<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a>’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a> is being shaped around a simple but increasingly rare premise in apartment development: that the built environment should actively support residents’ wellbeing.&nbsp;

Located on the former ABC Studios site on Gordon Street in Melbourne’s south-east, the new neighbourhood sits on an expansive 11,740 sqm site neighbouring the heritage-listed Rippon Lea Estate, whose gardens date back more than 140 years.

Rather than positioning wellness as an add-on amenity, the development integrates it into the physical planning of the site. Architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> is arranged across six low-rise buildings set within extensive landscaping designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/oculus">OCULUS</a>, with more than 40 per cent of the land dedicated to gardens and green space. Walking trails, pocket gardens, and mature trees are threaded between buildings, creating a network of green corridors that encourage residents to move through the precinct on foot and spend more time outdoors.

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Milieu has intentionally framed these gardens as an extension of the neighbouring Rippon Lea Estate. More than 16,000 new plants will be introduced across the site, with species carefully selected to protect and complement the area’s ecological significance. The approach focuses on strengthening existing environmental conditions while establishing new habitats that support native wildlife, reinforcing the role of the landscape as both an active ecosystem and a defining element of daily life.

A private resident gate will provide direct access to the historic grounds during opening hours, allowing residents to move seamlessly between the development’s landscaped gardens and the estate’s expansive lawns, lakes, and mature trees. The project’s gardens will also be maintained by the same gardeners responsible for Rippon Lea, reinforcing the visual and ecological continuity between the two landscapes.

Complementing the landscape is a dedicated wellness hub designed to support everyday health and recovery. Residents will have access to a gym alongside yoga and Pilates studios, while mineral pools and infrared saunas provide spaces for relaxation and restorative wellbeing. Shared lounges, workshop spaces, and pet care facilities expand the concept of wellness beyond fitness, creating opportunities for social connection and community interaction within the precinct.

Environmental performance is another key component of the project’s wellbeing focus. Elsternwick Gardens will be entirely fossil-fuel-free, with homes designed to operate on renewable electricity rather than gas. Passive design strategies, including cross-flow ventilation, high-performance insulation, and thermally broken double glazing, are intended to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while reducing energy demand. Solar photovoltaic systems will power common building services, while rainwater harvesting will help irrigate the extensive landscaping across the site.

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Milieu Founder and Managing Director Michael McCormack says the scale and setting of the project allowed the team to take a different approach to urban apartment living.

“This site represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build something truly special,” McCormack says.

“Through that process, we arrived at a design that centres on a fully realised natural landscape – a series of private, interconnected gardens that encircle the homes and extend seamlessly from Rippon Lea Estate.”

Elsternwick Gardens will comprise three residential offerings, Gordon Place, Ripponlea Terrace, and The Garden Pavilion, each designed for owner-occupiers and shaped around high-quality interior design by Woods Bagot, K.P.D.O., and Flack Studio. The first stage, Gordon Place, includes one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments designed with a strong focus on indoor-outdoor living and sustainability.

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Milieu recently appointed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/brady-constructions">Brady Constructions</a> to deliver the project, marking a key milestone for the development. The appointment follows the demolition of the former studio buildings on the Gordon Street site, with construction progressing toward the delivery of the nature-led community.

Situated between the established villages of Elsternwick and Ripponlea, the development balances its garden setting with strong urban connectivity. Residents will be within walking distance of cafés, restaurants, and local retail, while nearby train and tram connections provide quick access to Melbourne’s CBD and the beaches of Elwood and St Kilda.

With construction underway and the first residents expected to move in by early 2027, Elsternwick Gardens represents a growing shift in apartment development toward environments that prioritise wellbeing as much as density or location. By placing landscape, sustainability, and shared spaces at the centre of the design, Milieu is positioning the project as a residential neighbourhood where wellness is not just promoted, but built into the structure of everyday life.

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Joel Robinson

Elsternwick Gardens' wellness-first design strategy

Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/red-co">Red &amp; Co</a> has made a striking debut on the Gold Coast, officially unveiling its $250 million COMO development in Varsity Lakes, a lifestyle-driven residential project anchored by an extensive rooftop wellness and activity precinct.

Having recently launched to market, construction has already been fast-tracked by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/5point-projects">5Point Projects</a>, ensuring momentum continues on what is set to become a landmark residential address for the growing Varsity Lakes community.

Located at 22 Lake Street, Varsity Lakes, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/como-varsity-lakes-22-lake-street-varsity-lakes-qld-4227">COMO</a> will comprise 156 apartments across 16 levels, comprising one-, two- and three-bedroom residences designed for modern living. However, it is the project’s rooftop amenity offering that sets COMO apart.

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Designed as a dedicated wellness and recreation hub, the rooftop will feature a 25-metre lap pool, fully equipped gymnasium, and multiple pickleball and paddleball courts - amenities rarely seen in boutique apartment projects.

Residents will also have access to a sauna and plunge baths, while landscaped gardens and relaxation zones will provide tranquil spaces overlooking sweeping panoramic views across the Gold Coast skyline.

The rooftop precinct has been designed to function as the social and wellness heart of the development, encouraging residents to embrace an active, balanced lifestyle within their own building.

&nbsp;

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Red &amp; Co director David Laverty said the amenity offering was central to the project’s design from the outset.

“Amenities were at the forefront of our decisions,” Laverty said.

“Buyers today are looking for more than just an apartment - they want a lifestyle that promotes health, connection and balance.

“The rooftop at COMO has been designed to be the epicentre of that lifestyle, with a suite of wellness and recreation facilities that are quite unique for a boutique development of this scale.”

&nbsp;

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, the residences prioritise liveability, featuring spacious layouts, 2.7-metre ceilings and high-quality finishes throughout.

The development sits beside Bond University, placing residents within walking distance of education, retail and dining options within the vibrant Varsity Lakes precinct, including Robina Town Centre, Varsity Lakes Train Station and a range of leading schools.

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Laverty said the location was a key driver behind Red &amp; Co’s decision to bring the project to the Gold Coast.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/varsity-lakes-qld-4227">Varsity Lakes</a> was a clear choice for us to invest in as it’s a lifestyle hub that seamlessly blends lakeside living with urbanity,” he said.&nbsp;

“Como will capitalize on this great location, delivering a project that not only creates premium homes, but a lifestyle defined by community, wellbeing, and connectivity.”

Red &amp; Co has delivered more than 500 apartments and townhouses across 26 projects in Brisbane in recent years, with COMO marking the company’s first major Gold Coast development.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135546]

Red & Co unveils amenity-rich Como development in Varsity Lakes

Gold Coast developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/big-projects">Big Projects</a> has secured approval for its second Mermaid Beach project.

The developer, currently selling <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-frederick-mermaid-beach-2265-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">The Frederick in Nobby Beach</a>, has secured approval for its next project just 1.5 kilomnetres up the road.

The new development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/glenelg-residences-2462-2472-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Glenelg Residences</a>, has been designed by BDA Architecture and&nbsp;will have just under 100 apartments across an 11-storey building&nbsp;at 2462–2472 Gold Coast Highway, on the corner of Glenelg Avenue just under 300m from the future Mermaid Beach Light Rail stop.

The apartments, a mix of two- and three-bedrooms, will sit above a retail-focused ground plane and under extensive rooftop resident amenities.

<img alt="Exclusive: Big Projects plot Mermaid Beach apartment development, Glenelg Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%209.55.04%20am.png?VersionId=z6NV4izeuvhBSSVlY6vK6TPO1LxrFeaG" />

BDA said in its planning submission that the project is intended to support the area’s transition toward higher-density, mixed-use living. “This project offers the opportunity to generate appropriate higher-intensity development within the future Light Rail corridor of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Mermaid Beach</a>,” the submission noted.

At ground level, Glenelg Residences will include eight retail tenancies designed to activate the street frontage, complemented by a basement bar offering an additional hospitality element. Above, residents will have access to a rooftop amenity deck featuring an infinity pool, hot and cold plunge spas, day beds, and barbecue facilities.

The architectural approach adopts a restrained material palette of brick, textured concrete, and integrated landscaping, with cantilevered concrete frames and cascading planting intended to soften the built form. BDA described the design as aiming to create “a memorable sculptural mid-rise mixed-use building” that responds to both its coastal setting and urban context.

<img alt="Exclusive: Big Projects plot Mermaid Beach apartment development, Glenelg Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%209.55.45%20am.png?VersionId=cpjIVBqcT_sujmo2UMWkVyLcQ7WGJHaQ" />

The approval comes as the City of Gold Coast continues to plan for significant population growth, with regional targets requiring more than 100,000 new high-density dwellings by 2046.

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Big Projects, led by Matthew and John Barrett, is part of a growing cohort of developers that deliver construction in-house, providing a high level of confidence to prospective purchasers.
</section>

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Big Projects secures approval for Glenelg Residences in Mermaid Beach

Sherpa Group is ramping up its investment in the southern Gold Coast by lodging a development application for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-viver-87-griffith-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Flourish Viveré</a>, a new $350 million project in Coolangatta.

The move comes after the group’s $27 million acquisition of the 2,029 sqm site on the corner of Griffith and Warner Street, last year.

They will develop 194 apartments across a 26-storey tower, which will become Sherpa’s largest project to date.

Viveré will be the next chapter in the Flourish story, following closely behind Amargo, Oasis, and the Avenues in Palm Beach, as well as Symphony in Brisbane, all designed to deliver affordable housing in lifestyle-rich locations, giving locals a real chance to secure a residence close to the beachfront.

The HAL Architect-designed project will offer a diverse range of residences, from one-, two, and three- bedroom apartments to the premium Canopy range to luxury penthouses.

<img alt="Vivere" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c85f5a7e-a22f-4745-8def-400adb3c0b35" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-15%20at%209.53.43%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=OY.chur3BPExn1exQ2q8clHqWnW_CaBi" />

“The Gold Coast is undergoing a period of immense growth, with more people drawn to the incredible 
lifestyle that’s available, leading to strong growth in property prices,” said Christie Leet, founder of Sherpa 
Group.

“Our goal at Sherpa is to ensure locals are not priced out of the market in prime locations, which is why we 
created the Flourish collection.

“Flourish Vivere will form the next chapter in our portfolio, and we are so excited to be lodging the DA, marking our first project in Coolangatta.”

A signature of the Flourish developments is the communal rooftop. Flourish Vivere will showcase a private resident’s lounge, outdoor dining with barbecues and pizza ovens, heated pool, fully-equipped gym, and a wellness centre with sauna and steam room.

<img alt="Vivere" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c09372cc-aae6-4458-af2e-f291bd19a5e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-15%20at%209.53.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Sc_RLXl5jiff.tnadogXjQJ_WIpDjf3p" />

The project is strategically located to offer a walkable lifestyle, with the Strand shopping centre, cafes, restaurants, shops and the beach, all just a short stroll away.

“We have meticulously planned Vivere to build on the Flourish legacy, creating a truly special project,”&nbsp;Leet added.

“Wellness, lifestyle and community are at the forefront of every decision we make, and that has not 
changed for Vivere.”

With the DA now lodged with the Gold Coast City Council, Sherpa has moved quickly to secure LPS Group as the builder, offering buyers a level of certainty that is rarely seen in today’s market.

Sherpa has delivered 16 residential projects over the past seven years with a pipeline of $1 billion, with more under construction.

Sherpa takes Flourish brand to Coolangatta, lays plans for Flourish Vivere 

S&amp;S Projects is boosting its investment at Rainbow Bay to more than $1 billion after the prolific Gold Coast developer acquired a new site for $20.25 million and immediately laid plans for a new luxury apartment project in the sought-after precinct.

The site, which is the company’s fifth acquisition at Rainbow Bay in the past four years, will be home to the company’s largest project to date after delivering 3 sold-out projects and construction progresses on Radia worth a combined $215m. 
S&amp;S Projects is currently finalising plans for its latest strategic acquisition, a 1,518 sqm site located 209-213 Boundary Street in Coolangatta, with a development application expected to be lodged within weeks.

The luxury residential development will build on the company’s highly successful projects at Rainbow Bay, comprising Flow, Awaken, Esprit and Radia, with Radia currently under construction by Hutchinson Builders.

“We have been unflinching in our commitment to Rainbow Bay and the transformation we have helped drive in this incredible part of the Gold Coast, which is among the city’s most desirable residential locations,” said S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun.

“Our fifth project will reflect the best of what we have done so far to create a lifestyle precinct that is second to none.”

The latest development, which has yet to be named, is proposed to accommodate 88 luxury apartments in a design that will immerse residents in a unique wellness lifestyle that expands on the legacy of S&amp;S Project’s earlier developments at Rainbow Bay.

The development will feature an expansive rooftop garden and wellness centre with a resort- style pool, among a host of lifestyle amenities planned for residents.

“Rainbow Bay, with its beautiful, protected beach and alongside one of the world’s best surf breaks at Snapper Rocks, is the natural wellness heartland of the Gold Coast,” said Gedoun.

“We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden.”

The latest acquisition comes as S&amp;S Projects is at the completion of Esprit and construction continues on Radia, which are part of their significant portfolio undertaken by the company at Rainbow Bay since 2022.

The $215 million Radia, which comprises 38 apartments, is currently the flagship development by S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay which is expected to be completed in 2027.

Jayde Pezet, of Pezet Matheson, which has managed sales and marketing for S&amp;S Projects across their Gold Coast portfolio, emphasised the developer’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.

“S&amp;S Projects continue to elevate the benchmark of luxury with each development," Pezet said.

“We have worked with S&amp;amp;S on their 4 other projects in Rainbow Bay and their approach reflects a team that is constantly learning, refining, and pushing the standard higher.

“Their hyper-local knowledge and deep expertise within the luxury property sector are what truly set them apart, allowing them to deliver projects that feel both globally sophisticated and authentically connected to their coastal environment”

S&amp;S Projects plans to officially launch its latest project at Rainbow Bay in the second half of this year.

“As we embark on our largest project yet, we have pulled out all stops to create another landmark development that truly reflects the relaxed southern Gold Coast lifestyle,” Gedoun added.

S&S buys $20m Rainbow Bay site for fifth beachside apartment project

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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;

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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.

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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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