One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

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fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

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FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

Joel Robinson

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

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It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

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The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
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First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

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

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

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

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

Carr Design

If you're in search of an apartment in Southbank, Melbourne Square is likely on your radar. The $2.8 billion master plan precinct by OSK Property Group is making waves, with its latest stage, Boulevard, redefining urban living. In this article, we'll take you through a virtual tour, providing insights into the design, amenities, and unique features that set Boulevard apart.

&lt;p&gt;&lt;iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ALHDNjP-Oxo?si=l28q5qJV1PLi6jm-" title="YouTube video player" width="560"&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107714]

Unparalleled Design by Cox Architecture: Boulevard stands tall at 73 levels, a geometrically intricate curved building designed by Cox Architecture. This design allows numerous apartments to enjoy breathtaking, uninterrupted views of Melbourne's CBD, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Port Philip Bay. The location within Melbourne Square ensures proximity to the Arts Precinct, Flinders Station, and the South Melbourne markets.

Exquisite Interiors by Carr: OSK Property enlisted Carr, one of Melbourne's most decorated design firms, to manage the interiors. From one-bedroom apartments to the expansive options, each residence boasts beautifully restrained and timeless interior architecture. Gallery residences feature integrated Bosch appliances, while the premium Domain Collection includes Gaggenau appliances, natural stone finishes, and Toto toilets in bathrooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

Unique Loft-Style Residences: Boulevard introduces a rarity in Melbourne's real estate - loft-style residences. Crafted in collaboration between Carr and Cox Architecture, these unique offerings add a distinctive touch to Melbourne Square.

Lifestyle Beyond Living: Boulevard isn't just a place to live; it's a lifestyle. Residents benefit from Melbourne Square's established precinct, featuring a supermarket, bottle shop, restaurant, cafe, childcare center, and a vast park. The health and wellness offerings in Boulevard include a gym, a 25-meter swimming pool, spa, zen garden, golf simulator, cinema room, and more.

Sky-High Luxuries: Occupying the 55th level, The Horizon dining rooms offer unbeatable views, while the co-working space and Sky Club on levels 55 and 56 provide exclusive amenities for premium residences. Luxurious lounges, cocktail bars, private dining rooms, and additional gyms elevate the living experience to new heights.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=218319]

Smart Technology and Sustainability: Boulevard incorporates smart technology throughout, enhancing the resident experience. Designed with sustainability in mind, it's one of Australia's first residential projects pursuing WELL Pre-Certification for healthy living. Optimum access to natural light, thermal comfort, and indoor air quality are key considerations.

OSK Property Group's Legacy: Founded in 1997 in Malaysia, OSK Property Group has garnered a string of awards for its developments in both Malaysia and Australia. Melbourne Square has already received accolades, including the Best Mixed-Use Development and Best High-Rise Architecture Awards at the Asia Pacific Property Awards.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=218317]

Conclusion: Boulevard at Melbourne Square isn't just a residence; it's a lifestyle choice. With its unmatched design, top-tier amenities, and a commitment to sustainability, it sets a new standard for luxury living in Southbank. If you're considering making Boulevard your home, Urban can help you connect with OSK Property Group.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107714]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214124]

Embark on a virtual journey through luxury with our exclusive video tour of Melbourne Square's Boulevard. Discover the $2.8 billion masterpiece by OSK Property Group, where design meets lifestyle in the heart of Southbank. From the geometrically intricate architecture by Cox Architecture to the timeless interiors crafted by Carr.

Staff Writer

Discover the Luxury Living Experience at Melbourne Square's BLVD: A Comprehensive Video Tour

A new architectural landmark is set to rise above Swann Road in Indooroopilly after receiving planning approval from Brisbane City Council.

Located at 97 Swann Road, Ethereal Residences by North is a cross-studio collaboration between Rothelowman, Carr Design and Form Landscape Architects and will deliver a collection of 46 two- bedroom, two-bedroom plus multi-purpose room, and three-bedroom apartments.

The low-rise building forms are terraced down the hillside to maximise outlook, orientation and privacy, with direct street frontage to Swann Road, Burns Street and Rennie Street.

North Managing Director, Scott Ginnivan, said the vision for Ethereal Residences is to deliver an exceptional standard of architecture to Brisbane&rsquo;s inner west that celebrates its elevated position.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109830 project_image_fid=184163]

&ldquo;For Ethereal Residences, we have brought together three highly respected design houses to create a concept worthy of its premium inner west location,&rdquo; Ginnivan said.

&ldquo;The site is surrounded by low density zoning and a beautiful, quintessentially Brisbane landscape and it was important to us that final design outcome was of a scale and design that complemented the area.

&ldquo;The draped, scalloped balustrades are a key architectural feature that amplifies the sense of panorama, curating views to both the Brisbane CBD and across established, leafy suburbs towards to the Border Ranges and Mount Barney.

&ldquo;Here, large balconies provide a sense of generosity and space that feels more like a verandah on a house and enables the building to &lsquo;breathe&rsquo;.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109830 project_image_fid=184164]

Ginnivan said Brisbane&rsquo;s suburban property market has matured significantly in recent years and with this has come high expectations for design and value.

&ldquo;Good architecture is all about authenticity and creating places where people want to live,&rdquo; he said.

&ldquo;The market&rsquo;s expectations are high and there&rsquo;s a maturity and appreciation for design that wasn&rsquo;t here five years ago.

&ldquo;Ethereal Residences delivers a premium collection of residences for owner-occupiers and downsizers, with the advantages of highly considered and curated design throughout.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109830 project_image_fid=184165]

Ethereal Residences is located 2.8 kilometres from the University of Queensland, 1.4 kilometres from Indooroopilly Shopping Centre and 7.5 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD. It is also located only minutes from Ironside State School, St Peters Lutheran College, Brisbane Boys College, and Brigidine College.

Private resident amenities include a plunge pool, barbecue area and extensive landscaping.

Ethereal&nbsp; will be formally launched to the market by Colliers International in early 2022.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=109830]

North Managing Director, Scott Ginnivan, said the vision for Ethereal Residences is to deliver an exceptional standard of architecture to Brisbane’s inner west that celebrates its elevated position

Indooroopilly to welcome luxury apartment development, Ethereal Residences

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The luxury Camberwell apartment development Victoria &amp; Burke is slated to start its construction this month.

Figurehead Construction will begin building the development of just 16 apartments at 993 Burke Road in April, to plans drawn up by Carr Design.

Victoria &amp; Burke has a walk score of 94, located on the top of Camberwell hill on the corner of Burke and Victoria Road.

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The 7.3 Star Energy Rated apartments are priced from $1,395,000 for the two bedroom apartments and $2.25 million for the three bedroom apartments, with Carr Design working with buyers to amend plans if necessary.

The penthouses are priced between $4.5 million to $5.5 million - with two of the penthouses selling for $5.5 million each late last year which broke the suburb apartment price record.

Landscape architect Jack Merlo designed the 420 sqm garden around its centrepiece, a 200-year-old blue gum. It is being marketed as reminiscent of the locked gardens in London.

<a href="/buildings/victoria-burke-993-burke-road-camberwell"><img alt="" height="1041" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/victoria_and_burke_3.jpg" width="1400"></a>

Carr Design director Chris McCue says the site wrapping around the huge tree created a great opportunity to get a horizontality to the building form.

"It also means there is a large percentage of garden area, something that is quite rare and offers something completely unique to the project,” McCue added.

There are five ground level apartments each with their own outdoor courtyards, eight first-floor apartments with landscaped terraces looking out across Melbourne.

<a href="/buildings/victoria-burke-993-burke-road-camberwell"><img alt="" height="1040" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/victoria_burke_2.jpg" width="1400"></a>

Three penthouses crown the top level with never to be built out 270-degree views of the skyline. The penthouses have their own walk-in wine cellars.

Each apartment features an entertainer's kitchen at the hub, complete with a natural monolithic stone island bench, splashback and rangehood dressed in limestone. The kitchens are fitted with Gaggenau appliances and an integrated Liebherr fridge and wine fridge.

CBRE Residential are marketing the development.

 

 
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Victoria & Burke has a walk score of 94, located on the top of Camberwell hill on the corner of Burke and Victoria Road.

Construction set to begin on Camberwell's Victoria & Burke luxury apartment development

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Property developer Riverlee has today announced that Australia’s first '1 Hotel' will open at its $450 million Seafarers development on Melbourne's Northbank.  The 1 Hotel brand is part of the award-winning hotel group SH Hotels &amp; Resorts, which maintains an exemplary environmental responsibility and has already gained worldwide recognition since opening its first three hotels in the United States including, Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park in New York, and South Beach in Miami.

<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/skyline_1_bedroom_suite_living_room_1_hotel_brooklyn_bridge_new_york.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/skyline_1_bedroom_suite_living_room_1_hotel_brooklyn_bridge_new_york.jpg?itok=tl2tSJ6F" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>1 Hotel, Brooklyn Bridge, NYC. Credit: Riverlee</figcaption></figure><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/1_hotel_south_beach_miami.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1_hotel_south_beach_miami.jpg?itok=yMFvm8uK" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>1 Hotel, South Beach, Miami. Credit: Riverlee</figcaption></figure> 

<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/1_hotel_central_park_new_york.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="436" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1_hotel_central_park_new_york.jpg?itok=GygidOGR" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>1 Hotel, Central Park, NYC. Credit: Riverlee</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
“We’re excited to bring 1 Hotels to Australia, working alongside a world-class organization like Riverlee. As a mission-driven brand, we look forward to creating the finest destination in the heart of Melbourne.”

- Arash Azarbarzin, SH Hotels &amp; Resorts President
</blockquote>

Approval for Seafarers was granted <a href="/news/riverlees-seafarers-place-gains-ministerial-approval-construction-to-commence-in-2019">late last year</a>, with the plan to redevelop the Northbank Goods Shed and rejuvenate the disused industrial site. Riverlee has already <a href="/news/riverlee-restores-melbournes-last-remaining-original-electric-crane">restored the wharf and Melbourne's last-remaining original electric crane</a>, which was relocated to the eastern end of Goods Shed No. 5.

<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/1hotel1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1hotel1.jpg?itok=_Sfpw-O3" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>1 Hotel planned location. Credit: Riverlee</figcaption></figure>1 Hotel will contain 280 luxury guest rooms, designed in association with Melbourne architectural firm Fender Katsalidis. The design will integrate 1 Hotel’s international vision, blending luxury with sustainability to highlight the beauty of nature. 

The hotel will be situated on the Yarra River, with optimum viewpoints from every angle. Inside the hotel, reclaimed artefacts and playful sea-life inspired artwork are scattered throughout the property.

<blockquote>
“This includes recycled and reclaimed materials from the site restoration, as well as native greenery and industrial steel.

At Riverlee, we pride ourselves on urban renewal. We are committed to rebuilding connections between people and places by delivering a masterplanned precinct that is rich in history, adding to Melbourne’s vibrant culture.” 

- David Lee, Riverlee’s Development Director via The Hotel Conversation
</blockquote>

Guests will also be able to enjoy a premium wellness centre, 1000-seat function auditorium, exquisite lobby bar and a variety of world-class dining options.

<blockquote>
“Riverlee’s investment is great news for Victorians and will create more than 500 local jobs. Securing one of the world’s top luxury hotel operators in Victoria is a clear vote of confidence in our visitor economy, our world-class infrastructure, our exceptional local produce and retail talent.”

- Martin Pakula, Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade
</blockquote>

<a href="/news/riverlees-seafarers-place-gains-ministerial-approval-construction-to-commence-in-2019">The entire Seafarers design</a> will be undertaken by an expert team, with architecture by Fender Katsalidis, interiors by Carr Design and landscaping by Oculus. A 3,500 square metre park will be created for public use, as well as 140 luxury residences, commercial spaces, and restoration of the historic wharf and heritage-listed crane.

1 Hotel is expected to open in 2022. Follow the progress of the Seafarers development <a href="/developments/docklands-vic-3008">here</a>. 
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Olivia Round

Riverlee announces 1 Hotel for $450m ‘Seafarers’ project

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Trenerry Property Group confirmed today that construction of the ‘<a href="/buildings/west-end-185-rosslyn-street-west-melbourne">West End</a>’ lifestyle development has now commenced. Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/go-west-trenerry-to-deliver-west-end">first announced the $345m project back in 2017</a>.

<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/westend1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="392" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westend1.jpg?itok=hSquBj4L" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West End central courtyard and residents garden. Credit: Trenerry Property Group</figcaption></figure><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/westend8.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westend8.jpg?itok=ERKE6JN1" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Construction commencement ceremony Michael Lacobucci (SI Capital), Vin Sammartino (Hacer), Robert Dicintio (Trenerry), Peter Kanat (Kanat Family), William Du (Trenerry). Credit: Trenerry Property Group</figcaption></figure>West End is said to be one of Melbourne’s largest inner-city residential developments to-date and occupies a 75,000m2 site at 185 Rosslyn Street, West Melbourne. Its sought-after central location neighbours Flagstaff Gardens and is only a stone's throw from Queen Victoria Market, making what was once an industrial area, a more desirable place to live.

<blockquote>
“Imagine everything you could ever need is right at your door in a vibrant plaza, from shopping to dining to entertainment. It's the place to live the life you desire.

West End’s success can provide confidence to the market that good quality projects that deliver tangible social and retail benefits are still selling well and attracting interest from major funding providers.

This is a landmark project that will offer unparalleled levels of amenity and design excellence so close to Melbourne’s CBD.” 
</blockquote>

- Robert Dicintio, Trenerry Property Group’s director

The Smorgon family, Kanat family and Trenerry Property Group will back the project, and real estate investment manager Qualitas has agreed to provide the senior debt facility of $250m for the construction.

<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/westend7_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="305" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westend7_0.jpg?itok=xhdDGcQS" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>' Adderley'. Credit: Trenerry Property Group</figcaption></figure>The development will feature five striking buildings totalling the approximate size of the MCG oval. Trenerry Property Group has employed a collection of award-winning architects including Hecker Guthrie, Carr Design, Mim Design and Six Degrees, with CHT Architects leading the way as principal architect across all developments.

Overall, West End will comprise 377 apartments, 99 Adina-operated hotel rooms, as well as 6,000m2 of retail and commercial space. Residents amenities will feature multiple landscaped gardens, three pools, gym, spa, wine cellar and boutique cinema. The Adina-branded hotel facilities will also be available to West End residents to use at their leisure. 

<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/westend3_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/westend3_0.jpg?itok=9xMiElS6" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>'The Spencer'. Credit: Trenerry Property Group</figcaption></figure>In addition to the amenities on offer, residential and commercial spaces will include: 

<ul>
<li>Medical facilities including GP clinic, physiotherapy, pathology and radiology</li>
	<li>IGA supermarket</li>
	<li>500m2 park (to be owned by the City of Melbourne</li>
	<li>Shopping complex</li>
	<li>Childcare centre</li>
	<li>Bars, restaurants and cafes</li>
	<li>Day spa</li>
</ul>
Anticipated completion of the project is late 2020 with apartments prices ranging from $425,000 to $6m.
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Melbourne’s largest inner-city apartment ‘West End’ commences construction

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A joint venture between developers <a href="/developers/landream">Landream</a> &amp; <a href="/developers/v-leader">V-Leader</a> has been in the works since 2017 when they obtained the use of event venue, The Brighton International. Their plan to produce 59 high-end apartments at 81 Bay Street was granted approval by the Bayside City Council, which means apartments will be on the market from Spring 2019.

<a href="/architects/carr-design">Carr Design</a> (who recently completed multi-residential designs for <a href="http://www.carr.net.au/portfolio/131-residences/">131 Residences South Yarra</a> and the interiors of <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">Australia 108</a>) has been engaged to design the structure as well as interiors, while Tract Consultants will be creating the outdoor environment.

The 4,100 sqm site will see a new five-story development take shape later this year, without disruption to any scheduled events up until the 30th June 2019.

<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/81_bay_street.png" rel="gallery-all" title="81 Bay Street Planning Image. Image: Carr Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="281" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/81_bay_street.png?itok=PM0ATXI5" title="81 Bay Street Planning Image. Image: Carr Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>81 Bay Street Planning Image. Image: Carr Design</figcaption></figure>Situated in the heart of <a href="/new-apartments/brighton-vic-3186">Brighton</a>, the luxury suites will feature stunning bay and city views, a wine cellar, multi-level basement car park, communal lounge, corporate meeting rooms, private dining facilities and a rooftop entertaining area. The development will also be adding to Brighton’s dining scene with a new cafe planned to open on Bay Street.

<blockquote>
“Brighton has long been a sought after location, holding such a rich heritage in the local Bayside community. 81 Bay Street will become an exclusive club only for a fortunate few offering an international level of design and liveability.”

- Henry Burbury, CBRE Director of Residential Projects Victoria.
</blockquote>

Landream recently sold-out <a href="/buildings/opera-residences-71-macquarie-street-sydney">Opera Residences</a> at $532 million which is currently under construction. It is also developing the <a href="/buildings/582-606-collins-street-melbourne">Residences at Mandarin Oriental at 600 Collins Street</a>, designed by <a href="/architects/zaha-hadid-architects">Zaha Hadid Architects</a> and <a href="/architects/plus-architecture">Plus Architecture</a>, which is scheduled to open in 2023.

Meanwhile, V-Leader’s $50 million <a href="/new-apartments/prahran-vic-3181">Prahran</a> development, <a href="/developments/sydney-nsw-2000">No. 6 Sydney Street</a> (designed by Wood Marsh) will be launched to the market via Jellis Craig soon.

<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/600c_6sydney.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="L-R: 600 Collins Street | No.6 Sydney Street. Images: Landream | Third Aesthetic"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="251" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/600c_6sydney.jpg?itok=vhA-OFgx" title="L-R: 600 Collins Street | No.6 Sydney Street. Images: Landream | Third Aesthetic" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>L-R: 600 Collins Street | No.6 Sydney Street. Images: Landream | Third Aesthetic</figcaption></figure>
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