Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

Clifton Hill

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A three level red brick building in Clifton Hill is on the market with $4.9 million hopes.
The property at 24 Groom Street with an area of 925 square metres is on a corner site.
It has a site area of 340 square metres plus additional seven off street car parks. 
The vendor has recently completed a strip out of the until recent commercial office use of the building which now exposes the cavernous building spaces and the fabric of the structure. 
Gray Johnson director Brett Simpson says these works also expose the opportunity to create a single floor repurposing.
“There is even an opportunity to add mezzanine floor spaces,” Brett Simpson adds. 
“The character is derived from the history of uses dating back to the 1900s with the 24 Groom Street building acquiring its history and various uses along the way. 
“For instance, this building was taken over in September 1911 by the then Department of Defence and became the home of the Commonwealth Harness, Saddlery and Leather Accoutrements Factory, with an occupancy that extended until the late 1920s as a manufacturer of equipment for the armed forces. 
“I understand that during this period it became the provider of harness equipment for the Battle of Beersheba and other major World War One military campaigns. 
“There is still a commemorative plaque on the building façade acknowledging the contribution the building made to the Australian Military Forces from 1912-23. 
“During 1930s the building became the Bourke &amp; Cooke boot factory, before Zig Zag Paper took over manufacturing their legendary roll-your-own cigarette papers here.”
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/14/GJ%2024%20GROOM%20STREET%20STRIPPED%20OUT.jpg" alt="">
In 1973, it was acquired by National Can Industries to manufacture many of Australia’s famous tin can packaging here.
National Can on the closure of manufacturing here continued to occupy the building as their corporate office until recently. 
“It holds a Mixed Use zoning with city views able to be accessed from the property’s location that is just off Hoddle Street and the access to the Eastern Freeway,” Simpson said. 
“The property has two street frontages of 16 metres to Groom Street and a side frontage to Yarrabing Lane of another 25 metres. 
“Now exposed by the strip out works are the historic building features including exposed timber beams, ceilings and floors, brickwork, with a goods lift remaining in place.”
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Historic Clifton Hill commercial building listed for $4.9 million

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The Clifton Hill commercial premises of national pet retailer Petstock has been sold by Savills.
Petstock has a new five plus five year lease signed late last year for the 460 square metre building at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-clifton+hill-502833266" target="_blank">592-596 Smith Street</a>.
They pay around $126,500 per annum for the Smith Street space which is passed by 74,000 vehicles per day.
Savills selling agents Jesse Radisich, Nick Peden, Mark Stafford and Julian Heatherich were marketing the property as an opportunity to acquire a prominent asset leased to a secure tenants in the blue-chip city fringe suburb of Clifton Hill.
Petstock have over 155 locations across Australia.
 
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Petstock premises at Clifton Hill sold

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Following on from <a href="/news/on-site-with-wulff-projects-part-01-newry-street-richmond">Part 01</a> of Apartments.com.au's site tour with Adam Wulff of Wulff Projects, comes Part 02 - 122 Roseneath Street. Developed in partnership with Icon Development and Assemble Projects, the small footprint development is progressing on site at a rapid pace, and like Wulff's Newry Street project is targeting an early Q3 2018 completion date.

<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/160809_assemble-projects_project-slider_011-1050x460.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="122 Roseneath Street upon completion. Image : Assemble Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="254" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/160809_assemble-projects_project-slider_011-1050x460.jpg?itok=o5Sh9gpg" title="122 Roseneath Street upon completion. Image : Assemble Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>122 Roseneath Street upon completion. Image : Assemble Projects</figcaption></figure>Roseneath Street follows a suite of other developments by Wulff Projects in Clifton Hill, successfully acquiring the site off-market in 2014. A town planning permit was obtained outside of VCAT in April 2016 for 49 apartments, 18 townhouses, and one retail tenancy.

Designed by Fieldwork, the design possesses a strong sustainability and community design focus, and comprises three main forms aligned north-south along the site, with two raised landscaped terraces which provide separation, access, and outlook.

These green spines or 'linear parks' are achieved by rising above the ground level car park beneath, removing the need for underground parking and costly basement excavation.

The linear parks are accessed via two cascading stairs from Roseneath Street which are accessible 24/7 - there are no gates, but the change in levels provides a threshold of sorts between the public and private domains.

To the street, the car park is concealed behind a retail tenancy and workshop space with 3-storey townhouses located either side, with a central 6-storey apartment building, that terraces down to Roseneath Street.

<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/20180209_082132.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The central apartment building's staggered form responds to the lower scale of the streetscape."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="353" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/20180209_082132.jpg?itok=-VpHv8mM" title="The central apartment building's staggered form responds to the lower scale of the streetscape." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The central apartment building's staggered form responds to the lower scale of the streetscape.</figcaption></figure>A portion of an existing Brutalist office building on the site has been retained, which provided inspiration and was a key driver in the choice of materiality for the project.  

According to Wulff, its retention was not without its challenges, particularly in how the existing floor levels and structure were integrated into the rest of the development, but says it was ultimately worth it, providing the team with an opportunity to celebrate a key element of the site's existing fabric.   

A redbrick wall along the western boundary has also been retained providing the development with another layer of existing grain and local context.

The building is a highly site-responsive design with strong sustainability, quality, and community focus with extensive Council, community and purchaser consultation which assisted the team in refining the design to sit comfortably within its context and provide a product that was appealing to the local market. .

<blockquote>
The outcome is driven by fundamental principles including an emphasis on internal amenity, privacy, light and air access, equitable view lines, and communal facilities. The project is conceived as an exemplar of contextually sensitive, high-quality design and sustainable, small footprint living.

- Fieldwork
</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/20180209_094623.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Making an impact on the Clifton Hill skyline."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/20180209_094623.jpg?itok=jgkC0tvO" title="Making an impact on the Clifton Hill skyline." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Making an impact on the Clifton Hill skyline.</figcaption></figure>One of the more interesting aspects of the development and one which reinforces the project team's commitment and belief in the quality of the project is the fact that several members of the project team will call Roseneath home. In the realm of residential development, there's no stronger endorsement in a project than when its team commits to it.  

This particularly was reassuring for prospective purchasers who were involved in the consultation process, providing them with the confidence that this wasn't your typical run of the mill apartment project.

While the extensive consultation process with the community and interested buyers might not always be required or practical on every project, it proved beneficial in shaping the final design and mix of dwellings for Roseneath, says Wulff. 

Look out for Part 03 in the coming months which will focus on Wulff Projects' upcoming 210 Alexandra Parade development. In the meantime please enjoy the slideshow of construction photos below;
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Laurence Dragomir

On site with Wulff Projects (Part 02) : 122 Roseneath Street, Clifton Hill

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Late last year Carta Group and Wulff Projects submitted a planning application for an OLA Studio-designed development at 210 Alexandra Parade East Clifton Hill, which has undergone a number of changes to respond to Council and community feedback.

The proposed development is for a 6-storey building comprising of 26 apartments and a resident’s communal workspace at ground floor. The building's design is highly site responsive and employs carefully considered amenity oriented design principles, coupled with a strong ESD focus, located in a mixed-use zone just north of the Eastern Freeway and within close proximity to both Victoria Park and Clifton Hill train stations.

210 Alexandra Parade is expressed as an articulated form that draws inspiration from the original factory while providing a considered building response to both the existing and future context. Additionally, design proposes the adaptive re-use of existing bricks from the original building on-site for communal workspace, lobby feature walls, courtyard paving and landscaping.

Planters &amp; landscaping will be provided to selected balconies and window boxes to aid in softening the building's exterior, while winter gardens have been designed into south facing apartments. Private open space averages in size at approximately 22 sqm with deep soil planting along the northern and eastern boundary.

The ground floor communal workspace ensures the building provides an active frontage to Alexandra Parade. 

<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/210_alexandra_parade_march2018.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="210 Alexandra Parade in context. Image : OLA Studio "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="449" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/210_alexandra_parade_march2018.jpg?itok=AcsC3qpk" title="210 Alexandra Parade in context. Image : OLA Studio " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>210 Alexandra Parade in context. Image : OLA Studio Design Report</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The design draws upon the architectural character and materiality of the surrounding area while referencing the site's industrial past. The original building is an old red brick Factory which is used to inform the composition of the building mass. The first 4 levels of the proposed design form a red brick podium interpretive of the original brick factory.

The upper levels and form on the eastern boundary employ a fenestrated dark metal cladding that subtly transitions from solid wall to battened screens when positioned in front of openings. The metal is dark and recessive so as to not distract from the strong form of the lower mass. The change of material from white brick to metal also allows us to read the upper levels as one element resulting in a clean and interesting compositional form.

A breakline of glazing is applied between the podium and fifth level to create the illusion that elements of the top level are floating to provide a sense of lightness.

- OLA Studio
</blockquote>

The proposal for 210 Alexandra Parade represents the Development Partners' continued focus on facilitating positive change to Clifton Hill, via a very robust design-based agenda with the objective of meeting community expectations of the suburb attracting quality, design-focused developments such as Wulff Projects' 122 Roseneath Street project in partnership with Icon Co and Assemble.

To this end the project team have worked closely with Council to refine the design to address feedback relating to privacy, overlooking, height and building mass, and dwelling diversity. This has resulted in a much stronger composition of elements to provide a  positive contribution to the streetscape.

<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/210_alexandra_parade_street_interface.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="210 Alexandra Parade street interface. Image : OLA Studio Design Report"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="373" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/210_alexandra_parade_street_interface.jpg?itok=0zciixN2" title="210 Alexandra Parade street interface. Image : OLA Studio Design Report" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>210 Alexandra Parade street interface. Image : OLA Studio Design Report</figcaption></figure><h2>Key Project Features</h2>

<ul>
<li>Family-focused design, with 90% of apartments containing 2 &amp; 3 bedrooms</li>
	<li>Community design focus with a variety of communal facilities &amp; adept architectural integration</li>
	<li>More than one bike space for every dwelling &amp; one communal scooter space</li>
	<li>Diversity in apartment sizes and types, including 2-storey apartments</li>
	<li>Diverse range of communal facilities for residents including indoor landscaping areas, an integrated laundry and a functional workspace sustainability</li>
	<li>Strong sustainability characteristics with extensive landscaping, abundant natural light &amp; cross-flow ventilation</li>
	<li>No borrowed light to apartments</li>
	<li>Operable louvres to south facade balconies for noise protection from the adjacent freeway</li>
	<li>Provision of infrastructure for electric car charge station</li>
	<li>Rain water harvesting, PV solar panels for common area lighting and power, and 6.9 star average rating</li>
	<li>Pergola to ground floor north facing apartments facilitating indoor-outdoor living.</li>
</ul>
<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/210_alexandra_parade_context.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="210 Alexandra Parade street view in context. Image : OLA Studio Design Report"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="449" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/210_alexandra_parade_context.jpg?itok=lu1HouGc" title="210 Alexandra Parade street view in context. Image : OLA Studio Design Report" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>210 Alexandra Parade street view in context. Image : OLA Studio Design Report</figcaption></figure>
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210 Alexandra Parade adds to Clifton Hill's growing design credentials

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Owner occupiers are making their presence felt in Melbourne’s inner suburban property purchasing market, according to Savills.
The firms ‘s CBD and metropolitan sales team, Julian Heatherich, Nick Peden, and Jesse Radisich, said this trend was evident in the firm’s recent sale of a Clifton Hill property.
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-clifton+hill-502248554" target="_blank">44 Alexandra Parade</a> sold privately for $910,000 at the healthy land area rate of $5000 a square metre, Savills said.
The property comprises a single storey, 140 square metre corner freehold with an internal office fit-out, and storage and roller door access.
Two other Clifton Hill properties sold at auction earlier in March through Savills.
Hilton Street - a 205 square metre office/warehouse – sold for $900,000, and Reeves Street - a 884 square metre showroom/warehouse on an 1175 square metre site – sold for $3.6 million.
“This is the third property we have sold to an owner-occupier in the last few weeks underlining just how strong the current owner-occupier market is,” Heatherich said.
“With interest rates remaining very attractive we are likely to see this trend continue.
“The market for inner-city property has rarely been stronger and Clifton Hill is now clearly on the radar.”
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Owner occupiers out in force in Clifton Hill office market: Savills

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A freehold property at Clifton Hill has been sold.
Located at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-clifton+hill-502247574" target="_blank">179 Queens Parade</a>, the property is located in the heart of the Clifton Hill Village and is leased to the post office.
Zoning is available as a Commercial 1 with a land size of 581 square metres and a building area of 210 square metres.
The tenant is on a long term lease and is secure with possible future development potential.
The property was offered through Nelson Alexander Commercial agents Luke Sacco and Damien Theisz.
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Clifton Hill freehold property sold

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Two properties in Melbourne’s inner suburb of Clifton Hill have sold for a total of $4.5 million in deals brokered by Savills.
According to Savills Australia CBD &amp; Metropolitan sales team, Julian Heatherich, Nick Peden, and Jesse Radisich, the sales reflected the increasing demand for inner city locations such as Clifton Hill, according to the selling agents.
The properties comprise 3 Hilton Street - a 205 square metre, office/warehouse with roller door access – which sold for $900,000, and 10 Reeves Street - an 884 square metre showroom/warehouse on an 1,175 square metre site – which sold for $3.6 million.
"The market for inner-city property has rarely been stronger and Clifton Hill is now clearly on the radar as it offers very close proximity to the CBD, the Eastern Freeway, and trams and train services," said Heatherich.
"The local area which includes Brunswick, Lygon and Smith streets and Queens Parade has also been very popular with both residential and commercial users over several decades with property values appreciating accordingly.’’ 
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Two commercial properties in inner Melbourne sold through Savills

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Three towers at planning, three suburbs and the prospect of three new tallest buildings within their respective postcode.

Across Moonee Ponds, Clifton Hill and Highett, these three residential towers are working their way through the approvals process, with some having a seemingly smoother ride than others.

Of the trio, Caydon Property Group's 40 Hall Street Stage 2 within Moonee Ponds is the largest. At 34 levels it is also one of greater Melbourne's largest proposed buildings.

Moonee Valley Leader <a href="http://leader.newspaperdirect.com/epaper/viewer.aspx">reported late last week</a> that the Fender Katsalidis-designed tower will be heading to VCAT, given Council's dissatisfaction with the size of the project; so much so Cr Nicole Marshall described it as an "offensive application." Subsequently, Council has urged Planning Minister Richard Wynne to rule upon the tower, although Mr Wynne's department has yet to receive a formal request asking as much.

<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/img6_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Moonee Ponds' new tallest? Planning image: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="484" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img6_1.jpg?itok=hGUauUYG" title="Moonee Ponds' new tallest? Planning image: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Moonee Ponds' new tallest? Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>With the VCAT hearing scheduled for January, the Moonee Ponds project represents Caydon's fifth development in succession that will make a visit to the planning tribunal. Hall Street Stage 2 joins Cremorne's Malt District project, Only Flemington, Ivanhoe Apartments and 40 Hall Street/Mason Square as having visited VCAT.

In Clifton Hill, 249-265 Queens Parade has received feedback from City of Yarra, with altered plans now on public display.

With the intended tower still at 17 levels, changes to the scheme see revised floor plans and a decrease in apartment numbers from 127 to 115, with the intent of increasing the internal amenity within the tower. This move was a <a href="http://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/IgnitionSuite/uploads/PlanningApps/PLN160494%20-%20Response%20to%20Council%20Concerns.pdf">direct response to Council's initial concerns</a> for the project which is championed by Salta Properties and Wolf Capital.

Architect in charge, Fieldwork, has modelled the exterior to closely resemble that of its neighbour, 243 Queens Parade, which is also a Fieldwork design.

<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/queenspde_ext03_east_a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Reworked upper floors for 249-265 Queens Parade. Image: Fieldwork"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="359" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/queenspde_ext03_east_a.jpg?itok=RS0Go0WM" title="Reworked upper floors for 249-265 Queens Parade. Image: Fieldwork" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Reworked upper floors for 249-265 Queens Parade. Image: Fieldwork</figcaption></figure>Highett also figures prominently with 1233-1237 Nepean Highway on display with Kingston City Council after revisions to the initial design.

Spanning 14 storeys, the RotheLowman-designed residential project has sought approval for 242 apartments on behalf of Growland. Covering a 4,300sqm site opposite Southland, the proposal would see a mix of building heights ranging from three to fourteen levels.

A retail strip, gym and pool feature at ground level, as does a four bedroom apartment. At 45 metres, the proposal comfortably outsizes other recent apartment projects within Highett. As part of the proposal, a substantial courtyard faces neighbouring northern properties at ground level, with further outdoor terraces across levels 11 and 13.

<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/v3-1000-e1460537966954.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Highett is subject to a new tallest building. Image: RotheLowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="462" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v3-1000-e1460537966954.jpg?itok=PVsDhplW" title="Highett is subject to a new tallest building. Image: RotheLowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Highett is subject to a new tallest building. Image: RotheLowman</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Three projects at planning which could redefine their suburbs

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A development consortium is hoping that a Clifton Hill site which recently went into planning will ultimately become the suburb's first high-rise building.

Plans for 249-261 Queens Parade were lodged with City of Yarra during May for a 17 storey tower of a consisting predominantly of apartments. The small stretch of Queens Parade abutting Hoddle Street has seen a limited number of mid-rise projects thus far, but nothing of the scale which has been designed for 249-261 Queens Parade.

With a development cost of approximately $30 million, 129 dwellings are designed to sit above ground level retail, with two basement levels also included.

Development Manager Wulff Projects carry the following description of the project on their website:

<blockquote>
Neighbouring the Patch Apartments, these adjoining sites were acquired separately and off-market by Wulff Projects on behalf of the Joint Venture comprising Wolf Capital and Salta Properties. Currently, over 100 apartments are planned, striving to be an exemplar of high quality design and all with high level amenity and priority ESD consideration.

This development is expected for completion in 2018.
</blockquote>

The two sites in question are 265 Queens Parade at 310sqm and 249-261 Queens Parade covering 885sqm. <a href="http://www.colliers.com.au/news/2015/off---market-sales-heat-up-in-clifton-hill/#.V4IUB7h9670">According to Colliers</a> the combined purchase price for the land parcels was $8.5 million.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image9_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Colliers graphic for Queens Parade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_7.jpg?itok=oAkGs9kW" title="Colliers graphic for Queens Parade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Colliers International graphic for Queens Parade</figcaption></figure>Formerly light industrial, the eastern side of Queens Parade is gradually being repurposed as higher density development. 

The green plot seen in the Colliers International graphic above relates to Salta Properties and Wolf Capital's planned 17 level tower whilst the mustard site holds approval for an 11 level project at 243-247 Queens Parade. Dubbed <a href="http://patchapartments.com.au/">Patch Apartments</a>, a project website for the development is still operational.

Seen in orange above is aged care provider TLC's site for a 10 level integrated care hub at 217-241 Queens Parade. With revised plans submitted during January, Yarra City Council have the application listed as having a Notice of Decision; the final step prior to a planning permit being granted.

205-211 Queens Parade also shapes a future development with Colliers International recently running a campaign for the 1,440sqm land holding. 

<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_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="243-247 Queens Parade and 217-241 Queens Parade"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_6.jpg?itok=JrMMHsL3" title="243-247 Queens Parade and 217-241 Queens Parade" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>243-247 Queens Parade and 217-241 Queens Parade. Images: Fieldwork Projects &amp; Baldasso Cortese</figcaption></figure>
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Clifton Hill in for a dose of the high life with 17 levels planned

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Appearing on Apartments.com.au not for the first time and certainly not for the last time, 122 Roseneath Street in Clifton Hill provides a model for development centred around community engagement.

A collaboration between development partners Wulff Projects, Icon Co and Assemble, as advocates of small footrpint living, the project gained planning approval from the City of Yarra in May following an extensive period of community consultation which has resulted in a flexible design that offers prospective residents variety.

With May's <a href="/news/assemble-papers-and-open-house-present-the-brutalist-block-party">Brutalist Block Party</a> on site done and dusted, the development team's focus now shifts to a second round of purchaser consultation before embarking on a formal sales and registration campaign.

122 Roseneath St is a showcase for a new way of thinking about multi-residential developments, one that is true to its context and respectful to existing residents within the neighbourhood.

The mixed-use development is designed around flexible communal spaces, including a multipurpose workshop and a communal room for dining and entertaining. A hallmark of the project is two raised linear parks that intercept the three buildings, with drought-resistant native landscaping by MALA.

<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/gabrielsaunders_roseneath-street_external-4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="122 Roseneath Street raised landscape communal walkways. Image courtesy Assemble"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="580" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gabrielsaunders_roseneath-street_external-4.jpg?itok=tE60l8-2" title="122 Roseneath Street raised landscape communal walkways. Image courtesy Assemble" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>122 Roseneath Street raised landscape communal walkways. Image courtesy Assemble</figcaption></figure>The development is only a short walk to the cafes, grocers and shops of Queens Parade and closer still to Clifton Hill train station. It connects to the breathing spaces of the Merri Creek nature corridor, with its bike trails leading directly to the Yarra River and Federation Square.

Architecturally, the development responds to the history of its location, retaining the skeleton of the Brutalist-style building on site and drawing on its materiality for inspiration throughout the design.

Veil-like metal balustrades reference the surrounding architectural features in the heritage-listed local area, while timber soffits to balconies add a warmth to the northern facade.

122 Roseneath Street presents a mix of studio apartments; single-to-three-bedroom apartments; and two-to-three-bedroom townhouses. Internal areas range from 38 square metres for studios to 148 square metres for three bedroom townhouses, in addition to generous balcony and terrace areas. Prices support community diversity, ranging from $380,000 to $1.5 million.

Through the consultation process which began in September 2015, potential residents were consulted on the functions for the communal room and adjoining terrace, the type of ground floor retail tenancy, car park demand, pet-friendly owners corporation rules and sustainability features, including external operable shutters, an embedded energy network and a shared composting facility.

A philosophy of flexibility and owner choice continues the design brief inside the dwellings. The proposal offers standard and premium options across kitchens, bathrooms and flooring as well as extras – including the possibility to add a children’s baths beneath the shower, the provision for a pet door or an ‘arrival station’ by the door to drop off coats, keys and shoes on the way in.

Seeking to provide affordable well designed living spaces on par with The Commons model whereby architects take on the role of developer, the approach adopted by 122 Roseneath's triumvirate differs somewhat in that the design has been informed by feedback from both community and prospective buyers via consultation sessions.

The design process becomes more fluid rather than linear and the development team don't dictate to buyers what they want rather they listen to their needs.

Having a development team that includes architects and builders also means that design decisions can be made during the design process with the knowledge that these won't later be value managed out once a builder is appointed post tender process and there aren't any major surprises in terms of costing and 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/gabrielsaunders_roseneath-street_external-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="122 Roseneath Street streetscape. Image courtesy Assemble"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gabrielsaunders_roseneath-street_external-1.jpg?itok=1g8k75nv" title="122 Roseneath Street streetscape. Image courtesy Assemble" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>122 Roseneath Street streetscape. Image courtesy Assemble</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au met on site with Wulff Projects Development Edward Cramer, Assemble Creative Director Pino Demaio and Icon Development Manager Kyle Reeve to discuss the merits of their exhaustive consultation process and the next round to come.

According to Cramer, following acquisition of the site which came with a permit for a larger scheme, the development team spent 3-6 months engaging with the community to ascertain what aspects they liked and disliked about the scheme.

This feedback helped the team set some of the parameters for the revised scheme that was ultimately developed for the site. This process involved community consultation evenings at Fieldwork's previous office in addition to one on one conversations with neighbours and people within the neighbourhood.

Icon Co joined the team prior to town planning and once the application was lodged they set about addressing some of the concerns they received around setbacks and overlooking says Reeve.

This involved providing greater privacy via increased setbacks, reduction in the height of townhouses, employing screens or planter boxes which act as screening elements on terraces.

With one neighbour the team increased the setback to the east and will also relocate their solar system so their ability to generate green energy is not impacted by the development.

The development team's goal was to keep the dialogue as open as possible and the process as transparent as possible, continues Reeve, rather than pushing them away or putting up the notice of advertisement and waiting to see what objections come in and then deciding whether or not to address them.

He admits it's a somewhat untested process and while it also may have drawn out the design and town planning process it was something they all felt equally passionate about.

<blockquote>
In terms of time frames it definitely took longer to undertake that consultation process and a lot more time and effort on the part of the design and development team. To meet with 50 people and try and work through there concerns is really hard work.

But it was evident when we went to Council's Internal Development Approvals Committee (IDAC) meeting that it was worth it as only three objectors attended, two of which said that their concerns had been addressed and the third was dismissed by council for raising concerns that wouldn't impact them based on the fact they lived 100's of metres away.

Out of the 140 objections that the previous scheme received we managed to get that right down to three.
<cite>Kyle Reeve, Development Manager, Icon Co.</cite>
</blockquote>

The process of then engaging with prospective buyers in information sessions of 30-50 people was more about ensuring that prospective residents were comfortable with the design and that it resonated strongly with them, rather than simply being a marketing ploy to advertise the project, says Cramer.

In addition to this the team drew on the feedback and research gathered through surveys conducted via Assemble Papers on the subject of medium-density living and better apartment design standards, says Demaio and really trying to understand what is most important to people and inform the spaces based on demand for certain aspects within a townhouse or apartment.

This, continues Demaio, is in contrast to the traditional method of relying on agents to inform the design and product without the intimate understanding or knowledge of the key design drivers of a project.

All going well, demolition could commence as early as August with completion anticipated in late 2017.
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