The customisation of new apartments tends to be off the table once construction of the new building hits 70 per cent.

Melbourne developer Gamuda Land however have gone in a different direction at their new St Kilda apartment development, Fareham, deliberately maintaining flexibility and offering prospective purchasers the ability to customise even at this stage of construction.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=137950 project_image_fid=281439]

Located on the prized St Kilda Road, near the bottom of Albert Park,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/fareham-st-kilda-95-st-kilda-road-st-kilda-vic-3182">Fareham</a> comprises 72 two, three, and four-bedroom apartments across 17 levels, with only five apartments per floor.&nbsp;

While they are well over half-way through the construction and expecting completion in mid-2026, Gamuda Land is still allowing purchasers to modify apartments to suit their individual needs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=137950 project_image_fid=281440]

Gamuda Land Assistant General Manager Jarrod Tai says customisation at this stage of construction is almost unheard of.

"We wanted to do things differently - giving buyers the ability to make considered changes so their apartment truly feels like their own," Tai says.

"Whether it’s tweaking a floorplan, rethinking a lighting plan, or selecting unique fittings, these choices make a huge difference to how people will live in their homes."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=137950 project_image_fid=281441]

This approach taps into a shift among Melbourne apartment buyers seeking long-term liveability over short-term investment.&nbsp;

While apartments are customisable, what are mainstays in the residences is premium finishes like stone benchtops,&nbsp;integrated Smeg appliances, and&nbsp;extensive in-unit storage.

Most apartments also enjoy unobstructed views of Port Phillip Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=137950 project_image_fid=281446]

Architecture studio <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bayley-ward">BayleyWard</a> has embedded a biophilic ethos into the design, linking a vertical green spine from the ground floor to the landscaped rooftop terrace which features a yoga room.

Open-air breezeways, native planting, and layered façade treatments reflect the project’s focus on nature, connection, and environmental performance. Fareham is targeting an 8-star average NatHERS rating, with features such as an all-electric, gas-free setup, rooftop solar array, high-performance facade, and rainwater reuse.&nbsp;

Cross-ventilation is prevalent in 80 per cent of apartments, and floor-to-ceiling glazing ensures daylighting and thermal comfort throughout.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=137950 project_image_fid=281448]

Over 40 per cent of the apartments at Fareham have been sold, predominantly to local downsizers.

As completion edges closer, the window of opportunity to customise soon close - but for now, the door remains open to shape something personal.

“It’s a rare opportunity in the Melbourne market, and we’re proud to offer this level of flexibility so close to completion," Tai adds.

"It shows our commitment to building not just apartments, but homes that reflect the individuality of the people who live in them.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=137950]

Joel Robinson

Gamuda Land offers rare customisation at Fareham, St Kilda

When Arena Property Group set out to create its flagship apartment development, the focus was on two key elements: location and design.

They honed in on Main Beach, one of the lowest supply suburbs on the Gold Coast, both in market and in planning. They secured a site on Pacific Street, quietly tucked one row back from Main Beach Parade and the beach, and a short walk to the suburb's cafe-laden heart of Cronin Avenue.

Once the site was secured, Arena sought the expertise of Danny Juric and Plus Studio, a name synonymous with luxury Gold Coast apartment developments, particularly in the suburb of Main Beach.

The result is Bella Vie, a fusion of the Italian word “Bella” (beautiful) and the French word “Vie” (life).

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22060 project_image_fid=6583]

When starting to draft concept for Bella Vie, Plus' focus was on the beautiful life, inspired&nbsp;by the refined ease of European coastal towns.

The architecture favours organic lines, soft transitions, and tactile surfaces. From its sculpted balconies to its tiered façade, the form invites a sense of presence defined by balance and clarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22060 project_image_fid=6582]

Jayde Pezet, Director at Pezet Matheson, says by focusing on both the location and the design, Arena is ticking boxes for the majority of buyers.

"Arena has understood the buyer market in Main Beach and how it differs from other areas in the Gold Coast," Pezet says.

"They've doubled-down on finishes across all apartment types. We have finishes and fixtures traditionally found&nbsp;in half- and full-floor apartments in every apartment we have. Very few developers are putting this level of finish in this market.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22060 project_image_fid=6591]

Bella Vie will rise 28 levels and offer a mix of two- and three-bedroom configurations.

Over the past five years, very few new developments in Main Beach have catered to a broad range of buyers. Most have been full-floor, beachfront residences aimed at the few rather than the many. Bella Vie breaks this mould, filling a clear gap in supply.

Given the variety of apartment types and price points rarely seen locally, Pezet expects strong interest from a wide spectrum of buyers, ranging from young professionals in their early 30s through to Brisbane-based downsizers seeking a lock-and-leave beachside lifestyle.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22060 project_image_fid=6589]

At the heart of the building, the 18th floor will house the Soleil Club, a full-floor resident amenity precinct including a gym with yoga and Pilates studio, wine cellar, library, co-working hub, games room, private dining room, and an outdoor sunset terrace with BBQ facilities.

There is a full wellness zone on the podium level that will include a resort-style pool deck with spa, sauna, and both hot and cold plunge pools.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22060 project_image_fid=6584]

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Bella Vie comes to market at a time when Main Beach has little to no comparable projects in the pipeline — making it a rare offering that blends lifestyle, amenity, and accessibility in a location that typically reserves new supply for only the ultra-premium.

On the opening weekend, Pezet Matheson secured $25 million worth of sales.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=22060]

&nbsp;

Arena launches Bella Vie to undersupplied Main Beach apartment market

There’s no shying away from the fact that the Bri​sbane property market is the best performing market in the country.

New apartments are being snapped up, and enquiry is at an all-time high across Apartments.com.au throughout the state, with demand strong across every development, location, and price point.

The imbalance between limited supply and rising demand has seen prices climb significantly in recent years — pushing Brisbane up the capital city rankings for median dwelling value, now sitting just behind Sydney.

While every suburb is experiencing growth, some untapped pockets are showing even stronger potential. That’s according to Place Bulimba agent Ally Edmonds, who sees real opportunity in Bris​bane’s inner eastern suburbs, where supply is unlikely to increase dramatically.

“Brisb​ane is going through a prolonged growth cycle across almost every market,” Edmonds says.

“History shows that suburbs with low supply continue to see long-term capital growth, outperforming the rest of the market. That’s exactly what we’re seeing in these smaller suburbs within the East Brisb​ane growth corridor.”

Edmonds points to suburbs such as Bulimba, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cannon-hill-qld-4170">Cannon Hill</a>, and Murarrie, all of which sit close to the city but remain undersupplied.

Values are tracking strongly, according to property data analytics firm Cotality — and it’s the unit sector that’s doing the heavy lifting.

While Bulim​ba is the headline suburb of the east thanks to its riverfront positioning, prime location, and thriving retail and family-home market, the surrounding suburbs are benefitting from the spillover effect.

In the past three months, dwelling values in Bulim​ba have lifted 4.3 per cent, with growth of 1.7 per cent in Murarrie and one per cent in Can​​non Hill. At a unit level (apartments and townhouses), growth has been even stronger.

Mur​arrie leads the way, with unit values up 5.3 per cent, outpacing Bulim​ba (3.5 per cent) and C​a​n​non Hill (3.3 per cent). Mur​arrie also presents a value opportunity, with a median unit price of $863,000 — some $165,000 less than Buli​mba.

Edmonds is currently selling the third and final stage of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/park-hill-village-collection-murarrie-19-governor-terrace-murarrie-qld-4172">Park Hill Village Collection</a> in Murarrie, the only new apartment development on the market in the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149885 project_image_fid=346788]

The release features 65 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments across two buildings, Horizon and Skyline, at 19 Governor Terrace in the Park Hill community.&nbsp;

Set high on the hill, the elevated position delivers expansive views back to the Bris​bane CBD, a feature that resonates strongly with downsizers.

Designed by Kris Kowalski of Kowalski Architects, the buildings embrace the principles of classic modernism while responding to Bris​bane’s subtropical climate.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149885 project_image_fid=346851]

Apartments have been crafted with a focus on space, light, and liveability. Most include generous balconies, study nooks, or private courtyards, while kitchens are fitted with Smeg appliances, induction cooktops, and externally ducted rangehoods.

Residents will also enjoy rooftop lounges and terraces with kitchenettes and barbecues, as well as landscaped ground-level communal gardens. These outdoor spaces balance privacy with interaction, offering greenery and uninterrupted city outlooks.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149885 project_image_fid=346848]

Positioned just minutes from the Gateway Motorway, residents can be at Brisb​ane Airport in 10 minutes or on the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast within an hour.

Locally, Mu​rarrie is seeing an uplift in amenity, with the new Rivermaker precinct and the popular BrewDog brewery drawing crowds and strengthening the suburb’s lifestyle credentials.

Everyday amenity is also close at hand, with nearby Can​​n​on Hill Plaza and access to schools, transport, and green spaces such as Colmslie Beach Reserve along the Bris​bane River.

“There’s nothing like this in Murarrie or the surrounding areas. We don’t believe there will be another opportunity at this price point anytime soon,” Edmonds says.

The apartments are under construction by respected local firm Skyline Builders, with completion expected by mid-2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149885]

Low supply, high returns: Why downsizers and professionals are targeting Brisbane’s inner east

Leading South East Queensland developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has officially launched stage two of Amargo in Palm Beach, the first of its affordability-focussed Flourish brand of new developments.

Stage two, The Canopy Collection, introduces 28 luxury residences, including four penthouses, which will be released to market later this year. It will feature two- and three-bedroom apartments, each with upgraded finishes, with prices starting from $1,425,000. 50 per cent of the apartments have already sold prior to launch.

The release follows the strong momentum from stage one, which secured over $110 million in sales within just a few months.

Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said that the level of buyer interest has established a strong foundation for the next chapter at Flourish.

“We’ve received overwhelming interest in stage one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Amargo</a> and are excited to build on that momentum as we expand the Flourish brand,” Leet said.

“We anticipated strong demand for well-priced, high-quality homes in Palm Beach, but to have already sold 50 per cent of The Canopy Collection prior to launch is just incredible.”&nbsp;

Owner-occupiers have been the driving force behind the rapid sales of The Canopy Collection, accounting for 83 per cent of all purchases. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=5633]

The hallmark of Amargo will be the on-site ‘Community Sherpa’ dedicated to providing residents with assistance and activities to make day-to-day life easier by fostering a connected community.&nbsp;

“Community is a core focus for Sherpa,” said Mr Leet.&nbsp;

“Our ‘Community Sherpas' initiative is designed to foster meaningful connections among residents, helping them to build a supportive environment.”&nbsp;

“Research has suggested that the best way to support a younger generation is to surround them with emotional support and mentorship, and that is exactly what ‘Community Sherpa’ will do.”

Located at 6-12 Sixth Avenue, Flourish will rise 18 storeys, offering a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, with prices starting from $575,000.

“Flourish has been designed to appeal to a broad market with its diverse product mix, and it’s been great to see so many local and first-time buyers drawn to its accessible price point and iconic location.”

“We’ve deliberately moved away from catering to a single demographic because research shows tremendous health and well-being benefits that come from living in a mixed-generation community, especially where you can foster a culture of helping each other.”

“That’s what Flourish is about, creating a culture of support and connection where neighbours look out for one another.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=5632]

At the heart of Amargo is an expansive 800 sqm rooftop retreat, designed as a sanctuary where residents can unwind, socialise, and recharge. The elevated space includes a northeast-facing pool, complete with pool deck cabanas and day beds, offering a serene escape with panoramic ocean views.&nbsp;

The rooftop also features private outdoor barbecues and a pizza oven, an internal private dining space, and a state-of-the-art gym with yoga zones and steam rooms. Residents will have access to hot and cold magnesium pools, designed to enhance well-being and promote a balanced lifestyle.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=306037]

“Given the site’s position, we wanted to create a rooftop that genuinely enhances everyday living. Where buyers can enjoy the spectacular views no matter where they live in the building,” Leet added.&nbsp;

“Every element has been designed to foster a sense of community and relaxation, providing residents with a unique space to connect, unwind, and enjoy.”&nbsp;

Following council approval, construction is well underway by LPS Group, offering buyers a rare opportunity to live in a prime location with luxury amenities at a competitive price.&nbsp;

Due to the success of Amargo, Sherpa will be bringing another Flourish project to Sixth Ave by the end of the year, with prices starting from $1.5 million.&nbsp;

Sherpa launches next stage of Amargo, Palm Beach

National developer Time &amp; Place has submitted a State Significant Development Application to the NSW Government to get its Potts Point redevelopment of The Chimes building on Macleay Street approved and underway.

Last year they had submitted the plans for the SJB-designed building through the City of Sydney Council. They are planning a brand new 12-level building with 34 apartments, reduced from the 45 previously put forward.

SJB noted in its Design Report they "investigated in detail the distinctive character of the site and local context."

"The proposed design responds carefully to the natural and built features of the site, social, economic and environmental conditions, and the layered history of Potts Point. The proposal has been designed to fit with and enhance the overall quality of the historical high-density community of Potts Point."

<img alt="Potts Point" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d61abdc1-6ef5-486c-a9dc-17390fb30229" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-09-14%20at%209.08.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Rgk5PLkUJhzqbbc2fOjOUV7SQclDLNMb" />

SJB added that the proposed design provides&nbsp;multi-bedroom units to cater to the demand for quality housing in the high density area of Potts Point. The majority of apartments have three bedrooms.

"This replaces the low density of existing apartments on site, which consists predominantly of studio apartments without balconies."

Time &amp; Place have spent a reported $85 million buying all of the 80 studio apartments and car parks in the nine-level building that dates back to the mid-20th century when it was designed by Hugo Stossel, a modestly well-known post-War émigré architect who designed a number of similar residential apartment buildings in Sydney’s inner eastern suburbs.

<img alt="Time &amp; Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="78d20476-f6b2-4efb-8a83-12d7f38c647f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-09-14%20at%209.08.14%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ZQU4HH21p9rVcoSvw20kKpM8OsqCiJz2" />

Time &amp; Place made their intentions clear when they started buying apartments in the block a few years ago.

“Over the last 24 months, Time &amp; Place has worked collaboratively with owners at The Chimes, Potts Point, as well as representatives from the City of Sydney to ensure fair and considered outcomes were achieved for all involved," Time &amp; Place Director Evan Papadopoulos told Apartments.com.au late last year.

“A priority for our team has been to ensure that communications with all stakeholders have been consistent, thoughtful and clear from the outset. We will approach this next step in the same spirit of transparency and open-mindedness we have adopted over the course of this acquisition."

“We look forward to continuing to engage with the wider community to achieve positive outcomes for this iconic Potts Point site.”

The recent plans suggest it will cost around $100 million to construct the new building, that will feature ground-floor retail fronting Macleay Street and resident amenity in the form of two lap pools, and an outdoor gym on the third level, as well as additional communal space.

The affordable housing component, which has triggered a 30 per cent uplift in height of the building, will be operated by Bridge Housing Limited, who will assume&nbsp;management of the affordable housing dwellings within the project for a minimum of 15 years.

First look: Time & Place's take The Chimes, Potts Point redevelopment to NSW Gov

Elanor Investors Group

<html><body>
The ACT Government has granted Elanor Investors Group approval for the first stage of a $100 million revitalisation of Canberra’s Belconnen Markets precinct.

The three-hectare site is located only nine kilometres from Parliament House and in close proximity to high-density residential development with complementary retail amenities.

Stage One of the project is expected to be completed in late 2019 and comprises 3,750 sqm of strip retail, ideally suited to retailers between 200 sqm and 1,000 sqm in size.

Situated directly opposite Bunnings Warehouse, Stage One will be built on vacant land providing exposure to 30,000 vehicles daily travelling along Belconnen Way, with signalised access at the Lathlain Street intersection.

With Stage One approved, Elanor has now lodged its Stage Two development application which will seek to replace the current Belconnen Markets with a new 5,500 sqm market hall supported by under-cover parking for 146 cars.

The market hall design will feature a high roof structure based on passive sustainable design principles, allowing for significant natural light and ventilation and .

Stage Two represents a 30% increase in the market hall’s footprint, allowing for the introduction of new specialty food retailers and food catering outlets to complement Belconnen Markets’ existing fresh food offering. Stage Two is scheduled to open in late 2020.

<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/ste18-003_ext_building_perspective_02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Stage One of the 00 million revitalisation of Canberra’s Belconnen Markets precinct. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ste18-003_ext_building_perspective_02.jpg?itok=86eGfh8k" title="Stage One of the 00 million revitalisation of Canberra’s Belconnen Markets precinct. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Stage One of the 00 million revitalisation of Canberra’s Belconnen Markets precinct. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
“Development of the Belconnen Markets precinct exemplifies our strategy of unlocking the value in our funds’ real estate assets whilst delivering outstanding projects to the local community.

In the short time since we acquired the property in June 2018, we’ve been pleased with the progress of our strategy to revitalise the Belconnen Markets precinct.

There has already been strong interest from “mini-majors”, specialty retailers and service providers in the Stage One offering, which will complement the current retail precinct.”

- Glenn Willis, CEO of Elanor Investors Group
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“The Belconnen Markets precinct masterplan has been influenced by recent trends in Europe and North America where markets are an important anchor of community economic activity.

Our vision for the new Markets precinct is to transform it into a day-night destination for Canberra residents and its visitors, providing a unique experience not currently available elsewhere in the ACT or NSW.

In other parts of the world, revitalised markets are increasingly activating mixed-use precincts.”  

- Michael Baliva, Elanor’s Co-Head of Real Estate
</blockquote>
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Elanor Investors Group

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