In Melbourne’s established inner east, the qualities that define a traditional house, width, height, and access to open ground, are increasingly difficult to replicate in new residential developments. Larger landholdings are scarce, and with them, the ability to create apartments that extend beyond compact, internalised layouts.&nbsp;

In <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/kew-vic-3101">Kew</a>, where the residential fabric is shaped by generous setbacks and mature tree canopies, that tension is especially visible.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ricdanic-investments-pty-ltd">Ricdanic</a>&nbsp;is bringing forward a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings at 9–11 Wimba Avenue, Kew. Comprising six homes at No.9 and seven at No.11, the project sits on a quiet, tree-lined street just off Cotham Road.&nbsp;

Each apartment has been planned with a level of independence more commonly associated with standalone dwellings, balancing privacy with the efficiencies of apartment living.

Architect Chris Idle, who has been practising for over two decades, says projects like this don’t come along often.

“There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs,” he explains. “To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The internal planning begins with width. Living areas extend beyond five metres, allowing furniture, circulation, and glazing to sit comfortably within the same zone without compression. Ceiling heights shift from three metres through to five metres in select areas, changing the sense of scale as you move through the apartment. These proportions are paired with double-glazed windows and fully electric systems, balancing volume with performance, supported by a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.&nbsp;

From the main living space, the apartments open directly outward. Large sliding doors connect to private gardens averaging 125 square metres, with some residences also incorporating balconies of around 60 square metres. Rather than acting as secondary outdoor zones, these areas sit flush with the internal floor level, extending the usable footprint of the home and allowing for multiple modes of use, whether for quiet daily routines or larger gatherings.&nbsp;

The landscape, led by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>, reinforces this relationship. Across the site, 23 different plant species have been introduced, including a mix of native and established varieties, arranged to maintain privacy while preserving sightlines and light access. Gardens are not treated as decorative buffers but as functional extensions of the apartments, shaped to accommodate movement, seating, and informal use over time.&nbsp;

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Architecturally, the project draws from Kew’s historic residential language. Handmade bricks by Krause define the exterior, grounding the buildings within the material palette of the suburb, while interior finishes, stone, timber flooring, and restrained detailing, continue this approach internally. Architect Chris Idle describes the intent as long-term rather than stylistic: “We wanted it to feel timeless.”&nbsp;

This emphasis on durability extends to how the buildings are accessed and secured. Entry is managed through keyless systems, with a double-gated basement incorporating number plate recognition for vehicle access. Each residence is paired with a private lock-up garage accommodating two to three cars, alongside storage, while all entry points are monitored continuously. These measures sit alongside EV readiness and fully electric infrastructure, aligning the project’s operational systems with its long-term design outlook.&nbsp;

The setting remains central to how the development is experienced. Located within walking distance of Kew Junction and close to established schools including Carey Grammar and Xavier College, the address benefits from existing infrastructure while maintaining a residential quietness that is increasingly difficult to find at this scale.&nbsp;

Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/sinjen">Sinjen</a>, with a 10-year structural guarantee, with completion targeted for mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

Joel Robinson

Inside Wimba Ave, Kew’s garden-scale residences designed for space and permanence

High-end Sydney developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> has secured approval for one of its latest Mosman projects, one of the first developments approved by Mosman Council under the NSW Government’s Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy.

The approval represents an important step in delivering well-considered housing next to established village locations on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, in line with the intent of the Low and Mid-Rise zoning framework. 
&nbsp; 
There are currently 13 other sites lodged within Mosman Council under the policy, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/27-29-heydon-street-mosman-nsw-2088">Heydon Street</a> among the first to receive development consent. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Founder and Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the project reflects a considered and appropriate response to its planning context. 
&nbsp; 
“This approval demonstrates how carefully considered, design-led development can align with the objectives of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy," Brown said.

"The scheme has been designed to respond sensitively to its village setting, with a built form, scale and level of amenity appropriate to its local context. The determination reflects a balanced and considered planning outcome, with Council recognising the capacity for this site to accommodate additional housing within a well-located and established precinct.”

<img alt="Abadeen secures first approval under low and mid-rise housing policy for Heydon Street, Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="92811ce3-02e8-44fc-996e-c61ae039bd3e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Heydon%20Street%20Aerial.jpg?VersionId=ZHJVuWQT64QcdrFJx963pFWFzTX7lI2I" />

The Heydon Street approval followed extensive consultation with Mosman Council, with Abadeen working closely with Council throughout the assessment process.

The approved scheme comprises 27 residences, with only four per floor, creating a low-density living environment. The building will include four half-floor penthouses designed to capture views across Middle Harbour, Sydney Harbour and the surrounding district.&nbsp;

The project is expected to appeal to downsizers and owner-occupiers seeking house-like proportions, privacy and local convenience. There will be north-facing Middle Harbour views from the second level upward. It is also just a flat 100-metre walk to Bridgepoint Shopping Centre, which will appeal to owner-occupiers and in particular downsizers.

Two-bedroom residences are expected to be priced from $1.99 million when sales launch later this year. 
&nbsp; 
Joe Tack, CEO at Abadeen, said the outcome reflects both the quality of the site and the broader need for well-located housing. 
&nbsp; 
“This is a highly considered site within a highly established local setting, offering elevated views and strong connectivity. The project has been designed to respond to that context, delivering a scale and quality of housing aligned with both the planning framework and evolving market demand.” 
&nbsp; 
“This approval is particularly significant in the context of Mosman, where new housing supply has historically been limited. While it represents the first approval of this scale in Mosman to be achieved in over 50 years, it is importantly located within a well-established residential location, in close proximity to the established commercial amenity of Spit Road and Mosman Village. It reflects strong confidence in Abadeen’s approach to design, delivery and community integration, while contributing to the delivery of much-needed housing in a highly constrained market.”

Abadeen has an established track record across Sydney’s Lower North Shore, with recent completions including KOYO in Crows Nest and ENSO in Neutral Bay.

In Mosman, Abadeen recently completed The Hampden, with Mosman Residences on the corner of Spit Road and Clifford Street scheduled for completion later this year. Construction has also commenced at Burran Residences, comprising three full-floor ultra-premium homes positioned just 50 metres from Balmoral Beach, with residences expected to achieve prices in excess of $20 million. Two further projects are also progressing through planning within the local government area.

Abadeen secures first approval under low and mid-rise housing policy for Heydon Street, Mosman apartment development

Apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/martello">Martello™</a> is one of the latest entrants to the Gold Coast development market, with its debut project set to be one of the most boutique offerings on Chevron Island in recent years.

Martello has unveiled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aere-chevron-island-18-20-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Aere Chevron Island</a>, a collection of 33 large-scale two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments across an 18-storey building on Mawarra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143932 project_image_fid=367517]

The developer has placed a strong emphasis on wellness, briefing architecture firm Raunik Design to embed this philosophy into the project. It is a direction <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/martello">Martello™</a> plans to carry through its future developments along the coast.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/martello">Martello™</a> has positioned Aere as a continuation of its human-centric development approach, with a focus extending beyond amenity to the fundamentals of layout, natural light, and spatial planning. Promax Construction has already been appointed to deliver the project, with construction expected to commence in the coming months as part of the group’s broader expansion into South East Queensland.

Rising above the low-rise fabric of Chevron Island, Aere’s design emphasises generous internal proportions and uninterrupted outlooks, with residences oriented to capture coastal, skyline, and waterway views. Interiors prioritise open-plan living, with large-format glazing and carefully considered transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143932 project_image_fid=367508]

The upper levels are dedicated to larger-format homes, including four-bedroom residences designed as half-floor offerings. These layouts prioritise separation between living and sleeping zones, along with increased privacy and storage, features more commonly associated with detached housing than traditional apartment product.

Aere’s private resident amenity spaces centre on wellness. A rooftop level will incorporate a heated swimming pool, sauna and spa, while the rest of the wellness spaces throughout the building include a&nbsp;residents’ lounge, dining areas and a gym.

The inclusion of both social and quieter retreat spaces reflects a broader shift in higher-end apartment design on the Gold Coast, where developers are increasingly responding to owner-occupier demand for buildings that support long-term living rather than short-stay use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143932 project_image_fid=367814]

Aere is positioned within walking distance of Chevron Island’s village centre along Thomas Drive, as well as the HOTA cultural precinct via the Green Bridge, connecting residents to parklands, galleries, and event spaces.

For <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/martello">Martello™</a>, Aere represents the first in a series of planned Gold Coast developments, with the group also exploring opportunities in other coastal precincts, including Kirra and Palm Beach.

The move north comes as sustained population growth and infrastructure investment continue to reshape South East Queensland, with developers increasingly targeting boutique, design-led projects in established lifestyle pockets. Aera’s relatively small scale and emphasis on spatial quality position it within this emerging segment of the market.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143932]

Martello™ enters Gold Coast market with wellness-led Chevron Island development Aere

Development approval has been granted for Crescent, a boutique waterfront project on one of Palm Beach's most coveted and rarely developed streets.

Launched to market this month, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crescent-palm-beach-34-36-murlong-crescent-palm-beach-qld-4221">Crescent</a> will occupy four combined lots with frontage to both Murlong Crescent and Tallebudgera Drive. The project is among the first new developments to get a green light on the creekside strip, home to only 21 tightly-held properties.

“Murlong Crescent is one of those streets that people discover and never want to leave,” said Andrew Erwin of NPA Projects, who is leading sales and marketing.

“The lifestyle here is genuinely hard to find anywhere else on the Gold Coast.”

Designed by Queensland firm ᴮʸculprit and developed by DCS Property Group, Crescent offers two and three-bedroom residences across four levels, ranging from 119 to 283 sqm and priced from $2.5 million. Builder SNBX Constructions has been appointed, with completion expected in mid to late 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151399 project_image_fid=366218]

Residences face north to Tallebudgera Creek, with views that extend to Burleigh Headland. Upper levels also capture canal and hinterland views to the west.

“The creek is tidal, so it changes constantly. The colour, the light, the mood of it,” Erwin said.

“That view over the creek to Burleigh Headland is only possibly from this location.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151399 project_image_fid=366213]

Crescent devotes two levels, spanning more than 1,100 sqm, to resident amenity.&nbsp; On Level 1, a gym, steam room, infrared and traditional saunas, hot spa, cold plunge, and ice bath make up the private wellness retreat. Entertaining and recreation converge on the rooftop with a resort- style pool and sundeck, alfresco BBQ and dining areas, pizza oven, yoga lawn, fire pit, as well as a herb and zen garden. Residents can also jog or walk along a dedicated loop with views over Tallebudgera Creek.

“The amenity here is genuinely out of proportion to the size of the building,” Erwin said.

“Every resident, regardless of which apartment they choose, gets access to the kind of amenity normally associated with luxury resorts.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151399 project_image_fid=366257]

Residences feature natural stone and timber finishes throughout, brushed brass tapware, and New Zealand wool carpet to bedrooms. Two basement levels provide secure parking, with provision for electric vehicle charging.

Beyond calm water swimming, paddling and boating, residents follow the foreshore path to Tallebudgera Beach, local cafes, and Tallebudgera Surf Club, while across the bridge is Burleigh Heads National Park, Burleigh Beach and the vibrant James Street dining and retail hub.

Palm Beach has been among the Gold Coast’s strongest performing suburbs over the past five years, with median house prices having risen by more than 91 per cent and unit values more than doubling in the same period.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151399]

Crescent Palm Beach approved as sales launch

The Albanese and ACT Governments have struck a deal to unlock nearly 5,000 new homes across Canberra, with more than 1,700 earmarked exclusively for first home buyers.

The agreement marks the second formal partnership under the Federal Government’s election commitment to deliver up to 100,000 homes for first home buyers nationally, working alongside state and territory governments and industry.

At the centre of the deal is a $250 million funding injection from the Albanese Government, targeting enabling infrastructure to bring forward new housing supply across a number of key precincts in the ACT.

That includes funding to unlock 75 homes in the Kingston precinct, support new development in Weston Creek, and deliver estate works across the territory that will facilitate more than 500 homes by 2034. Additional investment will go towards relocating powerlines, water infrastructure in Molonglo Valley, and further expansion of the Ginninderry regeneration precinct.

Housing Minister Clare O’Neil said the agreement was about making it easier for first home buyers to enter the market, particularly in a housing environment that continues to challenge affordability.

“We’re determined to make it easier for young people and first home buyers to achieve the dream of owning a home,” O’Neil said.

“We know the housing market is tough, and we want Australians to know that Labor has got your back.”

The announcement builds on more than $800 million already committed to housing in the ACT since 2022, according to Finance Minister and ACT Senator Katy Gallagher, who said the latest funding would help ensure national housing programs are translating into real supply on the ground.

“We’re working closely with the ACT Government to unlock land and invest in the infrastructure needed to get these homes built sooner,” she said.

For the ACT Government, the agreement aligns with its broader target of delivering 30,000 new homes by 2030, with Chief Minister Andrew Barr pointing to the role of coordinated planning and infrastructure investment in accelerating delivery.

“Now, thanks to our agreement with the Albanese Government, this work is about to reach a new level,” Barr said.

The deal sits within the Federal Government’s broader $45 billion housing agenda, which includes initiatives such as the Housing Australia Future Fund, the Help to Buy shared equity scheme, and incentives aimed at increasing construction capacity and reducing barriers to development.

Canberra set for 4,900 new homes under Federal housing deal

Calibre

Keysborough,&nbsp;south-east of Melbourne,&nbsp;is well-known for its sprawling parkland&rsquo;s, picturesque wetlands, sporting amenities, and prestigious schools.

The suburb&nbsp;has been attractive for young families seeking larger homes just outside of Melbourne, given its accessibility&nbsp;to the CBD through the nearby Eastlink freeway.

There&#39;s also the&nbsp;Mordia​lloc Promenade, another hit with&nbsp;families.

Townhomes are much more sought-after in the suburb, with an attractive price point allowing younger first home buyers to get a foot on the ladder.

Urban has had a look at the best townhouses on the market in&nbsp;Keysborough.

<h2>1. The Woodlands </h2>

21-23 Loxwood Ave, Keysborough 

Developer: Aultun Group

The Woodlands, at 21-23 Loxwood Avenue, is a premium development of 42 three and four-bedroom townhouses, which have been designed with families in mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108775 project_image_fid=179327]

One third of the two-level houses are already sold. The homes feature a&nbsp;colour palette of greys with timber accents across the facades. They will have high-windows to maximise natural light

The Woodlands is being developed by Aultun Group, who have a strong reputation for townhouses, both locally and closer to Melbourne.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108775 project_image_fid=179331]

Backing onto parklands, The Woodlands is within close proximity to an array of amenities such as Mordialloc beach, Parkmore Shopping Centre, with easy access to East Link and Dingley Bypass.

Keysborough South Primary school is also nearby, along with Haileybury College and Lighthouse Christian College, making this the perfect family location

<h2>2. Haven Townhomes </h2>

42 Homeleigh Road, Keysborough&nbsp;

Developer: Aultun Group&nbsp; |&nbsp; &nbsp;Architect: Cera Stribley Architects

Nestled within an established residential neighbourhood, Haven is a collection of 59&nbsp;townhomes, offering three&nbsp;and four-bedroom configurations.

Around 80 per cent&nbsp;of the first stage of Haven is already sold, with just a handful of&nbsp;three-bedroom townhouses still available.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8082 project_image_fid=59637]

Another developed by Aultun Group, Haven Townhomes have been designed&nbsp;to respond to the needs and desires of its residents. The townhomes are part of a unique waterside estate and has been designed by Cera Stribley Architects to provide high quality living for its&nbsp;residents.

Placed within a prominent yet secluded area, Haven sits amongst park lands and wetlands, as well as sporting and education facilities, shops, services, as well as extensive roads and transport connections.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8082 project_image_fid=59634]

A contemporary palette of greys with timber accents across the interchanging facades feature throughout the homes. Haven interiors have been designed with a focus on function, space and high-design with kitchens featuring oversized islands, European appliances with gas cook tops and abundant storage and prep zones.

Haven Townhomes also features stone bench-tops and splash backs across both colour schemes offered, and oak timber flooring through the kitchen and living areas in all residences.

Located 40 minutes from the heart of the city and 8 minutes from Melbourne&rsquo;s bayside, residents of the Haven Townhome&#39;s benefit both inside and out of the home.&nbsp;

<h2>3. Calibre </h2>

199-209 Chapel Road, Keysborough

Landing in the heart of Keysborough comes Calibre, a series of architecturally designed residences.

On the cusp of the area&#39;s pristine wetlands and far-reaching parklands, these residences enjoy both amenity and natural surrounds, right at the foot of the door.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89565 project_image_fid=158059]

A mix of two, three and four-bedroom homes are on offer at Calibre with each residence exhibiting its own unique distinguishable character while also blending seamlessly together.

Calibre&rsquo;s homes are a distinct reflection of the flourishing, dynamic and multicultural hub that they are situated in, with each residence having upgradable options they come fully equipped with premium appliances, a large walk-in-pantry and cleverly integrated storage throughout. While most of the residences have living spaces on the ground floor and the bedrooms upstairs, a handful of homes facing the wetlands area will take advantage of the views with an upstairs kitchen and balcony.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89565 project_image_fid=140735]

Calibre is ideally placed, adjacent to Keysborough&rsquo;s new shopping precinct, medical centre and newly built primary school. Tatterson Park, Keysborough Golf Club and Maurie Jarvis Woodland are all within close proximity, as are a number of educational, retail, dining and entertainment amenities.

It is expected to commence construction in mid 2021 and be completed by about mid 2022.

With access to the nearby Eastlink and an abundance of family-oriented attractions nearby it's no wonder Keysborough has fast become an idyllic premium location in Melbourne. 

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top three townhouse projects in Keysborough

Landing in the heart of Keysborough comes Calibre, a series of architecturally designed residences.

On the brink of the area&#39;s pristine wetlands and far-reaching parklands, these residences enjoy both amenity and natural surrounds, right at their doorstep.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89565 project_image_fid=140732]

With a choice from two, three or four-bedroom homes, each residence exhibits its own unique distinguishable character while also blending seamlessly together.

The living spaces of Calibre are afforded with views of landscaped gardens or balconies, framed by glass sliding doors that allow interiors to flow seamlessly into outdoor spaces and create larger, family-function spaces. Oak timber floors feature throughout the home with built-in joinery connecting the living area to the kitchen. Calibre also lends itself to the opportunity of creating something unique and personalised in each dwelling, with customisable floor plans and upgrade options.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89565 project_image_fid=140734]

The kitchens of Calibre feature stone top benches, high-quality joinery and wood grain finishes. Fully equipped with premium appliances, each kitchen features a walk-in-pantry and integrated storage throughout. Resident entertainers will enjoy the luxury of a functional space and custom cocktail bar for when the time comes. The upgrade kitchen of Calibre presents natural quartz stone and matching splash-back complimented by timber veneer joinery. Thoughtfully designed with entertainment in mind, the kitchens are equipped with a 900mm oven and cooktop, as well as a fully integrated dishwasher.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89565 project_image_fid=140736]

Designed to create a sense of relaxation, the bathroom of Calibre features stone surfaces and floor-to-ceiling tiles, fitted with matte black tap wares throughout. Ample storage is again poured into the bathroom along with double vanities in each residence and mirror cabinets. The master suite of Calibre is defined by crafted luxury and ultimate comfort.

Plush carpet has been installed in each home, with all featuring spacious walk-in or built-in robes, adding further storage space to the home. Double-glazed windows have been fitted in each residence along&nbsp;with an inbuilt split system.

Residences will be afforded with the convenience of locality to a number of shopping centres, parklands, schools, cafes, restaurants and transport when construction is completed mid 2022.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=89565]

The living spaces of Calibre are afforded with views of landscaped gardens or balconies, framed by glass sliding doors that allow interiors to flow seamlessly into outdoor spaces and create larger, family-function spaces.

Calibre

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