expectations and capabilities being borne out of the sales price.

Having said that it's far easier to talk on what is than what will be.
</body></html>

New key development sites hit the market

<html><body>
Industry superannuation fund <a href="/developers/cbus-property">Cbus</a> has - via its property arm - submitted plans for a key <a href="/new-apartments/west-melbourne-vic-3003">West Melbourne</a> site which it hopes will house a tower including 217 residential apartments. Directly opposite North Melbourne Station, the triangular site is now subject to a planning application before City of Melbourne seeking approval for a <a href="/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>-designed 14 level residential building that will comfortably outdo all surrounding buildings in terms of height.

<blockquote>
The island site located at 9-19 Dryburgh Street and 109-121 Ireland provides a unique opportunity to construct a place making apartment building with ground level retail shops that will assist in activating the area around the newly constructed North Melbourne train station.

Located in close proximity to North Melbourne and the CBD, the apartments in the development will appeal to young professionals and academics working or studying in the nearby health and university precincts.
<cite><a href="http://www.cbusproperty.com.au/news/latest/dryburgh-street-west-melbourne/">Cbus Property: Dryburgh Street, West Melbourne</a></cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>
<a href="/buildings/volaire-9-dryburgh-street-west-melbourne">9 Dryburgh Street</a> 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/image10hwm.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="9 Dryburgh Street. Image © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="558" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10hwm.jpg?itok=IpFH5B0Q" title="9 Dryburgh Street. Image © Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>9 Dryburgh Street. Image © Hayball</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Current site use: dual level commercial building.</li>
	<li>Planning application lodged October 2014.</li>
	<li>14 level tower @ 48.18 metres.</li>
	<li>217 apartments: 88 one bedroom apartments and 129 two bedroom apartments.</li>
	<li>3 ground floor commercial tenancies totaling 423sqm and a public forecourt.</li>
	<li>114 basement car parking spaces, 4 motorcycle spaces, 57 resident bicycle spaces and 12 resident visitor spaces.</li>
	<li>Residential amenities and common areas: Level 6 and Level 13.</li>
</ul>
<h2>A question of height</h2>

Located between E-Gate/Docklands and the forthcoming Arden-Macaulay precinct, 9 Dryburgh Street's proponents have pressed for a tower of some height in order to define the immediate area.

According to the structure plan outlining expected heights for the area, a general height limit of 20 metres is desired, with the possibility of 30 metres or ten levels for sites deemed appropriate. The town planning report goes on to state that Amendment C190 which covers the Arden-Macaulay area does not cover the site in question during the first round of policy implementation, perhaps prompting Cbus to press ahead with a taller proposal.

<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/image12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Arden-Macaulay preliminary height limits. Image © Urbis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="249" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image12.jpg?itok=EgZNdePq" title="Arden-Macaulay preliminary height limits. Image © Urbis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Arden-Macaulay preliminary height limits. Image © Urbis</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The subject site has distinct opportunities that differ from the broader areas of North and West Melbourne given its location as an island site next to North Melbourne train station. To achieve a high intensity of development and necessary concentration of people to spark renewal the proposed building design and height is required.

The location of the development on top of the escarpment overlooking Docklands offers opportunities to capitalise on the views and create a dramatic skyline and definition to the North Melbourne Station precinct.
<cite>Urbis, town planning report</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Design highlights</h2>

The planning application references the ground plane treatment which includes a high level of permeability, landscaping and amenity compared to what is currently onsite. This improved urban realm is further aided by three leasable tenancies fronting Dryburgh Street which will bring extra activity to the immediate area, rather than it currently acting as a transitional area for North Melbourne Station users.

Externally the proposal carries many a Hayball design feature, including aluminium clad, dark glazing, precast panels, perforated metal balustrades and bluestone.

<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.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Materials application. Image © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="218" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13.jpg?itok=nhuyjKQe" title="Materials application. Image © Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Materials application. Image © Hayball</figcaption></figure>Internally 9 Dryburgh Street will carry a range of dwelling sizes, all with either one or two bedrooms alluding to the type of buyer the projects will likely be pitched toward. One bedroom dwellings have floor areas ranging from 42.5sqm-53.5sqm while two bedroom dwellings have floor areas ranging from 59sqm-78sqm.

All habitable room windows have a direct light source while every apartment has been provided with a balcony.

<h2>Cbus moves further into the apartment sector</h2>

With commercial projects having dominated their portfolio in years gone by, 9 Dryburgh Street represents Cbus Property's fourth current foray into the Melbourne apartment market. <a href="/buildings/35-spring-street-melbourne">35 Spring Street</a> leads the way with the 43 level tower of some 270 apartments preparing to rise from a considerable site excavation.

Purchased off Equiset with display at the ready, <a href="/buildings/assembly-181-capel-street-north-melbourne">Assembly</a> in North Melbourne is also preparing for construction after a strong sales campaign while the developers scheme at <a href="/buildings/collins-arch-447-collins-street-melbourne">447 Collins Street</a> recently hit a stumbling block with Planning Minister Matthew Guy rejecting the tower in its current form. With in the vicinity of 400 apartments included, 447 Collins Street will undoubtedly return in some way, shape or form.

<h2>9 Dryburgh Street team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Cbus Property</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Architect: Hayball</li>
	<li>Waste: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>ESD: ADP Consulting</li>
	<li>Landscape: Land Projects</li>
	<li>Traffic: GTA Consultants</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Cbus enters West Melbourne with 9 Dryburgh Street

<html><body>
Earlier during 2014 Apartments.com.au highlighted the strengthening momentum <a href="/news/hot-or-what-the-collingwood-apartment-juggernaut-rolls-on">Smith Street</a> Collingwood was gathering as one of Melbourne's must-live destinations. With the apartment development landscape in the area changing rapidly, it pays to once more visit the current state of play in terms of Smith Street and Collingwood as a whole.

While many have now progressed to construction, a second wave of apartment projects are emerging as a multitude of developers look take advantage of continuing buyer interest in the suburb.

<h2>At construction</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/image22.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="All Collingwood projects currently under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="763" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22.jpg?itok=Kno1Nc95" title="All Collingwood projects currently under construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>All <a href="/developments/collingwood-vic-3066">Collingwood projects</a> currently under construction</figcaption></figure>Eight major apartment projects are currently at various stages of construction, yielding in the vicinity of 980 apartments. With completion for the majority expected mid to late 2015, Collingwood will see an appreciable swell in residents at these projects progressively achieve completion.

Seen above in clockwise fashion are <a href="/buildings/you-and-i-450-smith-street-collingwood">You and I</a>, Oxley Apartments, <a href="/buildings/41-peel-street-collingwood">41 Peel Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/yorkshire-1-robert-st-collingwood">Yorkshire Brewery</a>, <a href="/buildings/little-ox-2-johnston-street-collingwood">Little Ox</a>, <a href="/buildings/tapestry-apartments-80-stanley-street-collingwood">Tapestry Apartments</a> and <a href="/buildings/oxford-peel-22-peel-street-collingwood">Oxford &amp; Peel</a>. Last but not least is <a href="/buildings/smith-co-132-172-smith-street-collingwood">Smith&amp;Co.</a> which under developer Banco Group announced on Apartments.com.au yesterday the final release of extra spacious apartments over the top levels of the development.

<h2>Registration and sales</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.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ever closer to construction; projects at registration and sales"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image27.jpg?itok=gGOtAWce" title="Ever closer to construction; projects at registration and sales" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ever closer to construction; projects at registration and sales</figcaption></figure>In between the construction boom and surge of new projects in their infancy a handful of developments are seeking to make the transition from sales to reality. Shown as accepting registrations of interest on developer Preview Property's website, <a href="/buildings/this-is-collingwood-60-66-islington-street-collingwood">Islington Apartments</a> joins Angelo Property Group's <a href="/buildings/haus-apartments-416-smith-street-collingwood">Haus Apartments</a> as the two projects most likely to progress to construction next, with the latter having already completed site demolition.

Factoring in <a href="/buildings/this-is-collingwood-60-66-islington-street-collingwood">9 Smith Street</a> and The Patersons which also at sales and front Smith Street yet are considered to be in Fitzroy, the four projects may well add in excess of 250 apartments to the area.

<h2>The new wave</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/image35.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The next wave lining up Collingwood"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="889" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image35.jpg?itok=cUp3S1lG" title="The next wave lining up Collingwood" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The next wave lining up Collingwood</figcaption></figure>Here are the seven latest Collingwood projects in waiting, with only <a href="/buildings/the-lantern-195-wellington-street-collingwood">195 Wellington Street</a> holding approval. Clockwise once more <a href="/new-apartments/386-smith-street-collingwood">386 Smith Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/peel-by-milieu-47-peel-street-collingwood">109 Wellington Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/little-oxford-7-little-oxford-street-collingwood">7 and 9-15 Little Oxford Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/trilby-466-smith-street-collingwood">466-482 Smith Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/28-stanley-street-collingwood">24-28 Stanley Street</a> find themselves at planning while Koúl Property enters the suburb with their proposed predominantly brick building at 203-205 Johnston Street which has yet to hit the official planning channels.

These projects combined are slated to hold in excess of 250 apartments; while the number of apartment developments continues to flow, the smaller site size dictates that fewer apartments will be contained within each development on average.

Not yet submitted for approval are two additional projects which will add approximately 200 additional apartments. Angelo Property Group is set to go again with 365 Smith Street which in time will host in excess of 100 one and two bedroom apartments and retail tenancies fronting Smith Street. Gurner also plans a return with 107 Cambridge Street (following 24-28 Stanley Street) which is expected to carry 92 apartments in an Elenberg Fraser-designed complex highlighted by an almost lace-like facade.

All in all the mass of residential developments within Collingwood ensures Apartments.com.au will be writing about the area for some time to come.
</body></html>

Hot or what? The Collingwood apartment juggernaut rolls on

<html><body>
The Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee will tomorrow consider the merits of one of two proposed towers that prolific Melbourne-based apartment developer Central Equity currently has under consideration with State planning body DTPLI. While the nearby 54-68 Kavanagh Street has been <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/business/southbank-tower-boom-going-strong-20141017-117ri8">reported</a> to be 165 metres, Central Equity have also sought to extend a previously approved scheme at 1-11 Balston Street, Southbank.

Marking the final and potentially tallest stage of the Southbank Central/Blood Bank super-site development which began in excess of twelve years ago, 1-11 Balston Street has raised a number of concerns within a report which provides guidance to the Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee.

<h2>Planning 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/epi_20130205.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site in question with fellow Central Equity project Epic during its construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="388" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/epi_20130205.jpg?itok=1LydTryf" title="The site in question with fellow Central Equity project Epic during its construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The site in question with fellow Central Equity project Epic to the rear during 2013</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Current site use: Central Equity display suite.</li>
	<li>Application for amendment lodged July 2014.</li>
	<li>Developer &amp; architect: Central Equity.</li>
	<li>48-storey building with residential apartments at 147.7 metres.</li>
	<li>557 apartments (336*1 / 169*2 / 51*3).</li>
	<li>269 car parking spaces &amp; 389 bicycles.</li>
	<li>GFA: 52,616sqm.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Sized up</h2>

Initial plans had seen a 34 level residential tower given the green light which was to have contained 382 apartments with 150 two bedrooms options. The revised application seeks 557 apartments with two bedrooms options increasing marginally to 169 as one bedroom dwellings more than double from 142 in the initial scheme to 336.

The increase in height from 104.65 metres to 147.7 metres has brought with it the issue of overshadowing according to the report. Directly to the west lies the former JH Boyd School site which has essentially been portioned into three sections, two of which are a community centre and proposed urban park.

The report notes that in general, local policy suggests any development should not reduce the amenity of public spaces by casting any additional shadows, even though the expected urban park is slated for construction during 2016.

<h2>Podium poppycock?</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/image7a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The podium as seen within the future Melbourne report. Image © Central Equity"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="336" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7a.jpg?itok=e3Z1j8m3" title="The podium as seen within the future Melbourne report. Image © Central Equity" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The podium as seen within the future Melbourne report. Image © Central Equity</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
As a result of the increased building height and increased number of apartments from 382 to 557, the building services have been revised including the relocation and increase in the size of the substation from Balston Street non-heritage fabric (as currently approved) to City Road

It is now proposed to accommodate an enlarged substation within two of the existing openings in the City Road remnant heritage façade.
<cite>Report to the Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

In addition angular awnings have been added to the heritage facade in order to negate increased wind conditions due to the taller tower. The glass and alucobond clad steel framed awning seeks to replace a pergola style louvre and sunshade system at podium terrace level, and canvas awnings at ground level.

This coupled with the loss of the two aforementioned City Road facade openings will lead to an adverse impact on the heritage façade and reduction in active street frontages according to the report.

<h2>City of Melbourne advised to reject</h2>

Although not a binding decision, the Report to the Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee recommends that a letter be sent to DTPLI advising that the City of Melbourne objects to 1-11 Balston Street.

<blockquote>
The proposed increase in height is inconsistent with the 100m height limit for the area, would increase overshadowing of the proposed park, and would exacerbate wind conditions (resulting in inappropriate awnings).

Further, the increased number of apartments would generate increased demand in ground floor service areas, resulting in decreased active frontages on City Road, loss of a street tree, and unacceptable intrusion into the retained heritage fabric.
<cite>Report to the Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Comment</h2>

More a general observation but what can be deduced from the general design ethos Central Equity employs? Certainly the repetitive nature of their recent towers, namely <a href="/buildings/southbank-grand-151-city-road-southbank">Southbank Grand</a>, <a href="/buildings/australis-601-little-lonsdale-street-melbourne">Australis</a> and <a href="/buildings/melbourne-one-618-lonsdale-street-melbourne">Melbourne One</a> are also reflected in the heightened 1-11 Balston Street design.

From afar it seems they are intent on producing a higher volume of apartments while implementing a degree of design simplicity; A to B with minimum fuss which to my way of thinking draws a parallel to the low-cost airline model?

This segment of the market exists and Central Equity clearly have a winning formula given the rate at which the firm can release, sell and realise their projects in rapid succession; in fact their efficiency is impressive. But what are the consequences of having masses of generic towers churned out with monotonous regularity?

Some would argue look no further than Southbank, although with their current projects and the purchase of the 556-566 Lonsdale Street and 13-25 Healeys Lane development site, Central Equity continues to push into the CBD. Central Equity have over their history gradually increased the size of their towers to currently sit in the 145-165 metre bracket; what prospects of a Central Equity-designed 200 metre tower in the not too distant future?
</body></html>

Central Equity seeking size > 1-11 Balston Street, Southbank

<html><body>
The last week or so has seen in the vicinity of 30 new medium to high-density residential entries added to the Apartments.com.au <a href="/developments">Project Database</a>, along with numerous existing database listing upgrades as proponents of the next wave of apartment projects ready themselves for their respective sales campaigns.

In the course of adding these fresh projects it became evident that this 'next wave' of new apartment projects has Melbourne's suburbs in mind; certainly no tsunami but an appreciable shift toward more non-core localities. That is to say no new listings have been added for Docklands, Southbank or Melbourne's CBD.

<h2>Far and wide</h2>

The suburbs located within a 4-12 kilometre band of the CBD look to be the current sweet shop for developers seeking to deliver new apartment projects. Not all new listings are bound to this nominal bracket, yet the majority are.

New Apartments.com.au Project Database listings include the following locations within the nominated band:

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1">
<thead><tr>
<th>Project</th>
			<th>Suburb</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/essendon-vic-3040">The Nursery</a></td>
			<td>Essendon</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/the-standard-brighton-209-bay-street-brighton">The Standard</a></td>
			<td>Brighton</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/evergreen-1-westley-avenue-ivanhoe">Evergreen Ivanhoe</a></td>
			<td>Ivanhoe</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Purnell Apartments</td>
			<td>Northcote</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/luma-windsor-windsor">Luma</a></td>
			<td>Windsor</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Seed Preston</td>
			<td>Preston</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/rosny-waterline-place-55-nelson-place-williamstown">Rosny - Waterline Place</a></td>
			<td>Williamstown</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/coburg-vic-3058">Major Anderson Apartments</a></td>
			<td>Coburg</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/22-bendigo-street-richmond">Centre Stage</a></td>
			<td>Richmond</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/bellview-apartments-5-blanch-street-preston">Bellview Apartments</a></td>
			<td>Preston</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>River Walk</td>
			<td>Kensington</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/881-armadale-881-high-street-armadale">H A I</a></td>
			<td>Armadale</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/miamia-85-nicholson-street-brunswick-east">MiaMia</a></td>
			<td>Brunswick East</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/new-apartments/688-690-high-street-thornbury">688 High Street</a></td>
			<td>Thornbury</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="/buildings/george-windsor-1-peel-street-windsor">George Windsor</a></td>
			<td>Windsor</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<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/image50.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A selection of current residential projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="260" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image50.jpg?itok=7qjauW6j" title="A selection of current residential projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A selection of current residential projects</figcaption></figure>Beyond those suburbs listed above further projects have also announced themselves of late. Seen above are Canterbury Hill, 28-30 Warwick Avenue, <a href="/buildings/kubix-stage-2-404-burwood-highway-wantirna-south">Kubix Stage 2</a>, <a href="/buildings/curlew-apartments-5-curlew-court-doncaster">Curlew</a> and <a href="/developments/box-hill-vic-3128">Whitehorse Towers</a> which represent the next tranche of projects that are currently at sales or are about to embark upon their sales campaign. Surrey Hills, Springvale, Wantirna South, Doncaster and Box Hill are the represented suburbs.

<h2>A project representative of the times</h2>

There are greater attention grabbing suburban projects such as <a href="/new-apartments/sky-one-box-hill-545-563-station-street-box-hill">Sovereign Square Box Hill</a> at 33 levels, yet if one project is representative of the change that has engulfed Melbourne's suburbs (in attitudes and planning outcomes) in recent years, it may just be <a href="/buildings/evergreen-1-westley-avenue-ivanhoe">Evergreen Ivanhoe</a>. A project of this size in this locale was surely unfathomable a few short years ago, but as seen below the freshly revealed project looks set to take its place as Ivanhoe's largest high-density development.

As Kokoda Property Group's latest offering, Evergreen Ivanhoe at 8 levels will hold an impressive 157 apartments; by far and away the largest apartment development in Ivanhoe.

<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/ivanhoe_v03_s_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Evergreen Ivanhoe. Image courtesy Kokoda Property Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="263" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ivanhoe_v03_s_1.jpg?itok=M3ACzgq7" title="Evergreen Ivanhoe. Image courtesy Kokoda Property Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Evergreen Ivanhoe. Image courtesy Kokoda Property Group</figcaption></figure><h2>Evident current trends?</h2>

Much of 2014 has been subsumed both on Apartments.com.au and elsewhere with the indelible impression that Asian-backed property developers have made upon Melbourne. Only in the latter part of 2014 have local developers taken centre stage once more as the wave of large-scale inner-city apartment projects begins to be digested.

A obvious trend has emerged out of the latest Project Database listings whereby the vast majority of new and pending apartment developments are found in the middle and outer suburbs of Melbourne. Although only a few of the many variables that form the current Melbourne apartment market dynamic, a handful of likely factors that may contribute to the wider spread of upcoming apartment projects include:

<ul>
<li>Local developers favouring suburban sites as home grown demand for apartments remains strong for well considered, smaller-scale projects.</li>
	<li>The likelihood that local developers have been outbid on premier CBD and inner-city sites by foreign developers, forcing their hand to a degree into suburban apartment developments.</li>
	<li>The next stage of Melbourne's acceptance of apartment living, with a higher infiltration of apartment developments into previously underdeveloped suburbs such as <a href="/buildings/kubix-stage-2-404-burwood-highway-wantirna-south">Wantirna South</a>, <a href="/buildings/new-street-317-new-street-brighton">Brighton</a>, <a href="/buildings/archer-7-balcombe-road-mentone">Mentone</a> or <a href="/buildings/rosny-waterline-place-55-nelson-place-williamstown">Williamstown</a>.</li>
	<li>Local buyers or intended occupiers shunning the CBD and Southbank in favour of more intimate suburbs such as Northcote or <a href="/new-apartments/essendon-vic-3040">Essendon</a>; apartment living without the CBD lifestyle.</li>
</ul>
With the influx of new apartment development listings it seems that while the CBD and inner-city apartment market may be pausing to subsume the high number of apartments under construction or at sales, the suburban apartment market has surged ahead... and the overall Melbourne apartment sector marches on!
</body></html>

New apartment listings into the Urban.com.au Project Database reveals a trend

<html><body>
Recently an enterprising young university student posed a direct question to Apartments.com.au:

<blockquote>
Your opinion on whether or not the Minister of Planning should have the power to approve projects over certain thresholds. For instance any building over 25,000sqm of gross floor area?

Should this legislation in the planning scheme be changed or reviewed considering the amount of development within this threshold is now more common than perhaps when the legislation was created? Also should local councils and other parties such as the Mayor of Melbourne or different lobbying groups from the public such as Save Our Suburbs be entitled to some input?
<cite>Adam Steel</cite>
</blockquote>

In light of the events of recent weeks this has become quite topical. I'm not going to talk on behalf of Apartments.com.au, but rather as an individual who's observed Melbourne's development scene for well over a decade and has gleaned more of an industry/developer perspective since Apartments.com.au's inception.

I'll also preface this piece by saying that once upon a time I masqueraded as an Economics student and certain habits die hard, hence my point of view on certain topics will no doubt be wildly different to other readers.

<h2>On the 25,000sqm threshold</h2>

There's always been a dichotomy between City of Melbourne (CoM) and the State Government on this issue - and there should be. CoM are naturally concerned about planning on a micro level as that is their charge but I've always perceived the State Government (irrespective of which party has been in power) to view development on a macro scale.

Whereas CoM focus far more on the intimacy of a project and what it means to City of Melbourne and its immediate residents/users, the State Planning Minister should factor in a variety of other concerns in addition to the worthiness of a given planning application. We live in a competitive world and yes domestic and foreign investment matters; if for instance CoM took a much sterner line with planning application approvals, would the construction and associated services employment sector be so buoyant?

External factors theoretically shouldn't apply to the merits of a planning application but in certain cases they are relevant, and that's the bigger picture that's swept away with talk of reverting control of planning applications back to CoM of other municipalities.

To scrap the 25,000sqm threshold and cede powers to City of Melbourne would be akin to stymieing the inner city's population growth and placing that burden elsewhere - an elsewhere which already excludes huge areas of inner Melbourne thanks to the new residential zones implemented during 2014. Consequently do we send residents to the urban fringes to exist without living or simply say we're full, go away. The latter on many levels is harmful to the economy.

It is to a degree a simple supply and demand equation in which Melbourne and surrounding areas such as Fishermans Bend, Docklands and Southbank must carry the burden of population growth - a point which I've heard countless times from planners and architects recently. To quote a hapless man we are beyond the rubicon - the new residential zones equates to inner Melbourne committing itself irrevocably to a higher density formula of living.

For City of Melbourne and the Lord Major to seek to repeal the 25,000sqm threshold is a self serving position, but highly likely to the Government of the day dismissing the notion out of hand.

<h2>A case in point</h2>

In response to the City of Melbourne 2014 State Election Questionnaire, Leader of the Victorian Greens Greg Barber responded with the following

<blockquote>
Question 1: Will you remove the 25,000 sqm threshold where the Minister for Planning becomes the Responsible Authority for planning applications, returning Responsible Authority status to the City of Melbourne?

YES. Under the old parties, planning ministers have been given successively greater powers to ride roughshod over local governments and community groups. These fast and loose laws have let Matthew Guy approve poorly planned developments with no consultation. The role of assessing planning applications should sit with Council as it does in other municipalities.
</blockquote>

Did I miss something here? No consultation? That is a flawed comment on a number levels and is typical of the politicisation of the planning process. I get the distinct impression if the Greens had their way every person and their dog would be sought for comment on any given planning application - economic realities dictate this is bad for generating and/or maintaining investment.

Assume for one moment it came to be that CoM regained power for approval over all planning applications. Almost instantly investment and growth would be hamstrung as fewer developments would be approved. An assumption yes but even the perception of a less that workable planning system means certain developers will neglect the market in favour of other cities etc. - that is fact.

<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_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Depending upon what you read, this could be the impression you get"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="420" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_1.jpg?itok=WW5lYezZ" title="Depending upon what you read, this could be the impression you get" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Depending upon what you read, this could be the impression you get</figcaption></figure><h2>A change in legislation?</h2>

Quite simply, no! I find the criticism of Matthew Guy in recent times excessively hard to swallow, particularly with The Age and their incessant use of Michael Buxton as a means of attacking the incumbent Planning Minister. Quite simply Matthew Guy has presided over an unparalleled period of inner-city growth in Melbourne's history.

To suggest it is his fault for approving more towers as if he were solely responsible for initiating the increased number of planning applications beyond 25,000sqm is farcical. Those increased applications are a function of the free market in which local or overseas developers make their own assessments and proceed with projects as they see fit.

Stripping away any political overtones the ultimate question is this: would this even be an issue if Melbourne maintained its previous level of planning applications rather than the heightened current number? Most people would answer no so therefore if it was in fact an issue previously why wasn't it brought up in preceding years?

<h2>Giving the little person their say</h2>

Well the heading is an oversimplification somewhat. Local councils (where applicable) and the Lord Major (regarding CoM) do have the means to address a planning application if it's the responsibility of the State. In the case of the latter this is done more so by City of Melbourne's planning officers which provide reports to State planning body DTPLI/Planning Minister via CoM's Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee.

As for lobby groups such as Save Our Suburbs or Fishermans Bend Network having a say on specific planning applications; more times than not that is an exercise in futility! These groups are far better served being given an official voice in shaping the development parameters for an urban renewal area or suburban activity centre prior to its commencement.

In this way they can shape an area from its outset with requests for certain infrastructure or community space or education requirements. Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal Area would have benefited greatly from its inception by having community groups lay out their vision early days rather than question every planning application thereafter as being too tall or some such.

<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/710c_05_edit.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Upsizing doesn't necessarily mean approval. Image courtesy Laurence Dragomir"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="272" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/710c_05_edit.png?itok=iPywBe0K" title="Upsizing doesn't necessarily mean approval. Image courtesy Laurence Dragomir" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Upsizing beyond 25,000sqm doesn't necessarily mean approval. Image courtesy Laurence Dragomir</figcaption></figure><h2>The system works</h2>

To put the topic in the most basic of terms, the current system is not perfect but it does work exceedingly well. Recent big ticket planning application refusals such as <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">710 Collins Street</a> (rendered above) and <a href="/buildings/avant-60-abeckett-street-melbourne">54-64 A'Beckett Street</a> demonstrates we are not in a state of planning carte blanche. The key to this argument is to have as much relevant information on hand as possible in order to make a considered opinion.

To that end my opinion is simply that, I'd like to hear yours...

You can read co-editor Alastair Taylor's <a href="/expert-insights/buying/25-000sqm-threshold-yes-it-is-time-to-review-it">view on the same topic</a>.
</body></html>

State Ministers and the 25,000sqm threshold: is it time for a review?

<html><body>
Amber Camberwell located at 994 Toorak Road is the latest project to involve the in-depth brand expertise of Scharp Property Marketing - an Apartments.com.au Industry Hub member.

Developer Luvarc Property appointed Scharp to create a brand that captured the luxury and sophistication of the development's design and showcase its fine attention to detail.

"We came up with an inspirational, yet clever and memorable name of 'Amber' that sits within the spelling of the suburb name of Camberwell. Amber also conjures up emotions of beauty, warmth, and sophistication having alternate associations with the jewel and alluring orange-yellow colour. Creating a point of difference from other developments in the area was essential and the ideas behind Amber set the tone and message for all marketing collateral, from brochure to website to display suite," said Malcolm Schapel, Creative Director of Scharp.

<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/luv001_lifestyle_edit.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The nearby Bakers Wife Cafe - image supplied by Scharp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="396" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/luv001_lifestyle_edit.jpg?itok=TezQ3-hk" title="The nearby Bakers Wife Cafe - image supplied by Scharp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The nearby Bakers Wife Cafe - image supplied by Scharp</figcaption></figure>Set amongst the leafy residential neighbourhood of Camberwell, Amber offers contemporary apartment living on the cusp of a village atmosphere. Appealing to investors and young-at-heart owner/occupiers, the Amber brand is understated, classic and timeless, embodying its beautiful finishes and light filled aspects. Paying homage to the lush environment of its surrounding tree lined streets and parks; Scharp developed an elm leaf motif and set it beside iconic portraits of neighbouring cafes and villages to evoke a sense of sanctuary within our busy city.

Nic Cuni, Director of Residential Projects at CBRE, who managed the project marketing and sales of Amber said, "I was immediately drawn to the project because of the considered design of the larger apartment layouts which are more akin to the local owner/occupier market. With Adele Bates on board it also added extra sophistication to the interior design that is synonymous with Camberwell's understated luxury.

Developing the campaign with Scharp was fluid and streamlined - not only are they the creative agency, they are the 3D artists as well. This not only affords many time efficiencies but also a deeper understanding of the total project which is key to the development's overall success. Amber provides the opportunity for many buyers who are vying for the opportunity to be a part of the illustrious suburb of Camberwell," said Mr Cuni.

<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/luv001_living_edit.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Amber Camberwell living area - render supplied by Scharp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="394" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/luv001_living_edit.jpg?itok=WSen-AS0" title="Amber Camberwell living area - render supplied by Scharp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Amber Camberwell living area - render supplied by Scharp</figcaption></figure>Amber Camberwell is a three level building comprising a total of 22 apartments across one and two bed configurations. The project has been designed with flexibility in mind where prospective buyers have the option to combine units to create larger apartments to suit their lifestyle's needs.

To request more information on the project, see the <a href="http://www.amberapartments.com.au/?utm_source=Urban_Melbourne&amp;utm_medium=Editorial&amp;utm_campaign=Urban_Melbourne_Scharp">Amber Camberwell website</a>.

Scharp Property Marketing is an Apartments.com.au Industry Hub member.
</body></html>

Alastair Taylor

The exclusive Amber Camberwell

<html><body>
A large proportion of housing demand is currently being driven by investment.
Unfortunately in Australia we only receive information on owner occupier and investment ownership of properties every five years with the census.
Because of this, RP Data's Analytics team have built a set of rules to determine the probability that a home is owned by either an investor, owner occupier or the Government.
The Reserve Bank has specifically noted that they have concerns with the high level of speculative investor activity, specifically in Sydney and Melbourne. The following thematic maps show the capital cities and measure the proportion of homes owned by investors across each region.
The geographic trends in investor activity are very clear from these maps; investors are heavily concentrated within the inner city apartment markets.
The below maps clearly highlight that investors overwhelmingly focus their attention on inner city unit markets.
When the Reserve Bank raised concerns that there is too much investor activity taking place, it is also clear that the concentration risk is very much centred geographically within these inner city unit markets.
If we did see investors pulling out the market 'en masse' or investor demand dry up for one reason or another over a short frame of time, then there is a heightened risk of declines in market value.
Investor concentration in Adelaide's markets:
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Adelaide-houses.jpg" alt="">
 
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Adelaide-units.jpg" alt="">
 
 Investor concentration in Brisbane's markets:
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Brisbane-houses-470x580.jpg" alt="">
 
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Brisbane-units-423x580.jpg" alt="">
To see the concentration of investors in Canberra, Darwin, Hobart, Perth, Sydney and Melbourne markets, click below. 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
  Investor concentration in Canberra's markets:
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Canberra-houses.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Canberra-units.jpg" alt="">
 
Investor concentration in Darwin's markets:
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Darwin-houses.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Darwin-units.jpg" alt="">
To see investor concentration in Hobart, Perth, Sydney and Melbourne markets, click below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 Investor concentration in Hobart's markets:
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Hobart-houses.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Hobart-units.jpg" alt="">
 Investor concentration in Melbourne's markets:
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Melbourne-houses.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Melbourne-units2-580x548.jpg" alt="">
 To see investor concentration in Sydney and Perth markets, click below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Investor concentration in Perth's markets: 
 
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Perth-houses-394x580.jpg" alt="">
 
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Perth-units-403x580.jpg" alt="">
 Investor concentration in Sydney's markets:
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Sydney-houses.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/10/15/Sydney-units.jpg" alt="">
 
</body></html>

Apartments

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Apartments

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News