A who's who of Australian surfing, business and entertainment has emerged on title records following the completion of Esprit Rainbow Bay, the latest boutique beachfront apartment development by former professional surfer Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects.

The completed project has attracted an enviable collection of owners, many with long-standing ties to the southern Gold Coast and the surf culture that has helped define Rainbow Bay and neighbouring Kirra for generations.

Given Gedoun's own background in surfing, it perhaps comes as little surprise that some of Australia's most recognisable surfers have chosen to buy into the development overlooking one of the country's most celebrated stretches of coastline.

Pezet Matheson directors Jayde Pezet and Todd Matheson launched the project in late 2021, and have managed the sales campaign all the way through to its sell-out and recent completion.

<img alt="Esprit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="08fc6261-b84e-4b09-8a44-66d3067fd0d1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-29%20at%208.51.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4AOcb6ETZwNUnMPdTtz1B3pZAIB_jgZ2" />

Former world champion Mick Fanning, who grew up in Coolangatta, secured an apartment in 2023. He paid&nbsp;$2.07 million. Last year he sold his Bilinga home for over $16 million.

Three-time world champion Joel Parkinson also purchased in the development, alongside big wave surfer Mark Mathews. Mathews bought the most expensive apartment in the building, spending just over $4 million.

Joining them is Rip Curl founder Doug Warbrick, whose company helped shape Australia's global surfing industry over the past five decades.

The appeal of Rainbow Bay has extended well beyond the surfing community.

International DJ Paul Fisher purchased an apartment through his investment vehicle, YLB Developments, an abbreviation of his trademark phrase "You Little Beauty".

The purchase comes as Fisher and his wife Chloe are developing their own luxury apartment project further north in Palm Beach. Their boutique beachfront development, Pescado, comprises just seven apartments on Jefferson Lane, which start from just shy of $6 million. The couple intend to retain the two-level penthouse as their Australian base between international touring commitments.

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy and his wife Wendy have also invested in Esprit, purchasing two apartments after spending decades holidaying on the southern Gold Coast. They also have a luxury apartment in Joe Adsett's Rockpool, less than 400m away from Esprit.

<h2>Boutique project draws owner-occupiers</h2>

Esprit launched in 2021 and sold strongly, with buyers drawn to its boutique scale, beachfront position and contemporary design.

The completed development comprises 94 apartments across 11 levels, offering expansive floorplans designed primarily for owner-occupiers rather than the investor market.

Crowning the building is Club Esprit, pitched as being the Gold Coast's first residential rooftop wellness centre. The roof features a&nbsp;25 metre magnesium lap pool, which is surrounded by wet daybeds and poolside cabanas,&nbsp;multiple barbecue areas,&nbsp;a yoga and relaxation play lawn, and a private dining room with a kitchen scullery, bar, lounges, and an outdoor terrace.

The wellness centre is&nbsp;fully equipped with a Technogym, ice bath, infra-red sauna, steam room, thermal room, and treatment room. The roof has views spanning&nbsp;Rainbow Bay, Snapper Rocks and the Pacific Ocean.

<h2>S&amp;S Projects continues to shape Rainbow Bay</h2>

S&amp;S Projects founder Paul Gedoun has become one of the key figures behind Rainbow Bay's evolution over the past several years.

After establishing S&amp;S Projects, Gedoun has focused on delivering lifestyle-driven apartment developments designed primarily for owner-occupiers seeking a permanent coastal home.

Esprit is Gedoun's third completed project in Rainbow Bay, following Flow and Awaken, both of which achieved record prices for the suburb.

He is now delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, a 38-apartment development on Boundary Street that is currently selling, and has no plans to leave the precinct anytime soon. S&amp;S Projects has also lodged plans for its fifth Rainbow Bay development, an 88-apartment project on Boundary Street featuring a strong wellness focus.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">First look: S&amp;S Projects proposes 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street</a>

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Joel Robinson

Who's who of buyers revealed as Esprit Rainbow Bay settles

Nature Based Cities (NBC), the not-for-profit organisation focused on improving biodiversity and nature outcomes in urban development, has launched its latest industry design guidelines and accreditation framework, this time targeting precinct-scale residential communities.

The move extends NBC’s influence beyond its initial focus on medium and high-density residential developments. Several projects have already achieved NBC accreditation since the launch of its Medium &amp; High-Density Residential Guidelines in early 2025.

The expansion into masterplanned communities and new residential precincts reflects the growing need for stronger nature-positive benchmarks as Australia’s outer suburban growth corridors continue to expand at pace.

Paul Hameister OAM, NBC Founder and the Executive Chairman of Melbourne developer Hamton who itself leans heavily into nature and biodiversity in its developments, says the&nbsp;nature-first approach to mitigate the effects of climate change has become standard in other parts of the world such as the UK, but Australia is lagging.&nbsp;Australia’s environmentally sustainable design (ESD) rating tools have no minimum mandatory requirements for living landscapes.

“We’ve always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren’t there,” Hameister says. “In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that’s concrete and glass with not a blade of grass. 
 
“The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn’t been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities.”

He says that having now&nbsp;made good progress in supporting developers of medium and high-density residential projects, NBC is now looking to bolster better nature-based decision-making and recognise developers of greenfield projects in the outer ring and large inner-ring brownfield precincts, who want to champion nature and living landscape as a defining feature.

Since 2022, the not-for-profit has sought to remove the roadblocks preventing developers from incorporating nature and living landscapes into their projects, shifting the conversation from the reduction of emissions and grey infrastructure, toward recognising nature as an essential infrastructure.

The New Communities Design Guidelines and Scorecard arm developers with the tools needed to deliver a nature positive outcome for their new communities. Intended to be adopted at the outset of the planning process, the guidelines are designed to help create communities that are cooler, healthier and more resilient while also enhancing social wellbeing and long-term economic value.&nbsp;

New Communities developers seeking accreditation will be independently assessed across a range of key criteria including ecology, tree canopy, biodiversity, and walkability. Once the masterplan is complete and submitted for approval, the scorecard is formalised based on proposed outcomes. Projects that meet the NBC criteria will receive either Commended or Exemplary accreditation outcomes, creating a clear benchmark for nature-positive new communities in Australia.&nbsp;

Janis Fischer, Director at Tract and NBC Advisory Council member, said the development of new communities in our suburbs can have a substantial impact on nature and biodiversity.

"By incorporating nature-based design principles at the inception of a project, developers and their design teams can achieve nature positive outcomes that are good for both people and the planet.’’&nbsp;

NBC accredited New Community projects will gain access to NBC branding and marketing tools to help communicate their nature-based credentials to purchasers and the broader market.&nbsp;

Nature Based Cities: A new Australian benchmark for developing nature-positive new communities

Apartment buildings are increasingly being designed around how people actually live day to day, not just how they want a building to look.

For buyers, that shift is showing up in practical inclusions that respond to changing habits. Work-from-home spaces, EV charging, wellness amenities, secure bike storage and parcel management are becoming part of the broader apartment conversation, reflecting a move toward buildings that reduce friction in everyday life.

Online shopping has become one of the clearest examples of that change.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online. That has made parcel delivery a regular part of apartment living, rather than an occasional inconvenience.

For apartment residents, however, the delivery process can be less straightforward than it is for detached homes. Parcels may be left in lobbies, redirected to Post Offices, missed entirely, or placed under the responsibility of building managers and concierge teams.

That is why secure parcel infrastructure is increasingly being considered alongside more familiar apartment amenities.

<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/-VjjLwoViX0?si=A3k7ws9NX35Uac7_" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Australia Post Parcel Lockers offer one way to address the issue. When a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS, then collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN. The parcel is kept secure, accessible and removed from common areas.

The broader Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations across Australia, positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and other accessible locations.

For new apartment projects, the relevance is clear. A building’s amenity offering is no longer only about lifestyle spaces, but also about convenience, security and functionality.

As buyer expectations evolve, secure parcel delivery is becoming part of the same design conversation as flexible working, sustainable transport and resident wellbeing.

It is one less thing for residents to worry about, and another example of apartment design adapting to the way Australians now live.

Apartment design is adapting to the way Australians shop

While school holidays and trips to Europe tend to define the winter property market, there's been no cold snap at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> in North Sydney.

Developer-builder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a> sold more than $35 million worth of apartments throughout June, including a $6.8 million apartment that now ranks among the highest apartment sales ever recorded in North Sydney.

SRM Residential agent Ben Stewart said buyer demand throughout June reflected a mix of improving market confidence and longer-term thinking from owner-occupiers.

"We're seeing strong demand from owner-occupiers who are taking a longer-term view," Stewart said.

"Many recognise the opportunity to secure an apartment in an iconic building and premium location while values remain attractive. They may initially lease the property, but the intention is to eventually move in themselves, rather than purchasing purely as an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=367129]

Located at 177 Walker Street, The Walden will deliver 161 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across a 30-storey tower designed by Rothelowman. Every apartment occupies a corner position, maximising natural light, cross ventilation and views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Sydney Heads and the northern districts.

Rather than a traditional balcony, the residences feature winter gardens that seamlessly extend the open plan living areas, creating versatile spaces for relaxing or entertaining throughout the year. Floor-to-ceiling glazing draws in natural light while showcasing sweeping views from the building's elevated Walker Street position.

Every apartment features high-end Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, and fully integrated appliances.

The larger residences have been planned with distinct entertaining and private zones, with many master suites positioned on corners to capture natural light and harbour views. Walk-in dressing rooms, freestanding baths and refined stone finishes reinforce the house-like feel that has resonated with downsizers and owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6393]

Rothelowman Principal Ben Pomroy said the project was designed to make the most of its unique position overlooking the harbour.

"The Walden is a celebration of all things beautiful, curated for those who expect nothing less than exceptional," Pomroy says.

"Meticulously designed entertaining spaces and light-filled living areas that capitalise on capturing the natural beauty of Sydney's iconic harbour."

Residents will also have exclusive access to The Pavilion, a dedicated amenity building featuring a rooftop pool, wellness studio, gymnasium, sauna, concierge service, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and work-from-home facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6402]

The project marks ALAND's first major luxury apartment development in Sydney's inner-city market after more than two decades delivering residential communities across Greater Sydney.

Founder and CEO Andrew Hrsto previously said the rarity of the Walker Street site made it an opportunity the company could not overlook.

"This is a rare opportunity to bring a truly exceptional project to life in one of Sydney's most iconic locations, and to showcase our craftsmanship and design expertise at a world-class level," Hrsto said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6383]

The Walden has been introduced to the market at a time when demand for living in North Sydney is at an all-time high. Billions of dollars have been invested in infrastructure, including the recently opened Victoria Cross Metro station, located just 300 metres from The Walden, providing residents with direct access to the Sydney CBD in just minutes.

Private investment has also transformed the area through the arrival of new retail and dining destinations, elevating the lifestyle offering in what was once considered primarily a commercial precinct rather than an aspirational residential address.

The Walden is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

ALAND records $35 million in sales in North Sydney as The Walden bucks quiet winter selling season

The long-awaited redevelopment of the former Eastlakes Shopping Centre site has reached a major milestone, with Conquest's plans for a new mixed-use precinct officially placed on public exhibition.

The State Significant Development Application would transform the 1.7-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19a-evans-avenue-eastlakes-nsw-2018">19A Evans Avenue</a> into one of Sydney's largest urban renewal projects, delivering 736 apartments above a new shopping centre anchored by Woolworths, alongside specialty retail, dining, commercial space and new public open spaces.

The public exhibition marks the next chapter for the project after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a> acquired the stalled Stage Two development from Crown Group, who completed the first stage across the road prior to their voluntary liquidation.

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fca22c5-d1ed-4e2c-8801-03f7df1eafc8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland%20podium.png?VersionId=uomwr41nF8CmLUZRDcu3mHQechlbxucS" />

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Designed by DKO Architecture, the proposal comprises four residential buildings ranging from 14 to 18 storeys above a two-level retail podium. The development would deliver 736 apartments, including 74 affordable homes, 215 Build-to-Rent apartments and 521 market residences. Provision has also been made for dual-key apartments, which could increase the total number of dwellings to 877.

At ground level, the shopping centre has been designed as the suburb's new meeting place, anchored by a full-line Woolworths and complemented by a curated mix of fresh food retailers, cafés, restaurants, health services and everyday convenience shopping. Generous pedestrian links and landscaped public spaces will connect the retail precinct through to Jack Mundey Reserve, creating a more walkable and connected neighbourhood.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

"Eastlakes has been overlooked for too long, and this is the community’s moment. We are building a shopping centre and homes, a genuine heart for the suburb, and we genuinely want locals to help shape it."

"We enrich communities through the creation of homes, places, and experiences designed for life, built to last, and owner for generations. That starts with listening, so we warmly encourage everyone with a connection to Eastlakes to view the plans and share their thoughts."

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22f6fb20-54fb-4bd7-8a92-48fafdd00608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland.png?VersionId=cugp7s9hrMHGJJdYzkeAkrFoQgnF4GXf" />

DKO said the design had been shaped by the site's landscape setting and surrounding open space.

"Our vision for the site embraces its unique Bidjigal identity by blending the residential living with generous landscaping and a material palette inspired by the Bidjigal locality, and celebrating the panoramic views to Botany Bay and the wetlands reserves."

"Taking cues from Country, we seek to harmonise built form with the landscape and lightly touch the earth. By reconnecting, retaining and regenerating existing ecology, and weaving in natural elements, we can deepen our connection to Country."

The landscape strategy extends across the podium and rooftops, incorporating communal gardens, children's play areas, lawns, community gardens, family gathering spaces and extensive tree planting. New landscaped links will also strengthen the connection between the precinct and Jack Mundey Reserve, while publicly accessible open spaces have been integrated throughout the development.

The proposal builds on Conquest's broader placemaking strategy for the site. Through an ongoing partnership, local artist Joe Rashbrook has been appointed Urban Art Curator, working alongside young residents to transform the project's site hoardings into a public art gallery that allows the community to engage with the redevelopment before construction is complete.

Conquest has rapidly expanded its development pipeline since acquiring the Eastlakes site, with more than $6 billion worth of mixed-use projects now in planning across Sydney, including Stanmore, Castlecrag and Waterloo.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

First look: ‘Far more than replacing a shopping centre’ as Conquest unveils 736-home Eastlakes redevelopment

East Melbourne

Long-standing partners, Primeland and Pelligra are coming together again to create another residential project&nbsp;at 83-91 Albert St, East Melbourne.

The group, who are&nbsp;involved in a wide range of commercial and industrial developments, will add to their already impressive portfolio with the Albert St site, with plans to produce a similar set of residences like they constructed at 67-69 Well St, which were&nbsp;designed by prominent Melbourne architect, Christopher Doyle,&nbsp;in collaboration with landscape architect Jack Merlo.

East Melbourne heralds a blend&nbsp;of old and new architecture, set on the doorstep of the CBD,&nbsp;nestled among a natural landscape of parks and heritage-listed gardens.

The streets are lined with nineteenth-century buildings coupled with stylish modern masterpieces, with 83-91 Albert St set to add to the streetscape.&nbsp;

<a href="/new-apartments/83-91-albert-street-east-melbourne-vic-3002"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="930" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-06-17_at_12.01.35_pm.png" width="1664" /></a>

83-91 Albert St will be a four-storey apartment building, comprising 12 three-bedroom residences, as well as two four-bedroom penthouses.

The penthouses capture the surrounding CBD views and nearby parklands, each with their own private staircase leading to the rooftop garden.

A two-level basement car park offers 30 off-street private garages and electric charging stations, as well as individual wine cellars for each apartment.

Renowned architecture and interior design studio, Carr are behind the designs of the apartments, with each space following an open plan design, flowing seamlessly onto landscaped balconies.

Floor-to-ceiling windows further accentuate the space in each apartment, along with connecting the homes to the surrounding nature.

A lush garden oasis exists at the centre of the development, with the dedicated ground floor space creating a unique element in the design.

Pelligra Chairman, Ross Pelligra said the prospect of collaborating again was not only exciting but a great honour.

“This is such a great opportunity being only the 2nd owner of this land in over 20 years and having the opportunity to create another high-end living masterpiece right on the edge of the CBD,” he said.&nbsp;

“The vision for this project is to create a top of the line luxury apartment experience that will serve to become a landmark for East Melbourne,"&nbsp;Primeland Chairman, Robert Brij, added.&nbsp;

83-91 Albert St is expected to go to the market by Q1 of next year, with completion slated from early 2025.

East Melbourne heralds a blend of old and new architecture, set on the doorstep of the CBD, nestled among a natural landscape of parks and heritage-listed gardens

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Primeland and Pelligra partner for $80 million East Melbourne apartment development

The high-end Melbourne developer, PB &amp; Co., has secured approval from the City of Melbourne Council to convert the historic East Melbourne home Eblana in to a $35 million luxury residential apartment development.

Eblana, the former home of the Young &amp; Jackson publican, Thomas Jackson, will become three full floor apartments and a double-storey penthouse designed by Inhaus Design, who will be retaining and restoring its original built form.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108801]

The Italianate-style terrace at&nbsp;140-142 Jolimont Road was built in the 1800s and was used as the head office for the postmaster general, after the Commonwealth bought it in 1925.

PB &amp; Co., headed by developer Michael Pesochinsky and Edward Bun, has been working with&nbsp;the Melbourne City Council and local objectors to put together an appropriate development.

"The core origins and fabric of Eblana speak to Melbourne's grand era in the late 1800s, which is complemented by rich history and exquisite colonial architecture of James Gall," Bragilevsky&nbsp;said.

"We have consulted closely with the East Melbourne Group, Melbourne City Council and key objector groups to reach a commercial outcome, and appreciate the constructive&nbsp;nature of these discussions.

"Being able to restore this spectacular building to its former glory, and then to delivery a world class 'ultra-luxe' development to the Melbourne elite is gratifying and in line with PB &amp; Co.'s vision.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="675" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/pb_co_east_melbourne_elevated.jpg" width="1200" />

"We have worked tirelessly with architects Bayley Ward to delivery five spectacular full floor residences which will enjoy remarkable views of Melbourne's CBD precinct.

"Being able to restore this spectacular building to its former glory, and then to delivery a world class 'ultra-luxe' development to the Melbourne elite is gratifying and in line with PB &amp; Co.'s vision."

The ground floor apartment&nbsp;will be housed within the existing structure, with historic elements such as the grand double-height ceilings and the original tiling brought back to life.

Four new apartments, in keeping with the original design, will be built above.

Each apartment will have three bedrooms, multiple living zones, winter gardens and study retreats, as well as a fully automated car parking system likened to a James Bond-style of parking.

The 315 sqm penthouse, expected to sell for over $10 million,&nbsp;will have views over Fitzroy Gardens and Melbourne's skyline. It will feature a private rooftop terrace and infinity pool.

"We are very much looking forward to continuing the trend of our signature branded residences and unveilings the next global collaboration in the coming months,"&nbsp;Bragilevsky added.

The development is set to launch early next year, with construction commencement expected shortly after.

PB &amp; Co. now have over&nbsp;$350 million across Melbourne and Sydney’s prestigious wealth belts, having recently spent $60 million on a site in Sydney's Kurraba Point. That could see between eight and 12 luxury residences built on the 4,200 sqm block.

One of their latest Melbourne projects, Fifty Two Black, in Brighton, is kitted out in Restoration Hardware.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106713 project_image_fid=171917]

The development is set to launch early next year, with construction commencement expected shortly after

PB & Co. to convert historic East Melbourne terrace, Eblana, in to five luxury apartments

The Melbourne-based developer&nbsp;Orchard Piper has secured a rare development site fronting Fitzroy Gardens.

The 1,200 sqm site at 364-370 Albert Street, East Melbourne was an amalgamation of three adjoining park-front sites which had been held by the same family for over four decades.

A grand three storey Victorian townhouse will be restored and offered as a townhouse.&nbsp;There will be&nbsp;a further&nbsp;six residential levels comprising 14 apartments and two levels of private offices.

Each apartment will take in views of Melbourne&#39;s CBD or Fitzroy Gardens.

Orchard Piper&nbsp;have had their go-to architect Jolson Architects, who were behind the famous Pt Leo Estate down on the Mornington Peninsula, draw up the plans. It&#39;s the sixth collaboration&nbsp;between the two.

Orchard Piper director Luke McKie said the strategic site acquisition and planning permit represented a significant step forward for the brand, and the next phase of the Orchard Piper story.

&ldquo;We have been actively acquiring sites through COVID with a view to significantly bolstering our pipeline as we move into more substantial projects in Melbourne&rsquo;s best locations.&rdquo;

<img alt="" height="2401" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/orchard_directors.jpg" width="1600" /> 
Orchard Piper directors Luke McKie, left, and Rick Gronow, right. Image supplied 
 
&ldquo;This East Melbourne project has been designed in direct response to more than 13 years of market feedback from our local owner occupiers. Living spaces will be ample, with home offices and master suites just as you would expect in a detached house&rdquo; adds McKie.

&ldquo;This is our sixth project with our long term design partners, Jolson. The collective knowledge from this partnership places our projects in rare territory where historic feedback from our residents continues to shape our future offerings.&rdquo;

Orchard Piper co-founder and director Rick Gronow said they have&nbsp;continuous demand from their buyers and repeated enquiries for an Orchard Piper offering in East Melbourne.

&quot;This site is as good as it gets, and we are excited to be able to soon offer these properties to the market.&rdquo;

Orchard Piper is set to&nbsp;launch the project in the second half of 2021.

Each apartment will take in views of Melbourne's CBD or Fitzroy Gardens

Orchard Piper to build mixed-use development on Fitzroy Gardens

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Prices remain resilient and on an upward trend in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, valuation firm Herron Todd White found.
They found, despite the unprecedented year, there have been some notable prestige sales in the inner east of the city.
A home at 13 Wimba Avenue in Kew sold for an $7.9 million in March 2020, just before COVID took over the housing market.
The home has six bedrooms and six bathrooms across three lift-accessible levels on 918 square metres of land.
The property, with northern sunlight and range views, has a Hampton’s inspired summer room that opens to a large pool and alfresco area. There's a basement-level theatre, billiards room, gym and cellar, along with a six-car garage.
The substantial property sales aren’t only limited to houses on large sites in some of Melbourne’s most affluent neighbourhoods.
Luxury units, townhouses and apartments built with well-appointed finishes, highly desirable features and clever design also fetch prices much higher than the median prices seen in the eastern corridor.
A city-facing, ground level unit at G02/8 Main Drive, Kew sold off-the-plan in August 2020 for $2.15 million.
The residence will comprise three bedrooms and two bathrooms and feature natural stone and timber surfaces throughout its kitchen, bathroom and ensuite as well as an abundance of brushed chrome finishes.
It also features a study nook, outdoor entertainment area and space to park two cars.
The property is one of 17 residences in the <a href="/buildings/oakwood-kew-residences-8-main-drive-kew">Oakwood development in Kew</a>, located on a tree-lined boulevard, approximately 15 minutes drive from the CBD.
 
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East Melbourne prestige market seeing upward trend: HTW

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An East Melbourne trophy townhome, designed by Rob Mills, remains listed for sale with a price guide over $5 million after hitting the market in early October.
Located at <a href="https://kayburton.com.au/real-estate/townhouse-129-wellington-parade-south-east-melbourne-vic-3002-1463970" target="_blank">129 Wellington Parade South</a>, the four-bedroom, four-bathroom residence sits on the edge of the Melbourne CBD.
Its features include an internal lift, high ceilings and a landscaped garden and pond.
Other offerings include 100sqm of entertaining space with a terrace on each end, with views across Jolimont Reserve and towards the Fitzroy Gardens.
“Outdoor lighting makes this a perfect haven for entertaining night or day”, the home’s marketing reads.
Each bedroom has access to a balcony and the rear two boast views to Federation Square.
The residence was last purchased by Phillip Meade, the owner of engineering company PJM Engineering, and his late wife in 2012 for $3.2 million.
Kay and Burton agent Monique Depierre holds the listing, with hopes of between $5 million and $5.25 million.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Rob Mills-designed East Melbourne trophy townhome remains listed with a $5 million price tag

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An East Melbourne townhouse designed by local architect Rob Mills has hit the market.
The three level Wellington Parade South home on the edge of the Melbourne CBD has been listed by PJM Engineering owner Phillip Mead.
A lift connects all three levels, starting from the ground level where there's a double garage and a living and dining area, as well as a bedroom or home office.
On the first level is the 100 sqm main entertaining space spanning the whole level. At either ends of the open plan kitchen, living and dining space are terraces, one alfresco which features its own barbecue kitchen.
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/10/6/Mills%202.png" alt="">
The gourmet kitchen features a waterfall Calcutta marble island bench with American Oak cabinetry hiding the integrated appliances.
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/10/6/Mills%203.png" alt="">
Upstairs there are three bedrooms, each with their own ensuites. The master bedroom's ensuite has a free-standing Lotus bath with an overhead rain forest shower.
Kay &amp; Burton South Yarra agent Monique Depierre has a $5 million to $5.5 million guide for the home which has recently been a $2,345 a week rental.
The home is one of three adjoining properties designed by Mills around a decade ago.
 
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Rob Mills-designed townhouse in East Melbourne hits the market

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James Kennedy, the chairman of the retailer Kennedy Luxury Group, has been able to secure the $4.5 million East Melbourne apartment he and his wife, Jaimee Belle Kennedy, have occupied for the past two years.

It was only after he'd lodged two caveats on the title of the plush 150 Clarendon Street apartment claiming there was a January 2018 purchasers' contract.

It had last traded when bought by Richard Gu's AXF Group in 2011 for $4 million.

The home, located at 505/150 Clarendon Street, was tied up in the AXF Group liquidation saga as the property was an asset of Gu’s trust.

As a result, Kirsch Sutherland's Malcolm Howell, who recently lost his job as liquidator of the broker, was appointed receiver to complete the sale to the Kennedy’s.

Kennedy had to undertake action in the Supreme Court against Gu and Howell to finalise the purchase of the Clarendon Street home.

<img alt="" src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/Screen%20Shot%202020-08-28%20at%2010.29.45%20am.png">

The luxurious two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment offered expansive views over the Fitzroy Gardens and beyond.

Its features included a European kitchen, dignified living and a large terrace.

<img alt="" src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/Screen%20Shot%202020-08-28%20at%2010.17.16%20am.png">

The Kennedy's had spent some $400,000 on renovations whilst occupying the home since their 2018 wedding.

Featured in Vogue, the wedding took place in Florence and showed off Jaimee’s three-day Italian wedding set and her Ralph &amp; Russo gown.

Jaimee, who has been consistently referred to as one of Australia’s most stylish women, works as creative director for her husband’s jewellery business.

<h2>VIC properties selling now:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89516]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27321]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559]
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James Kennedy secures Clarendon Street, East Melbourne apartment

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Residential pockets within the inner eastern suburbs of Melbourne historically yield high sale and rental prices, according to the July Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm took a look at how a budget of $700,000 could be invested in property markets across the nation. 
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The report suggests suburbs such as Richmond, South Yarra, Toorak, Camberwell, Hawthorn and Kew all have high median residential house prices and equally high median prices for apartments.
The areas of the eastern suburbs that would be best suited for someone with a budget of $700,000 begin further down the Lilydale train line, near places such as Ringwood, Warrandyte, Mitcham and Doncaster.
"These areas have a good mix of established residential housing, emerging housing markets seen in land developments such as the Tullamore Estate in Doncaster and new single or multi-unit dwelling developments taking place in various suburbs across the eastern suburbs," the valuation firm said. 
A two bedroom townhouse located near Doncaster Westfield has recently been sold for $641,000.
The townhouse at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-townhouse-vic-doncaster-133861270" target="_blank">14/9-13 Wetherby Road </a>(pictured below) comprises two bedrooms, study, lounge and meals zones and courtyard. 
It also features kitchen with breakfast bar, second toilet, ducted heating and evaporative cooling. 
<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/2020/8/10/doncaster%201.jpg" alt="">
Some comparisons of median house prices in eastern suburbs are shown below.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2020/8/10/east%20mel.jpg" target="_blank">Click here </a>to enlarge:
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Source: HTW
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Mooroolbark is a very suitable suburb in which to invest for someone with a budget of $700,000, the report noted. 
 The suburb is situated close to major shopping centres with Eastland a short drive away, access to public transport commuting into the city and the market that is available in Mooroolbark.
A current listing is a three bedroom Mooroolbark house priced at $590,000 to $640,000.
The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mooroolbark-133958610" target="_blank">30 Winyard Drive</a> (pictured below) comprises three bedrooms, lounge, dining area, galley kitchen and central bathroom. 
It is situated within a short stroll to train station, shops and eateries. 
<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/2020/8/10/mooroolbark.jpg" alt="">
The varying quality of homes in the area makes it possible for investors to either buy and renovate, buy and knockdown or purchase an established home ready to move into or rent out to tenants. 
"We are of the opinion that these outer eastern suburbs are a great location to invest in property, whilst being affordable and having opportunities to construct new dwellings, renovate older homes or purchase a home suitable for living," the valuation firm said. 
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What a lazy $700,000 can buy in eastern Melbourne: HTW residential 

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In the Eastern suburbs of Melbourne, the number of renovation jobs completed by Herron Todd White (HTW) has increased, according to the latest HTW residential report. 
The valuation firm suggest in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
The report notes the outer eastern ring has seen a spike in renovation valuations. Suburbs such as Kilsyth, Blackburn, Doncaster and Wantirna have had measured growth in jobs for renovations. Ranging from complete renovations, partial renovations and additional spaces being created to the homes.
A renovated character home in Blackburn has recently been sold for $1.435 million.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-blackburn-133601306" target="_blank">2A Forest Road </a>home (pictured below)comes with formal and casual living and dining, four bedrooms, renovated stone kitchen, entertaining area and vegetable garden.
it is set just moments from school and public transport. 
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"The trend we are seeing, based on the ownership information provided by third party web service, Core Logic, is that it is mostly current owners who are renovating.
"Whether it is cabin fever or having a surplus of free time due to being isolated is speculative. What we do know is that there has been a significant increase in renovations being undertaken," the valuation firm said. 
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Due to the eastern suburbs being an established, older area with a range of Italianette, Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco homes, the opportunity for renovation is a lot higher than suburbs in developing areas.
 In some cases, it is almost more expensive to renovate an old home with structural issues than building a new dwelling, the report noted. 
Though, due to the aforementioned style of homes being omnipresent in the Eastern suburbs, there are more restrictions for what is able to be renovated and planning approval can be more difficult and time consuming to attain.
Buildings that are heritage listed and suburbs with heritage overlay encumbrances can encounter obstacles when wanting to extend and renovate.
Largely because most heritage buildings require the front facade to structurally remain the same and there be no visibility of additional levels added to the home from the street frontage. This can greatly escalate building and labour costs.
"Depending on how far East you travel to buy a home with renovation potential, the outer East would have houses available with a purchase price of $700,000 and $1.2 million," the valuation firm said. 
A big trend seen in Glen Waverley and Mount Waverley is for buyers to purchase run down properties and build a new home with four or five bedrooms.
A current listing is a four bedroom house in Mount Waverley priced at $1.38 million to $1.49 million.
The<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mount+waverley-133783346" target="_blank"> 1 Wills Avenue </a>home (pictured below) comes with formal lounge, kitchen/meals area, family room and double carport. 
It has future potential as a site for building a new home. 
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"While this isn’t a renovation, it is an interesting trend seen over the last couple of years," the valuation firm said. 
The effect of COVID-19 hasn’t slowed down the construction industry completely. There are still many investors who are eager to build and develop even through this uncertain time.
"We are seeing basic renovations begin at prices around $150,000 to $200,000 and more substantial renovations priced around $400,000-$500,000.
"Sub-contractors and trades are in hot demand and renovations are definitely sought after during this period of isolation," the valuation firm said. 
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Eastern Melbourne sees a spike in renovation valuations: HTW residential 

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The volatility of world equity markets can heavily affect property prices and the general market trends we see in property cycles, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The current COVID-19 epidemic is going to have a negative impact on key drivers, so it will be interesting to see what impact this may have on the property market in the short to medium term, the valuation firm said.
"World recessions such as the Global Financial Crisis, the current global COVID-19 pandemic and domestic natural disasters such as the bushfires that ravaged this country in 2019 and 2020 can have significant economic consequences, especially in the property markets," the valuation firm said. 
One of the major emotional influences that crises have on decision-making is that they create uncertainty in an investor’s mind, the HTW report noted. 
Periods of prosperity create confidence and willingness to invest due to the abundance of resources and the ability to create and expand upon what we already have, while crises seem to force individuals to retreat and protect what they own as a natural human response to fear and uncertainty.
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In the last year, the wider Melbourne property market has been showing significant signs of growth, prosperity and high clearance rates at auctions, especially in the last quarter of 2019 and early in 2020. 
"Until now, there has been talk about the property market developing momentum, with the interest cuts we saw the RBA make last year and the easing in credit conditions after a lengthy period of speculation following the banking Royal Commission," the valuation firm said. 
The report suggests at present, the property market faces a period of uncertainty as the world is coming to grips with the growing concerns over the Coronavirus. The function of most normal businesses and social practices is halting as the world is battling the virus. This has and will continue to have an impact on the property market.
"I foresee a limited availability in supply of houses and apartments in the coming months, limiting the opportunity for new home buyers and investors to purchase property. As the government increases restrictions on public gatherings and businesses are likely to work remotely, we will see a decrease in inspections and auctions. This will have a dramatic effect on the marketability of properties.
"While the government is enforcing restrictions on businesses, public events and individuals to carry out daily activities, we will see the market recede. 
"The ideal outcome is that amidst the growing concerns of the virus spreading, vendors and buyers continue to engage in selling and buying properties to continue economic growth. This will keep the economy from flatlining as experts foresee in other industries that are built on face to face contact such as the education, tourism and hospitality sectors," the valuation firm said. 
A two bedroom unit in East Melbourne's Ringwood has recently been sold for $550,000.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-vic-ringwood-133400038" target="_blank">3/326-328 Maroondah Highway </a>unit (pictured below) comes with lounge and dining, light kitchen, rear courtyard and single garage. 
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<div>It is surrounded by parklands including Mullum Mullum Creek and East Ringwood Reserve. </div>
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<div>A three bedroom weatherboard house in Box Hill is currently on the market with $1.5 million to $1.65 million hopes.</div>
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<div>The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-box+hill-133401882" target="_blank">434 Mont Albert Road </a>home (pictured below) comprises three bedrooms, two bathrooms, lounge with open fireplace and double garage. </div>
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<div>It also features Modern Bosch kitchen, front verandah and large back deck. </div>
<div><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/2020/5/11/box%20hill.jpg" alt=""></div>
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<div>Note regards COVID-19</div>
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This edition of Month In Review had its topic defined in late February with submissions from our offices collated through to late March. During this period, shifts in the social and economic landscape due to COVID-19 became increasingly dramatic, as demonstrated by the varied information provided by offices over the course of three weeks. 
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<div>This month’s residential theme on baseline property market drivers remains a common thread, and provides an indication of what influences to monitor as the property sector recovers post-crisis.</div>
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