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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

Essendon

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The veteran jockey Luke Currie has his Essendon home of 17 years listed for sale.
Currie and his wife, Sophia, have $1.5 million to $1.6 million expectations.
The four-bedroom house has been home to his daughters Mia, 4, and Miley, 10 months for the 39-year-old joekey.
He recently rode Arcadia Queen to victory in the Mckinnon Stakes.
He told the Herald Sun 2B Thomson Street was being listed as they were set to move closer to Sophia’s family in Bayside.
They made renovations since paying $480,000 in 2003.
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firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Jockey Luke Currie lists Essendon home

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The Essendon townhouse of Brydon Coverdale, known as “The Shark” on Channel Seven’s quiz program The Chaser, has been listed for sale.
The quiz whiz and his wife Zoe used winnings from his appearance on Million Dollar Minute in 2014 to pay off the townhouse.
It was their first home when bought in 2011 for $560,000.
The Kendall Street home has three bedrooms, with city skyline views in the master.
Matthew Febey, at Nelson Alexander Essendon has listed it for June 13 auction with a guide of $730,000 to $780,000.
It has city skyline views in the main bedroom.
The home is in the zone for Strathmore Secondary College.
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The Chaser's Shark Brydon Coverdale lists Essendon townhouse

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Designer Kathy Demos worked on a new building material concept in total secrecy for half a decade and has finally revealed the design.

Demos collaborated with the team at PGH Bricks to produce a stunning metallic brick, which would reflect different coloured light across the day. PGH have been in the brick manufacturing industry for over 100 years, and of their expansive team, only six workers knew about the project. The bricks will be featured on the lower levels of the John Demos Architects designed 'Luminess', and will sit above traditional red brick, and below modern glass and concrete, providing a strong tie between the two juxtaposing elements. 

<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/imagehandler_901b751c.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imagehandler_901b751c.jpg?itok=m8UvEfgt" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Metallic bricks designed by Kathy Demos in collaboration with PGH</figcaption></figure>Intrigued by the secrecy of the project, we asked Kathy Demos a few questions about the project, and discovered that she already has another exciting building material in the works.

Urban.com.au: What sparked the idea to create bricks with a metallic quality, and how did you arrive at the final decision of the material used? 

Kathy Demos: Bricks are a traditional building product of great quality. The PGH Urban Metals range was developed specifically for Permarc’s Luminess project. We wanted to highlight the capacity of such an age-old product to continue to be highly relevant, sophisticated and surprising. It was this juxtaposition that was integral to the project. Copper, bronze, silver and zinc were selected as these finishes were emerging in fashion and homewares but we also wanted to take it a step further. What elevated this range was the decision to glaze the bricks to create an almost mirror-like effect. This meant that the bricks would constantly change in appearance depending on the light giving an ephemeral quality to a building façade.

U: Throughout the 5 year evolution period, how involved were you in the production process?

KD: Whatever the design project is, my role extends from the original concept through production, pricing, marketing and sales, whether it is a building product or the interiors of an apartment building. Ideas are challenged, designs are refined – there is a constant application to the task. Collaboration is essential and part of the joy of projects like these. The expertise from the laboratory, the factory floor and the PGH marketing specialist was vital to the development of this range.

U: How long does it take to produce each individual brick?

KD: Bricks are actually quite fast and easy to make, even ones as sophisticated as the Urban Metals. Hundreds of bricks can be produced in just a few days, its the design and development which is so vital to the success of any product that needs more time and investment.

U: In terms of durability, how do they compare to the standard brick?

KD: Bricks are highly durable and Urban Metals are no exception. The glazed finish makes this range less porous therefore more resistant to environmental factors and graffiti.

U: Are the bricks likely to be sold commercially in future? Do you worry this could take away from the uniqueness of Luminess?

KD: I am proud that Luminess will always be the first development to use these bricks. As a commercial designer, I am looking forward to seeing them on many more buildings – they will look different each time as architects find new ways to integrate bricks into their buildings.

U: What do you believe are the most important factors to consider when designing a landmark development?

KD: For me, it is only a landmark when people recognise it as such, not because of a council designation. All projects are approached in the same way, that is, to create something that addresses objectives and challenges so that the final result contributes positively, even culturally, to people’s lives.

U: What kind of new design processes and technologies are you currently interested in exploring next?

KD: I am currently working with cladding specialist, Cemintel, a company that places great emphasis on cladding that is suitable and safe for buildings. We have just launched a new range, 'Surround', which is prefinished with colour-through technology. It means that buildings can be clad in a range of textures and colours which never need painting and will sustain a beautiful appearance for years. There are other new products in development too, but I can’t tell you about those yet. Another one of those secrets!

<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/e01_exterior_hero.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="794" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/e01_exterior_hero.jpg?itok=AquwQmMg" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Luminess, Essendon</figcaption></figure>
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Olivia Round

Designer Kathy Demos reveals 5-year-long secret design

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The gangland widow Roberta Williams is using the Informer 3838 scandal to lodge an injunction to save her family's Essendon home from being auctioned December 15 by the Tax Office.
The Essendon home that belonged to the late drug lord George Williams is being sold by the ATO after it was seized earlier this year.
The property was being lived in by his daughter in law Roberta Williams after he left the home to his granddaughter Dhakota.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-essendon-129916858" target="_blank">home, bereft of any furniture</a>, has a reserve of $750,000 for its December 15 auction.
It has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and sits on an 235 sqm Primrose Street parcel.
<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/2018/11/19/Ess2.jpg" alt="">
Back in 2009 Carl Williams had a $570,000 tax debt wiped by the Victorian Police as part of a deal helping them with information on a number of murders.
The debt was reinstated by the government a year later when Carl Williams, Roberta's husband, was murdered in prison.
The ATO was made mortgagee of the home in a deal that avoided a forced sale to cover the debt.
Earlier this year Roberta Williams attempted to gain ownership of the home, although failed, as the Supreme Court ruled she had no claim to the house. 
Her last-ditch bid comes in the wake of the Informer 3838 scandal, as the criminal barrister known as Informer 3838, who gave information to police about her underworld clients, represented murdered drug lord Carl Williams.
Roberta had refused to sell the home initially after George's death, claiming no tax debt existed because it was supposed to be wiped away by a 2009 deal struck with Victoria Police in return for Carl providing information about a series of murders committed.
<p data-gtm-vis-recent-on-screen-6236702_632="1544052945911" data-gtm-vis-first-on-screen-6236702_632="1544052945911" data-gtm-vis-total-visible-time-6236702_632="4000" data-gtm-vis-has-fired-6236702_632="1">In 2010, her husband was bashed to death inside Barwon Prison, where he was serving a 35-year sentence for three murders.
Victoria Police cancelled the deal to pay George's tax debt and Roberta argued, as a result, her father-in-law was unconscionably coerced into mortgaging his house to the ATO. This argument was rejected by the Supreme Court.
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Roberta Williams seeks to injunct Essendon home auction

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The Essendon home that belonged to the late drug lord George Williams is being sold by the ATO after it was seized earlier this year.
The property was being lived in by his daughter in law Roberta Williams after he left the home to his granddaughter Dhakota.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-essendon-129916858" target="_blank">home, bereft of any furniture</a>, has a reserve of $750,000 for its December 15 auction.
It has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and sits on an 235 sqm Primrose Street parcel.
<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/2018/11/19/Ess2.jpg" alt="">
In 2015 it was the target of failed arson attacks.
Back in 2009 Carl Williams had a $570,000 tax debt wiped by the Victorian Police as part of a deal helping them with information on a number of murders.
The debt was reinstated by the government a year later when Carl Williams, Roberta's husband, was murdered in prison.
The ATO was made mortgagee of the home in a deal that avoided a forced sale to cover the debt.
Earlier this year Roberta Williams attempted to gain ownership of the home, although failed, as the Supreme Court ruled she had no claim to the house. 
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Robert Williams seeks to injunct Essendon home being auctioned

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Kildare, a 1900s Essendon home that has been transformed by its architect owner, has sold.
The vendor only retained the facade of the home, and renovated and extended the rear into a fully customised family home.
Julia Murphy from McDonald Upton had a $3 million to $3.3 million guide.
The multi-level home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-essendon-129415078" target="_blank">27 Richardson Street</a> comprises four bedrooms, multi-zoned living spaces, sitting room/home office and fully appointed Gaggenau kitchen. 
<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/2018/11/8/ess1.jpg" alt="">
Other features include outdoor entertainment terrace, salt-water pool, rear lane-way access and off-street parking for up to five cars.
The architect-owner has renovated its Kildare’s period facade.
<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/2018/10/22/essendon%203.jpg" alt="">
It is close to Essendon Station, Mt Alexander Road tram lines, the area’s premier schools and amenity-rich North Essendon Village.
The suburb's median house price sits at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-essendon-129415078" target="_blank"> $1.4 million</a>, according to CoreLogic. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Transformed Essendon home Kildare sells

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AFL legend Greg 'Diesel' Williams has sold Ardoch Tower, the Essendon trophy home.
Bought for a suburb record $3.08 million in 2004, Williams <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-essendon-129439314" target="_blank">restored the Brewster Street home</a> opposite Essendon Football Club's Windy Hill HQ.
<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/2018/10/17/williams1.jpg" alt="">
It had $7 million price hopes, and is believed to have sold near that figure, which will make the 1860s Italianate residence the second highest sale in the suburb.
The home, complete with a tower that has 360 degree views across Melbourne, has five bedrooms, three bathrooms and parking for eight cars.
It features 4 metre high decorative ceilings painted by an artist who died on the Titanic.
<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/2018/10/17/williams3.jpg" alt="">
A swimming pool, spa, tennis court and an all-weather alfresco area with pizza oven sits in the 2,455 sqm resort-style grounds.
Williams, a dual Brownlow Medal winner, played for Carlton, Sydney and Geelong over his 250 game, 13 year career.
 
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Essendon's Ardoch Tower sold by AFL legend Greg 'Diesel' Williams

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Ardoch Tower at Essendon has been listed by AFL great Greg ‘Diesel’ Williams and his wife Mary.
They paid a record $3.08 million when upgrading from nearby in 2004 for the now restored home on its 2453 square metre block opposite Essendon Football Club's Windy Hill headquarters.
It comes with a pool, spa, tennis court and an all-weather alfresco area with a pizza oven in resort-style grounds.
Greg Williams told The Australian earlier this year he was able to move freely again on the tennis court thanks to treatment by Melbourne biotech company Paradigm Biopharma who repurposed an old drug.
The tower in the house boasts 360-degree views across Melbourne.
The former Carlton, Sydney and Geelong star has $7 million expectations for the 1860s Italianate residence.
It features 4 metre high decorative ceilings painted by an artist who died on the Titanic, so the oft-told story suggests.
This article was first published in the Weekend Australian.
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AFL legend Greg 'Diesel' Williams lists in Essendon

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The mass migration of car dealerships from Essendon's Keilor Road is all but complete with the last super site at planning.

Holden's former dealership at 203-211 Keilor Road is now subject to a Peddle Thorp-designed scheme that would turn the sizeable 5,300 square metre site into a showcase of contemporary green design. The pending rebirth of the Holden dealership follows in the footsteps of similar sized lots along Keilor Road which have been developed or hold planning approval.

At Keilor road's expense, the bulk of car dealerships have chosen the expanses of the AutoCentro precinct within Essendon Fields.

Holden's departure is Panorama Investments Pty Ltd gain, the entity snared the site during a 2017 sales campaign. The proposal was lodged with City of Moonee Valley during March this year.

<h2>203-211 Keilor 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/image13_25.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Keilor Road perspective. Planning image: Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="221" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_25.jpg?itok=CSywNhKa" title="Keilor Road perspective. Planning image: Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Keilor Road perspective. Planning image: Peddle Thorp</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Site area: 5303.52 sqm with a primary 110m frontage to Keilor Road</li>
	<li>Proposed 7 levels at 23.7m in height</li>
	<li>121 apartments: 17 x 1BR, 85 x 2BR, 19 x 3BR</li>
	<li>Ground floor retail/commercial space: 2,130sqm</li>
	<li>2 basement levels for 247 vehicles and 131 bicycles</li>
	<li>Internal green space/courtyard and rooftop terrace</li>
</ul>
Retail tenancies will front the primary Keilor Road frontage, along with the secondary Cooper Street and Roberts Street frontages. The design's southern aspect has chosen a particularly green method of addressing the neighbouring detached properties.

Vertical and horizontal green plantings boards serve to bolster privacy whilst also providing a softer, more aesthetically pleasing outlook form the perspective of existing adjoining properties. 

Between the green facade and Peddle Thorp's inclusion of design features such as elevated bridges and an angular build form expression to Keilor Road, 203-211 Keilor Road has been billed as capable of "setting a benchmark in urban design and architectural resolution for the area".

<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/image14_19.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Interface with adjoining detached properties. Planning image: Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="275" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image14_19.jpg?itok=A63Luil6" title="Interface with adjoining detached properties. Planning image: Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Interface with adjoining detached properties. Planning image: Peddle Thorp</figcaption></figure>In the wider Keilor Road context, 203-211 Keilor Road is the latest project which adds to an already robust pipeline of projects. At construction is <a href="/buildings/parkside-apartments-64-keilor-road-essendon-north">Parkside Apartments</a> at 64 Keilor Road, whilst <a href="/buildings/curve-294-296-keilor-road-essendon-north">Curve Apartments</a> at 294-296 Keilor Road is awaiting the arrival of a builder onsite.

These projects combined will add approximately 125 apartments.

<a href="/new-apartments/113-keilor-road-essendon">113 Keilor Road</a> and 261 Keilor Road are more modest apartment projects in waiting, although two relative brutes stand to add 350 apartments between them. <a href="/new-apartments/144-160-keilor-road-essendon-north">144-160 Keilor Road</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/165-169-keilor-road-essendon">165-169 Keilor Road</a> are both substantial approved apartment projects, with the latter also accounting for a former car dealership.
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silvermb

Keilor Road's last car dealership goes to apartments and goes super green

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Essendon's house price record has been broken yet again - for the third time in eight months.
The record price in the northwest Melbourne suburbs was secured when a 1930s Tudor-style mansion at 41 Leslie Road is understood to have fetched about $8 million earlier this month.
The historic six-bedroom home — occupying a 2168 square metre landholding with a tennis court and pool — had been quoted at $7.775 million to $8.5 million by McDonald Upton Essendon.
It has taken the benchmark from 1903 landmark Enderby at 1 Riverview Road, which sold for more than $5.5 million in March.
The neighbouring 3 Riverview Road’s $4.53 million record sale from September.
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