A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

Sherpa Group has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at Flourish Soleira in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

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The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

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Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with Flourish Amargo, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Joel Robinson

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

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"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

Brighton

First home buyers were well and truly back in the market, in their droves, earlier in the year, with stamp duty concessions and HomeBuilder grants giving those who were yet to get on the ladder a firm footing in&nbsp;the property market.

Demands has unsurprisingly tapered a touch from the segment, but many developers and agents are reporting just as strong interest, given how well the property market held up over the pandemic, paired with record low interest rates that are likely to be in place until 2024.

ABS data showed&nbsp;first home buyer commitments remain 20.4 per cent&nbsp;higher compared to this time last year.

With first home buyer loan commitments still holding strong, Urban has highlighted the&nbsp;developments in the suburbs&nbsp;most popular&nbsp;amongst first home buyers for the month of August.

<h2>Brunswick</h2>

Always a popular spot for the younger, first home buyer demographic, Urban&#39;s most popular suburb in August was Brunswick, in Melbourne&#39;s north.

When COVID lockdowns lift, Brunswick will again be home to&nbsp;live music, upbeat pubs and beer gardens. At the area&#39;s heart, Sydney Road has Middle Eastern and Mediterranean eateries, offbeat shops, shisha lounges and cafes along its considerable length. Neighbouring East Brunswick is more upscale, home to upwardly mobile professionals and craft-beer bars.

One of the most popular projects in the area is&nbsp;4 Ballarat Street, developed by&nbsp;Assemble&nbsp;Futures.

Designed by&nbsp;Fieldwork Architects&nbsp;and with landscaping&nbsp;by Rush Wright, 4 Ballarat&nbsp;places an emphasis on providing a seamless transition to the natural environment, with each apartment running on 100% renewable energy.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160730]

Located in the heart of Brunswick, a popular location for cafes and restaurants, Assemble Futures are offering a&nbsp;rent-with-the-option-to-buy model which has made this development particularly popular amongst first home buyers.

The new rent-with-the-option-to-buy model offers a more accessible pathway to owning a home, that bridges the gap between renting and buying. Once the applicant signs the lease agreement and contract of sale, they secure five years agreed rent with the option to buy their home at the end of the lease period.

<h2>Keysborough</h2>

Keysborough is a family-friendly suburb, 27 kilometres south-east of Melbourne, and is drawing attention for those working from home, and young families, due to its larger, and more affordable, apartments and townhouses.

Haven Townhomes has been consistently drawing attention with affordable three and four bedroom townhomes on offer, with young families particularly interested.

Developed by Aultun Group and&nbsp;designed by Cera Stribley Architects, The Haven estate encompasses a variety of two storey floor plans with the option of choosing a house and land package, or an off-the-plan purchase.

Situated surrounded by thriving wetlands and meandering walking trails, each of the 59 Haven Townhomes are in a prime position for sweeping&nbsp;views, access to nature and convenient&nbsp;amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8082 project_image_fid=59642]

It is set for completion in December 2021.

<h2>Preston</h2>

Back to Melbourne&#39;s inner-ring, just past Brunswick, is the equally lively Preston, a popular haunt for sport enthusiasts with its number of AFL clubs and sporting grounds.

The latest residential offering to hit High Street is Due North, set in the heart of Preston. The architecturally designed apartment building developed by Caydon Property&nbsp;boasts rooftop living, Melbourne views and spacious apartments.

Situated within 20 minutes of the Melbourne CBD, residents at Due North can enjoy the diverse choice of restaurants, bars, fashion stores found on High Street.

Due North&nbsp;offers residents the chance to make the most of Northside living, boasting rooftop space, a coworking area in the lobby and three retail spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5502 project_image_fid=155342]

The development&nbsp;boasts&nbsp;environmentally conscious&nbsp;features and is designed to decrease energy consumption; helping residents&nbsp;save more on their next power bill.

Preston has remained particularly appealing amongst first home buyers due to it&#39;s comparative affordability when compared to popular nearby suburbs like Coburg, Northcote and Reservoir where the median unit price is $75,000 - $150,000 lower

<h2>Brighton</h2>

Not often associated with first home buyer interest, Brighton, in Melbourne&rsquo;s exclusive Bayside precinct, is one of the most-sought after, and most expensive, areas of real estate in Victoria.

Rarely does an opportunity for a first home buyer come along. But the local Southend Property Group is developing their newest boutique apartment development, Southend, with first home buyers at the forefront of their thinking.

They&rsquo;ve priced their one-bedroom apartments from $549,000, and the two-bedroom apartments from $694,000. They&rsquo;re about a third cheaper than the next most affordable development currently on the market at Brighton, which is priced from $1.8 million for a two-bedroom apartment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94152 project_image_fid=171493]

The median apartment price in Brighton is $895,000, according to SQM Research.

Southern is located at 604-608 Hampton Street,&nbsp;where residents can step directly out to Hampton Street&rsquo;s thriving cafes and shops, stroll down to Were Street Village&rsquo;s gourmet groceries and walk to South Road beach.

ABS data showed first home buyer commitments remain 20.4 per cent higher compared to this time last year.

jordan_55689

The most popular Melbourne suburbs for first home buyers in August

Brighton, in Melbourne&rsquo;s exclusive Bayside precinct, is one of the most-sought after, and most expensive, areas of real estate in Victoria.

Rarely does an opportunity for a first home buyer come along. But the local Southend Property Group is developing their newest boutique apartment development, Southend, with first home buyers at the forefront of their thinking.

They&rsquo;ve priced their one-bedroom apartments from $549,000, and the two-bedroom apartments from $694,000. They&rsquo;re about a third cheaper than the next most affordable development currently on the market at Brighton, which is priced from $1.8 million for a two-bedroom apartment.

The median apartment price in Brighton is $895,000, according to SQM Research.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94152 project_image_fid=171494]

Metaxas Architects has designed the low-rise, three-level development of just 22 apartments. Each apartment has open plan living spaces which opens to a balcony or terrace. Cobuild are handling the construction.

Southern is located at 604-608 Hampton Street, an enviable location where residents can step directly out to Hampton Street&rsquo;s thriving cafes and shops, stroll down to Were Street Village&rsquo;s gourmet groceries and walk to South Road beach.

Comprising just 22 apartments constructed by Cobuild, the three level building was designed to provide open plan living spaces that open to a balcony or terrace.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=94152]

Southend Property Group is developing their newest boutique apartment development, Southend, with first home buyers at the forefront of their thinking

Rare first home buyer opportunity in Melbourne’s Bayside Brighton apartment market

The Melbourne-based developer Sunkin Group is seeing a high demand of sea and tree-changers in their bayside Brighton apartment development 448 Brighton.

The SJB-designed development of just 17 apartments at 448 St Kilda Street has seen&nbsp;buyers from Daylesford, Cape Schank and Point Lonsdale in recent months.

It&#39;s down to the location says Sunkin&#39;s Group Sales Manager Sophie Dobson, given it is adjacent to Elsternwick Park and Elwood Beach.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve seen a real trend in buyers who are looking to have an inner-city base that doesn&rsquo;t mean giving up their regional home luxuries like space, views, and nature.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31946 project_image_fid=168440]

&ldquo;Buyers need more space when working from home and that trend is evident with Melburnians fleeing to the seaside or country to get more space and fresh air,&quot; Dobson says.

&quot;These homes offer larger living spaces for people to enjoy and more space for those working from home.

Now 50 per cent sold since launching in December, 448 Brighton apartments feature&nbsp;premium Gaggenau and Bora appliances, Astra Walker tapware and marble bench tops and tiles. The courtyard apartments have landscaping by the renowned Jack Merlo Landscape Design.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31946 project_image_fid=168441]

There are two and three bedroom apartments available starting from $980,000.

Three skyhome penthouses with rooftop entertaining terraces and sweeping views will soon launch.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=31946]

It's down to the location, says Sunkin's Group Sales Manager Sophie Dobson, given it is adjacent to Elsternwick Park and Elwood Beach.

448 Brighton apartments attracting lock up and leave sea and tree changers

The luxury builder VCON have won the $50 million construction contract of The International, the luxury Brighton apartment project being developed in a joint venture between&nbsp;Landream and V-Leader.&nbsp;

But the construction contract has come with a caveat.

The $120 million project of 58&nbsp;apartments, designed by architecture and interior design firm Carr on the popular Bay Street, will only be built by trades and contractors from the local area, in a bid to stimulate employment in the Victorian employment sector.

Construction, which will begin this month, is set to generate over 500 local jobs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26389]

Mitch Crawford, senior development manager at Landream, said it was important that an opulent project like The International negate the offshore procurement process, and rather, prioritise local craftsmanship.

&ldquo;This hyper-local approach to the construction delivery was one of the crucial factors that also gave MaxCap, who are providing the loan facility to fund the project&rsquo;s construction, great confidence to back the project,&quot; Crawford said.

&ldquo;The mandate to work exclusively with Australian trades and contractors was met with great enthusiasm by VCON who have worked closely with our design team at Carr in the past.&quot;

The design inspiration for The International came from the luxury Mornington Peninsula hotel Jackalope, also designed by Carr. The wine rooms in particular have been&nbsp;modelled on the vaults seen at Jackalope.

<a href="/buildings/the-international-81-bay-street-brighton"><img alt="" height="1500" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/the_international_wine_room.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
The luxury communal wine room. Image supplied.

Rob Morton, director at VCON, said the tender process run by Landream and V-Leader for The International was one of the more involved he had participated in.

&ldquo;Landream, V-Leader and VCON together spent eight full weeks meeting and negotiating with key trades and fabricators, to ensure that innovation, attention to detail and quality were values that drive every team that will be contributing to the delivery of The International &ndash; from window detailing to joinery. That level of consideration positions this project to be faultless in its construction.&rdquo;

Two bedroom apartments at The International start from $1,315,000, with three bedrooms priced from $3.24 million.

<h2>Other Landream developments</h2>

Hurstmon, Malvern East

Price: Two bedroom apartment from $795,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4807]

Landream are developing The Hurstmon, the 39 apartment Malvern East project designed by the well regarded architect Telha Clarke.

Completion is slated for 2022. Read more about Hurstmon <a href="/news/vic/design-brief-design-scheme-options-for-hurstmon-malvern-east-apartment-buyers">here</a>.

Construction, which will begin this month, is set to generate over 500 local jobs.

VCON win $50 million contract to build Landream and V-Leader's Brighton apartment development The International

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The brand-new Awaken development, situated nearby Brighton Beach, is one of North Brighton’s most exciting boutique developments this year.

The residential release of Skelton's development will deliver 13 two and three-bedroom residences with extensive outdoor living.

“Driven by craftsmanship and artistry, the interior design and architecture work together seamlessly to achieve a design based on the play of materials,” Skelton managing director Michael Skelton said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30087]

Designed by celebrated Melbourne architect, Travis Walton, the apartments deliver a new standard of luxurious bayside living.

The refined architectural composition, comprising locally-sourced European-style brickwork and contrasting electro-bronze metal detailing, draws focus to beautiful outdoors.

Situated in a uniquely secluded, tree-lined, laneway-style street in Brighton, the project features an equally tranquil garden setting, landscaped by Acre Studio.

<a href="/buildings/awaken-brighton-30-32-rooding-street-brighton"><img alt="" height="1356" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/awaken-30-32-rooding-street-brighton-6478fd100724e6f75225c7203ad57d01.jpg" width="2000"></a>

“Awaken gives equal consideration to indoor and outdoor living, uniting each residence with its garden aspect”, said Acre’s creative director, Brett Robinson.

The development combines natives, evergreen and flowering plants to offer deliver visual impact and create seasonal change.

Awaken’s frameless fireplaces are proving to be a big hit with buyers, according to the developer.

<a href="/buildings/awaken-brighton-30-32-rooding-street-brighton"><img alt="" height="1381" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/awaken-30-32-rooding-street-brighton-21787f007cfb5d9bf3015a4ea7774d26.jpg" width="2000"></a>

Other offerings within the development include natural oak timber flooring, full wall storage and a flangeless bath.

Two-bedroom apartments within the development are priced from $1,150,000, while three-bedroom residences begin at $1,295,000.

The build will be undertaken by renowned firm, Brompton Construction, who are known for their attention to detail and impeccable craftsmanship.
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Designed by celebrated Melbourne architect, Travis Walton, the apartments deliver a new standard of luxurious bayside living

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Awaken to luxury living: Discover the new Brighton development by Skelton

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The Melbourne developer Buxton Projects has secured a permit to go ahead with a new townhouse development in Melbourne's bayside Brighton.

They were supported by Bayside City Council at a VCAT hearing to be allowed to create the nine bedroom townhouse project on an amalgamated 1,463 sqm site.

In 2019 the team spent $4.6 million on an amalgamated 1,463 sqm site at 444 St Kilda Street Brighton and 40a Head St, Brighton which they bought for $4.6 million in 2019.

The $7 million development, designed by NTF Architect in landscaped surrounds by Jack Merlo, will comprise nine three bedroom, two level townhouses, each with private basement car parking.

The Urbis town planning report suggested the development presents a unique opportunity to create a distinct gateway to the City of Bayside.

"The townhouses provide a high level of internal amenity which will create a high end finished product."

Key Design Features

· Environmentally responsive design;

· North facing townhouses with deeper floor plates for allow for spatially and energy efficient floor plates;

· East, West facing townhouses 08 &amp; 09, offer wide frontages and shallow depths to allow ample light and ventilation to internal spaces;

· Recessed courtyards and second living zones create an innovative response in providing multiple living options both internally and externally for evolving family lifestyles.

· Considered building response to existing and future context;

· Careful consideration of surrounding residential typologies, aesthetics, scale and materials;

· Strong emphasis on communal and broader context landscape opportunities;

· Small number of dwellings;

· Sensitive residential streetscape interface;

· Equitable access to light, views and ventilation;

· Diversity of dwelling scales;

· Upper form setbacks to residential interfaces;

· Integrated landscape response provides ample space for large canopy trees.

Buxton recently secured approval for a <a href="/expert-insights/building/a-new-22-million-apartment-development-is-coming-to-toorak-find-out-whos-behind-it">$22 million apartment development in Toorak</a>.
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The $7 million development is designed by NTF Architect in landscaped surrounds by Jack Merlo


Find out which developer is behind Brighton's newest townhouse development

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The enviable and quintessential Bayside lifestyle is yours for the taking in these three luxury family residences.

Stretching around Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne’s Bayside area offers all the elements that make an attractive suburb – beautiful beaches and excellent schools.

Set on Melbourne’s best coastline, the Bayside boasts a strong sense of community and merges leisure, waterfront views and an outdoor lifestyle with the convenience of city living.

Urban takes a look at three luxury family homes to secure within these premium Melbourne suburbs. 
 

1. Sandy Hill Penthouse, Sandringham 
Address: 222 Bay Road, Sandringham VIC 3191 
Three-bedroom apartments from $1,950,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=324]

Perched atop the ninth floor of the Master Builders Association award-winning Sandy Hill complex, Blueprint Projects’ three penthouse apartments feature three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Designed by Watson Young Architects, the contemporary penthouses feature a fireplace, cocktail bar, European oak parquetry flooring, executive-quality study with integrated desk and triple-glazed window suites.

The kitchen fits bespoke handles, marble benchtops and Gaggenau and Miele appliances, making the home the ideal setting for entertaining family and friends. A wrap-around terrace boasts views out to the bay, city and Dandenong Ranges.  

Blueprint Projects director Tony Quinert said residents can enjoy a wealth of fantastic Bayside attractions.

“Pop down to one of Melbourne’s best beaches at Half Moon Bay, (just 2km away) or take a stroll through your local Sandy Village retail precinct, Balcombe Rd, Black Rock or the vibrant seaside shopping strip of Hampton St.” 
 

2. Avenue, Brighton East 
Address: 14 Gleniffer Avenue, Brighton East VIC 3187 
Three-bedroom townhomes from $2,290,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29935]

Delivered by Skelton and designed by innovative architecture practice ADDARC, Avenue townhomes seamlessly engage and connect to the landscaping beyond. Japanese-influenced charred timber and production-grade zinc come together to form the home’s striking pitched roofs.

The perfectly crafted three-bedroom townhomes feature expansive, light-filled living and dining, exceptionally appointed kitchens, private garage for two or three cars and lush private gardens designed by renowned Jack Merlo.

Each master bedroom boasts 4.4-metre-high cathedral ceilings, as well as an abundance of light through the floor-to-ceiling windows. 
 

3. Vista Apartments, Highett 
Address: 9 Remington Drive, Highett VIC 3190 
Two-bedroom apartments from $699,500

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3303]

Hallmarc’s latest offering in the bayside suburb of Highett is the 154-apartment project, Vista Apartments. As the second stage of Hallmarc’s Kingston Park masterplanned community, Vista combines the need to express your individuality with the connectivity to essential amenities and like-minded people.

Designed to accommodate a modern lifestyle, residences within the development feature open-plan living areas, rustic timber flooring and a large breakfast bar for social dining and entertaining.

Residents at the Highett residence will have access to a state-of-the-art heated swimming pool and fully-equipped gym and inspiring views that overlook the expansive parklands of Sir William Fry Reserve.

Exclusive, outdoor communal spaces allow residents to mingle with neighbours, and offer informal outdoor seating, manicured gardens and courtyards.
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Stretching around Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne’s Bayside area offers all the elements that make an attractive suburb – beautiful beaches and excellent schools

Three luxury family homes to secure in Melbourne’s Bayside 

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The quickest path for first home buyers to purchasing a house in Greater Hobart is Brighton, according to a report released this week by Domain.
<img src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/b16c0b957ea98f662ab985606/images/b7d9b0c3-df73-4669-a275-9750aee501f7.png">
For those looking to buy a home, Greater Hobart is one of the most accessible capital cities in Australia with the lowest entry price for houses.
"However, when LGAs are considered, accessibility is driven by the affordable outskirts," the report said.
The LGA of Hobart takes approximately 6.3 years to save for an entry price home deposit, which is almost on par with the average time to save for a deposit in Greater Sydney (6.7 years).
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/6/29/Hobart%20Home.jpg" alt="">
Indicative of Brighton's price potential, 23 Andrew Street, Brighton (pictured above) the two bedroom, one bathroom house sold for $230,000 last month.
However even though Greater Hobart requires the shortest time to save of all the capital cities, this has increased by three months for houses and four months for units compared to last year, a result of a strong, growing market outpacing wage growth.
<img src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/b16c0b957ea98f662ab985606/images/965aee85-8e99-4381-9cbb-e52d9cb42f11.png">
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Brighton ranked the quickest FHB path to house ownership in Greater Hobart: Domain

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Shane Warne's Brighton trophy home passed in at weekend auction

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A Brighton home has been listed with a $4.8 million asking price.
The five bedroom, three bathroom house was constructed in circa 1901.
Situated at 2 South Road, it is just a short walk to the beach.
Holding comprehensive coastal views over lush local parkland, the home sits on a 682 sqm plot.
It is host to extensive Victorian period features throughout.
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