A new 25-storey apartment tower proposed for Mercer Street would push Geelong’s western gateway skyline higher, with Morphy Birrell Property Group lodging plans for a project directly beside one of the city’s most significant heritage streetscapes.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">FK</a>-designed development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/65-67-mercer-street-geelong-vic-3220">65-67 Mercer Street</a> has now been referred to Victoria’s Planning Minister. The site sits opposite the Geelong rail corridor and immediately south of the heritage-listed St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church and Ashby Hall precinct.

Rather than compete with the neighbouring ecclesiastical buildings, the proposal adopts a sculpted podium intended to reference the materiality and scale of the heritage context. Planning documents note the design draws cues from the “dark stone brick” church and surrounding masonry buildings, while the tower above transitions into a softer, curved form oriented toward Corio Bay and the Geelong waterfront.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b797d10c-d4a6-47af-b8df-1aeaa3b382be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/public%20square.png?VersionId=QGIpcz1x1hKB6lQLl2iobyHqb6PS2Ztc" />

The development forms “Stage 5” of Morphy Birrell Property Group’s broader Mercer Street precinct strategy, following the completion of the 21-storey Miramar tower on Cavendish Street and several additional approved redevelopment stages nearby. Planning consultants Ratio said the proposal “represents an exemplary development outcome” aligned with the strategic ambitions for Central Geelong’s continued urban renewal.

The mixed-use project would replace an existing low-rise commercial building and surface parking area on the 3,320 sqm corner site. FK’s urban context report describes the proposal as a residential development comprising apartments, resident amenities, commercial space, and integrated landscaping positioned to maximise bay views and northern sunlight access.

Renders show a deeply articulated tower with curved balconies stepping above a lower masonry podium that frames a landscaped forecourt facing Mercer Street. The design intentionally preserves sightlines toward the adjacent church buildings, with the podium scaled to reinforce the heritage edge before the tower recedes upward.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bdca91e-66f7-4ac7-8baa-2f93bd5b564e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/geelong%20site.png?VersionId=QOhbino4ZgzKYw5dW3QE14E.2yq.Sv87" />

The planning report highlights the site’s strategic location within 400 metres of key Geelong destinations including Cunningham Pier, the Geelong Station precinct, Deakin University, and the convention centre. Bus services run directly along Mercer Street, while the Corio Bay foreshore sits around 100 metres north of the site.

The proposal arrives amid accelerating redevelopment across central Geelong, where planning policy continues to encourage higher-density housing close to transport infrastructure and the waterfront. Mercer Street in particular has emerged as a focal point for taller apartment development due to its proximity to Geelong Station, the bay, and major civic infrastructure.

Joel Robinson

Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct

Development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the next residential stage of their $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan, lodging plans for 512 more apartments within the precinct on surplus racecourse land at 110 Wilson Street, Moonee Ponds.

The proposed development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trackside-house-110-wilson-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Trackside Gardens</a>&nbsp;in the planning application, follows the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-hamton-and-hostplus-reveal-sixth-stage-of-moonee-valley-park-masterplan">recent unveiling of the sixth-stage Cox Place Precinct</a> and continues the long-running transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse into one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects.

Positioned on the north-eastern edge of the racecourse adjacent to CityLink, Trackside Gardens will comprise three residential buildings rising between 61.8 metres and 86.4 metres within a heavily landscaped precinct shaped by Hamton’s Nature Based Cities framework.

The project forms part of the broader Moonee Valley Park redevelopment being delivered by Hamton, Hostplus and the Moonee Valley Racing Club, which is reshaping the 40-hectare racecourse site into a mixed-use neighbourhood with housing, retail, commercial space, hotels, parkland and community infrastructure.

Trackside Gardens sits separately to the recently proposed Cox Place Precinct, a five-building stage comprising around 1,100 residences, two build-to-rent buildings, two build-to-sell towers, retail, office space, and a hotel overlooking the racetrack. Together, the projects continue to accelerate housing delivery across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fc1941e-52d3-41c6-abc4-0f13fe8ae5ea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/DA%20Edits%20%281%29.png?VersionId=7qwRHq5dcvXWNot2hNOgoQhN2GIWudNK" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> with landscape architecture by Tract, Trackside Gardens has been conceived as a botanical-style residential precinct prioritising canopy planting, communal green space, and vertical landscaping.

“The architectural vision for the proposed development centres around buildings in a botanical park setting that champions the important role of nature,” the planning submission states.

“The proposal incorporates principles of biophilic design, with landscape and environmentally sustainable development influencing the ultimate design response of the buildings and prioritising the ground plane to ensure a high amenity for both occupants and visitors.”&nbsp;

Trackside Gardens will deliver 512 apartments across the three buildings, alongside 518 basement car spaces and 523 bicycle spaces. Around 20 per cent affordable housing is proposed across the broader North East Precinct, equating to around 158 dwellings.&nbsp;

The affordable housing component will be concentrated within the Wilson East building, while the remaining apartments are expected to be delivered as build-to-sell residences.

Trackside Gardens has been designed around Hamton’s Nature Based Cities initiative, founded by Executive Chair Paul Hameister OAM in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Urbis, Ark Resources and Tract. The initiative promotes integrating higher-density urban development with significant biodiversity, tree canopy and landscape outcomes.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89353449-7b3c-42fd-8fd8-8bf64a5ef80f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_4.png?VersionId=X8jRt0P2L7fIWjLhfX6gPknXToXIBeLj" />

A comprehensive landscape strategy would introduce deep soil planting, vertical greening, communal gardens, and new pedestrian links throughout the site.

Planning documents state the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, a 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and “Exemplary” Nature Based Cities certification.&nbsp;

The proposal joins an expanding pipeline of approved and proposed buildings within Moonee Valley Park, including the recently launched Eveline apartments and the approved Grandstand North and South towers.

Hamton has increasingly focused on precinct-scale, nature-led communities across Melbourne’s middle-ring suburbs, with projects spanning Hawthorn, Kew, and Moonee Ponds.

Hampton unveils Trackside Gardens, latest stage of $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan

The Paul Gedoun-led <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Group</a> has achieved another milestone in its $1 billion transformation of Rainbow Bay on the southern Gold Coast with the completion of the company’s third project in four years, the $160 million <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a> residences.

Delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, Esprit buyers have now moved into the 94 apartments across two interconnected buildings at 217-227 Boundary Street.

The successful settlement of Esprit marks another astounding chapter in the S&amp;S story, which launched its highly successful Flow apartments three years ago and created its own ultra-luxury branded fingerprint on an area craving new luxury residences.

Most early purchasers have secured gains of well over $1 million since the project launched in 2021.&nbsp;

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S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the completion of Esprit reflects sustained demand for premium apartments in tightly held coastal locations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Esprit has attracted buyers seeking a combination of quality design, considered amenity and a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate,” said Gedoun.

“We identified some years ago that Rainbow Bay is a unique market where supply of luxury residences is limited, and we see the settlements in Esprit further underpinning this thinking - that for both owner-occupiers and investors.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

A key feature of the development is ‘Club Esprit’, a 1,000sqm residents-only rooftop level combining wellness and recreation, believed to be a first for the Gold Coast, and which is fast becoming a signature of the S&amp;S brand.

Positioned to capture views across Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay and the Tweed River, the rooftop includes a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga lawn, sauna and steam facilities, ice bath, private dining spaces, outdoor cinema and landscaped areas for residents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> Director Jayde Pezet, who led the sales campaign for Esprit and S&amp;S’s Flow and Awaken apartments, said the project’s performance reflects both the strength of the product and the depth of demand for premium apartments on the southern Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“In some cases, we’ve seen values double since launch, which is a clear reflection of how tightly held Rainbow Bay has become and the level of demand for well-executed projects in this market,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers recognised early what S&amp;S Projects was delivering here, and that conviction has been rewarded as the project has progressed towards completion.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=214819]

Esprit offers a mix of two- three and four-bedroom apartments and sits within walking distance of the beachfront, cafés and local amenities, reinforcing its appeal as both a lifestyle and investment destination.

The project is the third completed by S&amp;S Projects in Rainbow Bay, following Flow Residences and Awaken Residences, which together have contributed to the suburb’s emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after coastal pockets. &nbsp;

S&amp;S Projects is continuing its investment in the area with Radia, a $215 million development currently under construction.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

Gedoun said the completion of Esprit signals continued confidence in the southern Gold Coast market.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen strong interest in well-located, high-quality apartments, particularly in areas where future development opportunities are limited."

“That’s been a key factor in the performance of Esprit and the broader Rainbow Bay market”.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Owners move in as Esprit completes at Rainbow Bay

Few developers can boast a portfolio across South East Queensland's luxury markets quite like <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a>.

The builder-developer, founded in 2004 by Managing Director Brook Monahan, has projects in planning, on the market, and under construction, from Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach to Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane.

With a pipeline exceeding $2 billion, Mosaic remains highly selective when it comes to development sites, having spent years refining its strategy around feasibility research and product planning. The group is set to continue growing into 2026 and beyond.

In Brisbane, Mosaic currently has three projects in the market. It is in the final release stage at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford</a> in Kangaroo Point, which is approaching complete sellout ahead of its late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328123]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, The Bedford comprises 128 two- and three-bedroom residences. A selection of ultra-luxury Masterpiece Series Skyhomes, positioned across the top levels, offer expansive floor plans and sweeping views of the river and city.

High-end inclusions, such as natural stone benchtops, bespoke cabinetry, and Miele appliances, feature throughout all apartments, alongside the Rooftop Recreation &amp; Retreat Sky Terrace. This includes a resort-style pool with sun deck and loungers, spa, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room, private dining room with a full kitchen, residents' lounge, multiple barbeque and relaxation zones, an outdoor viewing deck, and landscaped gardens with water features, all oriented to sweeping city and river views.

A gym with indoor and outdoor zones, and a golf simulator, further enhances recreational choice within the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328119]

A defining feature of the development is its integrated mixed-use component, which will deliver Kangaroo Point's first major supermarket, alongside a café and liquor store, bringing long-awaited convenience to the peninsula.

Monahan says The Bedford represents the culmination of a near-decade-long journey, after first identifying the A-grade Prospect Street site in 2016. While they came close to acquiring it at the time, the site was ultimately purchased by Woolworths' development arm, Fabcot. The opportunity resurfaced in 2024 when the site, vacant for nearly three decades, was brought back to market.

Monahan says Mosaic projects often begin years before any formal plans are drawn. Their new South Brisbane development is no exception, with the site first earmarked in 2018.

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan says. "Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141711 project_image_fid=353495]

A similar story unfolded at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a> in Kangaroo Point, opposite The Gabba. Like The Bedford, it is also approaching sellout of its 125 two- and three-bedroom apartments. The majority of sales are attributed to returning customers and referrals, with a balanced mix of investors and a strong majority of owner-occupiers.

BDA Architecture was again engaged to design the 22-storey building, which will feature a suite of wellness and lifestyle amenities, including a golf simulator and cinema, a commercial-grade gym, and a rooftop recreation level with a pool, steam room, sauna, cold plunge, teppanyaki bar, private dining spaces, and landscaped terraces.

Construction is on track for completion in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Mosaic's latest offering is its most ambitious yet, boasting a rare, north-facing riverfront position on Montague Road in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale by Mosaic</a> is a 39-storey tower comprising just over 200 residences and Masterpiece Series Sky Homes. Designed in partnership with Bureau Proberts, it will feature nearly 3,000 sqm of genuine, internationally benchmarked six-star, hotel-style amenities, including a wellness precinct, pool, gym, massage and treatment rooms, cinema, golf simulator, and extensive outdoor dining areas across a two-level rooftop deck.

Early works are underway, with full construction expected to commence in the second half of 2026, and an anticipated late 2029 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Since 2012 alone, Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects and is set to deliver another $2 billion worth of developments, comprising hundreds of luxury apartments, each defined by Mosaic's signature standards of quality, detail, and delivery.

"We never arrive, there is no finish line," says Monahan. "Our ambition is to keep evolving what luxury means, creating design- and lifestyle-led residences in incredible locations, places people genuinely aspire to and want to live, homes that are loved deeply and endure long beyond their moment."

Mosaic's Midas Touch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> (Urban) has broken ground at Keira Place, its new major mixed-use residential precinct in the heart of Wollongong CBD.

Held at 120-122 Smith Street, the groundbreaking marked the commencement of construction on Stage 1 of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, with the opening of the new display suite. 
&nbsp; 
Keira Place is a State Significant Development that will deliver new housing supply, affordable homes and inclusive living options within walking distance of Wollongong’s CBD, coastline, transport, hospital and education precincts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369868] 
&nbsp; 
Stage 1 is now under construction and will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, along with activated ground-floor retail and commercial space. 
&nbsp; 
Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the groundbreaking represented a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected Urban’s long-term commitment to regional cities.

“Today’s groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong’s city centre,” Elias said. 
&nbsp; 
“Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369869] 
&nbsp; 
Hon. Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Member for Wollongong said Keira Place is exactly the kind of development Wollongong needs – delivering new homes close to transport, employment and services, while supporting the continued growth and renewal of the CBD.

"This project reflects the Minns Labor Government's commitment to increasing housing supply in well-located areas." 
&nbsp; 
Wollongong Lord Mayor Cr Tania Brown said Keira Place would deliver lasting community benefits for the city. 
&nbsp; 
"Keira Place is a welcome addition to Wollongong's CBD delivering new housing, affordable homes and activated street-level spaces that will benefit our community for years to come," Brown said. 
&nbsp; 
"Urban Property Group's investment reflects the confidence that quality developers have in Wollongong's future, and I look forward to seeing this precinct come to life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369867] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/dko">DKO,</a> Keira Place prioritises liveability and long-term performance, with landscaped shared spaces, generous apartment layouts and a pedestrian-friendly streetscape along Smith Street. 
&nbsp; 
Residents will have access to landscaped podium areas, communal rooftop amenities with views to Mount Keira and the Wollongong skyline, and convenient ground-level retail.

The development will have 10-year Latent Defects Insurance by Resilience Insurance.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144442]

Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD

Assemble Futures

The 4 Ballarat St., Brunswick apartment development,&nbsp;is one of the most in-demand projects on Urban for first home buyers, namely down to its location and&nbsp;affordability.

Located in the heart of Brunswick, the project team at&nbsp;Assemble operate on a&nbsp;rent-with-the-option-to-buy model, which has made this development particularly popular.

Designed by&nbsp;Fieldwork Architects&nbsp;and with landscaping by Rush Wright, 4 Ballarat St. places an emphasis on providing a seamless transition to the natural environment, with each apartment running on 100 per cent renewable energy.

We recently spoke with Asse​mble&rsquo;s director of marketing and relationships, Rebecca Shackleton, to discuss the rent-with-the-option-to-buy development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160739]

MK: How many multi-residential projects has&nbsp;Ass​emble completed within Victoria under their Assemble Futures scheme?

RS: The first project set to be delivered under Assem​ble Futures&rsquo; rent-with-the-option-to-buy scheme is 393 Macaulay Rd in Kensington. Residents are due to move in early 2022.

Other Assemb​le Futures projects include 15 Thompson St in Kensington and 4 Ballarat St. in Brunswick, with completion in 2023.

MK: What are the advantages of the rent-with-the-option-to-buy model at 4 Ballarat St. for first home buyers?

RS: Assemble​ Futures supports first home buyers into homeownership by enabling them to move in and rent their apartment for five years while saving for a deposit to buy it.

It protects them from shifts in the property market as they lock in the future purchase price of their home, and leases are renewed every 12 months, so if life takes them elsewhere, they have the flexibility to leave at the end of the lease.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160729]

To secure an apartment, buyers sign the contract of sale, which locks in the future purchase price of their home, giving them the option, but not the obligation to purchase at the end of the five-year lease.

From the moment they sign, we will support them on their savings journey with our free (opt-in) financial coaching program. When they move in, they&rsquo;ll also have access to additional savings support through our bulk buying partnerships, aimed at reducing the cost of living across household goods, services and utilities by at least 20 per cent.

They will also get the added opportunity of experiencing their apartment, community, and neighbourhood before purchasing their home.

MK:&nbsp;What was the design brief for the architectural team at Fieldwork?&nbsp;&nbsp;

RS: Assemble partnered with Fieldwork architects to bring 4 Ballarat St. to life. Previously a factory designed by Melbourne architects AK Lines, McFarlane and Marshall, there is a strong history of textile manufacturing for brands, such as Hard Yakka Overalls company, Fletcher Jones, and more recently Perucci Shirts.

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Critical to the design brief, was the care needed in preserving the original building fabric and ensuring the new building was complementary to its surroundings. 4 Ballarat St. picks up on the distinctive qualities of Victorian Edwardian, post-war and industrial buildings, which characterise&nbsp;the diverse nature of the suburb.

Community is at the forefront of our building designs, with the relationship between apartments and the open-air walkways designed to encourage connection.&nbsp;

MK: What spoke to you about the 4 Ballarat St. site in particular when planning the development?

RS: 4 Ballarat St. is a vibrant location off Sydney Road. When it comes to Melbourne&rsquo;s renowned culinary areas, Sydney Road is high on the list with foodie icons like Tiba&rsquo;s, Mediterranean Wholesalers and the famous, low-cost A1 Bakery.

The site is within walking distance of great outdoor and recreational areas, including Clifton Park, Gilpin Reserve, A G Gillion Oval and Brunswick Baths. It is also well connected, with a range of public transport options servicing Sydney Road, residents are connected to surrounding suburbs, and can easily access the Melbourne CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160738]

MK: Where did you take your inspiration from?

RS: The design of the building has been inspired by the character, history, and predominant terracotta hues of the Brunswick neighbourhood.

Apartments are accented with warm colours and no-fuss design details such as terracotta tiles, hard-wearing benchtops, rich terracotta-coloured kitchen joinery, and chrome finishes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160731]

MK: What role did environmental design consultants Atelier Ten play in the project design and delivery?&nbsp;

RS: We collaborated with Atelier Ten to ensure best practice waste and sustainability methodologies are in place, and planet-friendly solutions are embedded throughout the building, reducing our environmental impact, and enhancing the quality of life for our residents.&nbsp;

We follow a clear set of design principles to ensure all apartments offer natural light, cross-flow ventilation and connection to landscaping and open space.&nbsp;

MK: 4 Ballarat St. boasts a number of communal amenities. What is the benefit of this?

RS: 4 Ballarat St.&nbsp;has been designed to bring people together offering residents an enriched and connected life beyond their four walls. Shared spaces provide meaningful, convenient and functional areas to work, eat and hang out.

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On level eight, you&rsquo;ll find a shared rooftop garden that has impressive views of the Melbourne skyline. A space to use as and when you like, it features several social zones to come together, entertain guests or host a barbeque.

The rooftop is also a space for pets to roam free in the designated dog park, while keen gardeners will also have a beautiful green zone and planting space. There is a shared clothesline for drying and a communal laundry, each apartment will have a laundry space, however,&nbsp;residents can choose not to have their own machine.&nbsp;

Our multi-purpose room is perfect for any type of event, yoga class, kids&rsquo; birthday party or if you have invited one too many dinner guests, it can be easily booked through the Assemble App.&nbsp;

On the ground floor, we have a multi-purpose workshop for the odd jobs where you&rsquo;d prefer not to mess up your apartment. It is complete with workbenches, shared tools, and wash sink, it&rsquo;s the place to get things done, and lean on your neighbour for a helping hand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160741]

The lending library is made to house all the little things you can&rsquo;t live without, but rarely use. Like a step ladder, a slow-cooker, or tools your need to fix your bike. It&rsquo;s about saving residents&rsquo; money through the power of sharing.

The parcel room and cool storage is a convenient and secure place for delivery services to leave your online purchases. If&nbsp;you&rsquo;re thinking about ordering groceries and drinks, our cool storage space keeps them fresh until you get home.&nbsp;

MK: Why did you choose Brunswick? Does this area offer strong investment opportunities for first home buyers?

RS: The median house price in Brunswick rose by 5.2 per cent in the second quarter of 2021 alone to $1.368 million, according to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria. We are witnessing the strongest growth in property values in our history, rising at their fastest rate in almost two decades.

The residents of 4 Ballarat St.&nbsp;will lock in their future purchase price today which means they will be protected from shifts in the market if they decide to purchase at the end of the five-year lease. If the housing prices in Brunswick continue to rise as they have been, their home will appreciate with the market and any equity gained over the five years will be theirs to benefit from.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/dsc_2652.jpg?itok=QhlLN4TF" title="Brunswick. Image: Lauren Bamford" width="580" />

<figcaption>Brunswick. Image: Lauren Bamford</figcaption>
</figure>

MK: Where have buyers come from, and who is the development appealing to?

RS: 67 per cent of our residents have either come from Brunswick or other northern suburbs highlighting to us what a desirable area Brunswick is, with a great community.

Most of our residents are single, with around 20 per cent families and 20 per cent couples. It has been lovely to see so many residents referring their friends or housemates to the project, we have no doubt that 4 Ballarat St. will be a fantastic community.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=94542]

Urban recently spoke with Assemble’s director of marketing and relationships, Rebecca Shackleton, to discuss the rent-with-the-option-to-buy development. 

max.kwok_55688

What buyers need to know about 4 Ballarat St, Brunswick apartments: Urban chats with developer Assemble 

The affordability and sustainability-conscious developer, Assemble, recently&nbsp;launched its latest rent-with-the-option-to-buy apartment development in Melbourne&#39;s Brunswick.

The current factory site at 4 Ballarat Street, Brunswick will be converted by architecture firm Fieldwork to home 171 studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160733]

Urban takes a look at nine amenities that reflect the world-class amenities available at 4 Ballarat St.

1. Rooftop Pavilion

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Boasting an impressive view of Melbourne&rsquo;s skyline, 4 Ballarat St&rsquo;s eighth floor boasts a shared rooftop garden to gather and grow.

The space is designed to use as and when residents like, featuring several social zones for entertaining.

The rooftop is also a space for pets to roam free in a designated dog park, for children to play, or for enjoying the garden and planting space.

2. Barbeque area

At 4 Ballarat St, the walls of your apartment aren&rsquo;t the limit to each &lsquo;home.&rsquo;

&ldquo;Residents are encouraged to make the most of the spaces beyond their apartment &ndash; from being able to host events and parties upstairs on the rooftop, or to cook for friends on the communal barbeque,&quot; Rebecca Shackleton, Director of Relationships and Marketing at Assemble, said.

3. Clothesline and communal laundry

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A shared clothesline delivers extra space for drying when favouring an option more energy efficient than a standard dryer.

Similarly, residents can make use of commercial washers available on the roof, despite every apartment boasting a dedicated laundry space and plumbing setup.

4. Assemble Space

Located on the ground floor, the &lsquo;Assemble Space&rsquo; is the point of call for all services and spaces at 4 Ballarat St.

A place to grab a coffee, or have a drink, it&rsquo;s also where residents will find their Assemble neighbourhood team who are on-hand to support the use of the workshop and the lending library, to arranging parcel pick up.

5. A multi-purpose workshop

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Assemble have created a multi-purpose workshop space on the ground floor for a space to work on odd jobs or crafts.

Complete with workbenches, shared tools and a wash sink, residents can get things done, and lean on their neighbours for a helping hand.

6. Lending library

Designed to save residents&rsquo; money through the power of sharing, the lending library is made to house all the little things that you can&rsquo;t live without, but rarely use.

These include items such as a step ladder, a slow-cooker, or tools needed to fix a bike.

7. Parcel room and cool storage

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While residents are out and about, working and living, the ground-floor parcel room is a convenient and secure place for delivery services to leave online purchases and post.

Or, for residents ordering groceries and drinks, feel secure with a cool storage space that keeps produce fresh until you get home.

8. Secure bike spots

Bikes were made for Brunswick, so Assemble has ensured 4 Ballarat St is home to abundant bicycle storage.

With safe and easily accessible storage, the development will house over 207 bikes and have factored in a dedicated entry point that separates vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

9. Multi-purpose room

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The multi-purpose room at Ballarat St is the perfect location for any event.

&ldquo;The multi-purpose room is designed to be flexible enough for all occasions including hosting a communal yoga class or an intimate dinner party celebration with friends,&quot; Shackleton said.

Designed to extend the spaces of the home, and encourage neighbourhood connection, 4 Ballarat St&rsquo;s shared amenities provide meaningful and convenient additions to residential living in Brunswick.

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Urban takes a look at nine amenities that reflect the world-class amenities available at 4 Ballarat St

Assemble delivers a range of shared amenities for 4 Ballarat St, Brunswick residents – here's the full list

4 Ballarat St is the latest collaboration between developer Assemble and environmental design consultants Atelier Ten.

The team worked together to ensure best practice waste and sustainability targets were in place at the 171-residence development.

&ldquo;We have introduced some sustainable solutions throughout the building to reduce our environmental impact and enhance the quality of life of our future residents&rdquo;,&nbsp;Rebecca Shackleton, Director of Relationships and Marketing at Assemble, said.

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Inspired by the history of Brunswick and its unique spirit of inclusivity, progress and opportunity, 4 Ballarat St follows a clear set of design principles to ensure natural light, cross-flow ventilation, and connection to landscaping and open space.

The homes, while also offering a more accessible pathway to homeownership through the&nbsp;&lsquo;rent with the option to buy&rsquo; Assemble Futures&nbsp;scheme, are fully electric and run on 100 per cent renewable energy.

4 Ballarat St also includes its own green spaces, with landscaping by Rush Wright Associates to include lush entrance gardens, native tropical plants and communal landscaped space.

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The development also aims to close the loop on waste through an onsite bio-composter.

Around half of all waste generated in homes is food waste, so as part of Assemble&rsquo;s wider organic waste management strategy, residents of 4 Ballarat St can contribute to the health and wellbeing of the land beneath them.

The onsite bio-composter will use microbial technology and heat to reduce organic waste volumes by up to 90 per cent in 24 hours, essentially turning harmful food waste into valuable fertiliser.

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Residents can then use the fertiliser to enhance the soil in their rooftop veggie gardens or give it away to local community gardens and environmentally-conscious family and friends.

Other green features in this new development include:

<ul>
	<li>Rooftop Solar PV energy generation and distribution system to achieve up to 45kW on-site renewable energy</li>
	<li>Provision for car sharing and electric vehicle charging facilities</li>
	<li>Generous bike storage</li>
	<li>Minimum 7.5 NatHERS rating on average</li>
	<li>Exposed concrete soffit to provide thermal mass to help regulate internal temperature</li>
	<li>Highly efficient heating and cooling reverse cycle system as well as ceiling fans</li>
	<li>Full height double-glazing to balconies for views out and daylight penetration</li>
	<li>Communal laundry and clotheslines to encourage lower energy use</li>
	<li>Low VOC materials used throughout design</li>
	<li>Sustainable water management through re-use and recycling of stormwater to toilets and secret landscapes</li>
</ul>

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The team worked together to ensure best practice waste and sustainability targets were in place at the 171-residence development

Assemble Futures deliver sustainable living at 4 Ballarat Street, Brunswick

4 Ballarat Street is the latest Brunswick apartment development by Assemble Futures, with design by Fieldwork Architects and landscape design by Rush Wright.

The development places an emphasis on providing a seamless transition to the natural environment, with each apartment running on 100% renewable energy. The&nbsp;spacious outdoor areas and floor-to-ceiling glazing provide&nbsp;plenty of light to fill each living space and cross-flow ventilation.&nbsp;

4 Ballarat also aims to connect its community through the functional spaces on offer, including: rooftop area for residents to relax, multipurpose room, assemble space to host social gatherings, barbecue, herb &amp; veggie garden, dog park and lending library where the residents can share and lend their favourite books.&nbsp;

The building&nbsp;sits in the heart of Brunswick, a popular location for cafes and restaurants. Urban has taken a look at what&#39;s in the neighbourhood.

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When it comes to fantastic eat streets in Melbourne, I would place Sydney Road at the top of the list.

Tiba&#39;s (a Lebanese restaurant founded in 1983), Mediterranean Wholesalers, Project281 Cafe, a vast Italian supermarket, A1 Bakery (a famous family business founded in 1992), are all located here.

The Sydney Road precinct is a short walk from 4 Ballarat.

4 Ballarat is also within walking distance to Woolworths, ALDI, Coles, Chemist Warehouse, Bunnings, and RMIT University Brunswick Campus.&nbsp;

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Within a 10 minute walk are a number of&nbsp;outdoor and recreational activity sites, such as Clifton Park, Gilpin Reserve, A G Gillion Oval, and Brunswick Baths.

Residents are well connected to the neighbouring areas, and&nbsp;a 25 minute tram ride to Melbourne&#39;s CBD.&nbsp;

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The building sits in the heart of Brunswick, a popular location for cafes and restaurants.

briana

Walking tour: What’s within walking distance from 4 Ballarat Street, Brunswick?

Assemble Futures offers a more accessible pathway to owning a home, that bridges the gap between renting and buying, with their latest Melbourne development, 4 Ballarat Street.

Located in Brunswick, one of Melbourne&rsquo;s most diverse neighbourhoods, the project supports you on a path toward homeownership by enabling you to move in and rent your apartment for five years, while you save to buy it.

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The development focuses on providing housing for low and middle-income households looking for a secure, long-term next step.

Assemble managing director Kris Daff said the housing concept helps residents protect themselves from shifts in the property market.

&ldquo;We are witnessing the strongest growth in property values in our history, rising at their fastest rate in almost two decades, and as a result, we have reached a crisis point in housing affordability&rdquo;, he said.

<blockquote>
&ldquo;Our housing concept, Assemble Futures, takes the volatility out of the market and provides absolute price certainty for our clients over the term of the lease and the end purchase price.&rdquo;
</blockquote>

The one, two and three-bedroom apartments at 4 Ballarat Street saw their first stage release on May 15, with further releases expected to be available throughout the month.

Designed by Fieldwork with landscapes by Rush Wright, the residence will run on 100 per cent renewable energy, offer flexible studio space, rooftop gardens and quality design.

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<h2>So how does the rent-with-the-option-to-buy model work?</h2>

Assemble Future&rsquo;s seven-year rent-to-buy model is simple for buyers, allowing residents to sign a lease, with agreed rent for five years after a two-year building period.

As the contracts are 12-month rolling leases, potential homebuyers have the flexibility to leave at the end of any period if they decide the development may not be the best fit for them.

Seven years is the average time most people living in Australia require to save for a home deposit and 4 Ballarat Street offers buyers a set target to save towards.

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This way, homebuyers can avoid the fast-increasing property prices in Melbourne&rsquo;s market by securing their home at a price agreed to when the initial lease was signed.

Assemble also supports residents on their savings journey, with a free, opt-in financial coaching programme.

Additional initiatives, such as bulk-buying on everyday essentials through sustainable suppliers, further ensures buyers are well-positioned to purchase their apartment at the end of the lease period.

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<h2>Test drive your new home</h2>

Thanks to Assemble&rsquo;s rent-to-buy model, potential homeowners can live in their apartment before committing to buy, delivering a taste of the neighbourhood, apartment and community.

4 Ballarat Street will mark the third Assemble project created in partnership with Fieldwork, following Clifton Hill&rsquo;s 122 Roseneath Street and Kensington&rsquo;s 393 Macaulay Road projects.

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The architects designed the home to reflect the layered personality of Brunswick, right through to fixtures, lighting and other finishes.

Inspired by the terracotta hues of the inner-city suburb, apartments are accented with a warm colour palette, such as terracotta tiles, rich feature joinery, and chrome finishing.

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Fieldwork director Quino Holland said that, as someone who had designed a number of apartment buildings over the years, he had been &ldquo;frustrated that a lot of my team members can&rsquo;t afford to buy into the projects they&rsquo;re working on.&rdquo;

&ldquo;I&rsquo;m excited that the Assemble Model will provide them with the opportunity to do so in a supported and flexible way.&rdquo;

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The project supports you on a path toward homeownership by enabling you to move in and rent your apartment for five years, while you save to buy it

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