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.

<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/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"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.

<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/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

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]

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

Bruce Henderson Architects

Positioned as a beacon of luxury on the corner of Toorak Road West and St Kilda Road is The Muse, one of Melbourne's most sought-after luxury residences.

The Muse boasts breathtaking city views spanning the skyline across to the Botanic Gardens and Fawkner Park, giving buyers fantastic outlooks from every room.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5391 project_image_fid=79558]

Comprising of only 42 apartments, The Muse redefines luxury living, with hotel-style facilities and exclusive club lounges. The stunning 3, 4 and 5-bedroom homes are designed with opulent high ceilings, with floor-to-ceiling glazing filling each living space with an abundance of natural light.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5391 project_image_fid=79560]

The interiors of each home have been masterfully designed as a collaborative effort by some of the country's top interior design firms, Bruce Henderson Interiors, K.P.D.O and Greg Natale Design. Each home features modern liveability and timeless style. Urban’s 3 favourite things about The Muse:

<ul>
	<li>Stunning panoramic city vistas from every home</li>
	<li>Generous open-plan living areas</li>
	<li>Exceptional on-site amenities</li>
</ul>

urban.com.au

Discover all The Muse has to offer, with latest technology and upscale amenities.

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Rising just 1.5km away from Brisbane’s CBD in the culturally rich and vibrant Fortitude Valley are The Coterie. The two residential towers comprise of one, two and three bedroom selections and two penthouses across 27 floors. The Coterie is a modern day sanctuary, an exclusive lifestyle destination for its residents and a progressive addition to the energised urban village it belongs to. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/new-apartments/the-coterie-365-st-pauls-terrace-fortitude-valley" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the-coterie-365-st-pauls-terrace-fortitude-valley-e9b9ebb00f5d01c207a46cd635875e43.jpg?itok=gGIH7li4" style="width: 580px; height: 355px;"></a></figure>A prestigious collaboration from award winning design teams at Rothelowman and Bruce Henderson Architects introduces an elegant building silhouette wrapped in a flowing, monochromatic motif, a graphic representation of the connectivity between the two towers, the streetscape and the skyscrapers that border the suburb in the CBD.

Step inside your new one or two bedroom home to find a new brand of luxury with a range of versatile, open plan designs to welcome you home. Glass surrounds bring in the views and connect interior spaces to generous outdoor balconies.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/new-apartments/the-coterie-365-st-pauls-terrace-fortitude-valley" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the-coterie-365-st-pauls-terrace-fortitude-valley-a6564ccdc3903419c48eea464c53c47f.jpg?itok=oJnMAXOU" style="width: 580px; height: 254px;"></a></figure>Select apartments feature separate study zones and cavity sliding doors to some bedrooms and bathrooms to enhance light transferral and flexible living options. Designer touches are apparent in every space with the refined treatment of contemporary polished surfaces, textural finishes and confident, monochromatic highlights.

White joinery, smoky mirror splashbacks and sleek finishes invite warmth into the space as well as limestone finish stone benchtops paired with European oak floorboards. Kitchens filled with Miele appliances integrate with the full height cabinetry with the luxury extending into the bathrooms with large format white tiles, a wall basin, frameless shower and refined mosaic tile feature with black tapware to add a touch of elegance and modernity.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/new-apartments/the-coterie-365-st-pauls-terrace-fortitude-valley" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the-coterie-365-st-pauls-terrace-fortitude-valley-2cda559c9628bc991c7b3ceb1408f9cf.jpg?itok=1kJmcief" style="width: 580px; height: 534px;"></a></figure>Walls of floor-to-ceiling glazing border each open living design, heightening a luxurious penthouse aesthetic while embracing the sweeping views. An oasis of light and organic textures, each versatile residence becomes a serene retreat from the busyness below then turns into a sophisticated entertainer with multiple places for dining and lounging with friends. 

The site’s original heritage bakery facade and feature interior elements of St Pauls have been carefully integrated into the development to preserve the history of the Valley with a convenient cafe offering a welcoming, local face to the modern community.

The Alfred Place Street front will extend the lively dynamic of the neighbourhood with a contemporary ground level retail presence to engage with the surrounding urban village.

Within, residents will enjoy the exclusive amenities that offer social spaces, a private rooftop retreat atop each tower, landscaped gardens, sun decks, a swimming pool and alfresco entertaining zone.
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Already completed and ready to move in - The Coterie offers high quality living.

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Diversified Melbourne developer Meydan Group has launched its latest residential project which they expect will introduce a new standard of design and living to Southbank.

Already heavy with generic apartment developments in the immediate area, Meydan Group has launched 57 Haig which has been positioned as a new offering within the wider Southbank apartment market. Billed as a true vertical village, the Haig Street tower aims to provide a more neighbourly environment for its residents.

The 'stacked' village ethos has been created by long established Melbourne-based Bruce Henderson Architects in tandem with Meydan Group affiliate Wireframe Architecture.

<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/image45_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="57 Haig Street's design is a collaborative effort"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="820" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_10.jpg?itok=lEH2LMcV" title="57 Haig Street's design is a collaborative effort" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>57 Haig Street's design is a collaborative effort</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
We wanted to create a ‘stacked’ village square atmosphere.

Multiple communal spaces provide huge scope for connected community living. Step outside your apartment and you’ve got instant access to a gymnasium, a residents’ lounge to relax and socialise in, a 12-seat cinema, an open terrace with barbeque facilities – even a children’s playground.

Residents who like to work from home will also have access to a fully equipped business centre right inside the building, perfect for networking or hosting business meetings.
<cite>Geoff Dill, Wireframe Architecture</cite>
</blockquote>

In the highly competitive Southbank market, 57 Haig's campaign will centre around the tower's communal benefits and the flexibility of the dwelling types offered at a competitive pricing point. The varied communal spaces are joined by hotel-style amenities across common areas.

Standing at 38 levels, 57 Haig was initially conceived by Bruce Henderson Architects, with Wireframe Architecture subsequently coming on to further align the project's intricate details to the expectations of Meydan Group.

57 Haig's people-centric design and progressive philosophy of communal living and social connection will see the project pitched at young professionals and families with children. This is a stark departure from the Southbank apartment market of recent years that has been pidgeonholed as an investor-driven sector.

<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/image48_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An activated and transparent podium will bring activity to Haig Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_15.jpg?itok=ibUfbawy" title="An activated and transparent podium will bring activity to Haig Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An activated and transparent podium will bring activity to Haig Street</figcaption></figure>Southbank's latest addition includes a range of differently scaled apartments, from one-bedroom apartments to family-sized dwellings. Meydan Group's intention is to create a diverse social mix of residents within the building and to foster a dynamic community.   

The tower includes full-height double glazed windows that allow for maximum natural light for the apartments which are designed to include open plan living areas. In line with the diversity of apartment formats, pricing for 57 Haig's dwellings start from $390,000 and stretch to beyond $1,100,000 for family-sized three bedroom apartments.  

Works onsite are scheduled to begin during April 2019.
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silvermb

Meydan Group launches Southbank's latest development billed as a vertical village

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Devitt Property Group's The Muse is a 14-storey development designed by Bruce Henderson Architects (BHA) comprising 45 residences with six-star amenities and the latest in security systems. 

Located at 409 St Kilda Road on the corner with Toorak Road West, the boutique project has direct frontage onto Fawkner Park and includes north facing views over the The Shrine, Royal Botanic Gardens and the city skyline.

Managing Director Peter Devitt purchased the site 16 years ago with a vision to one day develop an architecturally exemplar building. As Managing Director of L.U. Simon Builders, Peter has 50 years’ of construction experience and expertise to draw upon, founding Devitt Property Group with his son Kane.

<blockquote>
We could have built 200-plus apartments within this building envelope, but instead we have designed 45 luxury residences to create an exceptional place to live.

We understand what high net worth individuals want –privacy, security, convenience, the city’s best location and larger residences with bespoke, hand-crafted interiors.

- Peter Devitt, Managing Director Devitt Property Group
</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/the_muse_inline.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Muse's corner location also includes direct frontage to Fawkner Park. Image : supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_muse_inline.jpg?itok=mvrHsfxm" title="The Muse's corner location also includes direct frontage to Fawkner Park. Image : supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Muse's corner location also includes direct frontage to Fawkner Park. Image : supplied</figcaption></figure>Designed with a strong focus on providing residents with absolute privacy and security, the development will feature a 24-hour concierge service and two amenity levels with a grand entry foyer, 20-metre lap pool, relaxation pool and spa, large gymnasium with sauna and steam rooms, and a residents’ club lounge with private meeting rooms.

The Muse will also be providing residents with a bespoke interface technology system enhancing the security and energy credentials of the building, while ensuring the the future proofing potential and energy efficiency of the building. This allows the building to keep up to date with the latest advancements in technology.

The home automation interface will enable residents to customise processes such as heating and cooling system operation, automated blind control and intelligent lighting controls. This system goes a long way down the path to ensuring that the household is almost entirely self-managing.

<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/the_muse_inline_02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Muse will provide residents with the latest in security and energy saving technologies in addition to its high performance facade. Image : supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_muse_inline_02.jpg?itok=fdPyzR5a" title="The Muse will provide residents with the latest in security and energy saving technologies in addition to its high performance facade. Image : supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Muse will provide residents with the latest in security and energy saving technologies in addition to its high performance facade. Image : supplied</figcaption></figure>The arrival process at The Muse will be streamlined with number plate recognition technology that will informs a lift which will be despatched and awaiting the resident’s arrival. Additional entry access to The Muse will be via biometric systems, facial recognition, fingerprint scanner recognition and personalised ‘FOB swipe’.

Whilst it includes the latest technology, The Muse will also cater for those that prefer the non-technical applications. Car charging technology is included, as are provisions for off grid battery systems.

The Muse's building envelope has been designed to maximise passive performance, with high performance façade elements maximising access to natural light whilst minimising energy consumption. The high performance building envelope joins onsite electrical generation and water conservation systems.

The development's array of technical prowess is part of the equation that Devitt hopes will satisfy intended purchasers. The Muse residences will range from 200-1,000 plus square metres, with the penthouse spread over two levels expected to be the most expensive apartment in Melbourne.

A price has yet to be finalised but a price tag in excess of $40 million is expected.

<h2>Project Team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Devitt Property Group</li>
	<li>Architect: Bruce Henderson Architects (BHA)</li>
	<li>Services: Waterman AHW</li>
	<li>Builder: L.U. Simon</li>
	<li>Project Marketing: Knight Frank</li>
</ul>
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Laurence Dragomir

St Kilda Road's The Muse places itself at the cutting edge of technology

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Prospective buyers have the best part of February to secure a permitted development site on the edge of the Box Hill Activity Centre.

Savills are marketing 813-823 Whitehorse Road under an EOI campaign closing Wednesday 28 February. At stake is an approved 994 square metre site with approval for a Bruce Henderson architects-designed apartment tower spanning 16 levels.

Interestingly the site on the corner of Whitehorse Road and Elgar Road went through planning under Mont Albert, although selling brochures list the project in Box Hill; likely in order to boost buyer interest.

<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/image16_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective from Whitehorse Road. Image: Savills"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="750" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image16_11.jpg?itok=kRUt704Y" title="Hero perspective from Whitehorse Road. Image: Savills" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective from Whitehorse Road. Image: Savills</figcaption></figure>Approved within the tower are 89 apartments above retail and commercial spaces. Savills state the apartments are majority two and three bedrooms, with expansive view over the CBD. 

With a slim Box Hill TAFE site and Kingsley Gardens between 813-823 Whitehorse Road and the CBD, those uninterrupted views are likely to stay.

Applicant Doyen Tower Pty Ltd lodged plans for the project during December 2016, with the tower finding favour via VCAT.

<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/image18_23.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level retail. Image: Savills"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_23.jpg?itok=sAUgoee_" title="Ground level retail. Image: Savills" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level retail. Image: Savills</figcaption></figure>In the interim City of Whitehorse rejected the proposal during April last year.

As is often the case, revised plans were submitted for the development during the approvals process. <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/east/vcat-approves-16storey-apartment-building-in-mont-albert/news-story/52b4246e043853bb0c782cdeb9c3069e">According to the Herald Sun</a>, VCAT approved the tower at 813-823 Whitehorse Road during October despite the council’s decision to reject the application.

<blockquote>
We are satisfied that the substituted plans have effected significant improvements and that the proposed building (with some tweaking via the permit conditions) will be a very positive addition to this streetscape/activity centre and sit in an appropriate manner alongside its nearest neighbours.
<cite>VCAT tribunal</cite>
</blockquote>

Planning machinations aside, the eventual buyer of the site will be able to deliver the glazed tower which will effectively become a gateway project for those travelling north along Whitehorse Road.
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Mont Albert's premier development site goes to market

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409 St Kilda Road is being positioned as Melbourne's most elite address. 

In a recent media blitz, Devitt Property Group unveiled their intentions for the prime site which currently houses an exhausted-looking 14 level office building. In its place will rise a similarly-sized residential building that Devitt Property Group expect will become Melbourne's most prestigious address on Melbourne's most recognisable boulevard.

Kane Devitt of Devitt Property Group spoke with Apartments.com.au, providing further detail on the project which has been christened The Muse.

UM: Can you go into the rationale behind the choice of Bruce Henderson Architects as design lead for the project, and the design of the building itself?

KD: Bruce Henderson Architects are one of Melbourne’s top-tier architecture practices, and a group we have a strong working relationship with. In addition to their track record of delivering luxury apartment projects, they have a unique insight into our key target market, having designed some of Melbourne’s largest and most expensive homes.

They understand where these buyers are coming from, and consequently what their expectations are. The buyers we are targeting are uncompromising, they expect the very best, which is what we will be delivering.

We couldn’t be more pleased with the design of the building. The architecture of The Muse is both elegant and respectful of its site on St Kilda Road. It will become one of Melbourne’s preeminent pieces of architecture.

The front row of the building is not facetted, but curved glass to maximize the view from the interior and also reinforce the elegant feminine design throughout. It’s also designed to disappear within the Shrine of Remembrance vista from the CBD, reintroducing this concept for St Kilda Road.

UM: With so many high-end projects currently offering large apartments for sale, how will the development team discern The Muse from the pack?

KD: Yes, the luxury end of the property market is truly thriving not just in Melbourne but throughout Australia. While there are ample luxury developments in progress in the Melbourne market, we have gone a lot further with The Muse.

The Muse differentiates itself in many ways, but one of our key points of difference is that we offer 6-star facilities and services, to an exclusive group of only 47 residents. Our buyers will enjoy 24/7 concierge services, swimming pools, a gymnasium and spa, plus a residents club lounge with private meeting rooms.

No other building in Melbourne, arguably Australia, offers so much to so few residents.

We have taken our cue from cities like London, New York and Singapore, where exclusive buildings like this cater for a high net worth audience that equally value services and facilities with privacy and security. While there is luxury on offer in Melbourne, as we say in the team, The Muse is well and truly 
“life beyond luxury”.

<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/image3devitt.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's perspective of The Muse"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="403" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3devitt.jpg?itok=-yBWdH1-" title="Artist's perspective of The Muse" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's perspective of The Muse</figcaption></figure> UM: Are there any features that are unique to The Muse relative to other high-end apartment projects across Melbourne, or is The Muse's selling point that is simply does everything bigger and better in terms of living spaces and amenities? 

KD: Every residence in The Muse is being treated as an entirely separate entity.

Bruce Henderson Architects, in collaboration with our exciting soon to be named top tier design team, will plan each residence to the specific requirements of every purchaser. These homes will be truly customizable, molding themselves to suit each buyer’s specific requirements.

Every apartment will have penthouse quality finishes, large terraces and 10ft ceilings. All apartments will have lockable garages to be comprised of a minimum of 3 spaces, with each space wider than average to accommodate luxury cars. We are catering to the most discerning purchaser, so have gone above and beyond to make this a stand out project.

With the level of luxury and amenity on offer, we are not expecting these properties to come onto the market very often at all. Luxury such as this is often tightly held by owners and becomes almost unattainable.

UM: Can apartments be merged into larger dwellings should prospective buyers request it?

KD: Absolutely. The concept behind The Muse is that a purchaser can quite literally build their own, unique apartment. We are expecting many of our buyers will do this.

Ordinarily a building of this size would house around 200 apartments, we have planned for 47, however we are expecting this will drop further with people combining residences. I wouldn’t be surprised if there were only 40 residences once complete.

UM: Having considered the higher density 200-apartment option versus the luxury 47-apartment intended outcome, which had the higher degree of development risk from Devitt Property Group’s perspective?

KD: There is, of course, an element of risk with any project, but from our perspective, this is a project that we have been in planning for 15 years and is a passion project not just for us, but the whole team.

We have a unique insight in the prime apartment market in Melbourne, and we know that this project fills a void in the Melbourne apartment market as an exclusive, prime offering. There is nothing else out there that can compare on this front, so we are confident moving into launch phase.

We have had many enquiries from people in other buildings in Melbourne who are tired of stepping into their lift with strangers. They do not want to own a luxury home on top of a building full of tenants, they want to be part of an exclusive community of like-minded owners.

UM: Assuming planning for the project goes as expected, when will The Muse be released for sale, and is there a construction start date in mind?

KD: Construction is planned to begin in 2018 and completion 2020. We plan to launch to a VVIP audience in early 2018, with construction of our amazing display suite already underway.
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Devitt takes aim at the pinnacle of Melbourne's luxury apartment market

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Cheltenham is steadily ascending the ranks in terms of apartment numbers in development, with the suburb's latest sizeable project now on public display.

1234-1236 Nepean Highway is located immediately next to City of Kingston Council's municipal office and looks to eclipse the commercial building for size. Developer/builder AUSCO Investment Group is looking to construct an 11 storey mixed-use building containing 126 apartments and 3 office spaces, one of which crowns the prospective building.

The Cheltenham project also adds to AUSCO's strengthening portfolio of apartment projects across Melbourne's South Eastern suburbs. 

Bentleigh, Oakleigh South, Malvern East and a Murrumbeena duo join Cheltenham as suburbs in which AUSCO have active apartment projects.

<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/image100_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cheltenham's latest major apartment development. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image100_1.jpg?itok=rtEhXGpZ" title="Cheltenham's latest major apartment development. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Cheltenham's latest major apartment development. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects</figcaption></figure>The Bruce Henderson Architects-designed 1234-1236 Nepean Highway is the latest large apartment development in the offing for Cheltenham.

Spanning a 1,920 square metre site and with a 38 metre frontage to Nepean Highway, two low-rise building are set to make way for the project. The prospective yield is split between 53 one−bedroom apartments, 68 two−bedroom apartments, 5 three−bedroom apartments and a total of 1,016 square metres of office space.

AUSCO Investment Group would look to occupy the tenth level office floor according to planning details.

The arrival of 1234-1236 Nepean Highway further highlights the development transformation occurring within the suburb. Although not a haven for high-rise projects, Cheltenham continues to attract an increasing number of projects which are in the low and mid-rise category.

<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/image102_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="19 Hall Street, The Village and Ilixir at construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="265" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image102_2.jpg?itok=lp3WVQq-" title="19 Hall Street, The Village and Ilixir at construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>19 Hall Street, The Village and Ilixir at construction</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au's Project Database is keeping tabs on 16 separate apartment developments across Cheltenham. 

The near complete <a href="/new-apartments/cheltenham-vic-3192">Ilixir</a>, <a href="/buildings/11-19-hall-street-cheltenham">19 Hall Street</a> and <a href="/buildings/the-village-cheltenham-1228-nepean-highway-cheltenham">The Village Cheltenham</a> which was in hiatus but is now active once more constitute the trio of major apartment projects which are at construction. Of the 16 projects which amount to near on 1,000 apartments, 347 are at construction.

Four further projects are at Registrations and Sales within Cheltenham and are likely to add a further 148 apartments to the suburb's stock.

Whilst the balance of upcoming Cheltenham apartment projects are generally smaller in stature, there still remains scope for some noteworthy development.

Ewert Leaf for instance are working with developer Steller to realise <a href="http://ewertleaf.com.au/projects/13-15-chesterville-road/">13-15 Chesterville Road</a>. According to the architect's website, a mixed-use project will account for the 2,332 square metre site.

<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/image103.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Chester is another Bruce Henderson Architects design. Image: CastranGilbert"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image103.jpg?itok=HhRvPgrQ" title="Chester is another Bruce Henderson Architects design. Image: CastranGilbert" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Chester is another Bruce Henderson Architects design within Cheltenham. Image: CastranGilbert</figcaption></figure>
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AUSCO affirms Cheltenham's emergence as an apartment hot spot

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It endured as a paper design for years, but now a new scheme is on show for 41-49 Bank Street, South Melbourne.

Initial overtones of development for the site landed with Port Phillip during 2009, but amounted to nothing even though the project was marketed at one stage as Aero Apartments. Enter Virgate Property (Bank Street) Pty Ltd who are driving the current bid to transform the plot into a substantial residential tower.

Moved on during 2016, 41-49 Bank Street's sale at the hand of CBRE City Sales was <a href="http://www.australiannationalreview.com/chinese-developers-invest-56-million-melbourne-apartment-sites/">reportedly</a> to Chinese developer Guangdong Carrington Real Estate Group, with the previous permit for a 16-level tower of 180 apartments in tow.

Their local development arm, Virgate Property Group, is now pushing for a tower of 19 levels and 174 apartments.

<h2>41-49 Bank Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image40_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bank Street perspective. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="608" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image40_7.jpg?itok=67TYFLVR" title="Bank Street perspective. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bank Street perspective. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>1,441sqm holding with in excess of 60 metres of frontage</li>
	<li>Currently a tri-level commercial building</li>
	<li>Proposed 19 level tower at 59.7m</li>
	<li>174 apartments: 37 x 1BR, 11 x 1BR+S, 126 x 2BR</li>
	<li>Apartment sizes: 46-82sqm</li>
	<li>Common areas on Levels 5 and 6</li>
	<li>Basement and above ground provisions for 124 vehicles &amp; 58 bicycles</li>
	<li>2 retail premises of 106sqm and 55sqm</li>
</ul>
Planning &amp; Property Partners are guiding the Bruce Henderson Architects-designed tower through the planning process.

The tower itself features strong vertical elements by way of white metal slats set over silver, grey and dark grey glass. The main north elevation of the proposed tower is dominated by the slats, save for a few sections of unobscured glazing, including an architectural feature within the podium which houses the development's gym. 

Having taken on a modest apartment project in Mont Albert, 41-49 Bank Street represents Virgate Property Group's first Melbourne highrise, although it's certainly not the area's first. Wedged between Dorcas Street and Park Street, 41-49 Bank Street is in the middle of a mushrooming precinct that spreads across Southbank and South Melbourne.

41-49 Bank Street is surrounded by a very healthy number of residential towers (from planning to construction) with 14 listed within the Apartments.com.au Project Database in the immediately surrounding blocks.

<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/image41_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Views from the site. Image: CBRE City Sales"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="402" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image41_3.jpg?itok=v1tPXCHF" title="Views from the site. Image: CBRE City Sales" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Views from the site. Image: CBRE City Sales</figcaption></figure><h2>41-49 Bank Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Virgatee Property Group</li>
	<li>Application Plans: Bruce Henderson Architects</li>
	<li>Planning: Planning &amp; Property Partners</li>
	<li>Sustainable Management Plan: ADP Consulting</li>
	<li>Daylight Assessment Report: ADP Consulting</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: One Mile Grid</li>
	<li>Transport Impact Assessment: One Mile Grid</li>
</ul>
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Take it to the Bank: South Melbourne's latest tower on show

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18 months after securing a prime development site atop Doncaster Hill, <a href="/developers/samma-property-group">SPEC Property</a> is on the verge of receiving approval for their latest residential project within Manningham.

While they have diversified to become a citywide development presence, SPEC Property has been particularly strong within Doncaster in years gone by; Acacia Apartments, Viridian, Canvas Apartments and Madison are among the developer's work in the area to date. 9-11 Williamsons Road also represents a change in tact with <a href="/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a> coming aboard for the project which is poised to add 137 additional apartments to <a href="/buildings/the-point-doncaster-hill-600-doncaster-road-doncaster">Doncaster Hill</a>.

Touted by agent Savills as the area's best development site at the time of sale, SPEC Property took a development concept to Council soon after, with the design process playing out to the point where a notice of decision to grant a permit was recently issued.

While also marking the developer's return to its early stomping ground, 9-11 Williamsons Road further adds to the expanding array of developers across <a href="/new-apartments/doncaster-vic-3108">Doncaster</a> and the secondary yet growing apartment market within <a href="/new-apartments/doncaster-east-vic-3109">Doncaster East</a>.

<h2>9-11 Williamsons Road application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image4_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the proposed development. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_9.jpg?itok=wzcWeHyQ" title="Artist's impression of the proposed development. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the proposed development. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site offered for sale during early 2015</li>
	<li>Current lowrise commercial complex over a 2,662sqm site</li>
	<li>Proposed 12 level building with an overall maximum height of 34.7m</li>
	<li>137 apartments: 15 x 1 bedroom, 106 x 2 bedroom, 16 x 3 bedroom</li>
	<li>7 townhouses to secondary street frontage</li>
	<li>1 retail space: 130sqm to Williamsons Road</li>
	<li>4 basement levels holding 171 vehicles</li>
	<li>Estimated project cost: $38 million</li>
</ul>
With unimpeded CBD views to the west, 9-11 Williamsons Road is configured in a U-shape to allow a maximum number of apartments a <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">CBD</a> view. A Carnarvon Street ground level communal garden links with internal amenities and will account for the void between either wing of the building.

Internally the project sees apartments vary in size from 48sqm to 105sqm, although four larger 3 bedroom penthouses will sit within the 120-132sqm zone. These penthouses are within a visually different design element atop the building and also hold expansive courtyards of up to 94sqm.

<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/image9_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="686 Doncaster Road and 5-7 Williamsons Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="242" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_8.jpg?itok=W5G4mSsi" title="686 Doncaster Road and 5-7 Williamsons Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>686 Doncaster Road and 5-7 Williamsons Road may grace Doncaster Hill soon enough</figcaption></figure>A wider view of apartment projects across Doncaster and Doncaster East sees a healthy sector that for lack of a better term, continues to do what it's been doing for some years now.

13 apartment projects of note are under construction according to the Apartments.com.au Project Database, with <a href="/new-apartments/the-courtyard-832-doncaster-road-doncaster">832 Doncaster Road</a> the next in line; <a href="/builders/may-constructions">May Constructions</a> are the anointed builder. All in all, 900 plus apartments and 224 aged care apartments/beds are at construction across the two suburbs.

If SPEC Property choose to launch 9-11 Williamsons Road in the near term, they will join the like of <a href="/developers/pace-development-group">Pace Development Group</a> and <a href="/developers/jinshan-investment-group-pty-ltd">Jinshan</a> who have released their latest projects for public purchase.

Some hefty projects are also waiting in the wings, with approval for four separate schemes atop Doncaster Hill capable of yielding an additional 893 apartments.
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SPEC Property return to their roots atop Doncaster Hill

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The lure of Melbourne as an international development hotspot remains strong with another Asian-based firm intent on creating a showpiece residential development in Melbourne. Sister company to the fortuitously named, Chinese-based Yarra Holdings, C&amp;L International Holdings is on the verge of releasing Royal Como which will be located within South Yarra's ever popular Forrest Hill Precinct.

Based in Zhongshan, China and maintaining their Australian office in the northern Sydney suburb of Chatswood, C&amp;L International Holdings is headed by company Chairman Chris Chen and Managing Director Alex Liu who between them have more than 20 years experience in the development sector. To date C&amp;L have focused on residential and commercial projects within Asia, with their latest project a 24 tower complex in Zhongshan.

<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/image52.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Royal Como with Melbourne's CBD. Image courtesy C&amp;L International"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="221" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image52.jpg?itok=OGCGgTQD" title="Royal Como with Melbourne's CBD. Image courtesy C&amp;L International" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Royal Como with Melbourne's CBD. Image courtesy C&amp;L</figcaption></figure>Seeking their slice of the robust Melbourne apartment sector, C&amp;L will shortly launch Royal Como, adjacent to Melbourne High School. Holding 112 one, two and three bedroom apartments, the pending tower is the work of South Yarra-based Bruce Henderson Architects.

Nexus Designs have created the interior spaces within Royal Como which are designed to appeal to the owner occupier market. This is in line with the company's intentions on targeting premier suburbs in both Melbourne and Sydney with a product equal to, or superior to what is currently available.

<blockquote>
We have identified a shift in Australia by empty nesters from their family homes to spacious, well-designed luxury apartments, and this is the market we are looking to tap in to.
<cite>Echo He, Director of C&amp;L International Holdings</cite>
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<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/image55_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A sign of things to come. Image courtesy royalcomo.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="318" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image55_0.jpg?itok=oM8n9Lo_" title="A sign of things to come. Image courtesy royalcomo.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A sign of things to come. Image courtesy royalcomo.com.au</figcaption></figure>C&amp;L's drive into the Australian apartment market along with that of other Asian-based developers can be encapsulated by a small stretch of Chapel Street bound by Toorak Road and Alexandra Avenue.

Of the four major apartment developments in the pipeline, all aside from Capitol Grand are controlled by Asian-backed interests. While C&amp;L are preparing Royal Como, the adjoining site at 661 Chapel Street is also due for the commencement of its sales campaign. Malaysian firm Gamuda Land purchased the 1,435sqm site for $40 million with the intent of delivering an approved 30 level residential tower designed by Bird de la Coeur. Development Manager PDS Group show the project on their website as carrying 162 apartments.

In addition, fellow Malaysian developer Mitraland is <a href="/news/malaysias-mitraland-looks-to-enter-the-melbourne-apartment-market">seeking approval</a> for a 20 level residential tower expected to carry 72 apartments. Located at 649 Chapel Street, the Fender Katsalidis project is with City of Stonnington as it goes through the approvals process.
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