Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

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Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

Joel Robinson

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

By the time S&amp;S Projects began planning <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia</a>, the developer already had three Rainbow Bay projects from which to draw.

Flow, Awaken and Esprit had given <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Projects</a> experience developing in the southern Gold Coast enclave, as well as buyer feedback that could be carried into its fourth project, a boutique collection of 38 residences at 271 Boundary Street.

“We have experienced a lot of success in this location and as this was our fourth building we had taken all of the learnings and buyer feedback from previous projects to arrive at a design and apartment mix that we believe had captured all of that experience and remained a true S&amp;S Project in its design and amenity,” the developer said.

That experience has translated into a collection of two, three, four and five-bedroom residences including two penthouses positioned on an elevated corner in Rainbow Bay, where the site opens to multiple coastal view corridors and the area's distinctive north-facing bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140491 project_image_fid=284542]

S&amp;S Projects says the Boundary Street site took years to assemble, having previously comprised six units, a house and a duplex. The developer worked individually with the existing owners to bring the properties together after an earlier attempt to sell the site had been complicated by the number of parties involved.

“We are constantly looking for properties that meet our brand standards of location, views, and sites that are rare with unique aspects that we can develop to maximise the lifestyle of residents who live in our buildings,” S&amp;S Projects said.

The Boundary Street site gave <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a> a different set of conditions to work with.&nbsp;

“Our design brief was to design a building that took advantage of its unique elevated corner siting offering a range of spectacular view corridor opportunities,” Cottee Parker said.

“The design had to reinforce the strong brand pillars of S&amp;S which are quality, luxury and superior resident amenity.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140491 project_image_fid=284543]

Cottee Parker responded with a sculptural floorplate and strong horizontal banding, with continuous balconies and landscaped planters wrapping the building. Operable screens along the balcony edges allow residents to manage light and shade while creating an additional layer of pattern across the facade.

The tower rises above a heavily landscaped podium incorporating the entry lobby and recreational level, while the broader architectural expression takes cues from Rainbow Bay's coastal environment through its organic forms and light material palette.

Cottee Parker says the design has also been developed to complement S&amp;S Projects’ three previous Rainbow Bay developments while retaining its own architectural identity.

Inside, the residences continue that coastal response through two interior schemes centred on warm timbers and neutral tones, alongside patterned natural stone and fluted detailing.

Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors connect open-plan living areas to wraparound balconies, while natural stone is used across benchtops, splashbacks and bathroom walls. Specifications also include light-washed timber flooring, gas fireplaces, integrated bar and wine fridges, freestanding stone baths and 100 per cent wool carpet.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140491 project_image_fid=284559]

Cottee Parker Director Sandra Brown said the intention was to create an architectural response closely connected to its surroundings.

“Imagine architecture that breathes with the rhythm of nature, where every curve and line flows seamlessly – creating spaces that dance with the elements, where sunlight kisses every surface and the gentle sea breeze fills every space,” Brown said.

The lessons S&amp;S Projects carried into Radia also extend to its resident amenity, with a substantial collection of shared facilities planned for just 38 residences.

A dedicated Residents Club will include a lap pool and spa, gymnasium, ice bath, sauna, steam room and hot rocks sauna. A residents' lounge, private dining room, outdoor dining and barbecue area and business centre are also planned, along with storage and dedicated surfboard and beach lockers.

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the facilities were also designed around the project's Rainbow Bay setting.

“Each amenity is designed to capitalise on the lifestyle of Rainbow Bay, ensuring residents can enjoy the relaxed coastal experience the enclave is famous for,” Gedoun said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140491 project_image_fid=284555]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> says purchasers to date have predominantly included local downsizers, interstate lifestyle investors and families, alongside a strong contingent of repeat S&amp;S purchasers.&nbsp;

According to the project sales team, feedback has centred on the natural stone and joinery, generous floorplans, natural light and the ability for residences to capture views in multiple directions. The completed Flow, Awaken and Esprit developments have also provided prospective purchasers with an existing reference point for S&amp;S Projects' delivery in Rainbow Bay.

There has also been interest from high-profile surfers and people connected to the surf community, with the elevated building providing outlooks towards several of the area's recognised surf breaks.

Radia continues S&amp;S Projects' concentration of development in a tightly held part of the southern Gold Coast, close to Rainbow Bay Beach, Snapper Rocks, Duranbah Beach, Greenmount Beach and the Tweed River. The neighbourhood also includes a growing collection of hospitality venues, while Coolangatta Airport provides connections beyond the southern Gold Coast.

Hutchinson Builders is now delivering Radia, continuing the project from early works privately funded by S&amp;S Projects. The $250 million development is expected to reach completion in the third quarter of 2027.

“With our history in Rainbow Bay, we have been fortunate to be heavily involved in how the development landscape has unfolded and this project slides into the property landscape comfortably and will feel like it was always there,” the developer said.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140491]

How three Rainbow Bay projects shaped S&S Projects' fourth, Radia

Nearly 40 years after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sheida-group">The Sheida Group</a> began working on the northern Gold Coast, the family-owned developer is continuing its involvement in Hope Island with Marina Point Apartments, where apartment scale has been a central part of the development.

Across the 235-apartment waterfront community, the developer has prioritised larger floorplans, substantial open space and marina access, responding to a purchaser base that has predominantly comprised local owner-occupiers and downsizers moving from larger homes.

"Having already delivered Anchorage nearby, we also understood this particular market and how people live here," developer Rick Sheida said.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marina-point-apartments-hope-island-66-view-line-terrace-hope-island-qld-4212">Marina Point&nbsp;Apartments</a> gave us the opportunity to build on those lessons and create the next evolution of our work in Hope Island."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136992 project_image_fid=293151]

The Sheida Group acquired the Marina Point land around 2018. Its appeal, Sheida says, went beyond having a waterfront address.

"What attracted us was not simply that the site was waterfront, but the way it meets the water," he said.

"It sits at the junction of broad waterways, creating long sightlines, changing views and a sense of movement throughout the day. Its shape also allowed us to orient the buildings outward, improve privacy between residences and make better use of natural light and breezes."

The buildings have subsequently been positioned around the perimeter of the site, allowing most apartments to take in water views while others look across the resort amenity or hinterland. Once all four buildings are complete, approximately one hectare of the site is expected to remain as open space.

The waterfront also provides the potential for up to 50 marina berths, with berths ranging from 15 to 24 metres and options designed to accommodate wider vessels including catamarans. Access from the marina to the Gold Coast Seaway is bridge-free.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136992 project_image_fid=293149]

The developer says purchasers to date have predominantly been owner-occupiers and downsizers from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marina-point-apartments-hope-island-66-view-line-terrace-hope-island-qld-4212">Hope Island</a> and elsewhere on the Gold Coast, generally aged between 45 and 70. Many have sold larger family homes or properties requiring significant upkeep.

That purchaser profile informed a design brief centred on retaining the space and functionality of a larger home within an apartment format.

"Many of our buyers are coming from large, well-appointed homes in Sanctuary Cove and the surrounding area," the project team said.

"They are accustomed to generous spaces and thoughtful design, so it was important that the apartments delivered the same sense of comfort and functionality.

"Every room needed to feel well proportioned, every space needed a clear purpose and nothing could feel compromised."

Residences range from 139 sqm through to 319 sqm penthouses, with two car spaces provided to apartments and three to penthouses. Minimum 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, entertainer's kitchens with butler's pantries, substantial storage and balconies ranging from 18 sqm to 37 sqm further reflect the emphasis on space.

One purchaser from Sanctuary Cove has taken the concept further, combining two of Marina Point's largest apartments to create a 552 sqm residence with raked ceilings reaching up to 4.5 metres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136992 project_image_fid=293155]

With Building 1 now complete, the developer is also seeing its original design assumptions tested against purchaser feedback.

Three completed display residences allow prospective purchasers to compare apartment sizes, layouts, finishes and outlooks in person. The sales team says one of the most consistent responses has been to the scale of the apartments, with visitors describing them as feeling more like homes than conventional apartments.

The first stage of resident amenity is also operational, including a 25-metre heated lap pool, Technogym-equipped gym, infrared sauna, golf simulator and yoga room. Future facilities are set to include a resort-style pool and spa, waterfront barbecue area and a residents' lounge with a library, fireplace, pool table, kitchen and bar.

Rather than treating the four buildings independently, the design brief called for a complete waterfront neighbourhood, balancing private residences with landscaping, open space, marina access and shared amenity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136992 project_image_fid=293152]

For Sheida, Marina Point Apartments is ultimately an extension of the developer's longer-term involvement in Hope Island and its view of how the suburb is evolving.

"We were equally interested in the long-term future of Hope Island," he said.

"Its position between Brisbane and the central Gold Coast gives residents access to both, while improving transport connections are making the northern Gold Coast increasingly attractive as a permanent place to live."

Hope Island Marketplace is 1.3 kilometres from Marina Point, while Sanctuary Cove and Paradise Point are within six kilometres. Links Hope Island, The Pines and The Palms golf courses are also nearby, and the new Hope Island train station is under construction around five kilometres from the development.

Building 2 is under construction, with completion scheduled for 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136992]

Marina Point Apartments continues The Sheida Group's 40-year Hope Island story

Ewert Leaf

<html><body>
Melbourne's south-east apartment market is set for a major boost with Melbourne developer Steller launching three projects in two weeks across Carnegie, Bentleigh and Cheltenham. Apartments.com.au is currently tracking Steller's project pipeline valued at over $4.2 billion, which includes its first high-rise foray in South Melbourne, working alongside longtime collaborator architect Ewert Leaf. Already the partnership has yielded hundreds of apartments across Melbourne's South Eastern suburbs.

Steller also recently commenced construction on the first stage of its $80 million Continental Hotel redevelopment in Sorrento. The major redevelopment will re-imagine the 143-year-old icon as a luxury accommodation, wellness, recreation, entertainment and dining destination, with the heritage hotel restored as a leading hospitality and events establishment, along with the addition of three new proposed interconnecting buildings, which will include premium hotel rooms and a wellness centre including a day spa and gym.

<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/continental_hotel-sorrento.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Work has commenced on the $80 million Continental Hotel development in Sorrento. Images: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="186" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/continental_hotel-sorrento.jpg?itok=TeJIBVrR" title="Work has commenced on the $80 million Continental Hotel development in Sorrento. Images: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Work has commenced on the $80 million Continental Hotel development in Sorrento. Images: Steller</figcaption></figure>Steller's trio of new apartment developments are all located within maturing apartment markets which are well serviced by public transport and within close proximity of retail strips, schools and supermarkets. Carnegie and Bentleigh in particular have benefited from the Victorian Government's Level Crossing Removal program which included the reconstruction of the respective stations, removing the conflict between rail and vehicle, while easing congestion.

Additionally, the three projects align with Steller's strategy in the south-east of delivering low-rise developments of around 30 apartments which are well designed and offer residents a high level of amenity.

<h2><a href="/buildings/laila-residences-7-11-belsize-avenue-carnegie">Laila - 7-11 Belsize Avenue, Carnegie</a></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/am18-21_lailaresidences_domain_living_1920x1080.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Laila, Carnegie. Image: Steller"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/am18-21_lailaresidences_domain_living_1920x1080.jpg?itok=tkYZj0lK" title="Laila, Carnegie. Image: Steller" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Laila, Carnegie. Image: Steller</figcaption></figure>Located within the heart of Carnegie, Laila comprises 35 apartments across four levels, within walking distance of the Koornang Road retail and dining strip, green open space and the recently rebuilt Carnegie Station. The project also capitalises on its proximity to Chadstone Shopping Centre and Monash University’s Caulfield campus, both just just five minutes’ drive away in either direction.

Ewert Leaf's design for the exterior of the building allows it to sit comfortably within the low-rise streetscape. Employing a neutral palette of contrasting shades and highly textured materials, Laila is articulated as a series of buildings rather than one singular mass, with the upper level setback and designed to be visually recessive. The built form has also been designed to maximise privacy while minimising overshadowing to adjoining properties.

Laila's mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, each come with one or two bathrooms, and private outdoor spaces which seamlessly connect to the interiors, with large windows providing living areas with ample natural light and ventilation. The interiors feature timber flooring throughout, while kitchens are appointed with sleek black ILVE appliances and shaker style cabinets.

<h2><a href="/buildings/sora-13-15-hamilton-street-bentleigh">SORA - 13-15 Hamilton Street, Bentleigh</a></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/steller_sora_bentleigh_digital_assets_domain_premium_project-gallery_photos_1920x1080px_012.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sora, Bentleigh. Image: Steller"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/steller_sora_bentleigh_digital_assets_domain_premium_project-gallery_photos_1920x1080px_012.jpg?itok=O5VI-U7x" title="Sora, Bentleigh. Image: Steller" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sora, Bentleigh. Image: Steller</figcaption></figure>Ewert Leaf are once again the architects behind SORA, a four-storey low-rise of 27 apartments located 15km from the Melbourne CBD in Bentleigh.  Providing a mix of larger one, two &amp; three bedroom apartments, SORA has been designed to appeal to professionals, couples and families.

Situated within walking distance of Bentleigh Station, SORA also benefits from its proximity to Coles, Target, and the Centre Road retail strip which provides an array of essential services and amenity. A number of green spaces are also located within a short walk.

SORA's exterior is characterised by its tiered form, and combination of timber, brick and textured concrete with planters and vegetation providing green flourishes on the facade. The building is expressed as two forms to respond to the built form along the Hamilton Street and to minimise its impact on the streetscape and surrounding properties.

Internally, SORA comes complete with ILVE kitchen appliances and much like Laila, shaker-style cabinetry and natural timber flooring. In keeping with the desire to provide apartments with natural light and ventilation, large windows have been provided which also allow for a green outlook and seamless transition to the outdoors.

<h2><a href="/buildings/maude-7-11-maude-street-cheltenham">Maude - 7-11 Maude Street, Cheltenham</a></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/steller_mc_maude_street_cheltenham_digital_assets_domain_premium_project-gallery_photos_1920x1080px_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Steller's Maude is set to launch in the next week. Image: Steller"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/steller_mc_maude_street_cheltenham_digital_assets_domain_premium_project-gallery_photos_1920x1080px_01.jpg?itok=dXB56Mya" title="Steller's Maude is set to launch in the next week. Image: Steller" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Steller's Maude is set to launch in the next week. Image: Steller</figcaption></figure>Set to launch to market in the next week, this four-storey building comprising 34 apartments has been designed by regular Steller collaborators, Ewert Leaf. Look out for Apartments.com.au's feature on Cheltenham's development pipeline including Maude next week.
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Laurence Dragomir

A Steller showcase in Melbourne's south-east

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Steller's intended development of a low-rise South Melbourne corner site has taken another step closer to fruition with Ewert Leaf producing a new design for 200-204 Wells Street.

What shapes as the first high-rise for both developer and architect is also set to continue the very well established relationship between the duo. The partnership has yielded hundreds of apartments over numerous sites predominantly across Melbourne's South Eastern suburbs.

Steller landed the South Melbourne plot after it was offered for sale via a Lemon Baxter campaign during late 2017. The sale came after approval was granted during June 2017 for an Artisan Architects-designed tower containing 174 apartments.

That scheme included a Gross Floor Area of 21,857 square metres over 20 levels.

<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/image154_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lemon Baxter's sales image for the Wells street site"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="347" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image154_1.jpg?itok=3stxkgms" title="Lemon Baxter's sales image for the Wells street site" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lemon Baxter's sales image for the Wells Street site</figcaption></figure>Reflective of a number of pending residential towers surrounding Steller's site, the apartment balance has been reworked to better suit current market conditions. The approved 174 apartments are likely to shrink to 84 according to Ewert Leaf, split between 36 single, 36 double and 12 triple bedroom apartments across its 18 levels.

The nearby <a href="/buildings/the-eighth-south-melbourne-22-kings-place-south-melbourne">8 Palmerston Crescent</a> for Crema Group also spans 18 levels and consists of only two and three bedroom apartments. 

The apparent dramatic reduction in Steller's Wells Street apartment numbers can also be attributed to the inclusion of commercial office space and a marked increase in space associated to amenities. Ewert Leaf note the tower's Net Saleable Area as at 6,907 square metres, equating to an average apartment size of just over 82 square metres across 84 apartments.

200-204 Wells Street finds itself on the eastern border of South Melbourne, and is within walking distance to the under construction Anzac Station. The area is becoming increasingly popular with developers owing to its location and abundance of relatively modern low-rise buildings suitable for redevelopment.

<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/1-3-596x727.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ewert Leaf's first high-rise project in the making"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="707" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1-3-596x727.jpg?itok=CP1gP6dy" title="Ewert Leaf's first high-rise project in the making" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ewert Leaf's first high-rise project in the making</figcaption></figure>Ewert Leaf describes the project as follows:

<blockquote>
The development comprises 84 apartments, 3 levels of office space and 2 levels of shared communal facilities for the residents of the building. These communal facilities include hotel style offerings of pool, day spa, lounges, café, restaurant and private dining options. 

The podium features angled concrete planes, which are glazed or clad with a perforated mesh, creating an undulating form which wraps the corner site and draws your eye around the building.

To emphasise the slenderness of the tower, the form has been broken down into concrete frames which wrap a number of levels, creating a simple and unified form. The concrete is further utilised in a ribbed pattern on the east and west facades.

Perforated mesh screens to the balconies create winter gardens and enable residents to use these spaces all year.
</blockquote>

200-204 Wells Street is Steller's first high-rise pursuit in a catalogue of developments that reaches past 50.

Currently, Apartments.com.au is tracking 30 developments under the Steller umbrella. The Wells Street tower aside, other sizeable pending projects for the developer include <a href="/buildings/13-15-chesterville-road-cheltenham">Chesterville Road</a>, <a href="/buildings/13-15-taylor-street-moorabbin">Taylor Street</a> and Elsternwick's <a href="/buildings/eva-elsternwick-village-apartments-241-glen-huntly-road-elsternwick">Glen Huntly Road</a>.
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silvermb

Steller and Ewert Leaf combine for a reworked South Melbourne apartment tower

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Elsternwick may potentially receive a new tallest building as Steller's latest project hits advertising, revealing a Ewert Leaf-designed mixed-use scheme for 233-247 Glen Huntly Road.

A prompt turnaround of the site is on the cards, with Steller simultaneously revealing that they were the purchaser of the site and lodging the project with City of Glen Eira during July. The 2,340sqm site which also fronts Ripon Grove was secured by the prolific developer for $25 million.

233-247 Glen Huntly Road would usurp the completed <a href="http://www.plusarchitecture.com.au/portfolio/element/">Element</a> development nearby at 221-229 Glen Huntly Road as Elsternwick's tallest contemporary development.

<h2>233-247 Glen Huntly 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/image10steller.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rendered perspective from street level. Planning image: Ewert Leaf"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="380" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10steller.jpg?itok=YZ3PwXe8" title="Rendered perspective from street level. Planning image: Ewert Leaf" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rendered perspective from street level. Planning image: Ewert Leaf</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Currently onsite: Commercial tenancies and a dwelling</li>
	<li>Proposed: 12 level building at 41.4m in height</li>
	<li>117 apartments: 2 x 1BR, 111 x 2BR, 4 x 3BR</li>
	<li>Apartment size range: 64sqm - 143sqm</li>
	<li>2 retail tenancies: 974.8sqm combined</li>
	<li>1 office tenancy: 896.7sqm</li>
	<li>Provision for 172 vehicles &amp; 127 bicycles</li>
	<li>Communal roof terrace</li>
	<li>Anticipated cost of development: $39.45m</li>
</ul>
<h2>A new iteration</h2>

Steller's current aspirations for 233-247 Glen Huntly Road are not necessarily groundbreaking in that VCAT has in the past endorsed a similar-sized scheme for the site.

During 2011 consent was given for a building rising up to 10 levels and containing 141 apartments. That scheme also included the adjoining church on Ripon Grove which was to have been converted into an additional 21 dwellings, although the church which is described as having architectural and social importance by Heritage Council Victoria is not included within the current application.

233-247 Glen Huntly Road falls under an urban renewal zone within the <a href="http://file:///C:/Users/silvermb/Downloads/Draft-Elsternwick-Structure-Plan.pdf%5C">Draft Elsternwick Structure Plan</a>, allowing this and adjoining sites to receive intensified development.

According to the development team, the current scheme has been designed to comply with relevant planning overlays.

<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/image15ghr.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial rendered perspective. Planning image: Ewert Leaf"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image15ghr.jpg?itok=qKow4kur" title="Aerial rendered perspective. Planning image: Ewert Leaf" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial rendered perspective. Planning image: Ewert Leaf</figcaption></figure><h2>Steller's next wave</h2>

Steller's move on Elsternwick coincides with the news that they are the recent purchaser of St Kilda's former Greyhound Hotel site.

Picking up the vacant block for $7.5 million, Steller may well redesign the approved plans from eight levels into a seven level mixed-use project including 37 apartments and two retail spaces. Addressed 1 Brighton Road, Savills recently handled the marketing campaign for the 911sqm site which included approved plans devised by Terry Harper Architects.

Both Elsternwick and St Kilda reinforce Steller's push into Melbourne's inner south-eastern corridor, following on from the developer's purchase earlier this year of a permitted 20 level tower at 200-204 Wells Street in South Melbourne.

That site holds approval for an Artisan Architects-designed tower of approximately 200 apartments, after being sold via Lemon Baxter earlier this year.

<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/image12_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="St Kilda and South Melbourne were both purchased with approved schemes."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="204" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image12_13.jpg?itok=h3d38G58" title="St Kilda and South Melbourne were both purchased with approved schemes." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>St Kilda and South Melbourne were both purchased with approved schemes.</figcaption></figure>
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Steller seeks a new Elsternwick high point

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Fueled by an investor-driven market, the CBD and Southbank ruled the apartment sales market over recent years. That was then, but now the mantle rests with Melbourne's inner eastern suburbs, where developers have jumped upon a recurring project format which gives their project the greatest chance of success.

Low-rise developments with spacious apartments designed for the owner-occupier. Simple really?

Simple or otherwise, the proliferation of low-rise three to five level apartment buildings in suburbs such as Hawthorn, Malvern and Glen Iris demonstrates the strong consumer uptake of projects which shy away from smaller, investor-driven apartment formats. 21 Riversdale Road is the most recent example of the strength of the inner east apartment market.

Agent Marshall White Projects has just revealed they signed off on $12 million in sales during a single day for the luxury residential project in Hawthorn which features 22 oversized apartments. This high mark was achieved one month prior to the project’s public launch and before any sales or marketing material was made available.

The $32 million project is being developed by Moda, whilst Ewert Leaf undertook the design; the practice has made a habit of creating highly successful low-rise apartment schemes in Melbourne's southern and eastern suburbs for some time now.

Director of Marshall White Projects, Leonard Teplin denotes 21 Riversdale Road's features which are apparent across many of the current batch of apartment projects in Melbourne's east - oversized, light-filled apartments with high-quality finishes, designed to attract the owner occupiers and the ability customise floor plans to create larger apartments.

95% of the early purchasers were local downsizers from either Stonnington and Boroondara.

<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/image5mwh21_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="21 Riversdale Road's open plan living space. Image: Marshall White Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5mwh21_0.jpg?itok=VdclnC0a" title="21 Riversdale Road's open plan living space. Image: Marshall White Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>21 Riversdale Road's open plan living space. Image: Marshall White Projects</figcaption></figure><h2>Commentary by Leonard Teplin</h2>

<blockquote>
The success of a project is dependent on its ability to understand the needs of the market and deliver a product that not only meets, but exceeds those needs.

21 Riversdale Road is a prime example of what happens when developers get it right – when you create a quality project and invest the time and resources early on, the development speaks for itself and you end up spending less on sales and marketing down the track.

Projects located within Melbourne’s wealth belt affords the benefits of connectivity and proximity to lifestyle amenities, while also offering the quiet leafy streets that are favoured by the downsizer market.
</blockquote>

<h2>The format for success</h2>

Assessment of the Apartments.com.au Project Database shows the strength on the low-rise luxury apartment market through the inner eastern suburbs.

Adding locales such as Camberwell, Hawthorn East, Kew, Malvern East and Toorak to the aforementioned suburbs Hawthorn, Malvern and Glen Iris reveals a clear cut penchant for low-rise apartment projects. Across these 8 suburbs, 136 apartment projects are in various stages of development, and of those only 27% have six or more levels.

Restrictive planning controls coupled with the target market's appetite of low-rise luxury living across Stonnington and Boroondara in particular is plain to see.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image34_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A sample of current apartment project in Melbourne's inner east"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="467" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image34_11.jpg?itok=6OutAFXr" title="A sample of current apartment project in Melbourne's inner east" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A sample of current apartment project in Melbourne's inner east</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne's inner east keeps the apartment light burning bright

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...prolific apartment developer Steller.

Provided you're in the right suburb, chances are when you peer over your back fence you'll be looking at a Steller project under construction.

The Carnegie-based outfit has made a habit of targeting suburban Residential Growth Zones with low-rise apartment projects - and very successfully. Steller has no less than 22 projects currently within the Apartments.com.au Project Database; based on database entries alone they are a veritable quantum leap ahead of the next.

Steller's upswing can be attributed to a number of factors. Primarily, the developer focuses on 3-5 level apartment buildings across Melbourne's southern and eastern suburbs where owner-occupiers are currently all the rage.

Working generally within the 20-40 apartment band per project, two and three bedroom options rule to roost. Single bedroom apartments few and far between.

<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/image27_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bentleigh is the epicentre of Steller's project map"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image27_6.jpg?itok=LrIb8Ru9" title="Bentleigh is the epicentre of Steller's project map" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bentleigh is the epicentre of Steller's project map</figcaption></figure>The slant toward oversized apartments in suburbs which are currently in favour sees Steller log 21 projects within the Apartments.com.au Project Database which are either at Registrations &amp; Sales or Under Construction. Undoubtedly the developer has more up their sleeve as well which have yet to reach the public realm.

The sum of all Steller listings within the Apartments.com.au Project Database amounts at 781 apartments; 36 apartments per project on average, or still well under any of a handful of individual inner city's super towers under construction which carry in excess of 1,000 apartments.

Steller's success has also passed down to their architect of choice, Ewert Leaf. The South Melbourne practice sees a healthy proportion of their database listing attributed to Steller apartment projects.

Steller's increased project exposure flows from the developer's relationship with two key partners, namely APN Property Group and OCP Asia. 

In partnership with APN, the duo have cemented a development partnership which will <a href="http://apngroup.com.au/fund/apn-steller-development-fund/">develop 223 apartments over six medium density projects</a>. Insight is given by APN Property Group as to why their partnership (and by default Steller) is so successful. The manageable size of each project allows for an altogether nimble approach to development. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image28_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bentleigh's Vickory and Hall Street, Cheltenham"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="240" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image28_4.jpg?itok=4zmu7PcS" title="Bentleigh's Vickory and Hall Street, Cheltenham" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bentleigh's Vickory and Hall Street, Cheltenham</figcaption></figure>Medium density projects with a fast turn around and lessened inherent risk, located in Residential Growth Zones surrounding public transport is the order of the day, and a recipe for success.

The Australian <a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/property/steller-group-gets-asian-equity-boost/news-story/35cdf02c518251a72e6b5dfbdbaa846c">reported mid this year</a> that OCP Asia as Steller's second partner will provide finance to multiple apartment developments in the pipeline; roughly $800 million worth of apartments across ­Melbourne’s south eastern ­suburbs will benefit from the agreement.

With the sheer volume of projects Steller has on the go, one thing's for sure...they will keep the Apartments.com.au Project Database ticking over for some time to come.
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