Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]

Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]

Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]

A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.

Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;

“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;

“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.

“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;

“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.

Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;

“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;

“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;

Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.

Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.

The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.

"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.

"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]

Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.

"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.

"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."

One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Bird de la Coeur

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661 Chapel Street is one of Melbourne’s latest luxury developments with 116 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across 30 floors.

Sales are well underway on the project, which was completed last year, with local and international buyers snapping up the apartments quickly.

Urban has put together five reasons why you should consider a home in the South Yarra tower before it's too late.

1. Located on Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River

Situated beside the Yarra River, 661 Chapel Street enjoys views of the river, Melbourne CBD and the Bay.

<a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra"><img alt="" height="2756" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661-chapel-street-south-yarra-1777db18d7d935120c5b23596298a5fc.jpg" width="4134"></a>

Its close proximity to Melbourne’s CBD, parklands and elite shopping precincts make it the ideal residence for young professionals and downsizers looking to capitalise on convenience and style. 
 

2. Designed by Bird de la Coeur Architects

The boutique Southbank-based architecture firm, Bird de la Coeur, designed the magnificent residence, winning the 2019 Good Design Awards in the category of commercial and residential architectural design.

Among their other designs include Fitzroy’s Roi project and South Yarra’s Claremont Manor.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=600]

3. Its six-star hotel-like amenities

Among its extensive hotel-inspired resident amenity, 661 Chapel Street boasts a concierge, gym, winter garden and members’ lounge.

<a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra"><img alt="" height="1200" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661-chapel-street-south-yarra-36e67bfd6e63c690d05a7556f3ae46cf.jpg" width="1800"></a>

But that’s not all, a 25-metre pool is cantilevered six levels above the streetscape, rivalling the neighbouring hotel pool at The Olsen and a grand library offers residents the opportunity to tuck away in their own home.

All these amenities are available from $546,000, the price of a one-bedroom, one-bathroom residence in the building. 
 

4. The soaring private lobby/ gallery

The soaring private lobby spans four-storeys, featuring a gallery-like space filled with artwork and lighting installation.

Inspired by international galleries, the development features a sculptural walk upon entry, showcasing work by Omar Arbel, as well as Damien Hirst, the creator behind the ‘For the Love of God’ skull, which sold for $100 million to an anonymous consortium in 2007.

<a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra"><img alt="" height="2756" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661-chapel-street-south-yarra-0c5862049583a4316e3a8719ba022c03.jpg" width="4134"></a>

5. Combine two apartments to create a single residence

Setting new benchmarks for luxury in Victoria, Gamuda Land’s Chapel Street project presents buyers with the rare opportunity to combine two apartments to create a single, large residence.

Some residents have already claimed entire floors within the complex, creating “super residences” in the sky.
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Urban has put together five reasons why you should consider a home in the South Yarra tower before it's too late.



max.kwok_55688

5 reasons to consider a home at 661 Chapel Street in Melbourne

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Gamuda Land is set to unveil an impressive collection of artwork for the soon to be completed 661 Chapel St development in South Yarra.

Andy Dinan, Director of Mars Gallery which is renowned for exhibiting and promoting contemporary Australian artists, has been invited to specially curate the art collection throughout the development; included will be some of Australia’s most collected artists.

<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/2_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial view of 661 Chapel with the Melbourne skyline in the distance. Image: supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2_0_0.jpg?itok=3A5cEjk5" title="Aerial view of 661 Chapel with the Melbourne skyline in the distance. Image: supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial view of 661 Chapel with the Melbourne skyline in the distance. Image: supplied</figcaption></figure>Dinan's curation for the project adopted a slightly different approach, treating the shared spaces of 661 as part of a 'home' environment rather than as a ‘corporate curation' with the each of the chosen pieces reflecting the spaces which they occupy, as well as the relationship between the artworks themselves.

Andy Dinan recently took time out of her schedule to chat to Apartments.com.au about Mars Gallery's curation of 661 Chapel St's shared public and resident spaces, and the growing demand for artist involvement in property development. 

According to Dinan a number of developers are realising the potential shared spaces have to add value to their projects, and this has in turn created a growing number of opportunities for artists to be brought on for commissioned work in a curatorial, or consulting role.  This growing demand for property development collaborations represents a key new pillar for Mars Gallery.

In commissioning artwork as part of their developments, the more culturally atuned and younger developers are providing a point of difference to their respective development in an increasingly competitive market, creating what Dinan terms as 'destination developments'. 

Dinan says that developers and developments are moving away from just street art to other media such as video and audio art to enhance and compliment their spaces. Marina Tower's artwork which comprises optic fibre light to create a giant glow worm is set to be unveiled in February, with an art installation as part of Golden Age's Opera development on St Kilda Road to be launched mid-year.

Previously Mars Gallery has been involved in creating a sound sculpture as part of an Elenberg Fraser development on Albert Road South Melbourne, which featured sounds that the artist recorded in Japan that was activated when the visitor sat down.

Another project <a href="/news/kennedy-nolan-create-a-new-melbourne-central-video-art-space">previously covered</a> by Apartments.com.au and curated by Mars Gallery is Melbourne Central's Melbourne Art Loop on the lower ground level.

In explaining about how Mars Gallery won the curatorial commission for 661 Chapel St, Dinan says she was invited to submit via a tender process with a brief that called for a more 'homely' experience rather than something corporate.

<blockquote>
This is not a corporate curation, nothing is “plonked” into place. This project is highly considered.

We have curated this like a personal home using all Australian artists to evoke a sense of continued discovery.

- Andy Dinan, Director Mars Gallery
</blockquote>

The process to select the artists and curate the works was slow but considered says Dinan, largely in response to the brief, with each piece chosen for its suitability for a particular space with a lot of negotiating and consultation as part of an open dialogue between architects Bird de la Coeur, Gamuda Land and the builder, Crema Constructions.

This has resulted in a carefully curated experience for both visitors to the building, and its soon to be residents. A stainless steel sculpture in the form of the building address by sculptor Matthew Harding greets residents upon arrival at the porte-cochere, and visually introduces the art project to visitors of 661 Chapel St.

<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/661_plus_-_porte_cochere_-_2000_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Exterior render of the porte-cochere with the 661 Stainless Steel sculpture. Image: supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="454" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/661_plus_-_porte_cochere_-_2000_1.jpg?itok=-Mga6feO" title="Exterior render of the porte-cochere with the 661 Stainless Steel sculpture. Image: supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Exterior render of the porte-cochere with the 661 Stainless Steel sculpture. Image: supplied</figcaption></figure>Once inside visitors will find themselves within the high vaulted ceiling Grand Library - a space designed to capture light and create a sense of calmness. 'The Relic' - a cardboard sculpture with an industrial aesthetic by acclaimed artist Daniel Agdag who works entirely in cardboard and is known for his attention to detail, will feature in this space.

According to Dinan it was critical that the artworks selected were 'an appropriate fit for the spaces.' In the context of the Grand Library this extended beyond The Relic to the adjoining wall, which will feature a print of a photo by Agdag while a catalogue of his work will also sit within the space.

<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/david_agdag.png" rel="gallery-all" title="A sample of David Agdag's cardboard sculptures. Image: supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="459" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/david_agdag.png?itok=D2QiOklh" title="A sample of David Agdag's cardboard sculptures. Image: supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A sample of Daniel Agdag's cardboard sculptures. Image: supplied</figcaption></figure>Fabrice Bigot, a French-born photographic artist, will have a series of pieces centred around botanical studies located above the concierge desk, and throughout the building’s public spaces and private dining rooms.

Simon Finn has several works curated throughout the building, including a statement piece in the Grand Library, and three framed works entitled Liquid Tower in the meeting room which draw on his practices exploration of the synthesis between artist, environment and technology.

Woven polypropylene sculptures by Emma Davies are featured in the common spaces alongside Jenny Crompton’s acrylic ink on paper frames in the newspaper room.

The artworks will be officially unveiled in February as part of the official building opening.

Lead Image : Supplied
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Laurence Dragomir

Gamuda Land engages Mars Gallery to curate 661 Chapel St

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Prolific South Yarra developer Michael Yates has banked upon the continued success of the luxury apartment sector within the suburb by positioning his latest apartment offering squarely at the expanding baby-boomer sector of the market.

After a string of successful apartment and commercial developments spanning the best part of two decades and predominantly within South Yarra's Forrest Hill Precinct, Michael L Yates &amp; Co. have released 55 Claremont with the intention of capturing the “boomer-boom." Discerning the shift of a certain part of the market toward premium apartment living, 55 Claremont will contain a comparatively modest 37 apartments over 16 levels.

<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/yate9001_55_claremont_e01_heroa.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective of the upcoming development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1160" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/yate9001_55_claremont_e01_heroa.jpg?itok=67_hgbmp" title="Hero perspective of the upcoming development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective of the upcoming development</figcaption></figure>According to the developer the first signs of the strengthening luxury apartment market appeared when fellow Michael L Yates &amp; Co. development Yarra House sold more than 70 percent of apartments to owner occupiers in the over-50 bracket. With Yarra House freshly completed, 55 Claremont has been positioned to absorb the “boomer-boom” defined by their desire for high quality, spacious apartments in inner city pockets.

In excess of 40 percent of stock has traditionally gone to investors in the developer's earlier apartment projects, although with baby boomer demand for apartment living on the rise projects such as 55 Claremont will continue to emerge as the industry steps up to cater for this emerging apartment dweller.

<h2>The boomer shift</h2>

<blockquote>
We ensured our next development, 55 Claremont, ticked the boxes for baby boomers – spacious and flexible floorplans, a boutique development in a prime location and a dress circle view of Melbourne.

Another trend we’re seeing is the downsizers’ desire to merge floorplans. The ability to create your own, bespoke apartment combined with a five-star hotel ambiance has been embraced by empty nesters looking to enjoy their encore years.

With the kids out of home, or retirement on the way, these buyers value being in close proximity to Melbourne’s best restaurants and cafes, cinemas, recreational facilities, parks and the city.
<cite>Michael Yates of Michael L Yates &amp; Co</cite>
</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/in03_type_b_kitchen_lighta.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Space and more space. 55 Claremont's kitchen area"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/in03_type_b_kitchen_lighta.jpg?itok=SPBbQ5sk" title="Space and more space. 55 Claremont's kitchen area" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Space and more space. 55 Claremont's kitchen area</figcaption></figure>Michael L Yates &amp; Co.'s preferred architect Bird de la Coeur is responsible for the overall design of 55 Claremont, with Hassell appointed to deliver interiors for the premier project that will see a maximum of three apartments over any one floor

Designed with clean finishes, apartments feature and abundance of space, stainless steel Gaggenau appliances, stone-finish island benches and oak timber flooring.

As South Yarra and Forrest Hill in particular continue to develop, Michael L Yates &amp; Co. also consider 55 Claremont's position as a strong selling point. Panoramic, never-to-be built out views are on offer with the CBD a focal point.

<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/yate9001_55_claremont_in02_bedrooma.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A bedroom with CBD views"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="388" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/yate9001_55_claremont_in02_bedrooma.jpg?itok=PF5CxdQ_" title="A bedroom with CBD views" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A bedroom with CBD views</figcaption></figure>One bedroom apartments within 55 Claremont range in size from 41sqm to 53sqm with large two bedroom apartments holding 95sqm. Three bedroom apartments range between 95sqm and 151.5sqm with prospective purchasers having the option of combining floorplans to create bespoke apartments.

With only 37 apartments on offer construction of 55 Claremont is due for completion by the end of 2017.
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silvermb

The boomer-boom: 55 Claremont targets the luxury apartment market

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A few short weeks ago, Apartments.com.au highlighted South Yarra's steamrolling ability to continually accommodate new residential apartment projects.

Latest cab off the rank is Claremont Manor, which has seen a slew of new images and information released in preparation for sales. Although the display suite adjoining the site at 3-9 Claremont Street suite has yet to been completed, the project was highlighted as part of the Melbourne Property Expo Event held in Singapore over the weekend.

Described by lead architect Bird de la Coeur as two interlocking black and white towers that contrast against one another, the two buildings will host 318 apartments, commercial and retail spaces over 20 levels. The project is the latest from <a href="http://www.southlinkdevelopments.com.au/" target="_blank">Southlink Developments</a> and according to their website, represents the largest of the firm's current batch of projects.

<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/Image42_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Claremont Manor ground level. Image © Bird de la Coeur"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image42_0.jpg?itok=jdtVhkuM" style="height:263px; width:580px" title="Claremont Manor ground level. Image © Bird de la Coeur"></a>

Claremont Manor may be the forefront at the queue of South Yarra apartment towers, but it's far from the largest. Earlier this year, 661 Chapel Street gained planning approval following ministerial intervention by Matthew Guy in conjunction with the Minister for Education.

First highlighted <a href="/news/take-it-either-way-661-chapel-street-planning-application" target="_blank">in May last year</a>, 661 Chapel Street's form has changed markedly from the initial design dual designs put forth for approval. Dual in that the initial application included a second altered design, which seeded part of the site to Melbourne High School for a potential five level mixed-use facility, which has since been seeking planning approval separately.

Subsequently 661 Chapel has grown in overall height to near on 94 metres while the tower's frontage to Chapel Street has decreased, presumably in an effort to maintain a similar built wall height of approximately 50 metres to neighbouring towers such as Avenue and Olsen Hotel. Controlled by developer Michael L Yates &amp; Co and created once more by Bird de la Coeur, the 261 apartment building is likely the prolific developer's next project due for release, following the success of <a href="/buildings/yarra-house-18-yarra-street-south-yarra" target="_blank">Yarra House</a> which is now under construction.

<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/Image41_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="661 Chapel Street. Image © Bird de la Coeur"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image41_4.jpg?itok=HWbAmLiO" style="height:826px; width:580px" title="661 Chapel Street. Image © Bird de la Coeur"></a>

Not to be outdone is LK Property Group, which according to varying media outlets is the new owner of the Fun Factory/Capitol Bakeries super site fronting Toorak Road and Chapel Street. Holding approval for a Bates Smart-designed 136 metre residential tower, it's uncertain if the developer will proceed with the rejigged 486-apartment giant seen below or pursue another scheme.

Based on the strong sales of LK Property's current notable residential projects, <a href="/buildings/gisele-300-toorak-road-south-yarra" target="_blank">Gisele</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">The Opus Tower</a>, it's not outlandish to suggest that after 25 years of failed attempts to develop the prime site, its time is nearly upon us.

<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/Image9_5_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="241 Toorak Road. Image © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image9_5_0.jpg?itok=C8PI-z6x" style="height:241px; width:580px" title="241 Toorak Road. Image © Bates Smart"></a>
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