Melbourne’s City Circle tram loops past a dense matrix of culture, education and commerce, but few intersections offer as much access in so little walking distance as the northern end of King Street.

Here, Aspire Melbourne rises 64 storeys from the edge of Flagstaff Gardens, with immediate connectivity to tram and train networks, and pedestrian access to Queen Victoria Market, Marvel Stadium and Melbourne’s major university precincts.

Developed by ICD Property with design by Fraser &amp; Partners, Aspire Melbourne brings 570 apartments to one of the CBD’s most spatially balanced positions, directly between civic green space and key employment infrastructure.

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Everything from retail and dining to sporting events, art, theatre, and festivals, or the serenity of the city’s gardens, is within walking distance of Aspire.

Melbourne's thriving coffee culture is showcased in the CBD's cobblestoned laneways, with popular cafes such as Brother Baba Budan, Krimper, Stagger Lee's, Higher Ground, and Manchester Press all nearby.

For culinary enthusiasts, Melbourne offers a variety of dining experiences. Highly recommended establishments include Maha, Farmer's Daughter, Coda, and MoVida Next Door, offering everything from Middle Eastern dinners to a night out.

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Getting around Melbourne is as effortless as finding a great cup of coffee, thanks to the city’s clean, reliable and extensive public transport network. Aspire’s curved tower is a short walk from Melbourne Central Station, Southern Cross Station and the Free Tram Zone, offering seamless connections across the CBD and out to suburban precincts.

This inner-city accessibility is complemented by Aspire’s rare proximity to green space. The tower directly overlooks Flagstaff Gardens, the city’s oldest park, with Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens also nearby, framing the CBD in natural beauty.

Just 11 minutes on foot, Queen Victoria Market adds another layer of amenity. A longstanding hub of culture and commerce, it offers fresh produce, gourmet foods, artisanal goods and vibrant multicultural fare, all woven into the daily rhythm of city life.

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To the west, the CBD’s entertainment quarter features Marvel Stadium, just 750 metres from Aspire, ideal for sports fans and major events.

To the south, Crown Casino along the Yarra River offers entertainment, dining and family-friendly activities, accessible in under 10 minutes by tram.

The Arts Centre Melbourne, a hub for visual art, theatre, music and performance, is also within easy reach by public transport or car.

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For families looking to set up roots in the CBD, education options abound within a one-kilometre radius of Aspire.

The prestigious Haileybury opened its Melbourne CBD campus in January 2017 offering Melbourne's first Early Learning Centre to Year 12 private school campus in the CBD.&nbsp;

<a href="/developments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">North Melbourne</a> Primary School, South Melbourne Primary School, Ozford College, and Simonds Catholic College are among the other choices, while universities like Victoria University, La Trobe University, and Monash University are less than 600 metres away.

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A limited selection of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments remain for sale, with pricing starting from $647,000.

“The Melbourne CBD apartment market has evolved in response to both the strong growth of the overall city as well as the increasing attraction of the CBD which offers unique lifestyle appeal, especially to the fast-growing cohorts of young professionals and university students,” <a href="/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a>&nbsp;Managing Director Residential Tim Storey said.

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Joel Robinson

On the fringe of Flagstaff Gardens: Aspire Melbourne's prime location

The onset of the pandemic was a tough time for developers across the country.

In Western Australia, development came to a grinding halt.

“There had been little to no increase in the cost to build for about 12 to 13 years before the pandemic,” Gavin Hawkins, Executive Director of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a>, one of Perth’s premier developers, told Apartments.com.au.

“Everything then went up overnight. Costs escalated, and so did the prices buyers had to pay. Pair the cost increase with the lack of available builders, and any project worth upwards of $100 million had to be paused because it wasn’t feasible to deliver.”

There were also a series of builder insolvencies, while many tier-one firms shifted their focus away from residential towers. “A lot of the large builders had taken on major government contracts for hospitals, schools and transport infrastructure, which offered lower risk and steadier returns. That left very few willing or able to deliver large-scale apartment projects in WA,” Hawkins said.

As a solution-driven business, Edge decided they would bring construction in-house.

“The builder-developer model is a more common model in the eastern states, but it hasn’t really been done in WA before,” Hawkins says. In the middle of 2023, they established Edge Construction, hiring senior staff members from reputable tier-one builders.

“We showed them our pipeline of projects, which de-risked the process somewhat, and now we have a 45-strong construction team working across our six projects currently under construction.”

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Edge’s portfolio is arguably one of the most enviable in the state, with a diverse spread both geographically and in terms of density.

In Crawley, the team is approaching completion of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/broadway-on-the-bay-crawley-168-broadway-crawley-wa-6009">Broadway on the Bay</a>, just 21 riverfront apartments in an eight-level building. North of Crawley, Edge is also soon to complete <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/claytons-mindarie-beachfront-mindarie-50-alexandria-view-mindarie-wa-6030">Claytons Mindarie Beachfront</a>, an 89-residence community comprising apartments, penthouses, and two-storey townhouses.

One of Edge’s most notable developments is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-dunes-beachfront-residences-scarborough-1-reserve-street-scarborough-wa-6019">The Dunes</a>, a landmark project on the iconic Scarborough beachfront. Its 223 residences are spread across two buildings that will also feature a lagoon pool, wine cellar, and a series of formal and informal dining and lounge areas, reinforcing its positioning as one of the suburb’s most ambitious residential undertakings.

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Edge’s Fremantle project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/muse-at-artisan-place-fremantle-19-burt-street-fremantle-wa-6160">Muse at Artisan Place</a>, is also breaking new ground as the first, and most premium stage, of a new residential precinct in the city’s east end. They have two of the four buildings, Muse West and Muse East, under construction, which will deliver 153 of the broader Artisan Place precinct that will eventually comprise 277 residences.&nbsp;

Not forgetting the CBD fringe, Edge has also commenced the build of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lumiere-south-perth-35-mends-street-south-perth-wa-6151">Lumiere</a>, a mix of 115 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments in a striking curved building by Hilliam Architects in South Perth. Lumiere also leans heavily on resident amenity, with an infinity heated pool with cabanas, a gym with a sauna and yoga deck, billiards room and cocktail bar, a residents’ lounge with fireplace and dining area, and a street-level café and wine bar.

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Edge is doubling down in South Perth, having recently acquired a site on Harper Terrace, the last privately held riverfront block in South Perth’s Mends Street precinct. Hawkins says the team had been working for years to secure the adjoining block, which had four separate owners in an original apartment building. Then the neighbouring cleared block came up for sale, allowing them to create a prized and unrepeatable 4,000 sqm-plus site.

The plan is to launch Harper on Swan, an 11-level building with around 71 apartments, mostly three-bedroom residences, to the market soon. Hawkins says the downsizer market in particular continues to be resilient in WA. “Now their homes are up to double what they were four years ago, and they are ready to take advantage of that and move into a new apartment,” Hawkins says.

“With strong population growth, full employment, and limited supply in the new apartment space, WA is well positioned heading into 2026.”

Edge’s portfolio is arguably one of the most enviable in the state, with a diverse spread both geographically and in terms of density.

How EDGE Visionary Living navigated the pandemic, and came out stronger: Five minutes with Gavin Hawkins

Construction has officially commenced at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/botanical-turner-2-forbes-street-turner-act-2612">Botanical Turner</a>, one of Canberra’s most anticipated new residential communities, with site works well underway in preparation for the piling rig to arrive in November. &nbsp;

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/amalgamated-property-group">Amalgamated Property Group</a> in partnership with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/base-developments">Base Developments</a>, Botanical Turner builds on the team’s proven track record of delivering landmark projects across Canberra and beyond. It is being brought to life by the highly respected team at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/milin-builders">Milin Builders</a>, known for delivering a number of award-winning projects across the ACT.&nbsp;

Almost 50 per cent of the residences have already sold during Stage 1, signalling both the strength of &nbsp;buyer confidence and the rarity of Botanical’s offering.

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Graham Potts, Principal and Founding Director of Amalgamated Property Group, said the market response affirms the vision for Botanical.&nbsp;

“To see construction now underway is a milestone for both our team and our buyers. Nearly half &nbsp;of the residences have been secured in this first stage, which validates our approach of creating &nbsp;homes that are both distinctive in design and generous in scale. Botanical is more than a &nbsp;residential project, it’s a contribution to the future of Canberra’s inner north, designed to hold its &nbsp;value for generations to come.”&nbsp;

Proving popular with owner-occupiers, Botanical Turner offers a broad range of floorplans with one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences designed for flexibility. The project has drawn the attention of downsizers in particular, who value the low upkeep, leafy inner-north location, and forward-thinking considerations for storage and functionality.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Designed by award-winning <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB Architects</a> (2023 International Interior of the Year at World &nbsp;Architecture Festival and 2024 Premiers Prize at NSW Architecture Awards), Botanical Turner &nbsp;makes a statement in both presence and liveability. The building’s bold geometric form is layered in a palette of red brick, terracotta and crisp white.

Carefully integrated communal spaces, including a landscaped courtyard, arched walkways &nbsp;and open thoroughfares, give residents a sense of connection and ease, while the abundant &nbsp;amenities reflect the expectations of a discerning market backed by Amalgamated’s lifestyle-led approach. These include a concierge, indoor lap pool set among greenery, spa, sauna, &nbsp;steam room and a fully equipped gym.

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Keenan Veraar, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/lj-hooker-project-marketing-act-0">LJ Hooker</a>, said Botanical Turner has exceeded expectations in terms of demand.&nbsp;

“Botanical Turner has attracted strong early interest and I believe that is because of three key factors; its beautiful build form, the generous apartment sizes, and buyers know they are purchasing into a project backed by one of Canberra’s most respected development partnerships,"&nbsp;Veraar said.

"Amalgamated and Base have delivered time and again, and that consistency gives people confidence. SJB Architects has created outstanding projects interstate using similar &nbsp;tones and materials, all of which have been incredibly well received. That pedigree reassures &nbsp;our buyers that Botanical will set a new benchmark for Canberra.”&nbsp;

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Dennis Milin, Principal of Base Developments and Milin Builders, said construction progress is advancing on schedule.&nbsp;

“Off-site works and site servicing are nearing completion, with excavation and preparation for &nbsp;piling equipment in progress to allow for the commencement of basement earthworks," Milin says.

"With decades of delivery experience and a longstanding partnership with Amalgamated, we’re &nbsp;committed to bringing SJB’s vision for Botanical Turner to life. The project will be defined by the &nbsp;same uncompromising standards and attention to detail that underpin every one of our developments.”&nbsp;

Apartments at Botanical start from $600,000.

&nbsp;

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Construction commences at Botanical Turner as stage one reaches 50 per cent sold

Design-led property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/orchard-piper">Orchard Piper</a> has achieved $125 million in sales prior to publicly launching its latest Toorak Village development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-toorak-place-7-19-carters-avenue-toorak-vic-3142">One Toorak Place</a>, to market.

The milestone was reached with the sale of a four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom apartment to a Toorak local for $13.75 million, achieving per square metre rates of $37,000.

Another notable recent transaction is the sale of a four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom residence to Toorak local Paul Rosen for $12.65 million in July representing a square meter rate of $43,174.&nbsp;

In May, the development made history with the record-breaking penthouse sale of more than $20 million, to Group CEO at Accent Group Limited Daniel Agostinelli and his wife Lynette.&nbsp;

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Orchard Piper Director Luke McKie said the record breaking achievement and sales success reflects the demand for thoughtfully designed, luxury residences and the unique lifestyle proposition of a serviced residential building that offers the scale of a home, but with added lifestyle benefits, high security and amenity.

“The early purchasers of this project are very familiar faces to Orchard Piper. Many of them are Toorak locals who have waited years for the right project to buy into. They understand how rare this offering is, and trust us to deliver them an outstanding property.”&nbsp;

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Developed in collaboration with joint venture partner NPACT (a partnership between James Packer’s family office and Todd Nisbet), One Toorak Place introduces a new model of hotel-style residential living to the suburb.&nbsp;

Located at 7-11A and 17-19 Carters Avenue, the development includes a collection of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences and penthouses, boutique commercial suites, curated retail and an integrated hospitality precinct by acclaimed restaurateur Chris Lucas.

Delivered in his signature style, the precinct will be curated to reflect the spirit of the neighbourhood and the lifestyle of its residents. Lucas will also design a suite of bespoke services for residents of the building, including in-residence private dining, cellar concierge services and priority access to all Chris Lucas restaurants.&nbsp;

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/kerry-hill-architects">KHA (Kerry Hill Architects)</a>, residents will enjoy access to hotel-style five-star services and amenities, including concierge, a 25-metre lap pool, full-service gym, sauna, steam room, and hot and cold therapies. Also included are a dedicated resident lounge, resident meeting room, a golf simulator, and practical facilities such as dog-wash and car-wash bays.&nbsp;

One Toorak Place is Toorak’s largest planning approval to date, occupying the 3,589 sqm former Mercedes-Benz Toorak site. With a total of 5,000 sqm of premium land under development across two projects in Toorak Village, Orchard Piper’s contribution to the precinct is set to surpass $550 million in value, reinforcing its long-term commitment to design-led renewal in the area.&nbsp;

Construction on One Toorak Place is expected to commence towards the end of 2025.&nbsp;

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The development is now over 30 per cent sold by value in under three months, with significant sales including a record-breaking $20 million penthouse, and two four-bedroom apartments for $13.75 million and $12.65 million. 

Orchard Piper achieves $125 million in pre-launch sales at Packer-backed Toorak Village development

The first large-scale residential community built on the Gold Coast’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/isle-of-capri-qld-4217">Isle of Capri</a> in more than 30 years is nearing sell-out, with limited villas now available in the exclusive island enclave.

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/monaco-property-group">Monaco Property Group</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/greyburn">Greyburn</a>, Capri Villas brings 48 architect-designed homes to one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after addresses. The gated community combines privacy, security and premium design in a central location.

Michael Kollosche, Managing Director of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/kollosche-new-projects">Kollosche</a>, said security and lifestyle are front of mind for today’s buyers.

“Capri Villas offers the comfort of a home, the convenience of a central location, and the confidence that comes with a gated community.”

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With only a handful of villas remaining, the sales momentum reflects both strong buyer demand for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/capri-villas-81-salerno-street-isle-of-capri-qld-4217">Capri Villas</a> and a broader shortage of new, move-in-ready boutique homes on the Gold Coast.

The villas span two levels, each with three bedrooms, generous living areas and high-end finishes such as marble kitchens with Gaggenau appliances. Solid concrete construction underpins the design, while landscaped courtyards extend living spaces outdoors. Practical inclusions like secure garaging, ducted climate control and ample storage enhance everyday comfort.

Residents also have access to resort-style facilities within the gated grounds, including a swimming pool with cabanas and day beds, landscaped outdoor entertaining areas with barbecues, and a residents’ lounge.

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“Opportunities like this don’t come up often,” Kollosche added.

“Capri Villas combines security, design and location in a way that is rare on the Gold Coast and the level of interest we’re seeing reflects that.”

Isle of Capri is an island community tucked in behind Surfers Paradise, offering residents a quieter lifestyle while remaining close to the action. Linked to the beachfront by bridge, the suburb is favoured for its walkability, with Capri on Via Roma (including Harris Farm Markets) providing dining, cafes and essentials just 800 metres away. Beaches, restaurants and entertainment are close at hand, while transport connections add to the suburb’s appeal.

Capri Villas are located at 81 Salerno Street, Isle of Capri. Two-level, three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.4 million.

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Capri Villas approach sell-out following recent completion

Dahua Group

Dahua Group recently completed their $300 million Hawthorn East apartment development Hawthorn Park, their biggest apartment development in Melbourne.

Designed by&nbsp;Rothelowman, the features a number of&nbsp;amenities, including Melbourne&rsquo;s first suspended sky pool, theatre rooms and a stunning sky lounge.&nbsp;Delivering a&nbsp;mix of 368&nbsp;one, two, three and four-bedroom townhome and apartment residences.

The tower also features over 2000 sqm of parkland curated by acclaimed landscape architect Jack Merlo that bring the&nbsp;Hickory-constructed building to life.

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Hawthorn Park&rsquo;s striking 25 metre floating lap pool with glass bottom immediately catches the eye, acting almost as&nbsp;a bridge between two of the four buildings.

Rothelowman&nbsp;said it was the feature of the development they were most looking forward to seeing.

&ldquo;We were most excited about delivering the pool bridge as it is testament to our collaboration with the contractor&nbsp;Hickory&nbsp;Group and the consultant team, to realise a design which resolves many complex requirements,&rdquo;&nbsp;Rothelowman&rsquo;s Frances Hall said.

As well as the pool, Hawthorn Park features a fully-equipped gym with a yoga and meditation studio and massage suites, a sky lounge, hammock lounge, an indoor residents lounge and a garden pavilion.

Along with these amenities are plenty of bookable lounge and dining rooms with fully equipped chef&rsquo;s kitchen, and&nbsp;the sky pool which features windows and flooring to peer out underwater.

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One of Australia&rsquo;s leading landscape architects&nbsp;Jack Merlo&nbsp;created the central park and a series of garden spaces through Hawthorn Park. They are complete with&nbsp;outdoor areas boasting fruit and vegetable gardens where residents are invited to grow their own produce.

Every apartment has been&nbsp;fitted out with&nbsp;Gaggenau appliances and features floor to ceiling windows and large garden balconies, some offering&nbsp;views&nbsp;of the communal park.

Located in one of Melbourne&rsquo;s most&nbsp;blue chip suburbs, the Hawthorn East development is surrounded by heritage homes and buildings, cafes, boutiques and bars, as well as a well connected public transport system.

The major train and tram lines that provide services into the Melbourne CBD only six kilometres away.

Residents will be surrounded by nature by being within walking distance of Fritsch Holzer Park, and a cycle to the trail that lines the Yarra River.

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Dahua Group recently completed their $300 million Hawthorn East apartment development Hawthorn Park, their biggest apartment development in Melbourne

jordan_55689

Melbourne's first suspended sky pool: A look at the amenities at Hawthorn Park in Hawthorn East

Dahua Group recently completed their $300 million Hawthorn East apartment development Hawthorn Park, their biggest apartment development in Melbourne.

They had architecture firm Rothelowman, one of Australia&rsquo;s leading architecture practices, collaborate with the landscape architect Jack Merlo on the Camberwell Road development of 330 residences.

Now the development is complete, Urban has taken a look at five of the key selling points of Hawthorn Park.

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<h2>The Developer</h2>

Dahua Group was established in 1988 in Shanghai and was established in Victoria in 2014, a year before they entered New South Wales. In 2017 they completed their first apartment development in Melbourne, the 91 apartment block Noir in South Yarra.

Led by managing director William Huang, Dahua has currently a number of master planned communities across Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.&nbsp;

<h2>The Architect</h2>

The Melbourne-based, but very much internationally renowned architecture firm Rothelowman handled the unique design of Hawthorn Park.

&ldquo;Dahua Group wanted a sense of community and tranquillity in a common garden setting as a transition from the hustle/bustle of Camberwell road&rdquo; Rothelowman senior associate Frances Hall told Urban.

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&ldquo;All of the colours inside and outside were influenced by tones found in nature.&nbsp; Hence the name Hawthorn Park.&rdquo;

<a href="/expert-insights/buying/rothelowman-discuss-the-design-principles-of-dahua-groups-hawthorn-park-apartment-project">Read more: Urban spoke with Rothelowman about the design of Hawthorn Park</a>

<h2>The Amenities</h2>

Hawthorn Park&rsquo;s striking 25 metre floating lap pool with glass bottom immediately catches the eye, acting as a bridge between two of the four buildings.

Rothelowman said it was the feature of the development they were most looking forward to seeing.

&ldquo;We were most excited about delivering the pool bridge as it is testament to our collaboration with the contractor Hickory Group and the consultant team, to realise a design which resolves many complex requirements,&rdquo; Rothelowman&rsquo;s Frances Hall said.

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As well as the pool, Hawthorn Park features a fully-equipped gym with a yoga and meditation studio and massage suites, a sky lounge, hammock lounge, an indoor residents lounge and a garden pavilion.

<h2>The Landscaping</h2>

One of Australia&rsquo;s leading landscape architects Jack Merlo created the central park and a series of garden spaces through Hawthorn Park, with the plan to soften and complement the built form.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Our brief was also to find a balance between providing a level of privacy in communal spaces while also providing spaces for residents to enjoy with friends,&rdquo; Merlo told Urban. &ldquo;We have achieved this with a design that caters for larger groups and smaller so it can be used by everyone for any occasion.

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&ldquo;Dahua wanted to use landscaping wherever possible, so we also have spaces like the Eastern Courtyard that provides light, greenery and a view for residents.&rdquo;

<a href="/news/jack-merlo-sheds-light-on-the-landscape-design-for-hawthorn-park">Read more: Jack Merlo sheds light on the landscape design for Hawthorn Park</a>

<h2>The Location</h2>

Located in one of Melbourne&rsquo;s most blue chip suburbs, the Hawthorn East development is surrounded by heritage homes and buildings, cafes, boutiques and bars, as well as a well connected public transport system.

The major train and tram lines that provide services into the Melbourne CBD only six kilometres away.

Residents will be surrounded by nature by being within walking distance of Fritsch Holzer Park, and a cycle to the trail that lines the Yarra River.

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There&rsquo;s a number of educational institutions nearby, ranging from primary school to university campuses.

<a href="/news/vic/walking-tour-whats-within-walking-distance-from-hawthorn-park">Read more: Urban gave a full walking tour of what is around Hawthorn Park</a>

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Five key selling points of Dahua’s Hawthorn East apartment development, Hawthorn Park

Residents have moved in to the completed&nbsp;$300 million Hawthorn East apartment project Hawthorn Park.

The striking project was developed by Dahua Group to a design by Rothelowman and sits in landscaping designed by Jack Merlo.

With buyers having moved in, Urban spoke to first home buyer&nbsp;Nahrin Butrus about her property buying journey, and what she loves about Hawthorn Park.

JR: What first drew you to Hawthorn Park?&nbsp;

NB: I was looking for a place with open space and greenery so the landscaping around the complex was actually very attractive and very important to me. And then on top of that the architectural style of the building and the interior design and finishings were all very beautiful and of high end quality. I was incredibly impressed with all that Hawthorn Park has to offer.

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JR: How long had you been searching for a property?&nbsp;

NB: For about one&nbsp;year on and off but I only seriously looked around for about three&nbsp;months with a firm intention of finding a place to finally purchase

JR: Were you always looking for an apartment?&nbsp;&nbsp;

NB: Yes, because I love the idea of living in an apartment with lots of facilities and amenities at hand. I also knew that for the location I was after an apartment would be the best option. It&rsquo;s an affordable way to live in the best part of Melbourne.

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JR: Why did you choose Hawthorn East?&nbsp;

NB: The&nbsp;location is perfect. It&rsquo;s a beautiful leafy suburb, very close to the shops and restaurants on Glenferrie, Burke, Auburn, Burwood, and Riversdale Roads, and it is very close to the city and transport. A lot of my favourite restaurants are here.

Read more: <a href="/news/vic/walking-tour-whats-within-walking-distance-from-hawthorn-park">Walking Tour: What&#39;s within walking distance from Hawthorn Park?</a>

JR: What advice would you have for other first home buyers?

NB: Research on what you need to do to be ready financially and understand how the purchase process works. And there&rsquo;s plenty of government schemes to help you along with buying your first place so take advantage of them.

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JR: Did you take advantage of any government incentives?&nbsp;

NB: Yes, I used the First Home Super Saver Scheme and received the First Home Owner Grant and Stamp Duty was waived.

JR: Did you have a set of criteria that your first home had to meet?

NB: I did but I also thought about how a range of characteristics worked together. I wanted a place that was close to the city, some greenery, with a good layout, good internal and external space, lots of amenities, not too tall a building so it is overbearing. I got everything I wanted.&nbsp;

JR: What made you decide to buy off-the-plan rather than an existing dwelling?

NB: I found my dream apartment and it wasn&rsquo;t built yet. But it also has the benefit of coming with the First Home Owner Grant, and it also gave me more time to get prepared with my finances and prepare to move. It&rsquo;s nice to be able to plan in advance with a time frame than suddenly having to move your life around.

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JR: How is your experience in Hawthorn Park?&nbsp;

NB: I&#39;m very happy at Hawthorn Park. It&rsquo;s all so beautiful and has turned out to be exactly what I was hoping to get. It honestly feels like living in a resort. And the apartment itself is well built too. I can see a lot of thought has gone into the layout inside the apartment to be functional for everyday life.

JR: Hawthorn Park has an impressive list of onsite amenities - which one is your favourite and&nbsp;why?&nbsp;

NB: It does and I love them all but the sky pool is definitely the most amazing. The views of the city and surrounds are impressive up there.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=158936]

JR: How do you find Hawthorn Park community?

NB: Everyone I&rsquo;ve met and talked to so far have all been lovely and wonderful people. I look forward to meeting more of my neighbours.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/expert-insights/buying/rothelowman-discuss-the-design-principles-of-dahua-groups-hawthorn-park-apartment-project">Rothelowman discuss the design principles of Dahua Group&#39;s Hawthorn Park apartment project</a>

Urban spoke to first home buyer Nahrin Butrus about her property buying journey and what she loves about Hawthorn Park.



Why I purchased: Buyers move in to Hawthorn Park apartment development

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Mentioned briefly in <a href="/news/hickory-adds-88-queensbridge-street-to-its-workbooks">Urban.com.au's article</a> on Hickory's growing construction pipeline, a ground breaking ceremony was held on site at Hawthorn Park to mark the commencement of construction. Located at 33 - 57 Camberwell Rd, Hawthorn East, the campus-style development comprises four interconnected apartment buildings assembled around Jack Merlo-designed parkland and piazzas, providing pedestrian connections between Burwood and Camberwell Road.

Upon completion in early 2020, 345 dwellings including apartments, townhouses and retail tenancies will be delivered on the massive 12,600 sqm site. The Rothelowman-designed project's centrepiece is a glass-bottomed 'Sky Pool' suspended between two of the buildings. 

<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/rothelowman_hawthornpark-26.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial showing the breadth and scope of the site. Image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/rothelowman_hawthornpark-26.jpg?itok=ZadVQHAI" title="Aerial showing the breadth and scope of the site. Image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial showing the breadth and scope of the site. Image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Public piazzas are placed at the site’s entry points drawing Burwood Road’s existing green edge through to the plaza located on Camberwell Road’s more robust presentation. Feature stairs cut a pathway into the open contoured space activated with resident amenity, retail and F&amp;B. A glass bottomed swimming pool spans between buildings and over the plaza, creating a spectacular front door to the project, and also locating the comprehensive resident amenity floor.

In contrast to the softly edged central zones, a hard blue stone envelope has been established around the perimeter to create a sense of protection and containment. This hard edge is driven by a series of feature elements which serve to visually break down the composition along the street and create a sense of community identity.

- Rothelowman
</blockquote>

The four buildings range in height from three to six-storeys and will be situated above a two level basement car park. Residents will have access to exclusive facilities such as fruit and vegetable gardens, private landscaped garden lounges and a wellness retreat featuring a state-of-the-art gym, yoga studio and massage rooms.

Hawthorn Park also includes a roof top residents lounge with access to the 'Sky Pool' extending between two of the four buildings. According to Hickory, its structural engineer was able to rationalise the pool design to enhance buildability, including prefabrication of certain elements. Hickory also offered an in-house façade solution to enable delivery of the textured façade using glass reinforced concrete (GRC) components.

<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/hawthorn_park_launch_event_-_harvey_pr_griffin_simm_high_res_95.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hugh Lu, Development Director at Dahua Group. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hawthorn_park_launch_event_-_harvey_pr_griffin_simm_high_res_95.jpg?itok=4CMbIhYn" title="Hugh Lu, Development Director at Dahua Group. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hugh Lu, Development Director at Dahua Group. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>Dahua Group's Development Director, Hugh Lu says the ground breaking ceremony marks a significant milestone for Dahua, following clearing of the site in July of this year with an expected construction programme of 24-26 months.

Speaking to Apartments.com.au, Lu expressed his excitement about the provision of a garden connection from Burwood Road to Camberwell Road, citing this as one element of the project in particular, that he's most looking forward to seeing realised. As for what's next for Dahua? Lu doesn't give too much away, simply stating that "(Dahua) will continue to build out our other projects in Australia." 

Lead Image: Hickory
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Laurence Dragomir

Dahua Group's Hawthorn Park commences construction in Hawthorn East

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Hawthorn Park, Boroondara's largest development, has slipped into construction mode.

Developer Dahua Group has selected builder Hickory as head contractor for the $300 million project. Demolition across the sprawling site has commenced and is scheduled to continue for two months prior to Hickory Group establishing itself onsite during September.

An extensive earthworks and construction schedule will follow, with Hawthorn Park's anticipated completion date set for the third quarter of 2020. 

Asked on the progress of sales to date, Dahua Group have confirmed that in excess of 50% of the apartments offered have been accounted for. One, two, three and four bedroom apartments are included within the project.

<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/image179_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hawthorn Park's size on show. Planning image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="372" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image179_0.jpg?itok=CuD2wC3P" title="Hawthorn Park's size on show. Planning image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hawthorn Park's size on show. Planning image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>William Huang, Managing Director of Dahua Melbourne told Apartments.com.au "Dahua Group Melbourne are excited to begin construction on this premier flagship development for the city of Boroondara. The team are committed to delivering a community of exemplary design and location in a high quality, medium density project for a growing Melbourne population."

And that design is the work of Rothelowman, who went about creating multiple buildings in order to allow for site permeability.

"Public piazzas are placed at the site’s entry points drawing Burwood Road’s existing green edge through to the plaza located on Camberwell Road’s more robust presentation. Feature stairs cut a pathway into the open contoured space activated with resident amenity, retail and food and beverage.

A glass-bottomed swimming pool spans between buildings and over the plaza, creating a spectacular front door to the project, and also locating the comprehensive resident amenity floor."

The elevated pool is an intricate aspect of Rothelowman's design and serves as a unique selling point for the project. It will connect the communal area's of both buildings which front Burwood Road.

<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/image171_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The showpiece pool which spans both buildings. Image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="263" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image171_0.jpg?itok=y0Z7uolu" title="The showpiece pool which spans both buildings. Image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The showpiece pool which spans two buildings. Image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>Hawthorn Park's place as Boroondara's largest development is evident.

Apartments.com.au is tracking 102 separate current developments within the municipality, with all dedicated to residential use. Of the 102 projects, only four contain 100 or more apartments; this is very much reflective of the area's general dearth of large sites capable of taking development.

The balance of those current projects with 100 or more dwellings consist of the at construction CV Apartments and Longhouse, whilst Sierra within Hawthorn has yet to see works begin onsite.
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silvermb

Boroondara's largest project rolls into construction

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Jack Merlo, one of Australia’s leading landscape architects has collaborated with RotheLowman on Dahua Group's $300m Hawthorn Park development in Hawthorn East. Jack Merlo has created the central park and a series of garden spaces to soften and complement the built form.

Merlo recently spoke to Apartments.com.au about his involvement on the project and the collaborative approach working with Dahua and Rothelowman.

<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/_170508_hawthorn_park_v13_central_garden_final_8k.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hawthorn Park is set in a verdant landscape setting designed by Jack Merlo. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="319" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/_170508_hawthorn_park_v13_central_garden_final_8k.jpg?itok=Zn9rMO9I" title="Hawthorn Park is set in a verdant landscape setting designed by Jack Merlo. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hawthorn Park is set in a verdant landscape setting designed by Jack Merlo. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au : What was Dahua's brief for the design of the landscaped areas?

Jack Merlo: Hawthorn Park is a diverse project on a large scale. It delivers a lot by way of amenities both privately to residents, and also to the wider community, so we were asked to provide landscaping for a range of different spaces, and each area was required to perform a different function.

We’ve got the central courtyard and park space with a primary purpose to give residents a vista. Value is added for purchasers, many of whom are downsizing from a home with a garden. Residents can use the space as a back yard, but they don’t have the burden of having to care for it.

From the brief, we wanted to encourage passive activity in the central park, as well as providing access to walk through. The design does this with a meandering path that gives a sense of flow and connectivity between Burwood Road and Camberwell Road.

Dahua wanted to use landscaping wherever possible, so we also have spaces like the Eastern Courtyard that provides light, greenery and a view for residents.

The 25m lap pool on the rooftop is landscaped to utilise the sunlight. Dahua wanted to beautify the space for obvious reasons so people can enjoy it and make full use of the BBQs, sun lounges and pool area.

Our brief was also to find a balance between providing a level of privacy in communal spaces while also providing spaces for residents to enjoy with friends. We have achieved this with a design that caters for larger groups and smaller so it can be used by everyone for any occasion.

UM: How do you design for a space that is part of a private development but open to the public?

JM: The park area being open to the public was a requirement of the council for the project. It makes an interesting brief that does need to be carefully considered. We needed to make it both welcoming in terms of open presentation, and also provide vistas for residents. Because it’s a thoroughfare, we had to use materials that will withstand daily use.

Of course, we also needed to be mindful of both security and privacy, and strike a balance between all of these elements. From dawn to dusk gates are open, but they’re locked at night for security reasons.

<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/170802_hawthorn_park_v23_garden_skypool_final.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The design for the landscape was a collaborative approach according to Merlo. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="829" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/170802_hawthorn_park_v23_garden_skypool_final.jpg?itok=jZC9XKZp" title="The design for the landscape was a collaborative approach according to Merlo. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The design for the landscape was a collaborative approach according to Merlo. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>UM: How much influence did the building's architecture have on the design of the landscape and vice-versa?

JM: There was a huge amount of influence between the three parties who worked on the project from inception.  Being involved at an early stage working with Rothelowman and Dahua has meant we have been able to create a design that is cohesive on all fronts.

The landscaping is over a building: the basement level car parking is underneath the entire site including the central park. Therefore we needed to ensure adequate soil volumes, especially for the significant trees in the central park.

There’s between 1-1.5m in depth of soil in the central park space, which was required to create the park area and include the trees that fitted the brief. This depth of soil wouldn’t have been possible if we were brought onto the project at a late stage, which would have made it much harder to fit the brief to create a sense of tranquillity.

UM: What were some of the inspirations for the project?

JM: As with many projects, the architecture plays a huge role in informing the landscaping. Singaporean architecture was heavily referenced in the architecture with the suspended sky-pool, and we too have drawn from Eastern influences through unstructured, asymmetrical design with fine detailing (as apposed to hard lines of European landscape design).

We have a different climate to that of South East Asia of course, so while we’ve referenced South East Asian landscaping in the design, we have used much hardier plant species.

UM: What were some of the challenges and opportunities the project provided?

JM: There were some inherent challenges with the project. One example was in creating a garden over a structure which not only brings challenges with soil volumes as I mentioned earlier, but also with weight loading on the below structure that needs to be worked through alongside both the architects and engineers.

Opportunities we capitalised on were things such as utilising landscaping wherever possible across the development: one example would of course be the rooftop where we have created a garden and courtyard space that makes the most of all the sunlight.
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Jack Merlo sheds light on the landscape design for Hawthorn Park

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South Yarra's latest residential addition is rapidly approaching completion, and to mark the occasion Apartments.com.au was guided through Noir by developer Dahua Group.

Under the guidance of head contractor Hacer Group, Noir's construction has moved at breakneck speed, so much so Dahua Group asserts it has risen in record-breaking time. The project, on Garden Street, has advanced from its ground level slab to completion in only eight months.

Noir's final slab was poured during April, followed in August by a traditional topping out ceremony. 

The rapid acceleration through the concrete structure can be attributed to the tower's simple square floorplate, combined with the brisk work of concrete structure specialists I&amp;D Group.

<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/img_1887.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Noir South Yarra is approaching completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="781" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_1887.jpg?itok=aCVGsnHr" title="Noir South Yarra is approaching completion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Noir South Yarra is approaching completion</figcaption></figure>Fast forward to Apartments.com.au's visit earlier this month and Noir's exterior is all but complete. The building carries a trademark CHT Architects finish which consists of predominantly black and white interlocking geometric shapes; this finish is prevalent across numerous CHT Architects projects such as <a href="http://chtarchitects.com.au/projects-3/multiresidential/ebony-apartments-camberwell/">Ebony Apartments</a>, <a href="http://chtarchitects.com.au/projects-3/evita-maroondah-highway/">Evita</a> and the award-winning <a href="http://chtarchitects.com.au/projects-3/multiresidential/the-maze-apartments/">Maze Apartments</a> in Richmond.

Residents will get to see the building up close soon enough, with settlement approaching and many of its residents able to move in before Christmas 2017.

As Dahua Group's first Melbourne site acquisition post their office being established locally in 2014, Noir's pending completion is a milestone project for the developer and its Project Manager for apartment developments in Australia, PDS Group. At the peak of Melbourne's apartment boom, dwellings within the project sold out promptly.

<blockquote>
We’re delighted to have reached this milestone and thank our partners, particularly Hacer, for getting us to this stage ahead of schedule.

PDS Group is proud to have partnered successfully with Dahua Group for Noir and we are looking forward to Noir welcoming its first residents in the coming weeks and Dahua Group’s next Melbourne project Hawthorn Park.

Dahua Group  and PDS Group wish to thank our partners for their innovation and hard work to date

- Andrew Fortey, Managing Director of PDS Group
</blockquote>

91 residential apartments are located above 6 ground floor tenancies for restaurants and/or retail.1, 2 and 3 bedroom configurations were offered, although a top floor apartment was combined to deliver a massive dwelling looking over Melbourne's skyline.

<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/img_1891_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Professional photographers get to work on a completed apartment"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="305" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_1891_0.jpg?itok=jEkCLeQm" title="Professional photographers get to work on a completed apartment" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Professional photographers get to work on a completed apartment</figcaption></figure>At the time of Apartments.com.au's visit, two apartments were fully completed and styled with DOMO furniture packages. Seen above is a glimpse of a completed single bedroom apartment going through its marketing paces.

DOMO's furnishings were offered across Noir, with certain buyers electing to purchase a combined apartment and furniture package. The synergy will continue with DOMO set to anchor a major Camberwell Road tenancy in Dahua Group upcoming development dubbed Hawthorn Park at 33 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East.

That project will include hundreds of apartments and townhouses, and is a major aspect in Dahua Group's Australian portfolio which is valued at $4.5 billion across 13 projects, with a development pipeline stretching to 2030.

Noir has an end value of $60 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/img_1893.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Uninterrupted and impressive sight lines"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="310" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_1893.jpg?itok=Nx1KeBXb" title="Uninterrupted and impressive sight lines" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Uninterrupted and impressive sight lines</figcaption></figure>
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A look inside Noir as the project races toward completion

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Dahua Group's Managing Director William Huang recently sat down with Apartments.com.au to profile the company's upcoming Hawthorn Park development, and their wider intentions for the Australian market.

Exposure for the development is on the rise prior to its public launch next month. Hawthorn Park shapes as one of Melbourne's largest releases for 2017, with 362 dwellings slated for the 12,282sqm site which holds three street frontages; the major frontage is to Camberwell Road.

Located in the burgeoning apartment market that is Hawthorn East, Dahua Group have positioned Hawthorn Park with flexibility in mind. William Huang explains that dwellings, and particularly dwelling sizes and formats have been designed to broaden the project's appeal within the marketplace.

Rothelowman are responsible for both architecture and interiors, designing Hawthorn Park's gamut of living options which sees interiors range between 45sqm and 137sqm.

<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/hpark2.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="What residents of Hawthorn Park can expect"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hpark2.jpeg?itok=nLOdvWAu" title="What residents of Hawthorn Park can expect" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>What residents of Hawthorn Park can expect</figcaption></figure>Apartments aside, Hawthorn Park will feature a string of retail tenancies and dual cafes to Camberwell Road and Burwood Road. At present the only confirmed tenant is DOMO, with the furniture brand accounting for a Camberwell Road space.

Asked what additional features the projects boasts, William Huang states that the project will include Melbourne's first elevated pool that spans separate buildings. A gym, skywalk, cabana lounge, outdoor alfresco dining area, yoga/massage room and cycling workshop form the balance of amenities within Hawthorn Park.

Jack Merlo is responsible for the development's communal green areas, with one zone featuring a hammock lounge.

Quizzed on a likely start to construction, Dahua Group have pencilled in the second quarter of 2018. Hawthorn Park's construction tender process is currently underway.

<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/hpark22.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Jack Merlo's influence at Hawthorn Park"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hpark22.jpg?itok=etl_iFwv" title="Jack Merlo's influence at Hawthorn Park" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Jack Merlo's influence at Hawthorn Park</figcaption></figure>In the broader development picture, Dahua Group maintains a development pipeline of apartments and greenfield estates that will see it through to 2030.

Asked is Dahua Group is specifically looking for additional Melbourne apartment development sites, William Huang explains that if the right site and circumstances arise the developer would act, but their plan of hedging between apartments and detached housing has served them well to date.

Having created separate development arms in both Melbourne and Sydney during 2014, Shanghai-based parent firm Dahua Group joined the flow of Asian-based developers into Australia at the peak of the recent development boom.

In response to a question regarding the restrictions placed upon foreign investment by the Chinese Government and its subsequent effects on developers such as Dahua Group, William Huang is unperturbed. Given the string of restrictionary planning and financial changes make by both state and federal bodies in recent years, William Huang explains that developers in general have ridden those challenges.

As for Dahua Group, it's a business as normal approach to delivering their strengthening development portfolio across Melbourne.

<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/img_8556.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Noir South Yarra is part of the Dahua Group project catalogue"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="455" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_8556.jpg?itok=beGBkz75" title="Noir South Yarra is part of the Dahua Group project catalogue" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Noir South Yarra is part of the Dahua Group project catalogue</figcaption></figure>
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Hawthorn Park solidifies Dahua Group's Australian presence

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The Hawthorn/Hawthorn East duo continue to bubble along as apartment hotspots with a raft of fresh planning applications before City of Boroondara. Leading the next wave of apartment projects for the popular postcodes is a sleek application headed by Shanghai-based Dahua Group.

Under affiliate Dahua Australia, the leading Chinese developer is pursuing its second sizeable Melbourne apartment project in the form of a 356 dwellings spread over a 12,289sqm site in Hawthorn East.

Following on from Dahua Australia's Noir in South Yarra, 33-53 Camberwell Road would see the demolition of six lowrise commercial and retail buildings. With similar design traits to another of their upcoming projects nearby at 196-202 Burwood Road, RotheLowman have created a flowing lowrise complex with the standout feature a seemingly suspended swimming pool which spans two buildings.

Snapped up by Dahua Australia during mid 2015, the development of 33-53 Camberwell Road would add to the many apartment projects that continue to consume prime development sites along the Burwood Road/Camberwell Road corridor.

<h2>33-57 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image153_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground level perspective. Image courtesy RotheLowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="332" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image153_0.jpg?itok=djeTrC55" title="Ground level perspective. Image courtesy RotheLowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground level perspective. Image courtesy RotheLowman</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Application submitted December 2015</li>
	<li>Site area: 12,289sqm</li>
	<li>356 dwellings spread over five buildings</li>
	<li>37 x 1BR, 50 x 1BR plus, 63 x 2BR, 169 x 2BR plus, 20 x 3BR, 1 x 4BR, 5 x duplex, 11 x townhouses</li>
	<li>Provision for 474 car parking spaces, 251 bicycle bays &amp; 375 stores</li>
	<li>2,025sqm of retail space split between two large tenancies</li>
	<li>Amenities include: rooftop area, lap pool, sundeck, internal courtyard and public plaza</li>
	<li>NSA residential: 24,659sqm</li>
	<li>GFA: 53,480sqm</li>
	<li>Estimated project cost: $80 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>Designed up and down</h2>

The expansive site is partly zoned CZ1 and carries a 14.5 metre height limit. To counter the architects have chosen to sink the site below ground level, allowing for seven levels of residential living when only five are discernible from the street.

Combined with the intense site landscaping and public plaza combined into the design, the design firm is hopeful that the proposal will create a strong benchmark for future developments in the Hawthorn area.

<blockquote>
The primary design driver for the internal faces of the development was the creation of a crafted valley landscape, with a soft tiered edge and a sense of scale within the central zone. Imagery was inspired by the stepped landforms of rice paddy fields and the stone terraces of Machu Pichu.

This concept informed the notion of a central courtyard space, and the facade treatment created by tiered and contoured forms. Horizontal concrete bands with a textured finish are evocative of stone terraces, creating a series of strata like levels, while green glass and external walls in a colour pallete of soft natural tones are drawn from a natural pallette.
<cite>Urban context report, RotheLowman</cite>
</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/image160.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The proposed feature stair leading to the lower courtyard. Image courtesy RotheLowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="313" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image160.jpg?itok=ODzpFfwR" title="The proposed feature stair leading to the lower courtyard. Image courtesy RotheLowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The proposed feature stair leading to the lower courtyard. Image courtesy RotheLowman</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Public piazzas at entry points to the site off Burwood Road and Camberwell Road create openings into the site. Feature stairs cut a pathway into the open contoured space. The sunken courtyard garden within creates a layered spatial experience and provides visual connection, interest and recreation.
<cite>Urban context report, RotheLowman</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Boroondara contends with a number of significant proposals</h2>

33-57 Camberwell Road is by some way the largest current planning application on Boroondara's agenda, but a number of other noteworthy applications are also filtering through.

17-23 Lynch Street is VicTrack's latest disposal of an unwanted land holding. The JAM Architects-designed building would see 107 dwellings created adjacent to the Belgrave/Lilydale Line on what is now a hardware outlet and vacant land. Sales for the project are poised to commence upon approval.

<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/image165_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="17-23 Lynch Street, 2 Queens Avenue and 29-31 Queens Avenue"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="606" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image165_0.jpg?itok=y2uzNVuR" title="17-23 Lynch Street, 2 Queens Avenue and 29-31 Queens Avenue" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>17-23 Lynch Street, 2 Queens Avenue and 29-31 Queens Avenue</figcaption></figure>Nearby Queens Avenue in Hawthorn also continues to garner the attention of developers with two projects under consideration. 29-31 Queens Avenue is awaiting a planning permit after receiving a notice of decision for its 72 apartments while Ascui and Co. have lodged plans for 563-565 Burwood Road which also maintains a Queens Avenue frontage.

Combined the four major developments outlined above could add as many as 550 apartments to Hawthornn and Hawthorn East, without factoring in the many smaller active apartments projects in the area.

<h2>33-57 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Dahua Australia Hawthorn Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architect: RotheLowman</li>
	<li>Town Planning: Contour Consultants</li>
	<li>Project Manager: PDS Group</li>
	<li>Development Manager: United Property Corporation</li>
	<li>Landscape Architects: Jack Merlo Design</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Services and ESD: ADP Consulting</li>
	<li>Waste Consultant: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Land Surveyor: Bosco Jonson</li>
	<li>Acoustic Consultant: Acoustic Logic</li>
	<li>Building Surveyor: Grimbos Building Surveyors</li>
	<li>Accessibility: Morris Access Consulting</li>
	<li>Engineering Consultant: Mordue Engineering</li>
	<li>Fire Consultant: Omnii</li>
	<li>Arborist report: John Patrick Pty Ltd</li>
</ul>
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