The final apartments in the most recently completed new development in Balwyn present some of the largest and most exclusive ever delivered in one of Melbourne’s most established and character-rich neighbourhoods.

Boutique developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wulff-projects">Wulff Projects</a>,&nbsp;alongside partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pga-group">PGA Group</a>, has just finished <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/threadneedle-balwyn-1-5-threadneedle-street-balwyn-vic-3103">Threadneedle</a>, 17 home-sized residences designed completely for the owner-occupier.

Named after its location on Threadneedle Street, the new project has been shaped by the heritage fabric of Balwyn. It offers two low-rise buildings of eight and nine apartments respectively, designed to emulate traditional standalone homes.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355582]

John Scaramuzzino, Director at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, explains the design intention.

“Given the quiet residential character of the street with many homes dating back to the 1930s and 1940s, we approached Threadneedle wanting to appear less as a collection of apartments and more as a traditional residence. This led to creating not one but two buildings that could “breathe” with larger garden-based apartments functioning more like small homes.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355605]

The north-facing residences are nestled among extensive landscaped gardens by Ben Scott Garden Design, with over one-third of the site dedicated to greenery. The resulting setting is one of calm seclusion, where architecture and landscape work in tandem to offer immediate liveability.

With construction now complete, the final apartments include a top-floor, single-level penthouse residence priced from $2.8 million. This home offers three bedrooms, a dedicated study, two bathrooms plus powder room, and three car spaces with an oversized storage room.&nbsp;

Interiors prioritise spatial comfort and natural light, with three-metre-high ceilings, oversized internal doors and a full-width terrace oriented to the north, east and west.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355604]

Floor-to-ceiling double-glazed windows ensure thermal performance across seasons, supported by automated external blinds, zoned heating and cooling, and a fireplace for added ambiance.

Each apartment has been individually designed to maximise privacy and garden outlooks. Kitchens combine refined finishes with practical considerations: stone benchtops, butler’s pantry, full-height joinery and concealed rangehoods.&nbsp;

The inclusion of dedicated home offices responds to contemporary living patterns, while bathrooms feature sculptural bathtubs and brushed nickel fixtures.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355590]

Threadneedle also integrates best-practice sustainability measures, achieving a 7 Star average NatHERS rating. Initiatives include solar PV systems, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and irrigation, and high-performing building insulation. These elements enhance daily comfort while reducing ongoing maintenance and energy demand.

"We believe Threadneedle sets a new standard of design excellence and building quality for Balwyn,"&nbsp;Scaramuzzino added.

"It’s an architectural response we’re particularly proud of, and one we’re sure residents will be equally proud to call home."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=27816]

Staff Writer

Final homes remaining as Threadneedle, Balwyn completes construction

Joel Robinson

Sydney's top 15 new apartments developments set to launch in 2026

Developer-builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dasco-australia">DASCO</a> has pushed beyond the now-standard inclusions of rooftop pools and landscaped podiums at its recently launched new Epping project, Senso.

It has laid out over 4,000 sqm of resident-only amenity in a move designed to compete directly with low-density housing on livability, not just density. The result is a development that supports genuine daily use through purposeful spaces distributed across its five-building, 479-apartment precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4396]

Two rooftop pools form the anchor of Senso. One is a 27-metre lap pool adjoining a heated spa, designed for everyday fitness rather than just summer leisure. The second sits on a lower podium, allowing different buildings to share in vertical access and reducing crowding during peak times.

It is the secondary spaces that start to distinguish Senso from other large-scale suburban projects. A rooftop cinema is integrated into a landscaped terrace, offering open-air screenings with natural ventilation and passive cooling.&nbsp;

The inclusion of a “sensory walk”, an elevated boardwalk that threads through the site, suggests a rare investment in non-commercial, non-essential amenity: space for quiet movement that doesn’t double as access or traffic circulation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4402]

The gym and wellness centre, often relegated to a small ground-floor room in many builds, takes on more substance here. Residents have access to a fully equipped gym, as well as outdoor yoga areas and meditative zones that integrate greenery and natural light.&nbsp;

The Club Lounge is similarly designed to support multiple use cases, with a private dining terrace, kitchenette, workspace, and lockable wine storage. These aren’t superficial additions; their scale and spatial allocation indicate serious intent for frequent resident use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4391]

Importantly, Senso’s amenities are embedded within a site that spans more than 10,000 sqm, allowing for better separation between spaces and reduced noise spillover, a critical but often overlooked factor in high-density developments. This spatial generosity also enables multiple alfresco kitchens and communal terraces without compromising individual privacy or usable space.

While many developments make claims about lifestyle, few back it with this level of built infrastructure. Senso’s mix of dedicated fitness, wellness, social and passive green spaces suggests a conscious response to the post-pandemic shift in housing expectations, especially among owner-occupiers.&nbsp;

DASCO is one of several leading developers who have taken out Resilience Insurance's Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing buyers with a 10-year structural and waterproofing warranty, and giving them the ultimate peace of mind.

Senso is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134954]

The outdoor amenities elevating life at Senso, Epping

Following the proposal by the Minns Labor Government to rezone Parramatta Road to create up to 8,000 new homes, prominent developer Ceerose has gone to the NSW Gov to increase the density of its new mixed-use residential building in Leichhardt.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/ceerose">Ceerose</a>, founded by Edward Doueihi nearly three decades ago, has filed plans for 154 apartments above ground-floor retail at 307-315 Parramatta Road, a key corner site near Norton Street, the main high street strip in Leichhardt.

It's an upsize from the previously approved scheme of 63 apartments across a seven-storey building.

<img alt="Ceerose" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba1ae75b-5f08-43fb-b8d5-3de6d9f6ef71" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-04%20at%2010.31.39%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=yA3hBBLPH4ev7MsAE0_hieXeqiFqBUb7" />

The project is being advanced through the State Significant Development (SSD) pathway, with concurrent rezoning sought to facilitate the proposal. The 10-storey development would rise over a four-level basement and deliver two retail tenancies, one a larger-format offering and the other a smaller “hole in the wall” space, addressing the Parramatta Road frontage. 21 of the apartments are dedicated as affordable housing.

According to the Urban Design Report by Architecture AND, the scheme includes a podium and tower configuration, with a fine-grain, two-storey parapet street wall that references the traditional shopfront rhythm along the corridor. “An elegant tower form is proposed, combined with a characterful two storey frontage... articulating it as two related buildings, providing consistency with the rhythm and grain of Parramatta Road,” the report notes.

The residential component is split across two slender towers set back from the street edge, a design move aimed at preserving solar access and reducing perceived bulk. This massing strategy also seeks to improve residential amenity by focusing scale toward the quieter northern interface, away from Parramatta Road’s noise and pollution.

<img alt="Ceerose" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="347f2f8f-5d36-4388-b40a-2e77380b9c19" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-04%20at%2010.31.02%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=xvyUE2ujT1lzivXTo.mHBJFF4SmfgLtz" />

Architecture AND has worked with Ceerose on previous Inner West projects, and cites a deep familiarity with the local character. Their design draws heavily on context, heritage, and sunlight access considerations, and engages with the Inner West Council’s “Our Fairer Future” strategic planning framework.

The site spans 2,712 sqm and is located near key intersections with Catherine Street, Hay Street, and Redmond Street. It adjoins a public carpark to the north and is within walking distance of Stanmore and Petersham stations. It is also flagged in state and local planning strategies, including the Parramatta Road Corridor Urban Transformation Strategy, as a suitable candidate for increased density.

Ceerose recently completed The Alex Collective on McEvoy Street in Alexandria, Abbie's Lane in Annandale, and the award-winning Munro House in Elizabeth Bay.

The Parramatta Road corridor is coming to life with the proposed rezoning which is serviced by a significant number of bus, light rail and train routes.

Deicorp is progressing with its $1.8 billion <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kings-bay-village-five-dock-53-75-queens-road-five-dock-nsw-2046">Kings Bay Village</a> precinct on Parramatta Road in Five Dock, as is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/toga-to-push-on-with-five-dock-mixed-use-masterplan">TOGA further down the street</a>. Those two projects alone will bring nearly 2,000 new homes to Parramatta Road.

First look: Ceerose plots mixed-use Leichhardt development on Parramatta Road

North Sydney's landmark 'SBS Building' on Alfred Street is set to be demolished to make way for a new mixed-use residential tower in the booming North Sydney.

Commercial property group FiveX is behind the plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/275-alfred-street-north-north-sydney-nsw-2060">39-storey tower</a>, the latest project to advance under the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

They are proposing 184 apartments above retail spaces, which will replace the existing 20-storey commercial building. FiveX was set up more than five decades ago by Joshua and Marko Berger. It is currently led by Joshua's son Lesli.&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower at 275 Alfred Street, North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2efa0980-53fa-4cca-9f9e-9c3c845d4746" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29%20%281%29_0.png?VersionId=y_YyPMq3NQLfYRs84pP4os9UgWiMLp75" />

According to the Architectural Design Report by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fjc-studio">FJC Studio</a>, the slender tower form has been deliberately designed to respect the site's transitional setting at the southern gateway to the North Sydney CBD, where high-rise towers give way to lower-scale residential precincts.

"The slender tower form and articulated podium establish a respectful relationship with nearby heritage and low rise buildings, including the Whaling Road Heritage Conservation Area,” the architecture firm noted, adding that the tower “completes a missing link in the urban fabric” while enhancing the Alfred Street streetscape.

The proposed building will include a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, with 15 percent of the gross residential floor area allocated as affordable housing. There is an agreement already in place that those apartments will be managed by Evolve Housing.

The project aligns with broader state housing objectives, including the National Housing Accord target of delivering 1.2 million new homes by 2029. The Scoping Report filed with the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) suggests the site "presents no impediments to rapid delivery,” with construction able to commence within 12 months of receiving consent.

North Sydney has been one of the most popular suburbs in Sydney for new and off the plan apartment development, but hasn't had the supply to keep up with demand, until recently.

AURA by Aqualand was, for a long time, the only off the plan apartment building on the market. That completed last year, and has sold the majority of its 386 luxury apartments. Recently ALAND launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-173-179-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> on the same street, selling over $100 million within just a few hours of its launch, while developer CASA also launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-mclaren-north-sydney-45-mclaren-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The McLaren</a>&nbsp;in the same precinct.

First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower in booming North Sydney

Chapel Street

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The redevelopment of the Jam Factory on Chapel Street will now include between 550 and 650 apartments after Gurner and Qualitas have bought into Newmark Capital’s $1.4 billion redevelopment.

The Gurner-Qualitas partnership will reportedly tip in about $75 million of equity.

The partnership will acquire part-ownership of the iconic site, with the project to be jointly developed with Newmark.

Construction is expected to be completed in 2025 if works start next year.

Chapel Street’s forlorn Jam Factory was acquired by Newmark, led by Chris Langford and Simon Morris, for about $165 million in 2015 from Challenger.

Newmark's sale will see less commercial office space, and a 170 room hotel, in the proposal that updates the 20,000 square metre mall at 500 Chapel Street.

Langford told Nine Entertainment the project would reinvigorate the Chapel Street precinct.

"We have a strong belief in the area and the economy,” he said.

Newmark will retain the retail centre and new office tower, while Gurner and Qualitas will acquire the hotel portion along with having a share in the profits and revenues stemming from the apartments sales.

Mark Fischer, the global head of real estate at Qualitas, told Nine the real estate fundamentals of the location were “indisputable”.

“The deal provides the opportunity to bring together great real estate, nimble large-scale capital, and market-leading development capabilities,” he said.

The latest residential projects on Chapel St include 661 Chapel with 116 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across 30 floors at the Yarra River end of the strip.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=600]

Gamuda Land’s 661 Chapel Street enjoys views of the river and Melbourne CBD.

The architecture firm, Bird de la Coeur, designed the compex winning the 2019 Good Design Awards in the category of commercial and residential architectural design.
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The redevelopment of the forlorn Jam Factory on Chapel Street will now include between 550 and 650 apartments

jchancellor

Chapel Street gets fillip from Gurner with Jam Factor renaissance

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661 Chapel Street in South Yarra is the first Australian project of the Malaysian-based developer Gamuda Land.

Completed ahead of schedule in 2018, 661 Chapel comprises 116 one, two, three and four bedroom apartments across 30 levels and was designed by local architecture firm Bird de le Coeur.

Located in the heart of one of Melbourne's most vibrant suburbs, there's plenty to enjoy in and around 661 Chapel. 

Urban took a look at some of the best amenities on offer on the iconic Chapel street and its surrounds.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=600]

Situated beside the Yarra River, 661 Chapel Street enjoys views of the river, Melbourne CBD and the Bay.

Its close proximity to Melbourne’s CBD, parklands and elite shopping precincts make it the ideal residence for young professionals and downsizers looking to capitalise on convenience and style.

Famed for for its chic boutiques, haute-couture labels, world-class restaurants and quaint cafes, Chapel Street is not limited to just such. For the artistically minded peruse galleries and bookstores among myriad other visual delights.

Among the famed eateries is Miss Chu, Two Birds One Stone, Hawker Hall and Top Paddock, with wait times of over 30 minutes at their peak, you won't want to miss out. 

<a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra"><img alt="" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661_chapel_surrounds.jpg" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;"></a>

Among its extensive hotel-inspired resident amenity, 661 Chapel Street boasts a concierge, gym, winter garden and members’ lounge.

The mindfully designed community spaces placed within the development include a grand library in the lobby, the lounges and cinema at level 6, private dining rooms as well as a wine room. In a lockdown, these community spaces provide extra convenience for residents to work-near-home without having to leave the development.

But that’s not all, a 25-metre pool is cantilevered six levels above the streetscape, rivalling the neighbouring hotel pool at The Olsen and a grand library offers residents the opportunity to tuck away in their own home.

All these amenities are available from $546,000, the price of a one-bedroom, one-bathroom residence in the building.

<a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra"><img alt="" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661_pool.jpg" style="width: 580px; height: 538px;"></a>

With a tram stop at your doorstop, it's a short trip to South Yarra Station and from there the CBD is at your fingertips.

661 Chapel is adjacent to Melbourne High School and short distance from either Richmond Primary School or St Michael’s Grammar School, to name just a few educational institutions on offer.

Experience tranquility in nature or with the family, a short drive or walk away are Como Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, Fawkner Park and Albert Park Lake.

<a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra"><img alt="" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/661_lobby.jpg" style="width: 580px; height: 387px;"></a>

Setting new benchmarks for luxury in Victoria, Gamuda Land’s Chapel Street project presents buyers with the rare opportunity to combine two apartments to create a single, large residence.

Some residents have already claimed entire floors within the complex, creating “super residences” in the sky.
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Urban took a look at some of the best amenities on offer in South Yarra's iconic Chapel street, just a stroll from 661 Chapel

jordan_55689

Get to know Chapel Street: Great eateries, retail and parks within walking distance from 661 Chapel

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In this week's podcast I catch up with Stonnington Mayor Cr Steve Stefanopoulos to discuss the changes afoot along this retail high street and surrounds, which follows on from Apartments.com.au's piece on <a href="/news/the-changing-face-of-chapel-street-south-yarra">'The Changing Face of Chapel Street'</a>.

Cr Stefanopoulos outlines the $1 billion worth of public and private investment underway and soon to begin within the Chapel Street Precinct, and the importance of Council working closely with the development industry to achieve good outcomes for the community.

Council projects include the recently completed Greville Street streetscape improvement (with further works to come), substantial upgrade of Prahran Town hall and Library, the <a href="/news/construction-commences-on-one-of-2018s-most-significant-projects">10,000 sqm Cato Square project</a>, and the <a href="/news/princes-gardens-upgrade-adds-to-prahrans-public-realm-project-pipeline">upgrade of Princes Gardens</a> amongst others.

Cr Stefanopoulos also highlights projects such as the <a href="/new-apartments/500-chapel-street-south-yarra">Jam Factory redevelopment</a> which will feature commercial office space supported by retail offerings, and the <a href="/new-apartments/402-416-chapel-street-south-yarra">Aloft Hotel</a> as really adding to the Precinct's diversity.

A summary of projects within the City of Stonnington is illustrated in Apartments.com.au's development map below;

<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Stonnington%20%28City%29&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/498867348&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=true&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true&amp;visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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Laurence Dragomir

Weekly Podcast: Episode 31 - City of Stonnington Mayor Cr Steve Stefanopoulos

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Following on from Apartments.com.au's in-depth look at the <a href="/news/the-rise-and-rise-of-melbournes-spencer-street">development activity along Spencer Street</a> on the edge of Melbourne's CBD, today we turn our attention to the development shaping one of Melbourne's renowned High Streets - Chapel Street.

The street which stretches through South Yarra, Prahran and Windsor before crossing Dandenong Road into St Kilda, has been previously characterised as a retail strip, but has struggled in recent years due to high rent sought by landlords which has in turn had an impact on the street's liveliness.

According to Stonnington Mayor, Councillor Steve Stefanopoulos, the City of Stonnington is excited about the private and public capital investment being injected into the Chapel Street precinct.

Chapel Street is currently undergoing massive growth and change, he says, with the State Government having commenced construction of the eastern portal of the Metro Tunnel. Redevelopment of the entrance to South Yarra Station (the busiest outside the CBD) and the construction of accessible trams stops out the front, will hopefully commence in the new year.

The South Yarra section of Chapel Street in particular has started to evolve with a more diverse mix of retail offerings and further introduction of food and beverage outlets. The construction slated over the next 3 years will have further impact on the street in the short term but will ultimately enhance and contribute to the street's vibrancy in the long term, according to Beller Commercial's Fred Nucara.

The projects which are due to have the greatest impact on the streetscape are highlighted below:

<h2>Capitol Grand </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/capitol_grand_redden_aug18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Capitol Grand beginning to make its mark on the corner of Chapel St and Toorak Rd. Images: Bates Smart | Urban member redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="264" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/capitol_grand_redden_aug18.jpg?itok=vHdqHT21" title="Capitol Grand beginning to make its mark on the corner of Chapel St and Toorak Rd. Images: Bates Smart | Urban member redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Capitol Grand beginning to make its mark on the corner of Chapel St and Toorak Rd. Images: Bates Smart | Urban member redden</figcaption></figure>LK Property's towering edifice is beginning to take shape on the corner of Chapel Street and Toorak Road, with the development's sinuous forms beginning to emerge from behind the construction screens as the first traces of glazing also begin to appear. After months in the ground constructing the basement levels, head contractor Multiplex is now well above the street on the dual tower development which will top pot at 50 and 10-storeys respectively.

<blockquote>
The 180m residential tower brings together three elliptical forms, ensuring that light and shadows play across its surface. The design creates an elegant, slender composition of dynamic character, changing with one’s viewpoint and the weather. The tower top is expressed differently by reducing the mass to create a unique iconic tower worthy of its landmark location.

- Bates Smart
</blockquote>

<h2>627 Chapel Street </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/627_chapel_before_and_after.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Before &amp; after - 627 Chapel Street. Images: Melbourne Acquisition | COX Architecture "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/627_chapel_before_and_after.jpg?itok=Irp42uPv" title="Before &amp; after - 627 Chapel Street. Images: Melbourne Acquisition | COX Architecture " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Before &amp; after - 627 Chapel Street. Images: Melbourne Acquisition | COX Architecture</figcaption></figure>Currently at planning, the 24-storey COX Architecture-designed office building would replace the current office building which was sold by Fridcorp to Goldfields in December last year.

Should it receive approval in its current guise, 627 Chapel street would rise to a height of 89m and provide a '3d ground plaza' setback from Chapel Street. 

<blockquote>
The design proposal for 627 Chapel Street takes the opportunity to make the most of this unique island site in Forrest Hill.

A 3m setback pushes the building back from Chapel Street, this allows for greater public space at street level and ensures that the Capitol remains visible on approach. The podium is defined by the green landscaped arbor - a permeable screen that wraps the building and connects through to the Daly Street landscaped street

- COX Architecture
</blockquote>

<h2>Jam Factory </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/newm9968jam-factory-stage-2ia01main-square.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the Jam Factory's main square. Image: Floodslicer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/newm9968jam-factory-stage-2ia01main-square.jpg?itok=183sbNDq" title="Artist's impression of the Jam Factory's main square. Image: Floodslicer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the Jam Factory's main square. Image: Floodslicer</figcaption></figure>Owner of the Jam Factory, Newmark Capital is free to proceed with its substantial redevelopment of the landmark site receiving planning approval. Under the approved plans prepared by Bates Smart, the landmark South Yarra site will be transformed it into a significant commercial hub supported by a network of retail laneways.

According to Bates Smart, the vision for the Jam Factory redevelopment is for a highly permeable site that is an extension of the local context.

<blockquote>
An ensemble of buildings will embody and reflect the site’s rich character, establishing a new commercial workplace, but also creating an activated space where the public can enjoy a variety of new hospitality venues.

The redevelopment has been designed to be open and inviting and will deliver a new elevated public realm for the community to enjoy. The precinct’s character provided inspiration for the design.

The existing materiality of the Jam Factory is characterised by solid, authentic materials and industrial rawness. The new façade will reflect the factory typology and structured design language. The public realm on the ground floor will incorporate laneways and a central courtyard and will act as an extension of the urban context and street network.

- Bates Smart
</blockquote>

<h2>671 Chapel Street</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/671_chapel_street.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="671 Chapel Street has approval in hand. Image: Architecton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/671_chapel_street.jpg?itok=tfKzVRCI" title="671 Chapel Street has approval in hand. Image: Architecton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>671 Chapel Street has approval in hand. Image: Architecton</figcaption></figure>Amended plans for a 21-storey residential tower at 671 Chapel Street were approved earlier this year, permitting 158 dwellings to be built replacing a single storey building.

The original application lodged with City of Stonnington during 2015 sought approval for a 30-storey building comprising 352 apartments, at an average of 12 apartments per floor. 

<h2>Esque - 649 Chapel Street</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/image10_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site works are currently underway at Esque. Images: Valeo Construction | Mark Baljak"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="280" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_18.jpg?itok=nas5uwlg" title="Site works are currently underway at Esque. Images: Valeo Construction | Mark Baljak" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Site works are currently underway at Esque. Images: Valeo Construction | Mark Baljak</figcaption></figure>Bulk excavation and piling works commenced onsite in January of this year that will ultimately deliver 72 apartments across 20 floors on a narrow site along the northern reaches of Chapel Street.

Valeo Construction is at the helm of the Fender Katalidis-designed tower for developer Mitraland, with the core set to grace the South Yarra streetscape by year's end.

<h2>Aloft - 402-416 Chapel Street</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/aloft_streetview.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Aloft hotel will change the Chapel Street streetscape. Image: Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="308" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/aloft_streetview.jpg?itok=njyelKgC" title="The Aloft hotel will change the Chapel Street streetscape. Image: Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Aloft hotel will change the Chapel Street streetscape. Image: Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide</figcaption></figure>The stage is set for Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide to debut its Aloft brand in Melbourne, following the demolition and site clearing works in preparation of builder Crema Constructions taking occupation and commencing construction works on the 176-room hotel.

The hotel will anchor a mixed-use development located at 402 Chapel Street designed by international architect Tim Kobe of Eight Inc.

<h2>430-438 Chapel Street</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/430-438_chapel_street.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="430-438 Chapel Street will replace the 'huts' site in South Yarra. Image: Franze Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/430-438_chapel_street.jpg?itok=tr3FEcwJ" title="430-438 Chapel Street will replace the 'huts' site in South Yarra. Image: Franze Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>430-438 Chapel Street will replace the 'huts' site in South Yarra. Image: Franze Developments</figcaption></figure>Franze Developments' joint venture with development partner Sampieri Group would see South Yarra's 'huts' site transformed into an 8-storey mixed-use development designed by Jackson Clements Burrows.

The $55 million project will include the retention of the heritage facade on site, while also providing a new pocket park on Bray Street designed by Aspect Studios incorporating water sensitive design

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
We have developed a structure plan for the precinct entitled Chapel ReVision, which guides future development of the largest commercial precinct outside the CBD.

Council is also investing over $60m in its largest capital project in 160 years, converting the 10,000sqm car park behind Chapel Street, Prahran into a contemporary European-style plaza due to open in mid 2019.

- Cr Steve Stefanopoulos, Mayor of Stonnington
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Chapel Street is at the bottom of a bell curve at the moment. These major developments within the precinct are detracting from the usual vibrancy, because of the inconvenience, noise and distraction of the construction.

On a positive note, these major infrastructure investments are scheduled for completion in 2019 and 2020.

- Fred Nucara, Director Beller Commercial
</blockquote>

For a full recap from Beller Commercial's Fred Nucara listen to our <a href="/guides/chapel-street-podcast-on-the-phone-with-beller-commercials-fred-nucara">podcast interview</a>.

Lead image: Jam Factory Redevelopment Bates Smart/Floodslicer
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The changing face of Chapel Street, South Yarra

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The new owners of 627 Chapel Street South Yarra, Goldfields, are progressing with plans for a 24-storey commercial building on the site, after previous owners' Fridcorp's plans to develop an Elenberg Fraser-designed residential tower were quashed at VCAT.

<a href="/news/street-to-stalk-627-chapel-street-walks-the-walk">First covered on Urban.com.au in 2016</a>, the 37-storey residential tower was proposed to rise to a height of 127.5m (including roof plant) and provide space for cafes, offices and 372 apartments.

Goldfields, who acquired the site in December 2017, have since engaged COX Architecture to design the 89m building, which would replace the existing office building of 5,600 sqm and provide the City of Stonnington with a benchmark commercial office development.

The brief that Goldfields gave to their consultant team was concise; 

<blockquote>
We wanted to respond positively and sympathetically to the reasons why Stonnington and the tribunal members at VCAT had rejected the previous proposal.

We identified the site's commercial and retail capabilities and ultimately realised we had a unique opportunity to deliver a building that could realistically be classified as the best office building outside the Melbourne CBD.

Together we then set the team a challenge to create a beautifully designed building that will encourage interaction with the streetscape at pedestrian level whilst still looking, feeling and functioning like a premium grade office building.

- Lachlan Thompson, Goldfields COO
</blockquote>

Speaking with COX Architecture, the design team made it clear that flexible commercial office accommodation above a strong active street edge was paramount in delivering a building which would not only add to the streetscape but also provide the Forrest Hill precinct with the diversity of programme expected. 

In attempting to achieve as much active frontage as possible, COX employed a different approach to where an entry lobby would typically be located. Instead of locating it along the Chapel Street frontage, the design team located the entry lobby off Daly Street, freeing up Chapel Street with more active and engaging uses for pedestrians meandering along the busy high street.

This also gives the building greater prominence as a "gateway site" linking back to South Yarra Station and improving the permeability of the surrounding street network.

This first 12m of street wall, emphasises COX, was one of the most critical aspirations for the project in how it responded to and enriched the pedestrian environment. This resulted in what the team termed a "3D ground plaza" whereby the end-of-trip facilities were elevated to level 1 alongside further retail opportunities, extending the activity from the street vertically not just horizontally to the street. 

Moving up, the design of the tower responds to Goldfield Group's brief for a pure office building that responds and challenges to the nature of workplace design, creating an office environment based on the ideas of amenity and lifestyle.

The office tower employs a side core configuration providing an ideal floor plate for tenants that allows them flexibility in how they fit-out and occupy the space(s).

To reduce the mass of the tower, the architects have provided the form with strong vertically articulated breaks across its height, complemented by vertical glazed fins which provide solar shading not too dissimilar to COX's Conservatory project in the CBD. 

This is further supported by landscaping voids which not only provide the built form with further articulation but extend the arbour screen from the ground up the building.

According to the design team, these "breaks" provide dynamic spaces which make a positive contribution of the amenity of the workplace, allowing workers to better connect with nature.

<blockquote>
The design proposal for 627 Chapel Street takes the opportunity to make the most of this unique island site in Forrest Hill.

A 3m setback pushes the building back from Chapel Street, this allows for greater public space at street level and ensures that the Capitol remains visible on approach. The podium is defined by the green landscaped arbor - a permeable screen that wraps the building and connects through to the Daly Street landscaped street.

Each elevation has been split by a vertical break, providing a series of slender volumes, breaking down the building mass. Further interest on the facade is generated through the implementation of fins for solar shading (East, North and West facades).

Terraced gardens provide natural setbacks at 50m and towards the top of the building a series of roof terraces and a green roof that provide new workplace amenity.

- COX Architecture Design Response
</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/27_-_hero_chapel_and_daly.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="627 Chapel Street in-situ. Planning Image: COX Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="692" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/27_-_hero_chapel_and_daly.jpg?itok=NPPiv8Ti" title="627 Chapel Street in-situ. Planning Image: COX Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>627 Chapel Street in-situ. Planning Image: COX Architecture</figcaption></figure>Alongside end-of-trip facilities which provide above and beyond the number of bikes required under local policy, the 1,510 square metre island site benefits from its close proximity to South Yarra Station and tram corridors along Chapel Street and Toorak Road.

This is not dissimilar to other emerging commercial precincts in Cremorne, Collingwood and Richmond which benefit from strong public transport links and good walkability.
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Goldfields and COX reboot 627 Chapel Street

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A host of planned ‘new arrival’ developments in Chapel Street will help to revive the retail strip, according to Director of Beller Commercial, Fred Nucara.

Every year, Beller Commercial conducts retail strip research: a manual foot walk and count of shop vacancies. From this unique research, Beller has a clear view on the changing fortunes of Melbourne’s various “high streets”.

Chapel Street is divided into three precincts: South Yarra, Prahran and Windsor. Whilst Windsor is now a pumping food and hospitality destination, Prahran and South Yarra sadly present a different story with a record number of vacancies, 17 in South Yarra and 24 in Prahran.

Fred took time out of his schedule to have a chat with me via phone as we discussed some of the factors that are currently impacting the strip now and into the future. 

<blockquote>
Chapel Street is at the bottom of a bell curve at the moment. These major developments within the precinct are detracting from the usual vibrancy, because of the inconvenience, noise and distraction of the construction.

On a positive note, these major infrastructure investments are scheduled for completion in 2019 and 2020.

- Fred Nucara
</blockquote>

For more, listen below:

<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/445161288&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=false&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true&amp;visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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Chapel Street Podcast: On the phone with Beller Commercial's Fred Nucara 

<html><body>
Franzé Developments and Sampieri Group have submitted approval to transform the Chapel Street huts site near the Temperance Hotel into a $55 million mixed-use development.
The site at 430-438 Chapel Street in South Yarra is around 800 square metres in size and was purchased off market in late 2017.
The joint venture proposal includes a pocket park in Bray Street.
The proposed project has been designed to provide amenity to residents and the immediate community through its ground level activation on both Chapel Street and Bray Street.
Designed by ASPECT Studios, the proposed pocket park on Bray Street is intended to be a functional and flexible public space with seating, green infrastructure and a water sensitive design, ideal for community and potential food and beverage use.
Paul Franzé, founder and managing director of Franzé Developments, says the proposed design will provide an engaging contribution to the iconic shopping and dining mecca for years to come.
“This project will form an important part of the ongoing development of the Chapel Street precinct which is going through vital progression and change with the recent announcements regarding the redevelopment of the Jam Factory and former Spotlight sites,” says Franzé.
“The site has the benefits of two significantly different streetscapes which make it a really exciting project. The Chapel Street interface will provide a more traditional retail and food and beverage offering, aiming to attract premium tenants which will help improve the overall quality of the pedestrian experience and promote further patronage.”
The retention of the heritage façade to the northwest of the site has provided an opportunity to distinguish two unique retail tenancies and the podium façade has taken design cues from neighboring buildings, responding to the visual language of the streetscape.
A five-level podium to Bray Street hugs the tower form, creating the illusion of three interlocking components and the soft and monochromatic façade is a considered and sensitive transition between the neighbouring contemporary and traditional structures.
The project is anticipated to launch in late 2018, with construction scheduled to commence shortly after.
For more information <a href="http://www.franzedevelopments.com.au" target="_blank">click here.</a>
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

South Yarra's Chapel Street hut site set for conversion

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A retail and residential investment opportunity on one of Melbourne's prime retail strips in Windsor has been listed for sale.
The <a href="http://www.teskacarson.com.au/property.cfm?propertyID=3242486&amp;realestate=124_Chapel_Street_WINDSOR_VIC_3181" target="_blank">Chapel Street property</a> is located on the eastern side of the street, on the corner of Duke Street.
Spread over two levels, the renovated building has a ground level retail shop and a first floor two bedroom apartment with separate entrance.
The property has six metre frontage to Chapel Street and 16 metres to Duke Street.
It comes leased to two tenant, including a new five year lease to the ground floor tenant, Windsor Bar &amp; Bistro. The lease yields $106,284 per annum.
Teksa Carson agents George Takis and Michael Ludski are marketing the commercial investment for a December 14 auction.
They said the property presents an exceptional opportunity for investors to acquire a securely leased asset situated on one of Melbourne’s premier retail strips.
"Chapel Street is arguably Melbourne’s premier retail strip and home to national and international designers along with a wide range of hospitality operators," Takis said.
"This particular precinct of Chapel Street has seen a major upsurge in popularity due to its eclectic style and first rate tenancy profile,’’ Mr Takis said.
"Rarely do properties of this calibre become available in what is a very tightly held and very popular retail strip."
Chapel Street is home to a mix of food and fashion retailers, an abundance of lifestyle amenities and high-end residential developments.
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Chapel Street investment with five year lease for sale

<html><body>
Chapel Street commercial property sales increased in the last three months of 2017, according to CoreLogic's Cityscope.
The property data firm says that sales recorded in the quarter ending February 2017 totalled $26.6 million from nine sales, compared with $3 million from three sales in the three months to November 2016.
However this is less than the recorded $211.8 million from eight sales in the three months to August 2016, though this August figure was the result of the sale of The Como Centre and 650 Chapel Street, which were bought together for $202.7 million.
This data brings the 12 month total to $372.6 million from 33 sales, a decrease from the previous 12 month total of $417.5 million from 44 sales.
The table below shows sales recorded for the past eight updates of Chapel Street Cityscope:
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/24/Corelogic-1.jpeg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/24/Corelogic-1.jpeg" alt="">
Notable sales recorded in the February 2017 update of Chapel Street Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>Unit 5 at 529 Chapel Street, South Yarra, an office/penthouse on the whole of the first level, which sold for $6.85 million through Colliers International and</li>
<li>403 Chapel Street, South Yarra, a two-storey retail building with a later brick addition to the rear on a site area of 185 square metres, which sold for a total of $5 million through CBRE – Melbourne.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/24/Corelogic-2.jpeg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/24/Corelogic-2.jpeg" alt="">
Properties listed as for sale in the February 2017 update of Chapel Street Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>Shop 2 and shop 3, at 529 Chapel Street, South Yarra, two ground floor retail units tenanted by General Pants, to be auctioned March 9, 2017 through Vinci Carbone and</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-south+yarra-502159070" target="_blank">49 Toorak Road, South Yarra</a> (pictured above), a two-storey retail building on a 56 square metre site, for sale through LINQ Property;</li>
</ul>
Leasing opportunities listed in the February 2017 update of Chapel Street Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>409 Chapel Street, a two-storey retail building with a yard to the rear, built in 1910, has the whole of level one for lease through TeskaCarson;</li>
<li>262-264 Chapel Street, Prahran, a three-storey brick retail building to Chapel Street with a single-storey warehouse building to the rear has retail space of 500 square metres for lease through CRS Property and</li>
<li>219 Commercial Road, South Yarra, a single-storey brick retail building of 455 square metres for lease through CVA Property Consultants.</li>
</ul>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Chapel Street commercial property sales increase: Cityscope

<html><body>
The latest research shows that commercial property sales have significantly decreased in the past three months, according to CoreLogic’s Chapel Street Cityscope report.
Sales recorded in the quarter ending November 2016 totalled $3 million from three sales.
This is compared with $211.8 million from 8 sales in the three months to August 2016 and the recorded $131.2 million from 13 sales in the three months to May 2016.
The November 2016 sales totals represent a return to normalcy after The Como Centre and 650 Chapel Street were each bought together for approximately $203 million, boosting the total in the August quarter.
This data brings the 12 month total to $451.8 million from 34 sales, an increase compared with the previous 12 month total of $331.9 million from 38 sales.
The table below shows sales recorded for the past eight updates of Chapel Street Cityscope:
<a href="/images/2016/11/30/C.S-1.jpeg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/30/C.S-1.jpeg" alt="">
Notable sales recorded in the November 2016 update of Chapel Street Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>69 Toorak Road, South Yarra, a two-storey retail building on a site area of 151 square metres, sold for $1.535 million;</li>
<li>Suite 10 and Suite 11 of 210 Toorak Road, South Yarra, two strata offices on level one of a two-storey building including four car spaces on title, sold for a total of $0.75 million.</li>
</ul>
<a href="/images/2016/11/30/C.S-2.jpeg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/30/C.S-2.jpeg" alt="">
Properties listed as for sale in the November 2016 update of Chapel Street Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>29 Toorak Road, South Yarra, a two-storey brick building with a shop at street level and offices above on a 187 square metres site, for sale by auction in December 2016 through Fitzroys;</li>
<li>49 Toorak Road, South Yarra, a two-storey retail building on a 56 square metres site, for sale through LINQ Property;</li>
<li>403 Chapel Street, South Yarra, a two-storey retail building with a later brick addition to the rear on a 185 square metres site, for sale by auction in December 2016 through CBRE – Melbourne.</li>
</ul>
Leasing opportunities listed in the November 2016 update of Chapel Street Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>The Colonnade at 524 Chapel Street, South Yarra, a three-level retail and office complex with 198 car spaces over two levels , has retail space of 99 square metres and 165 square metres for lease through Fitzroys;</li>
<li>352-354 Chapel Street, South Yarra, a single-storey retail building, providing 321 square metres building area, for lease through Fitzroys;</li>
<li>2 Darling Street, South Yarra, a four-level office building with a ground floor cafe, has office space of approximately 250 square metres for lease through Healthcare Real Estate and CBRE – Melbourne.</li>
</ul>
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