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

Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

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

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

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]

Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]

Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]

A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.

Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;

“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;

“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.

“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;

“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.

Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;

“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;

“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;

Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.

Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.

The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.

"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.

"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]

Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.

"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.

"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."

One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Doncaster

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A corner site in Melbourne’s Doncaster suited for mixed use development and earning holding income has sold at auction for $4,200,000.
The properties at 1094 Doncaster Road and 2 Elvie Street, Doncaster, Vic 3108 have a land area of 1380 sqm with frontage to Doncaster Road and Elvie Street.
The property at 1094 Doncaster Road  has a two-storey office building. Its estimated fully leased income is about $89,523 pa.
The one at 2 Elvie Street is a single storey dwelling which has been converted and used as a medical practice. It earns a rent of $32,000 pa. 
The site is close to shopping centre Westfield Doncaster, transport and parks.
The selling agents were CBRE’s Sandro Peluso, David Minty and Chao Zhang and Dawson Real Estate’s Ben Dawson.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Corner site in Melbourne's Doncaster fetches $4.2 million at auction

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<div>There will be court hearings during 2017 after Consumer Affairs Victoria lodged claims against the Hockingstuart, Doncaster agency for alleged underquoting.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Victoria’s consumer watchdog alleges the Hockingstuart agency underquoted on nine properties in legal action launched against the office late last year.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The claims involve Kenneth John Chappell and Anastasios John Adgemis in relation to nine homes in Melbourne’s east during 2014 and 2015.</div>
<div>
<div>
<div id="rui-main-content">
<div>
The Herald Sun says Chappell is being pursued specifically over the marketing of three homes and Adgemis over two.
CAV will allege the two men advised vendors to advertise their properties for well below what they would accept in order to attract more interest.
One home on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-templestowe+lower-120245057" target="_blank">Rose Avenue, Templestowe</a> (above) was marketed with an advertised guide of “in excess of $750,000.”
Federal Court documents lodged by CAV claim the vendor had advised they would not sell for less than $900,000.
The property sold for $1.06 million.
A home in <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/395-serpells-rd-doncaster-east-vic-3109" target="_blank">Serpells Road, Doncaster East</a> (below) was marketed “in excess of $800,000” at the start of the campaign.
<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/2017/01/05/395%20Serpells%20Road.jpg" alt="">
The guide price remained despite interest in the mid to high $900,000s and a $1 million offer, CAV alleges.
It sold for $1.16 million.
The other properties involved were in Doncaster, Doncaster East, Donvale, Templestowe and Templestowe Lower.
CAV is seeking the agency be hit with penalties.
The agency was fined over its Richmond office price guidance last year.
Last year hockingstuart were fined $330,000 when they underquoted properties in Richmond.
Laws aimed at curbing underquoting were passed by the Victorian Parliament last November, with agents required to tell prospective buyers about three recent comparable sales, and the median price for the suburb.
The new laws also ban advertising price ranges of more than 10 per cent.
They also require advertising to be promptly updated if the seller rejects a higher written offer to purchase the property.
 
</div>
</div>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Hockingstuart Doncaster face underquoting claims by Consumer Affairs Victoria

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The traditional Victorian terrace home is seeing big change, as smaller lot sizes and buyers who have family elders staying with them redefine the family home.
Developer Mirvac is adapting to this shift with its 240 terrace-style homes at its Tullamore masterplanned community in Melbourne’s Doncaster, with the 134 released to date selling out. 
The emerging shift towards multi-generational living coupled with the unique needs of empty nesters has led to a reinvention of the traditional family home, according to Mirvac. 
Multi-storey designs on smaller blocks of land that feature private downstairs quarters are increasingly becoming the norm, over traditionally expansive single-level family homes. Many buyers are requesting studies and home office areas on the ground floor to be changed into self-contained master suites for older generations of families to live in.
In addition, attached tri-level homes that share common walls are providing a new take on the traditional Victorian terrace in new-build communities. 
Mirvac’s head of Residential, John Carfi, said in recent months the company’s architects had redesigned a swathe of homes in Melbourne to cater to the changing needs of buyers. 
“The traditional family home is undergoing a major makeover as our largest demographic – the baby boomers – ages and their housing needs change,” he said. 
“Our ageing population, coupled with record migration, is resulting in a new style of family home that costs less to maintain and is more flexible in its layout.” 
Tullamore has seen strong interest from international families, among whom multi-generational living is the norm, according to Mirvac.
At Tullamore, Mirvac has also introduced some feng shui elements to cater to the market.
“This is a new era in housing that will change the look and feel of parts of our suburbs, just as duplexes and townhouses did in the 1990s,” he said.
Mirvac has a pipeline of 14,000 new dwellings across Australia, which are expected to add to the market over the next four years, 
Mirvac architect Andrew La, behind the home designs at Tullamore, said a key factor in the evolution of housing was the increasing demand for smaller lot sizes by purchasers who don’t want a large backyard to take care of. 
Over the past five years, average lot sizes across Australia have shrunk. However, at Tullamore, Mirvac has increased lot sizes for its premium homes that offer city views and access to an adjacent reserve. 
“The lock and leave lifestyle whereby a resident can enjoy less maintenance on a property is a key factor in new home design today,” La said. 
“It is resulting in a reinvention of the traditional Victorian terrace home. With shared walls and height across three levels, the modern Victorian home offers purchasers much less maintenance, without compromising on space or style.”
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prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

Mirvac sees shift in traditional family homes with generational living  

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18 months after securing a prime development site atop Doncaster Hill, <a href="/developers/samma-property-group">SPEC Property</a> is on the verge of receiving approval for their latest residential project within Manningham.

While they have diversified to become a citywide development presence, SPEC Property has been particularly strong within Doncaster in years gone by; Acacia Apartments, Viridian, Canvas Apartments and Madison are among the developer's work in the area to date. 9-11 Williamsons Road also represents a change in tact with <a href="/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a> coming aboard for the project which is poised to add 137 additional apartments to <a href="/buildings/the-point-doncaster-hill-600-doncaster-road-doncaster">Doncaster Hill</a>.

Touted by agent Savills as the area's best development site at the time of sale, SPEC Property took a development concept to Council soon after, with the design process playing out to the point where a notice of decision to grant a permit was recently issued.

While also marking the developer's return to its early stomping ground, 9-11 Williamsons Road further adds to the expanding array of developers across <a href="/new-apartments/doncaster-vic-3108">Doncaster</a> and the secondary yet growing apartment market within <a href="/new-apartments/doncaster-east-vic-3109">Doncaster East</a>.

<h2>9-11 Williamsons Road 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/image4_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the proposed development. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_9.jpg?itok=wzcWeHyQ" title="Artist's impression of the proposed development. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the proposed development. Planning image: Bruce Henderson Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site offered for sale during early 2015</li>
	<li>Current lowrise commercial complex over a 2,662sqm site</li>
	<li>Proposed 12 level building with an overall maximum height of 34.7m</li>
	<li>137 apartments: 15 x 1 bedroom, 106 x 2 bedroom, 16 x 3 bedroom</li>
	<li>7 townhouses to secondary street frontage</li>
	<li>1 retail space: 130sqm to Williamsons Road</li>
	<li>4 basement levels holding 171 vehicles</li>
	<li>Estimated project cost: $38 million</li>
</ul>
With unimpeded CBD views to the west, 9-11 Williamsons Road is configured in a U-shape to allow a maximum number of apartments a <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">CBD</a> view. A Carnarvon Street ground level communal garden links with internal amenities and will account for the void between either wing of the building.

Internally the project sees apartments vary in size from 48sqm to 105sqm, although four larger 3 bedroom penthouses will sit within the 120-132sqm zone. These penthouses are within a visually different design element atop the building and also hold expansive courtyards of up to 94sqm.

<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_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="686 Doncaster Road and 5-7 Williamsons Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="242" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_8.jpg?itok=W5G4mSsi" title="686 Doncaster Road and 5-7 Williamsons Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>686 Doncaster Road and 5-7 Williamsons Road may grace Doncaster Hill soon enough</figcaption></figure>A wider view of apartment projects across Doncaster and Doncaster East sees a healthy sector that for lack of a better term, continues to do what it's been doing for some years now.

13 apartment projects of note are under construction according to the Apartments.com.au Project Database, with <a href="/new-apartments/the-courtyard-832-doncaster-road-doncaster">832 Doncaster Road</a> the next in line; <a href="/builders/may-constructions">May Constructions</a> are the anointed builder. All in all, 900 plus apartments and 224 aged care apartments/beds are at construction across the two suburbs.

If SPEC Property choose to launch 9-11 Williamsons Road in the near term, they will join the like of <a href="/developers/pace-development-group">Pace Development Group</a> and <a href="/developers/jinshan-investment-group-pty-ltd">Jinshan</a> who have released their latest projects for public purchase.

Some hefty projects are also waiting in the wings, with approval for four separate schemes atop Doncaster Hill capable of yielding an additional 893 apartments.
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silvermb

SPEC Property return to their roots atop Doncaster Hill

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A 3,231sqm site in Melbourne's Doncaster is on the market with an existing permit for a 174-apartment mixed use construction.
The potential development, <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-doncaster-502008746" target="_blank">600 Doncaster Road Doncaster</a>, has an existing planning permit for a 12 storey mixed-use development as well as 174 apartments and a ground floor commercial space of 710sqm with 229 car parks. It has been designed by BKK Architects and is not he market through Colliers International’s Hamish Burgess, Peter Bremner and Trent Hobart, in conjunction with Robert Kelly and David Minton of Gorman Kelly.
The development has been designed with a ‘green tree’ theme which extends vertically along a central building.
Hamish Burgess said it is a gateway site opposite Westfield Doncaster, offering a spectacular CBD outlook and equally fantastic surrounding amenity.
“The Doncaster Activity Centre Precinct, or ‘Doncaster Hill’ as it is known, is highly regarded as a residential locality with a number of medium and high density projects having been completed successfully over the past two to three years," he said.
 “Significant local amenity, which is dominated by the super-regional Westfield Doncaster shopping and entertainment complex, as well as spectacular views to the Melbourne CBD and surrounding suburbs, are unique factors which have contributed to the ongoing demand for quality apartment accommodation in the precinct.
“The demand in the area has been staggering. Growth in the median house price of 26 percent in the past 12 months to $1,260,000 has underpinned the demand for apartments in the area, spurring developers to compete strongly for residential development sites.”
The site also includes a single level office complex comprising four suites and onsite parking.
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Mixed use and apartment development slated for Doncaster

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Westfield owner and manager Scentre Group has sought an amendment to the Manningham planning scheme in order to allow for a sizeable expansion of Westfield Doncaster.

Manningham City Council are currently considering the application for what is known as for the Manningham Planning Scheme Amendment C104. Scentre Group is seeking the right to add approximately 43,000sqm of additional gross retail lettable area and 18,000sqm of additional commercial office space, which they believe will support increased employment opportunities on Doncaster Hill.

In addition a revamped bus interchange and parking for 2,500 vehicles is included within the masterplan, with the latter spread over basement and multi-storey options.

According to application documents Westfield Doncaster which covers 58 hectares is seeking to become "a ‘state of the art’, contemporary, sustainable, high-density, mixed-use village that enhances the social, environmental, economic and cultural elements of the region."

A visual marker for the redevelopment is expected in the form of a new commercial tower which will front Williamsons Road. The aforementioned office space will be located over ten levels set above six basement levels and a retail podium, with the height of the tower capped at approximately 50 metres.

<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/image2tract.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A sought after built form outcome. Planning image: Tract Consultants"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="246" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2tract.jpg?itok=dgKZSkZA" title="A sought after built form outcome. Planning image: Tract Consultants" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A sought after built form outcome. Planning image: Tract Consultants</figcaption></figure>Along with the new bus interchange which has been designed in consultation with Public Transport Victoria and bus operator Transdev, a new public forecourt of some 400sqm will also front Williamsons Road. As well as providing a common entrance for both commercial and retail uses, the public forecourt will act as new a public amenity and meeting space.

As defined within the application, new opportunities for the public realm include:

<ul>
<li>New street interfaces which should incorporate architectural and landscape design and pedestrian-generating and retail activities at street level to support a better pedestrian experience.</li>
	<li>Relocated and expanded forecourt/entry with active frontages in appropriate locations to establish a vibrant public space along Williamsons Road.</li>
	<li>Potential upper level public space above Williamsons Road to provide passive surveillance and take advantage of views over surrounding area and Melbourne CBD.</li>
	<li>Establish appropriate landscaping to provide shade in the public realm, soften built form and acoustic walls, and further enhance Williamsons Road boulevard.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Current development</h2>

With the prospect of another large-scale expansion on the cards, Scentre Group have acted upon an existing planning permit to alleviate the demand for car parking onsite.

Currently two tower cranes are servicing an expansion of the multideck car park toward the eastern border of the site, bound by Grosvenor Street to the north and Goodson Street to the south. This build will allow for an additional 550 plus vehicle spaces.

With onsite car parking set to expand beyond 4,770 spaces, a hefty 7,430 car parking spaces slated for the future Westfield Doncaster according to the Urban Design Report which accompanies Amendment C104.

<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_3624_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Westfield's current expansion is well into construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="370" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_3624_0.jpg?itok=ak3IsO__" title="Westfield's current expansion is well into construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Westfield's current expansion is well into construction</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment: hard act to follow</h2>

Westfield Doncaster's most recent mass development was completed seven years ago. Since that time Eastland, Chadstone, Highpoint, The Glen and Westfield Knox have all or are in the process of undertaking exceptionally large expansions.

In the face of such competition the current Westfield Doncaster expansion looks to be Scentre Group's play at keeping the facility on par with its competitors, but can it deliver on amenity and on key public realm upgrades? Late last year Eastland managed to distinguish itself from the pack by way of a highly <a href="/news/a-new-public-realm-for-ringwood">inclusive and activated public realm</a> which acts as a quasi town centre.

Could Westfield Doncaster deliver a similar outcome? Well on the face of it, no.

The Doncaster centre is still heavily car dependent while Eastland has rail and bus options on its doorstep (what residents of Doncaster would give for that!) with the newly finished Ringwood Station upgrade providing no shortage of foot traffic. Williamsons Road and Doncaster road are wide, inhospitable thoroughfares that don't promote mass foot traffic.

How Westfield Doncaster's upcoming forecourt intends to accommodate and retail pedestrian life when wedged between an eight lane road and the centre itself shapes as an interesting design challenge.
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Westfield Doncaster seeks further expansion, but can it better interact with its surrounds?

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Doncaster Hill is set to receive another substantial apartment development. 600 Doncaster Road is currently holding at Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit with a full planning permit essentially a formality.

Located on a prominent site bound by Elgar Road, Elgar Court and Doncaster Road, the twelve level project sits on the crest of Doncaster Hill and will maintain unfettered views toward Melbourne's CBD.

Created by BKK Architects, the project has spent the best part of two years in planning, but is now on the verge of adding to the architecturally diverse Doncaster Hill activity area.

<h2>600 Doncaster Road, Doncaster 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/image25_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Angles in play. Planning image: BKK Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="449" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image25_5.jpg?itok=ZaK-tRVP" title="Angles in play. Planning image: BKK Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Angles in play. Planning image: BKK Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Development site area: 3,231sqm</li>
	<li>Current use: single storey office buildings</li>
	<li>Proposed: 12 level apartment building at 38.9 metres to parapet</li>
	<li>Built form to cover 61% of site area</li>
	<li>174 apartments: 84 x 1BR, 83 x 2BR, 7 x 3BR</li>
	<li>701sqm commercial office space</li>
	<li>Three basement levels: 236 vehicle bays, 53 bicycle bays, 177 storage cages</li>
	<li>Ground floor 174sqm residential lounge</li>
	<li>Estimated development cost: $45 million</li>
</ul>
<h2>A green touch</h2>

After a process in which the design was amended while at planning, the resultant form employs a highly angular built form with a design highlight provided by a green 'vein' that runs the height of the building.

<blockquote>
A key feature of the overall design response is a feature orchard landscape treatment across the western side of the site. The orchard feature is proposed at both ground level and extends up through the centre of the western facade resulting in a “Vertical Garden” anchored by canopy trees.

The vertical space is to be a common area accessed by all future residents from Levels 1-10, inclusive. A third landscape area is provided along the eastern side of the building adjacent to the office floorspace and the residential club lounge.
<cite>Council report regarding 600 Doncaster Road</cite>
</blockquote>

A heavy tree planting schedule is also proposed at ground level, elevating the project above all other recent apartment project completions in the area which provide little by the way of greenery or a softened interface to the pedestrian realm.

<h2>Diversity on the Hill</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/image34_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Current Doncaster Hill apartment projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_5.jpg?itok=CkIWt3ry" title="Current Doncaster Hill apartment projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Current Doncaster Hill apartment projects</figcaption></figure>It's a veritable who's who of architecture firms on Doncaster Hill. Eight projects currently under construction have been designed by eight separate architecture entities: CHT Architects, Artisan Architects, ML Design, Peddle Thorp, Ascui &amp; Co, JAM Architects, Woods Bagot and Sgourakis Architects.

The Buchan Group created the recently completed Imperial Doncaster while the paint is still drying on Pearl which is the work of RotheLowman. Architecture firms with projects approved or at sales include Hayball, ClarkeHopkinsClarke, K2LD, De Nova Group and of course BKK with 600 Doncaster Road.

Based on the above, architectural design diversity is not an issue at Doncaster Hill.
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BKK Architects the latest to enter Doncaster Hill

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Friday marked the commencement of the latest apartment project to call Doncaster Hill home. <a href="/buildings/gardenhill-5-elgar-court-doncaster">Gardenhill</a> has been awarded to Kew-based contractor Hacer, with the $77 million project set for completion at the turn of 2017.

Gardenhill is the seventh apartment project currently under construction within Doncaster Hill, Manningham City Council's vision for an "Integrated planning approach to creating a sustainable, contemporary mixed-use centre, comprising apartment style living opportunities, retail, commercial, social, community and entertainment facilities."

Apartments have ruled the roost since the inception of the Doncaster Hill Strategy during the early 2000's, with the current seven medium and high-density projects under construction an all-time high.

<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/gh.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Woods Bagot-designed Gardenhill"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="381" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gh.jpg?itok=zfxvMOrd" title="The Woods Bagot-designed Gardenhill" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Woods Bagot-designed Gardenhill</figcaption></figure>Present at the ceremony held onsite on Friday was the Victorian Minister for Finance Hon. Robin Scott, along with Malaysian Minister for Industry and Trade Dato’ Lee Chee Leong and Manningham Mayor Cr. Paul McLeish. Gardenhill is a joint project between Melbourne-based Beulah International and Malaysian firm Fajarbaru Group.

Designed by Woods Bagot, the project will see 136 apartments added to Doncaster Hill, creating 200 construction jobs over the life of the build. Also included within the project is a Jack Merlo-designed rooftop garden and entertainment area, plus Australia’s first Dog Park within an apartment complex.

<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/image128.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Recent images of Doncaster Hill's construction progress"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="726" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image128.jpg?itok=ig2oZQIJ" title="Recent images of Doncaster Hill's construction progress" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Recent images of Doncaster Hill's construction progress</figcaption></figure>Hacer has been an active builder at Doncaster hill for some time, recently delivering the 96-apartment Imperial Doncaster project in addition to their current <a href="/buildings/pearl-1-grosvenor-street-doncaster">Pearl Doncaster</a> project on behalf of Singapore-based Ho Bee Land. Due for completion during early 2016, Pearl will see 172 apartments created over two buildings.

Other projects of note at construction include <a href="/buildings/88-doncaster-hill-88-tram-road-doncaster">88 Doncaster Hill</a> and <a href="/buildings/83-on-tram-83-tram-road-doncaster">83 on Tram</a>, with <a href="/buildings/panorama-101-tram-road-doncaster">Panorama</a> at 101 Tram Road also rising quickly. Set back from Doncaster Road is <a href="/buildings/magnolia-doncaster-hill-22-hepburn-road-doncaster">Magnolia Doncaster Hill</a> which is the precinct's tallest build to date at 14 levels with <a href="/buildings/8-hepburn-road-doncaster">8 Hepburn Road</a> nearby also under construction.

These seven projects are in the process of adding 898 additional dwellings to Doncaster Hill while forthcoming builds on 'The Hill' as identified by Apartments.com.au will see in excess of 300 additional apartments constructed over three projects, namely Ellia, Arbor Doncaster and Nest at the Hill.
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Doncaster Hill in construction mode

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An offshore developer has paid $7.2 million at a record land rate for a Doncaster development site.
The plans are for a retail and residential redevelopment.
It sold through Savills as total sales to off-shore buyers nears half a billion dollars in the last 12 months through Savills Victorian office alone.
According to selling agent, Nick Peden the price, at $4467 a square metre, represented a record land rate for Doncaster.
The sale campaign generated nearly 150 enquiries from a range of buyers including local and off-shore developers, investors and owner-occupiers.
"We were expecting $6 million plus."
 
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Doncaster site snapped up by offshore developer

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The latest entrant into the bustling Doncaster Hill apartment market has unveiled itself with Nest at the Hill due for its public launch in coming weeks. A collaboration between established Singaporean developer Sin Heng Chan and architecture firm K2LD, Nest at the Hill located at 642-654 Doncaster Road will deliver 249 apartments and four townhouses.

Split between 40 one-bedroom, 180 two-bedroom and 29 three-bedroom apartments, Nest at the Hill also holds 10 penthouse dwellings with private rooftop terraces. Designed with a 7.2 energy star rating, the project will target both high-end purchasers and investors with a manned concierge desk, hotel-style lobby, swimming pool and keyless entry included.

Located on the highest point of Doncaster Hill, Nest on the Hill is 18.9 kilometres to Melbourne's CBD and will hold sweeping views with separate north and south facing terraces available to all residences. Other project amenities include the aforementioned outdoor pool, gym and multi-purpose meetings/functions rooms.

<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/image43.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Exterior perspectives. Image courtesy K2LD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="591" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image43.jpg?itok=qQEeenTX" title="Exterior perspectives. Image courtesy K2LD" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Exterior perspectives. Image courtesy K2LD</figcaption></figure>In fitting with the project's unique moniker, internal apartment finishes have been dubbed ‘Light Dove’ and ‘Dark Owl’ relative to the respective colour schemes on offer. Obligatory for top-end developments, Nest on the Hill will feature Miele appliances, reconstructed stone benchtops and splashblacks and timber floors, in addition to LED and track lighting throughout the living areas. Bathrooms include Porcelain tiles, while bedrooms will be fitted with wool blend carpet.

Entry price into Nest on the Hill is $395,000 for a single bedroom apartment with 52sqm of internal space, while the largest non-penthouse apartment on offer is a three bedroom/two bathroom dwelling with 104sqm of internal space valued at $800,000.

Maximising the site's elevated position, ten penthouses will occupy top billing within the project. The average penthouse internal size comes in at 172.9sqm with the average price per penthouse at $1.631 million. As sales have yet to commence, the largest penthouse is still available with 367sqm of internal area, while terrace areas of up to 224sqm are also available. The premier penthouse caries a list price of a cool $2.188 million.

Currently an open air car park, the project will also activate Doncaster Road by way of 6 retail spaces present at ground level, including an expected cafe. Basement car and bicycle parking services the development, and includes 43 retail and visitor spaces.

With the display opening May 16th, construction commencement of Nest at the Hill is expected at the turn of 2016.

<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/image44.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Internal finish and lobby space. Image courtesy K2LD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="418" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image44.jpg?itok=Bm5ToV5h" title="Internal finish and lobby space. Image courtesy K2LD" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Internal finish and lobby space. Image courtesy K2LD</figcaption></figure>The site in question has been subject to a number of design proposals over the best part of a decade, including an imaginative beehive-like design some years ago. Most recently Englehart sold the site with a permit for a Peddle Thorp-designed residential building containing 273 dwellings over twelve levels.

The design below has been supplanted by the current K2LD scheme. Nest at the Hill add's to K2LD's Melbourne portfolio which has expanded in recent times. The Singapore and Melbourne based practice also has four additional large-scale residential projects active in Melbourne, in addition to a sizeable Burwood Highway commercial development.

<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/image2_211_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The superseded design. Image courtesy Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="314" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_211_1.jpg?itok=fMvLHavx" title="The superseded design. Image courtesy Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The superseded design. Image courtesy Peddle Thorp</figcaption></figure>Nest at the Hill joins a bevy of other residential projects jockeying for position at Doncaster Hill. The Apartments.com.au project database shows Nest at the Hill to be the 16th large-scale apartment project in postcode 3108.

Projects at construction include <a href="/buildings/83-on-tram-83-tram-road-doncaster">83 on Tram</a>, <a href="/buildings/panorama-101-tram-road-doncaster">Panorama</a>, Imperial Doncaster, <a href="/buildings/88-doncaster-hill-88-tram-road-doncaster">88 Doncaster Hill</a> and <a href="/buildings/pearl-1-grosvenor-street-doncaster">Pearl</a> while those at sales are <a href="/buildings/ellia-802-elgar-road-doncaster">Ellia</a>, <a href="/buildings/gardenhill-5-elgar-court-doncaster">Gardenhill</a> which incidentally has nearly sold out, <a href="/buildings/magnolia-doncaster-hill-22-hepburn-road-doncaster">Magnolia</a> and <a href="/buildings/8-hepburn-road-doncaster">8 Hepburn Road</a>. There are an additional six approved developments in and around Doncaster Hill.

Should all 17 projects come to fruition, the total number of apartments pumped into Doncaster Hill would be approximately 2050.
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