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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

Architectus

NewLife Darling Harbour realises the potential of an extraordinary site in an urban setting.

Five of Australia&rsquo;s leading architectural firms were invited to compete for the project with Architectus winning the competition for their innovative, sympathetic and eye-catching design.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9040 project_image_fid=193446]

As one of Australia&rsquo;s largest architectural practices, Architectus brings a wealth of international experience to their multi-award-winning projects.

Renowned international artist Hang Xia was selected to activate a new laneway at the NewLife Darling Harbour development. With a new artwork titled Memory Tree, Xia transforms and becomes the heart of the laneway. Intricately designed and kinetically-lit, the eight metre-high &lsquo;tree&rsquo; is inspired by Xia&#39;s childhood love of early animations like the Transformers series.

Poised over the Darling Harbour precinct and nestled amongst the Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, UTS and the ABC studios, NewLife Darling Harbour sits on the ridge of a peninsular that extends from Broadway north to Pyrmont Point.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9040 project_image_fid=193447]

This elevated position offers views to the CBD, major bridges and the harbour while inventive architecture weaves distinctive living and leisure zones into the fabric of the building.

NewLife Darling Harbour&rsquo;s central city location is also nearby to Sydney&rsquo;s major educational, cultural and commercial hub, making it ideal for innovative live-work-play environments.

Architectus focused their design to involve a contemporary interpretation of the site&rsquo;s semi-industrial history, along with a welcoming open-air courtyard and laneway links.

NewLife Darling Harbour&rsquo;s principal architect, Brendan Randles, lead the team that drove the innovative and artful city development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9040 project_image_fid=193452]

&ldquo;The building&rsquo;s eye-catching, multi-layered form creates an outstanding place to live, to experience, and to glimpse from its many surrounding environments,&rdquo; he said.

Organised around a lush central landscaped courtyard, the design softens and humanises the building&rsquo;s ground level edges with flexible retail spaces, high-quality landscapes, sympathetic terrace-style living and podium apartments above.

Apartments are complemented by landscaped roof terraces and communal facilities like barbecue spaces and a veggie garden, all designed to capitalise on the building&rsquo;s extraordinary outlooks and location.

Located at 495 Harris Street, the multi-layered building steps down from nine-storeys along Harris Street to six levels facing Bulwara Lane, providing 200 apartments, with a range of single-storey one, two and three-bedroom apartments, two-level terrace apartments and penthouses.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=9040]

Five of Australia’s leading architectural firms were invited to compete for the project with Architectus winning the competition for their innovative, sympathetic and eye-catching design.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

How Architectus lead the design behind TWT Property's NewLife Darling Harbour project

Over half the residences in the 14-storey Ryrie Home tower, the first stage of Franz&eacute; Developments&rsquo; Geelong Quarter project, have been sold.

Presales in this stage were &ldquo;north of&rdquo; $30 million and apartments in that building sold on average for $9,000 per square metre, MaxCap&rsquo;s state director for Victoria, Johnny Woodhouse, told the AFR last month.

Non-bank lender MaxCap Group is providing the development with a $97 million first-mortgage facility for the construction of the two-tower residential and hotel complex.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=168395]

Offering a collection of one, two and three-bedroom residences, Ryrie Home is set to deliver 109 apartments in the heart of Geelong&rsquo;s arts precinct.

Designed by Architectus, the distinctive building of glass and sleek, contemporary lines exudes a bold character.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88242]

The material choices are a nod to the strength that defines Geelong&rsquo;s character, said principal architect Oliver Mayger.

<blockquote>
&ldquo;Ryrie Home has drawn upon the history of Geelong and its architectural vernacular. The robust materiality and strong compositional order of the brick woolstore are defining markers of the city character and are considered through our podium scale and design&rdquo;, he said.
</blockquote>

The interiors have been thoughtfully designed to ensure efficient, flowing spaces, and feature open-plan living space, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an abundance of natural light.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88244]

According to the developers, project completion is on track for late 2022 with privately-owned Maxcon Constructions leading the construction.

Construction is well underway with the tower crane up and the structure now seen coming out of the ground.

<img alt="" height="667" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-08-13_at_9.43.46_am.png" title="construction image" width="988" />

Ryrie Home is a connected vertical village, featuring a communal rooftop lounge with barbeque and dining facilities overlooking Corio Bay and Geelong CBD.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5559]

Over half the residences in the 14-storey Ryrie Home tower, the first stage of Franzé Developments’ Geelong Quarter project, have been sold

max.kwok_55688

Over 50% of Ryrie Home, Geelong apartments sold as structure comes out of the ground

Victorian developer Franz&eacute; Developments has officially broken ground at their Geelong Quarter development, set to deliver Geelong&rsquo;s first major hotel and apartment project in 20 years.

The development, which broke ground on Wednesday, will deliver a landmark Holiday Inn tower, 16 luxury apartments at Ryrie Residences, and a separate 11-storey tower, Ryrie Home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559]

Designed by Architectus, Ryrie Home encapsulates timeless style, giving you the perfect canvas to make your new home your own in Geelong.

Geelong is the fastest growing regional city in Australia, driven by employment opportunities, education, infrastructure and its coastal lifestyle.

&ldquo;Life is simpler in Geelong&rdquo;, the project marketing reads. &ldquo;You can take your time, and have everything you need for the way you want to live.&rdquo;

All homes at Ryrie Home feature a private balcony where you can enjoy the panoramic bay views and alfresco dining year-round.

<a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong"><img alt="" height="5529" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/geelong-quarter-44-ryrie-street-geelong-39bfcf2a4e4c879d068aec6f67c34916_0.jpg" width="5026" /></a>

The project features exposed concrete ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, merging a minimalist aesthetic with a sense of modern luxury in the bayside location.

The median sale price for apartments in Geelong has grown significantly, on average 10 per cent per annum over three years, suggesting strong capital growth returns for investors and owner-occupiers alike.

Boasting the perfect balance of lifestyle and opportunity, the development is located within walking distance to a selection of eateries and is situated nearby the Geelong train station.

<a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong"><img alt="" height="4784" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/geelong-quarter-44-ryrie-street-geelong-7a2d09ff003d91982e5f40427c457856.jpg" width="8210" /></a>

Ryrie Home offers a unique opportunity to enter a developing market, with an entry price at just $375,000 for a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment.

The project is expected to be completed in 2022.

The Victorian developer has officially broken ground at their Geelong Quarter development on Wednesday, set to deliver Geelong’s first major hotel and apartment project in 20 years

Franzé Developments break ground at mixed-use Geelong project, Ryrie Home

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The wait is almost over for students and employees of the University of Sydney as completion of the highly anticipated Social Sciences building was announced today. The modern and highly sustainable design embraces its heritage context of the Camperdown campus, honouring the legacy of one of Australia’s oldest universities.

Contemporary teaching and learning spaces have been created to encourage collaborative learning through the creation of large light filled open-plan spaces, a design choice made to inspire a sense of faculty community, and inclusiveness.

The design also reflects the University’s commitment to “invention and evolution” by using technological advancements to produce a highly eco-conscious design which meets the University’s Silver As-Built Rating (which is equivalent to a 5 Star Green Star Rating). Features include a well-insulated façade made from metallic bronze-coasted interstitial Sefar micro-mesh interlayer laminated into Okalux Architectural glass. Not only does this create an incredible optical effect, but it also provides excellent thermal protection and encourages natural light flow into the building.

<blockquote>
“We were tasked with designing a transformational building that would integrate its landscape and heritage context to present a new public identity to Parramatta Road, and a sympathetic heritage backdrop when viewed from within the campus. The design was required to respond with a simple and innovative response to a demanding functional brief, with high environmental and social sustainability performance.”
</blockquote>

Jeremy Deale, Principal at Architectus

Art installations throughout the University provide cultural connection to the building's historical significance, traditional owners and faculty. A feature piece emblazoned on the granite façade of the building is a work by Robert Andrew entitled ‘GARABARA’. Garabara is the term for an Australian Aboriginal dance ceremony or gathering where stories are told, and knowledge is passed on to younger generations.

<blockquote>
“It was vital to create a modern facility that both compliments the neighbouring heritage listed buildings, as well as developing a new and innovative building.”
</blockquote>

Jeremy Deale, Principal at Architectus
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Olivia Round

University of Sydney’s highly anticipated Social Sciences building by Architectus opens today

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Late last week, the proposed 505 George Street development in Sydney was recognised at at the MIPIM annual global property exhibition in Cannes, France.

A collaboration between Architectus and Ingenhoven, 505 George Street was awarded the respected MIPIM Architectural Review Future Project Award for Tall Buildings.

505 George's Street's commanding position within Sydney’s Central Business District resulted in a facade design which maximises outward views of the Harbour and city skyline. The facade is expressed as an elegant glazed envelope with vertical columns arranged around its perimeter external and projecting solar shades.

The project has been designed with consideration of its energy consumption, as well as its environmental impact, aligning with Architectus and Ingenhoven Architects’ supergreen® sustainability aspirations.

Pending approval, 505 George Street will rise 80-storeys for an overall height of 270m - making it the highest residential building in Sydney. For reference this would be as tall as the recently topped out Aurora Melbourne Central at the northern end of Melbourne's CBD.

<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/mipim-ar-futureprojectaward_01-_edited.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The winning team. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="318" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mipim-ar-futureprojectaward_01-_edited.jpg?itok=CCZXcesP" title="The winning team. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The winning team. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
“We are incredibly proud for this transformative project for Sydney to receive such a prestigious award. Both Architectus and ingehoven share a passion for sustainable design and complex urban projects of which 505 George will be an exemplar.

It will be a low energy high rise building with a combination of different functions, including proposed luxury serviced suites, a roof-top restaurant and bar, residential apartments, potential boutique cinema, retail, conferencing facilities, a childcare centre and a meeting room facility for Council. 

The tower will present as a singular elegant form on the skyline with the vertical structure emphasising height and slenderness while the curving facade addresses views in all directions.”

- Ray Brown, Architectus CEO
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“This award means a lot to me—our two practices share this success. We already successfully cooperated with Architectus on 1 Bligh, Australia’s first really green office tower. 

For our latest team project at 505 George Street we are again aiming for an ambitious benchmark in terms of sustainability. 

We were able to convince the jury of the MIPIM / The Architectural Review Future Project Awards with the design for an extra-slender residential high-rise building that features low energy consumption, provides generous space at the ground levels, and presents itself as a "friendly neighbour" in the neighbourhood.”

- Christoph Ingenhoven, founder and principal of Ingenhoven Architects
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sa-res-505_george_st_02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="505 George Street's imposing form on the skyline. Image; Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="775" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sa-res-505_george_st_02.jpg?itok=20ySp0ck" title="505 George Street's imposing form on the skyline. Image; Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>505 George Street's imposing form on the skyline. Image; Supplied</figcaption></figure>
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Laurence Dragomir

Sydney’s 505 George Street scoops up international award in Cannes

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Victorian Minister for Training and Skills, Gayle Tierney has announced the funding for a $60 million redevelopment of the Bendigo TAFE City Campus, with Architectus in collaboration with Six Degrees appointed to lead the redesign.

The funding is a major boost for Bendigo locals and the more than 400 students enrolled in Free TAFE courses in Bendigo, Castlemaine and Echuca.

Minister Tierney was joined by Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards at the Bendigo TAFE and Kangan Institute, where more than 1000 students have enrolled across its Victorian campuses – a jump of 12 per cent compared to the same time last year.

Minister Tierney also announced more than $2.3 million through the Regional and Specialists Training Fund for Bendigo TAFE to deliver courses in welding, plumbing, horticulture and disability to meet the needs of the local community and industry.

The Andrews Government expects more enrolments at TAFEs across Victoria, as a result of the $172 million Free TAFE program that is making 30 priority TAFE courses and 20 pre-apprenticeship courses tuition fee free from this year.

Students can save up to $2,500 for some pre-apprenticeship courses and up to $5,000 for Certificate IV courses. For high cost courses such as a Diploma in Nursing or a Diploma in Building and Construction, students will save more than $10,000 through the Free TAFE initiative.

For Architectus, the news follows the recent appointment of new Principal, Alan J. Duffy. Alan who has joined the practice from Woods Bagot, where he developed substantial expertise working on notable Australian University projects including, the Western Sydney University Liverpool City Campus, the University of Sydney Business School and Macquarie University Student Experience (MUSE) project.

Duffy’s appointment follows 12-months of continued growth at Architectus with recent significant project wins including the Western Sydney Airport Business Park Master Plan and Melbourne Airport Rail Link. 

<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/bendigo_tafe_city_campus_building_j_churchst.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Sketch of Architectus and Six Degrees' concept for Bendigo TAFE. Image: Architectus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="299" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bendigo_tafe_city_campus_building_j_churchst.png?itok=-1c1vUFQ" title="Sketch of Architectus and Six Degrees' concept for Bendigo TAFE. Image: Architectus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sketch of Architectus and Six Degrees' concept for Bendigo TAFE. Image: Architectus</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
"Creating an invigorating education environment where students and staff can foster strong learning partnerships is the aim of the Architectus’ led revitalisation project for the City Campus of Bendigo TAFE.

Home to a multitude of student cohorts including Foundations Studies, Creative Industries, Business, Commerce and IT, a key aspect of the brief was to develop an integrated campus that meets all of the needs of these cohorts, including specific learning, access and spatial necessities.

With the refurbishment of three existing buildings - two of which being heritage listed - and the development of two new buildings, Architectus and architects in association Six Degrees, aim to deliver a collaborative environment that inspires new ways of learning and creating, while embracing the site’s historical context. The nature of the differing cohorts learning in an integrated campus encourages the students to find and develop their own individuality, promoting a feeling of support and belonging.

Woven into the historic fabric of Bendigo, the new City Campus will celebrate Bendigo TAFE’s heritage and legacy in contributing to the region, showcasing Bendigo TAFE as an industry focused, forward looking and inspiring place to learn and develop future skills."

-  Ruth Wilson, Architectus Director
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“We’re investing in first class training infrastructure for Bendigo TAFE while also taking the financial pressure off students to enrol.

Free TAFE will help Victorians get real jobs across a range of industries that are crying out for more skilled workers.”

- Gayle Tierney, Minister for Training and Skills and Higher Education
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“Our record funding for TAFE courses and upgrades is helping Bendigo locals get the skills they need to take up the jobs that are most available.” 

- Maree Edwards, Member for Bendigo West
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“Free TAFE is now filling Bendigo campus as students begin courses that lead directly to jobs all over the state.”

- Jacinta Allan Member for Bendigo East
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“Bendigo TAFE is delighted to offer free priority courses to support Victorians with getting the training they need for a great career while contributing to our state’s economy.”

- Trevor Schwenke, CEO of Bendigo TAFE
</blockquote>
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Architectus and Six Degrees appointed for $60 million redevelopment of Bendigo TAFE City Campus

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In the lead up to the end of the year and with one eye firmly on 2019 and beyond, Apartments.com.au is coming to you with a number of announcements from within the architectural fraternity. This follows on from <a href="/news/a-number-of-architecture-firms-make-key-leadership-appointments-ahead-of-2019">Urban.com.au's article earlier this month</a> detailing some key appointments around the industry.

Read on for news from i2C Architects and Architectus:

<h2 class="rtecenter">Experienced retail design firms merge, cementing position as leaders in national market</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/l2r_rod_rose_anthony_merlinbrian_jende-photographer_luke_marsden_4638.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="L-R: Rod Rose, Anthony Merlin, Brian Jende. Image: Luke Marsden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/l2r_rod_rose_anthony_merlinbrian_jende-photographer_luke_marsden_4638.jpg?itok=O6lekKZN" title="L-R: Rod Rose, Anthony Merlin, Brian Jende. Image: Luke Marsden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>L-R: Rod Rose, Anthony Merlin, Brian Jende. Image: Luke Marsden</figcaption></figure>Currently located in Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, i2C Architects is set to expand up the country’s east coast, announcing its amalgamation with Brisbane-based TRG Queensland.

With a similar client sect in the retail, industrial, mixed-use, urban and build-to-rent sectors, the merger will now see i2C Architects offer an enviable skill set and expanded client database, with full coverage across Australia.

While in a coup for Queensland, the move will mean a truly international offering to the design and architectural market with i2C Architects providing an expansive global alliance and network of offices.

It is expected that the combined revenue of the merged entity will exceed $16 million per annum, with the i2C Architects team growing to over 100 members across the four locations in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth.

Following a reevaluation of the business and its brand after almost 20 years in operation, co-founder and Managing Director of i2C Architects, Anthony Merlin, said the desire to expand the company’s offer and value to clients was the motivator to merge.

According to TRG Queensland Managing Director, Rod Rose, who will become a third Director at i2C Architects, it is the larger scale projects the office can now take on that will bring a dynamic offering to clients in the Sunshine State.

TRG Queensland will officially transition into i2C Architects Queensland office effective 1 January 2019.

<blockquote>
“i2C Architects has been privileged enough to work alongside TRG Queensland on a number of projects over the past 18 months, and it became very apparent to my co-founder Brian Jende and myself, that the synergies between our two companies were almost identical, from the client base to our core values.

In the past we haven’t been able to service Queensland as much as we would have liked to, and in our vision to become a truly national firm, it was vital that we made a strategic move.

We now have an established office in Brisbane that is home to talented building designers and architects, and that is a very exciting prospect for the company.”

-  Anthony Merlin, co-founder and Managing Director of i2C Architects
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“From our inception 13 years ago, our focus at TRG Queensland was always on small to medium projects, the largest we’ve worked on is $30 million.

Joining i2C Architects allows us to offer our current and prospective clients additional services, and we will certainly be able to provide incredible value with our skill set particularly architectural documentation.” 

-  Rod Rose, TRG Queensland Managing Director
</blockquote>

 

<h2 class="rtecenter">Architectus welcomed to Perth by property and construction industry leaders</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/architectus_launchlaunch_qv1_perth_jillianmchughphotography_6674-edits.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Architectus Perth office launch. Image: Jillian McHugh Photography"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/architectus_launchlaunch_qv1_perth_jillianmchughphotography_6674-edits.jpg?itok=AjQdteUG" title="Architectus Perth office launch. Image: Jillian McHugh Photography" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Architectus Perth office launch. Image: Jillian McHugh Photography</figcaption></figure> 

Top-tier Australian design practice, <a href="/developments?architect=Architectus">Architectus</a>, has officially launched its Perth studio welcoming over 100 leaders from the WA property and construction industry to its fifth capital city workplace located at QV1 in central Perth.

On the back of sustained national growth and building on a portfolio of local Architectus-designed projects, Managing Director, Ray Brown said the Perth studio affirms the practice’s commitment to servicing clients nationally and strong belief in the Western Australian market.

Architectus’ growth has been driven by a number of key project appointments including the design of the Western Sydney Airport Business Park Master Plan; 505 George Street, Sydney - a landmark mixed-use residential tower; ‘Triplets’, a high rise office building in Brisbane; several education projects including for Macquarie University and the Growth Area Schools Project for the State Government of Victoria; Sydney Metro City and Southwest in collaboration with Foster + Partners as part of the METRON consortium; and as part of the Aurecon Jacobs Mott Macdonald joint venture (AJM JV) consortium, appointed as technical advisor to Rail Projects Victoria (previously the Melbourne Metro Rail Authority) for the Victorian Rail Infrastructure Program (VRIP), which includes amongst other projects investigations into the Melbourne Airport rail link and Geelong fast rail.

Providing services in urban design and planning, architecture and interior architecture, Architectus has experienced substantial growth over the last three years, comprising 400 employees across Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and more recently Perth.

With key senior hires already underway, the Perth studio is expected to grow to a team of around 30 under the leadership of Managing Principal Mark Mitcheson-Low, supported by well-known Perth design architect Paul Jones who has been working with Architectus for the last three years.

Perth projects designed by Architectus include multi-unit residential developments Waterbank Building J, The Islands at South Beach, and The Esplanade on the site of the historic Steve’s Hotel, Nedlands (in association with Kerry Hill Architects).

<blockquote>
“To be a truly national practice it is imperative that Architectus is in Perth,” Brown said. “Like all growing cities, the complexity and scale of projects is increasing which suits our skillset, whether across education, workplace, commercial, transport, or residential. It’s a great city with a really deep talent pool, which we’ll utilise not only for local projects, but to support our projects across Australia.”

- Ray Brown, Managing Director
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“Architectus announced its intention to open a Perth studio in August this year and we were thrilled to see so many of the industry turn out to celebrate the arrival of the practice with us.

The opening of the studio provides our national clients with access to the expertise they’re familiar with on the East coast, and our Perth clients with a long-awaited new national entrant to provide a fresh design offer into the market.”

- Mark Mitcheson-Low, Managing Principal
</blockquote>

<a href="http://www.kerstinthompson.com/">Lead image: Kerstin Thompson Architects </a>

 
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urban.com.au

Around the Industry in 80 seconds

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A round up of some key appointments across the industry, as firms look ahead to a busy 2019.

<h2>Technē expands workplace division, promotes Dana Hutchins</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/dana_hutchins.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="425" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/dana_hutchins.jpg?itok=aBHRk-QC" width="580"></a></figure><a href="/architects/techne-architecture-interior-design">Technē Architecture + Interior Design</a> in Australia has recently promoted Dana Hutchins to Senior Associate, who will now be spearheading the practice’s workplace division with colleague Gabriella Gulacsi.

With almost 15 years’ experience as an interior designer, Hutchins’ portfolio of projects at Technē include the MRC Medallion Bar, a workplace for Deka and the highly anticipated Hotel Esplanade (The Espy) opening in November 2018. With her experience as an interior designer evenly divided in the workplace and hospitality sectors, Hutchins has spent her recent years working within the latter. 

She believes her hospitality experience will give her a new perspective that can be brought into upcoming workplace projects. Hutchins has seen the trend in workplace design moving away from clean-cut, 
corporate offices and believes good workplace design is best centred on flexibility and bringing people together.

Founding partner and director Nick Travers is delighted to bolster the practice’s workplace offering with Hutchins’ promotion.

<blockquote>
“Dana has already made significant contributions to projects at Technē and we are thrilled for her to continue to apply her professionalism and expertise in our workplace division.” 

- Nick Travers, Founding partner and director
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“The Espy is the most deign intense, complex and highly involved project I have ever worked on but I enjoyed the opportunity to work on a heritage project of this scale. I have always been interested in using interior design to intersect everyday life with experiences that are memorable. I appreciate and have missed the process and strategy often underpinning workplace design along with the logic and order of workplace planning.

A good workplace brings people together, organically allowing for collaboration and socialisation between team members. As workplace design has shown an increasing shift towards hospitality and social spaces, it is an exciting time to bring the work and expertise of Technē into the domain of workplace.

Technē is best known for creating cafés, restaurants and pubs which are social hubs and this experience can be translated into the design of workplaces as companies are moving towards agile work practices. Our ambition is that as a team we can create socially rich and memorable workplaces.

I am very excited to do that with Gabi who I have worked with for most of my career. We both have different roles and interests on a project but our complementary skillset makes for a strong combination.”

-  Dana Hutchins, Senior Associate
</blockquote>

<h2>Bates Smart Appoints a Strategic Advisory Board and Announces Director Promotions</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/bates_smart_advisory_board.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="L-R: Cian Davis, Kellie Payne, Rachael McCarthy, Simon Swaney"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="212" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bates_smart_advisory_board.jpg?itok=vFuNyshc" title="L-R: Cian Davis, Kellie Payne, Rachael McCarthy, Simon Swaney" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>New Directors L-R: Cian Davis, Kellie Payne, Rachael McCarthy, Simon Swaney</figcaption></figure><a href="/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a> has appointed a dedicated Advisory Board, formed in August this year, comprising five prominent Australian business leaders with diverse experience spanning sectors including property, legal services, finance and corporate business management.

The board members are: John O’Neill AO, Chair of the Advisory Board and Chairman of The Star Entertainment Group; Fiona Hindmarsh, Non-executive Director of Hindmarsh; Julie Levis, Partner of Clayton Utz; Greg Paramor AO, Non-Executive Director of Charter Hall Group and former Managing Director of Folkestone; and Colin Smith, Managing Director of Phoenix Consulting.

Bates Smart Managing Director, Simon Swaney said the Advisory Board will establish a clear strategy for the future and ensure the practice is well equipped to respond to opportunities while maintaining exceptional design quality. 
2018 has been a year of significant progress for the practice with the studio announcing the promotion of Kellie Payne (Sydney) and Cian Davis (Melbourne) as Directors, with Rachael McCarthy (Melbourne) advanced to Studio Director. 
These new appointments are in addition to further staff promotions across the Melbourne and Sydney studios with a total of 21 Associate Directors and Associates named, two thirds being women.

Swaney notes that the restructure, which commenced in 2013, has been vital in supporting the strong and valued client base while maintaining design excellence. The practice has experienced significant growth over the last five years to service clients’ needs and the expansion in the leadership team reflects

<blockquote>
“We welcome our newly appointed Advisory Board and their strategic guidance that draws on their diverse skills to strengthen the practice. Our Directors are delighted to have their experience spanning various sectors, regions and genders available to them as well as their immense capabilities to support the cultural and fiscal success of our practice.

“We congratulate Kellie and Cian, who now join our directorship, for their dedication and achievement in delivering excellence over a number of years, and Rachael who will skillfully continue to develop our Melbourne workplace strategy and design capabilities. We value their expertise and leadership enormously in not only offering exceptional client service but in nurturing the growth of new and existing talent.

“Our business has undergone a significant generational change and the new appointments to the leadership group continue this change and will be supported by our talented teams in their respective architecture and interior design fields.” 

- Simon Swaney, Bates Smart Managing Director
</blockquote>

<h2>Architectus welcomes new Principal to the leadership team</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/sophie_cleland_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="612" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sophie_cleland_01.jpg?itok=RFrjcc2e" width="580"></a></figure><a href="/architects/architectus">Architectus</a> has appointed Sophie Cleland as Principal to the leadership team.

An architect with over 15 years of experience, Sophie joins Architectus from ARM Architecture where she developed substantial expertise working on public projects, including the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games Athlete’s Village Community and Retail Precinct, the National Museum of Australia and Wanangkura regional sports centre.

Sophie is a member of the NSW State Design Review Panel and the Office for Design and Architecture South Australia (ODASA) for the SA Government.

Sophie’s appointment as Principal follows a year of continued growth at Architectus with recent significant project wins including the Western Sydney Airport Business Park Master Plan.

<blockquote>
“Sophie brings a clear strategic approach to the design process and strong client and stakeholder relationships, including extensive experience working with high levels of government, Government Architects and other State and Territory agencies. We are delighted to have Sophie join our Melbourne studio.”

- Ray Brown, Architectus Managing Director 
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“I am excited to be joining the Architectus leadership team and have the opportunity to drive design strategy in the delivery of high quality public architecture. In my new role, I want to inspire a sense of narrative within the work, to create high quality and forward-thinking spaces that connect people, cultures and their ideas.”

- Sophie Cleland 
</blockquote>

Lead image: <a href="http://www.kerstinthompson.com/">Kerstin Thompson Architects</a> 
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A number of Architecture firms make key leadership appointments ahead of 2019

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<a href="/developers/cbus-property">Cbus Property</a> has announced the appointment of Hutchinson Builders as the construction contractor for <a href="/buildings/the-langston-epping-12-22-langston-place-epping">The Langston</a>, a mixed-use development in <a href="/new-apartments/epping-vic-3076">Epping</a>. Hutchinson Builders will commence ground works on the site of the former Westpac Credit Card Services building in Langston Place from January 2019. According to Cbus Property, the selection of the construction partner was integral to the success of the overall project.

Located 18 kilometres north-west of the <a href="/new-apartments/sydney-nsw">Sydney</a> and just 100m from Epping Train Station, The Langston comprises 463 premium apartments across three towers of 19, 24 and 29-storeys, and will include a ground floor retail/mixed-use precinct comprising 1,681 sqm of retail space, as well as open public space and shareways connecting Epping Train Station with the new town centre.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/langston_precinct_with_train_station.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Langston Precinct in Epping. Image: Cbus Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/langston_precinct_with_train_station.jpg?itok=QeP3tzhD" title="The Langston Precinct in Epping. Image: Cbus Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Langston Precinct in Epping. Image: Cbus Property</figcaption></figure>The Langston has been designed by <a href="/architects/architectus">Architectus</a> who are also working on Cbus' <a href="/buildings/443-queen-street-brisbane-443-queen-street-brisbane">443 Queen Street project in Brisbane</a> (in tandem with WOHA), while Arcadia are responsible for the landscape architecture of the project. The Langston will be positioned on Epping's highest point, allowing for panoramic views to the Sydney CBD and Harbour Bridge to the south-east, and Blue Mountains views to the west.

Architectus have designed the apartments to be rectilinear in plan with the curved form of the towers achieved by varying balcony depths. This design approach ensures that wind gusts are kept to a minimum while maximising ventilation throughout the apartments and common areas.

<blockquote>
Architectus has envisioned three residential towers comprising (463) apartments, each with a 2-storey retail podium creating a central public plaza.

The 2-storey podium at the base of each tower provides amenity for retail shops and cafes, creating a vibrant central thoroughfare with paved walkways and landscaped gardens.

The curvaceous lines of the towers are informed by prevailing winds, with the materials palette taking cues from nearby parklands thereby creating a new landmark that is sympathetic to the surrounding context.

- Architectus
</blockquote>

Pedestrian links will feature throughout the site, connecting The Langston with Pembroke Park to the east, Council’s public library and other recreational facilities, which will revitalise the eastern side of the train station. Since the project launched in May 2018, the project has received a significant amount of interest from local buyers, prospective retailers and the broader Epping community.

Epping was identified as the first Priority Precinct (PP) in 2012 due to its capacity to support growth in a well-serviced location. The PP resulted in an amendment to planning controls, enabling high-density development for the site at The Langston.

Urban.com.au has <a href="/news/augusta-properties-drives-another-residential-tower-into-epping">previously highlighted</a> the development occurring in the vicinity of Epping Station, with our own Mark Baljak providing the following observation;

<blockquote>
... the wider precinct could see thousands of new apartments once all developable sites are accounted for. Epping's rise is predominantly centred around its railway station, with streets... such as Oxford Street also flush with sizeable apartment developments.
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/langston_ext_hero_final.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hutchison Builders will start on the first stage in January 2019. Image: Cbus Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="580" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/langston_ext_hero_final.jpg?itok=jUwVi_XI" title="Hutchison Builders will start on the first stage in January 2019. Image: Cbus Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hutchison Builders will start on the first stage in January 2019. Image: Cbus Property</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
The Langston will significantly contribute to the revitalisation of the Epping Town Centre and as such, choosing the right delivery partner was critical for Cbus Property.

Hutchinson’s excellent track record, having delivered over 7,000 projects around Australia since 1912 with a combined value of over $32 billion, ultimately stood out.

This is our first project with Hutchies and we are looking forward to working closely with them.

- Adrian Pozzo, Chief Executive Officer at Cbus Property
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
We’re excited to commence work on our first project with Cbus Property, especially considering the significance The Langston will have in redefining the Epping Town Centre.

The Langston is a landmark project that we will be proud to deliver for Cbus Property, who have a well-earned reputation for quality residential projects up and down Australia’s east coast.

- Greg Quinn, Managing Director of Hutchinson Builders
</blockquote>
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Hutchinson Builders appointed to build Cbus Property's The Langston, Epping

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The first of the State Library Victoria's new spaces were unveiled last Friday as part of the Library's Vision 2020 redevelopment. Once fully complete, the $88.1 million transformation will increase the total amount of public space by 40% and seating by 70%. Architectus and Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects are leading the design for Vision 2020.

Once home to the Melbourne Museum (1906 to 1997) and the NGV (1999 to 2002), the redeveloped spaces will be accessed by two new entrances – the historic Russell Street entrance, which was closed for more than a decade, and a new accessible entrance on La Trobe Street. These two entrances form the main points of entry for Library visitors for the duration of the redevelopment works.

The Swanston Street entrance and ground floor have been closed to allow for the next stage of construction, and will reopen upon completion in 12 months time. A brand new, exhibition gallery - the Victoria Gallery - is also set to open in May 2019, with support from the John and Myriam Wylie Foundation. 

As part of the first stage of redevelopment, two new reading rooms and a dedicated special events venue were created, joining a new lounge and meeting space. A 60% larger Readings bookshop and new cafe, Guild also feature in the first stage works. The shared meeting space has been designed for working, collaborating and relaxing, and will also feature a large-scale original artwork by Melbourne artist Tai Snaith running along the length of the wall.

<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/slv_readings_bookshop_1_credit_patrick_rodriguez.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The expanded Readings bookshop. Image: Patrick Rodriguez"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/slv_readings_bookshop_1_credit_patrick_rodriguez.jpg?itok=HxasCcxj" title="The expanded Readings bookshop. Image: Patrick Rodriguez" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The expanded Readings bookshop. Image: Patrick Rodriguez</figcaption></figure>The the Victorian Government has provided $60.4m towards funding the redevelopment, with the balance of the $88.1m raised via philanthropic support. 

<h2>Key features</h2>

<ul>
<li>The Russell Street heritage entrance, the original entrance to Melbourne Museum, built in 1906</li>
	<li>The Russell Street Welcome Zone, a lounge and meeting space inside the Russell Street entrance seating 69 and designed for visitors to meet, study, work or relax, also housing Readings bookshop and new cafe, Guild</li>
	<li>The Arts Reading Room moves to a heritage gallery seating 52, with new technology including AV stations and listening posts to access the Library’s vast multimedia collection</li>
	<li>The Herald and Weekly Times Newspapers Reading Room and Helen Macpherson Smith Trust Family History Reading Room share a stunning heritage gallery seating 76 which, along with the Arts Reading Room, is a designated quiet space for reading and research</li>
	<li>Isabella Fraser Room, a heritage events venue now available for hire, named after the Library’s first female employee seating 156 banquet style, 200 conference style and 220 cocktail style and is supported by state-of-the-art audio-visual technology and a new production kitchen</li>
	<li>Readings bookshop moves from the western end of the Library to the eastern end, increasing in size by 60% with an expanded children’s section</li>
	<li>New cafe, Guild is operated by Melbourne’s largest distributor of fresh almond milk, Almond Milk Co., offering plain and flavoured almond milk, a seasonal menu of salads and sandwiches, coffee by Sensory Lab and coffee day passes for all day supply of filter coffee</li>
	<li>A large-scale artwork installed inside the Russell Street Welcome Zone by Melbourne artist, Tai Snaith, titled ‘Open Book’ was selected from 77 artist submissions, with Snaith awarded $20,000 to produce the piece, which is her largest work to date</li>
	<li>Victoria Gallery, endowed by the John and Myriam Wylie Foundation is a 500m2 international-standard exhibition space that will showcase collection material using cutting-edge technology creating an immersive and interactive experience for visitors. The inaugural Victoria Gallery exhibition will open in May 2019.</li>
</ul>
<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/slv_russell_street_welcome_zone1_credit_patrick_rodriguez.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The new welcome zone at Russell Street. Image: Patrick Rodriguez"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/slv_russell_street_welcome_zone1_credit_patrick_rodriguez.jpg?itok=xCKmcp7C" title="The new welcome zone at Russell Street. Image: Patrick Rodriguez" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The new welcome zone at Russell Street. Image: Patrick Rodriguez</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say... </h2>

<blockquote>
This visionary project will ensure our State Library continues to be a welcoming and inspiring place for all Victorians, as it has been for the past 162 years. 
State Library Victoria is responding to the needs of the community by opening up more of this beautiful, iconic building to the public – providing additional reading rooms, public spaces and function capacity. 
We’re now at the halfway point of this landmark project and this is our first look at the stunning transformation of State Library Victoria.

- Martin Foley, Minister for Creative Industries 
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
The Library is thrilled to open the first of its transformed spaces, which feature world-class design and allow us to reimagine what a library can be,” Mr Wylie said. 
Visitors are at the heart of everything the Library does and we can’t wait to see people using these magnificent new Library facilities, whether they are researching the collection, collaborating with peers, browsing Readings bookshop or meeting friends for coffee.

- John Wylie, President of the Library Board of Victoria 
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Architectus was tasked with the opportunity to transform the heritage Isabella Fraser Room, to a space that was both flexible and opulent to cater for grand events such as weddings and corporate functions.

One of the key design features is the Denmark-imported soft cell acoustic panels in the Isabella Fraser room, but the beautiful herringbone timber flooring is a stand-out complimenting the elegance and ambience of the building.”

Our design strategy was to strip these spaces back to their inherent beauty, then add a sense that exciting and memorable experiences will occur within them.

- Ruth Wilson, Architectus Director
</blockquote>

 
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