A Moroccan-bathhouse residential tower has been unveiled for Budds Beach, with Australian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/homecorp">Homecorp</a> announcing plans for a $260 million resort-style project in one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held waterfront precincts.

A development application has been submitted to the Gold Coast City Council for a 27-storey tower at 8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue, Surfers Paradise, marking one of the few new large-scale residential projects proposed for the precinct in more than a decade.

The project will comprise 156 two- and three-bedroom residences, anchored by a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired wellness sanctuary featuring private treatment rooms, a traditional Nordic sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools and a curated juice bar. There will also be a resort-style rooftop precinct, complete with a heated infinity pool and spa, a residents’ lounge with a private kitchen and bar, a contemporary fitness centre with a yoga and Pilates studio, and outdoor BBQ areas with entertaining lounges.

<img alt="8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue, Surfers Paradise" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="997f8dbb-4ed1-47e4-8780-d12a3d5cd0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_3.png?VersionId=IsDJXxE8.HG92i4dnbmmPQi.fVXjME7I" />

"At Homecorp, we are driven by the pursuit of better - challenging expectations, thinking bigger and shaping communities that leave a lasting legacy," said Ron Bakir, CEO and Founder of Homecorp.

"This project draws on our experience and expertise to take what the market has been craving to the next level - a home that nurtures wellness, calms the mind and lifts the everyday stresses away. A home is more than a place you live, it’s where you rest, reset and find balance."

&nbsp;

Bakir says what sets the location&nbsp;apart is its rare, tightly held nature within one of the Gold Coast’s most vibrant lifestyle and entertainment precincts, yet quietly tucked away in a peaceful, beachside enclave.

"Budds Beach has remained exceptionally limited in supply over the past decade and this site presented an unmatched opportunity to deliver something truly special to both Surfers Paradise and the Gold Coast.”

Conveniently connected to major roads and the G:link, residents will enjoy easy access to Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads, while still being just minutes from the city’s most iconic beaches and the Broadwater’s ‘golden mile’.

The 2130 sqm site acquisition adds to Homecorp’s growing Gold Coast multi-storey portfolio on the Gold Coast, following the success of Eve Residences in Labrador upon its completion in November 2024. In 2025, Eve earned multiple national accolades and went on to win ‘Best Oceanview Condo Development’ in the Asia Pacific region at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final, outperforming entries from more than 13 prestigious international markets.

The company also commenced construction last year on the highly anticipated $250 million second stage of Cienna Varsity Ridge, set to deliver 289 residences by 2027 in the heart of Varsity Lakes, and launched the $210 million Florence Residences along Surfers Paradise’s Monte Carlo Avenue to the market, with construction kicking off last month.

"The property market is constantly evolving, particularly here on the Gold Coast, which continues to outperform national trends thanks to its unmatched lifestyle, natural beauty and growing infrastructure, especially ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympics. We are proud to be adding more homes to the skyline, creating spaces that are not only designed for liveability but also nurture wellness within. They are homes that are built to last a lifetime and beyond," concluded Mr Bakir.

The project is set to launch to the market later this year.

Joel Robinson

Homecorp lodges plans for $260 million Moroccan bathhouse-inspired tower in Budds Beach

What began as a leap of faith in the 1970s has evolved into one of the Gold Co​ast's most enduring development success stories. Raptis, now led by second-generation developer Evan Raptis, continues to shape the region's skyline four decades after patriarch Jim Raptis first ventured north from Sy​dney.

Jim Raptis began developing in Sy​dney in his 20s under the guidance of a seasoned mentor. After several successful joint ventures, he sensed untapped potential on the Gold Coast and made the bold decision to relocate. That instinct proved prescient, the Raptis family has contributed thousands of apartments to what was once purely a tourist destination and is now recognised as Australia's lifestyle capital.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=361818]

With decades of experience navigating the complex Gold Coast development landscape, Raptis maintains fully vertical integration, from site acquisition and construction through to marketing and sales strategies. This comprehensive approach has allowed the company to weather multiple market cycles and emerge well-positioned for the region's continued growth.

"We've seen the region change drastically over the last two decades, with that change accelerating in the last five years," says Evan Raptis. "The Gold Coast is becoming unrecognisable. There are some exciting projects happening up and down the coast. The Spit is being talked about as Australia's version of Monaco, with billions in development underway."

Unlike the volatile pre-GFC years that rocked the Gold Coast market, Raptis believes the region has matured considerably. "Demand remains strong, but the market is now settled and stable."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=361823]

While the company recently completed Pearl Main Beach, an 84-apartment development just 53 steps from the sand, Broadbeach has truly been home for the Raptis family.

"There's nothing Broadbeach doesn't have," Raptis says. "There's always a new café or restaurant coming into the neighbourhood, and the redevelopment of the Niecon Plaza, bringing nearly 5,500 square metres of retail, dining and office space, will only elevate Broadbeach even further."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=357483]

The suburb has reached what Raptis describes as a "settled phase" of its evolution, with owner-occupiers and repeat visitors increasingly shaping demand rather than traditional investors.

The company's latest Broadbeach project, Sterling, is now constructed to level 22 and scheduled for handover in June 2026. With approximately 70 per cent of apartments already sold ahead of completion, the development has attracted a distinct buyer profile.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=361821]

"We're seeing significant interest from lock-up-and-leave buyers and downsizers," Raptis explains. "Some use the apartments over Easter or Christmas, while others come down from Brisbane on weekends. They aren't your typical 'investors' who will put the apartments up for permanent rental."

Sterling offers prospective buyers a rare advantage: fully completed display apartments showcasing several two- and three-bedroom configurations, something few off-the-plan developments can provide.

With another Broadbeach project in the pipeline, Raptis emphasises that the next chapter is about maintaining standards rather than pursuing growth at any cost.

"We've been building for over four decades, and our track record matters. Our focus remains the same: deliver what we build, stay close to the details, and delivering a finished product that hopefully exceeds our clients' expectations."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=101620]

It’s all in the family: Four decades later, Raptis continues to shape the Gold Coast skyline

JWLand has completed the final residential stage of its Lyneham precinct, Northbourne Village, with De Burgh now welcoming residents who have begun settling into their new homes.

A selection of the 350 studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments remains available within the two-building <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/de-burgh-at-northbourne-village-40-de-burgh-street-lyneham-act-2602">De Burgh</a>, which occupies a prominent position along Northbourne Avenue.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=359152]

The apartments at De Burgh have been configured to prioritise natural light, privacy, and usable outdoor space, with ground-floor homes featuring private courtyards and upper-level apartments opening to generous balconies. Double-glazed windows are standard across the development, supporting acoustic comfort and improved energy performance.

Kitchens are fitted with Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, while all residences include ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning integrated with app-based controls, allowing residents to manage lighting and climate remotely. These inclusions reflect a broader focus on durability, efficiency, and everyday functionality rather than short-term finishes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=356280]

Shared amenity is delivered through a resident gym, rooftop garden, lounge spaces, parcel lockers, and landscaped communal areas that connect De Burgh to the wider Northbourne Village environment.

Nick Babic, Marketing Project Manager at JWLand, said the completion of De Burgh gives buyers a level of certainty that off-the-plan purchases cannot always provide.

“There’s no need to wait or play guessing games. You can come and see the spaces firsthand, and genuinely picture yourself living there today. That includes not only the apartments, but the amenities as well. It’s easy to imagine enjoying a coffee in the central courtyard or spending time with other residents in the lounge.”

The completed status of the project aligns with strong buyer demand for finished stock, particularly among first home buyers, young professionals, and downsizers seeking certainty around timing and cost.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=356282]

With pricing ranging from $463,000 to $1.588 million, much of the offering sits within reach of buyers looking to enter the Inner North apartment market.

De Burgh’s location underpins its buyer appeal, positioned approximately 600 metres from the light rail and three kilometres from Canberra’s CBD, with direct access to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/lyneham-act-2602">Lyneham</a> wetlands, Sullivan’s Creek parkland, and the established hospitality and retail precincts of Lyneham and Dickson.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139989]

Canberra's newest apartment building: JWLand completes De Burgh at Northbourne Village

One of Victoria’s largest private developers, Central Equity, has commenced construction on Palmera, its $1 billion luxury residential development at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast, appointing Tier 1 builder Multiplex to deliver the project.

The fast-track to construction is being undertaken ahead of Central Equity officially launching the project to market.

The company says the move reflects its confidence in both the calibre of its offering and the Gold Coast’s long-term fundamentals, underpinned by one of Australia’s strongest growing economies, continued population growth and sustained infrastructure investment.

A diversifying employment base across health, education, professional services and tourism has helped insulate the local economy from volatility, while limited new supply in established coastal locations continues to support demand from owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking long-term lifestyle value.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera</a> is being constructed in the prestigious Northcliffe residential neighbourhood on an expansive 3,239 sqm site. It is located at 18 Garfield Terrace near the Northcliffe Surf Life Saving Club and the patrolled Northcliffe surf beach, situated between Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361249]

Offering a mix of spacious three-bedroom apartments over 52 levels, Palmera is designed to deliver a full suite of premium residences to buyers looking for the ultimate coastal lifestyle that the Gold Coast has to offer.

The project’s premium apartments will deliver northern views across the Surfers Paradise beachfront and extending all the way around to Burleigh Heads and beyond.

Palmera will be crowned by its top four levels, being a limited collection of penthouses and skyhomes that further elevate the residential offering through generous proportions and uninterrupted panoramic views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361246]

The appointment of Multiplex as the builder represents a major milestone for Palmera and cements Central Equity’s commitment to the Gold Coast after delivering more than 85 residential projects over the past four decades. It will be the 20th project collaboration between Central Equity and Multiplex.

“The commencement of construction at Palmera marks a major milestone for the project, with Tier 1 builder Multiplex appointed to deliver the development in the highly sought-after Northcliffe residential precinct on the Gold Coast,” said Central Equity Executive Director Karl Kutner.

“Our commitment to commence immediate construction is in line with our resounding confidence in the Gold Coast over the long term. The city has evolved and proven to be one of Australia’s most dynamic and resilient property markets in recent years.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361250]

Multiplex, one of Australia’s largest builders, has been shaping skylines and delivering iconic projects around the world since 1962. In that time, the Tier 1 global contractor has delivered projects with a combined value of more than US$130 billion.

“Having worked with Multiplex on many previous developments, we are pleased to be extending our relationship further with Palmera,” Kutner added.

“Multiplex brings an unparalleled depth of experience to ensure that Palmera fulfils the vision we have laid out for this strategic location and is delivered to the highest standards,” he said.

Multiplex Regional Managing Director Michael Sinclair said Multiplex was delighted to be aligning with Central Equity yet again.

“Central Equity is creating a stunning new addition to the Gold Coast skyline, and we look forward to bringing their vision to life with a world-class construction team and program. We are proud to be working alongside Central Equity on our 20th project together.”

Palmera has been designed by Marchese Partners, with interiors by DBI.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361247]

Residents will have private access to extensive, state-of-the-art amenities, featuring two large pools including a generously scaled, family-friendly pool with safe shallow zones, and a 25-metre lap pool facing the western side, ensuring maximum sunlight all day.

Also available exclusively to residents is a sauna, magnesium pool, yoga studio, expansive gym, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ and dining areas. Residents will also be welcomed by concierge and luxurious entry foyer.

Located on Garfield Terrace in Northcliffe, Palmera enjoys a prime coastal position just moments from the patrolled Northcliffe beach and the G:link light rail, providing effortless connectivity along the Gold Coast’s beachfront suburbs, linking the Gold Coast University Hospital in the north with Nobby beach and Burleigh Heads to the south once the extension completes later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Central Equity unveils Palmera on Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise

The idea of a low-maintenance forever home located close to the city were the two driving factors behind a recent purchaser’s journey at Murcia, the under-construction East Brisbane apartment development by Sarazin.

Last year, Lois and her husband purchased a two-bedroom plus multi-purpose room (MPR) apartment in the new building, which is being constructed by Hutchinson Builders and is on track for completion in late-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=341638]

The couple’s number one priority was to remain within easy commuting distance of the city for work. Murcia is positioned alongside the new Cross River Rail, with Woolloongabba Station just 300 metres from the front door.

They are currently living in their Annerley unit, which they have owned for several years, after recently moving out of their inner-city apartment, located on the very same street as Murcia.

“We had watched the development for a long time, and when construction activity began, that’s when we felt confident to buy,” Lois said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=356540]

The timing also made sense. By moving back into their Annerley unit, they are able to save money ahead of settlement, while looking forward to returning closer to the city once Murcia is complete.

“We see Murcia as a forever home, as opposed to an investment, or something we need to appreciate massively in value and move on from in a few years,” Lois said.

“We secured an apartment large enough to grow a family, so we’re expecting to call Murcia home for a very long time.”

The couple plan to grow their family, but without the added maintenance demands of owning a standalone house further from the city. Working with Sarazin and architect HAL, they were able to slightly tweak the floorplan, converting the two-bedroom plus MPR layout into a functional three-bedroom apartment.

An added bonus was the recently revised communal space plans, which now incorporate a dedicated working-from-home area, complete with work pods, and shared desks.

“It means the third bedroom doesn’t have to become a part-time office and part-time bedroom,” Lois said, adding that residents have the benefit of working from home without actually being inside their apartment.

The rooftop wellness amenity was another standout compared to living in an established complex or a house. A signature feature of Sarazin developments, the rooftop will include a full gym, hot and cold plunge pools, a steam room and sauna, and a hotel-style pool with cabanas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=214682]

Buyer journeys can vary significantly, from purchasing in the established market to buying new, or choosing between houses and apartments. Lois said they knew immediately that buying off the plan was right for them.

“We wanted something new, with less maintenance, and we weren’t quite ready to make the full financial leap straight away. The timing and deposit structure gave us the flexibility we needed.”

Designed by HAL Architects and inspired by the Spanish city of Murcia, the development takes a Mediterranean-influenced approach to architecture and landscaping, with a strong emphasis on shared spaces.

“The design feels considered, the amenities support how we actually live, and the location keeps us connected to the city without feeling right in the middle of it.”

Murcia is Sarazin’s second development in the area, following the completion of Silk One just up the road in 2022. They have several more projects coming to market in Woolloongabba ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135094]

Close to the city, built for the future: Inside a growing family’s move to Murcia in East Brisbane

Growland Group

<html><body>
Developer Growland has appointed LU Simon to build stage one of its mixed-use residential <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">project Victoria Square</a>, with construction now underway on the first two towers, reinforcing the continued demand for Footscray. 

The $600 million project comprises six residential towers of 937 apartments, in addition to over 5,500 sqm of commercial, retail and hospitality space on Hopkins Street.  The first phase of Victoria Square is expected to be completed by late 2020 and has achieved sales of 90%. <a href="/news/victoria-squares-next-phase-adds-to-footscrays-development-pipeline">Stage three, titled VS03, has just launched to market and will include a boutique collection of just 86 apartments.</a>

Growland says it’s not surprising Footscray has become a hotspot, particularly for young buyers, with research from District Data indicating that the area is in the early ‘hotspot’ phase, providing buyers an opportunity to take advantage of excellent value for money.

<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/victoria_square_-_facade_hero_shot_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The first stage of Victoria Square has commenced construction. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="883" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/victoria_square_-_facade_hero_shot_1.jpg?itok=aIAiSK8i" title="The first stage of Victoria Square has commenced construction. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The first stage of Victoria Square has commenced construction. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>According to Growland, the company is proud to be partnering with LU Simon, a builder that it says shares its vision for the project and commitment to the well-being of the residents.LU Simon has had a presence in the Melbourne for over 60 years, across a broad portfolio of projects including eight residential projects across Australia currently at construction.

Victoria Square is just one of a growing number of residential sites commencing in Footscray, with the suburb now one of Melbourne’s most sought-after inner-suburbs for young homebuyers. <a href="https://www.districtdata.com.au/">District Data</a> indicates the proportion of residents aged 20-39 has increased by a substantial seven per cent between 2006 and 2016. These buyers are driving demand for housing and a subsequent shift in the local built environment, with approximately 282 dwellings currently under construction in the area.

The appeal of Footscray as a suburb to buy apartments in is also reflected in it being amongst <a href="/news/urbans-top-5-for-october-most-viewed-suburbs">the 5 most viewed suburbs on Urban.com.au during October</a>, in fourth place. 

<h2>Footscray's development pipeline</h2>

<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/footscray-vic?embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Footscray is an ideal location for young families, working professionals and first and second home buyers. In addition to being just 4km from Melbourne’s CBD, it is a thriving education and employment hub in its own right, which is driving the shift in demographics to younger buyers that want to be close to the action.

The multicultural community offers an impressive variety of hospitality options and a friendly and vibrant atmosphere. It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to play a role in the area’s rejuvenation and to create a communal space where locals can enjoy top-quality restaurants and retail outlets.

- Bruce Chan, Growland Chairman
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Victoria Square is more than a residential project, it’s a large-scale lifestyle precinct that will help shape the fabric of the Footscray area and bring value to the local community. Given the level of design quality and the scale of the development, it is integral that the builder we partner with has a proven track record of delivering similar projects on time, and to budget.

Commencing construction at Victoria Square is an important milestone that we are proud to share with our purchasers and future residents.

- Ronald Chan, Growland CEO
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
The median unit price in Footscray is $405,000, which is unheard of for a suburb that is within 5km of the CBD; Flemington, Hawthorn and Windsor are all a similar distance and significantly more expensive. Combine that with a fantastic public transport network, proximity to education and employment and a buzzing café culture, and I have no doubt we will continue to see an increase in demand for apartments in the area.

- Daniel Slomoi, District Data managing director
</blockquote>
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

LU Simon commences construction on Growland's Victoria Square

<html><body>
A Woolworths Metro has officially opened as the anchor tenant of Greenland Australia’s $320 million Omnia apartment building in Potts Point, which is in the final stages of completion after Probuild topped out the structure in February 2018.

The result of a design competition, the 20-storey tower features a striking hour glass form that was conceived by architects Durbach Block Jaggers, with interiors by SJB. Omnia's dynamic architectural expression was achieved by progressively reducing the floor slab length by 180mm across 10 levels and then increasing again.

<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/kk_print_003.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Woolworths Metro is located within level one of Omnia's podium. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/kk_print_003.jpg?itok=65e01JJl" title="The Woolworths Metro is located within level one of Omnia's podium. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Woolworths Metro is located within level one of Omnia's podium. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>Omnia comprises 132 high-end apartments with sweeping Sydney CBD skyline views to the west and harbour views over Elizabeth Bay, Watsons Bay and North and South Heads to the east.

The Woolworths Metro in Omnia offers an expansive fresh food section, barista made coffee, sushi made on site, hot roast chickens, an in-store bakery and a quick and easy ready meal section. The Woolworths Metro is located on level one of Omnia’s podium level, and forms part of a retail offering that will consist of ​seven​ other retail spaces on the ground floor, which are currently available for lease.

According to Greenland Australia, the Woolworths Metro store further strengthens one of Omnia’s key points of difference – convenience. The Woolworths Metro will be open from 6am until midnight seven days a week.

<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/kk_print_013.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The interior of the Woolworths at Omnia has employed a pared back industrial aesthetic. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/kk_print_013.jpg?itok=aUxeQR7R" title="The interior of the Woolworths at Omnia has employed a pared back industrial aesthetic. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The interior of the Woolworths at Omnia has employed a pared back industrial aesthetic. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Having the Woolworths Metro store on the podium level really is the icing on the cake for our residents. We are also targeting premium bar and restaurant operators for the ground floor retail tenancies, so Omnia will provide an immense level of lifestyle convenience all within the building itself.

Omnia offers the ultimate in convenience on a number of fronts. Firstly, it’s in an exemplary position, ideally located between Victoria Street and Darlinghurst Road, adjacent to the iconic Coca-Cola sign, right in the centre of all the action, you can’t get much better. It’s also a stone’s throw from the CBD.

From a lifestyle point of view, it has a myriad of top-notch restaurants, bars and other entertainment venues within a short walk in Potts Point and Woolloomooloo. It also has landmark destinations including The Royal Botanic Garden, Hyde Park, Woolloomooloo Wharf and the CBD, within a fifteen-minute walk, not to mention designer boutiques and a range of sophisticated fine dining options.

-  Sherwood Luo, Greenland Australia’s Managing Director
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Our customers are looking for food they can either eat now on the go, or later, along with a convenient grocery shop. This store has been designed to cater to the area’s high volume of pedestrian traffic, which includes busy city workers and local residents, who are looking for quick and easy 'grab and go' shopping options.

Residents who are heading home for the evening and are looking for healthy meal options that are freshly prepared and ready to cook or reheat, will have all this on their doorstep with this Woolworths Metro store.

- Justin Nolan, General Manager – Metro, Woolworths
</blockquote>

 
</body></html>

Greenland Australia's Omnia welcomes Wooloworths Metro as first tenant in retail podium

<html><body>
Designs for the next phase of Growland Group's six tower <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">Victoria Square residential development</a> in Footscray have been released. <a href="/news/fender-katsalidis-appointed-for-victoria-squares-next-phase">As reported</a> on Apartments.com.au back in May, Fender Katsalidis were tasked with the design of the twin tower project, located within the Joseph Road precinct bound by Hopkins Street, the Maribyrnong River and the railway line.

The Joseph Road Precinct represents 15 hectares of developable land which has been identified as a Priority Development Zone in the Council’s Structure Plan for Footscray.

<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/grow10087_vic_sq_stage_2_e01_hero.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The first of two tower, VS03 was launched this month. Image: Growland Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/grow10087_vic_sq_stage_2_e01_hero.jpg?itok=t9xReUwg" title="The first of two tower, VS03 was launched this month. Image: Growland Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The first of two towers, VS03 was launched this month. Image: Growland Group</figcaption></figure>In launching stage three which will be known as VS03, Growland claims it has responded to buyer demand and a maturing apartment market. VS03 will feature a product mix and floor plans geared towards owner occupiers, who account for 80 per cent of the sales to date. 76 per cent of the apartments within stage three comprise two-bedroom, two-bathrooms, while all 86 apartments will feature floor plans larger than Melbourne’s average and have at least one car space, one storage cage and a private balcony ranging from eight to 13 sqm.

Fender Katsalidis have designed twin curvilinear towers which draw on Victoria Square's riverside location along the Maribyrnong River, with full height windows maximising panoramic views over the river, the CBD and the bay beyond. VS04 will be released at a later date, with the first two stages achieving 90% sales success.

<blockquote>
We wanted to create a building that offered flexibility for buyers, many of whom are looking to purchase a home that will suit them as they shift through various stages of life. Each apartment has been designed specifically for owner occupiers, taking into account their wants and needs and how we can optimise their living experience.

- James Pearce, Director, Fender Katsalidis
</blockquote>

<iframe frameborder="0" height="420" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/footscray-vic?embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

 

With construction expected to commence in late 2019, VS03 will add to Footscray's development pipeline of <a href="/developments/footscray-vic-3011">45 projects currently being tracked on the Urban.com.au database</a>. It's fair to say Footscray is now well on its way to realising its potential as an Activity Centre with support from both local and state government, and private investment.

 

One of the largest projects within the Joseph Road precinct will be 2 Neilson Place. Designed by Architecton for FJP Pty Ltd the development will comprise 4 towers, 577 apartments over 26-storeys along with 572 car spaces and retail tenancies on a corner site of 6,264 sqm with frontages to Maryibyrnong Street and Neilson Place. 

Projects currently under construction within Footscray include multi-tower developments at <a href="/buildings/riverina-22-hopkins-street-footscray">Riverina</a> and 2 Hopkins Street, and the largest development within Footscray, <a href="/buildings/live-city-124-188-ballarat-road-footscray">LiveCity</a>. Occupying a massive 33,393 sqm site, the first stage will account for 208 apartments on the western portion of the site. LU Simon is at the helm of the stage one build of 15-storeys, with future stages varying in heights between eight and 18-storeys. 

<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/footscray_development_projects_oct.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Key projects across Footscray include Neilson Place, Riverina and LiveCity"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/footscray_development_projects_oct.jpg?itok=QDeEg5FM" title="Key projects across Footscray include Neilson Place, Riverina and LiveCity" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Key projects across Footscray include Neilson Place, Riverina and LiveCity</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

Victoria Square's next phase adds to Footscray's development pipeline 

<html><body>
Footscray is set to accommodate another massive apartment project within the Joseph Road Precinct Urban Renewal Area as developer Growland Group prepares to launch Joseph Place.

Set over a 13,500 square metre former Toyota dealership, the site is currently in the final stages of remediation with the beginnings of a display suite taking shape. It's purpose will be to woo prospective buyers for Joseph Place's apartments which number near on 1,000.

The $600 million mixed-use master planned urban village which is expected to house up to 3,000 residents eventually will consist of six buildings, in addition to amenities such as Melbourne’s first elevated Olympic-sized running track, podium-top gardens and amenities and a retail laneway linking Footscray to the Maribyrnong River.

<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/image45_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Joseph Place has gained a new exterior. Image: Growland Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="464" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_2.jpg?itok=yXeAn8AK" title="Joseph Place has gained a new exterior. Image: Growland Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Joseph Place has gained a new exterior. Image: Growland Group</figcaption></figure>4-8 Hopkins Street has been in the planning system since 2013 with Places Victoria initiating a master planned outcome for the site which along with neighbouring sites forms the backbone of Joseph Road Precinct. Kavellaris Urban Design has been working on Joseph Place as project lead for an extended period of time with State Goverment approval for the development in the offing.

In addition to the roughly 1,000 apartments, a hotel has also been mooted for Joseph Place. Ground level will see 30 retailers split over 4,000 square metres of retail space and public open spaces, with an emphasis on food-driven outlets, continuing the trend of popular eateries in and around the area.

<blockquote>
Joseph Place will elevate what’s on offer in Footscray, bringing its amenity in line with its inner city neighbours. The elevated Olympic-sized running track takes the idea of an apartment gym to the next level, encouraging health and wellbeing outdoors, but not out in the Melbourne traffic.

The aim is to do something different and bring to Footscray a new style of living that celebrates connection and resonates with Footscray’s existing multicultural heritage and established food scene.

People want to interact with each other – it’s partly why cities are growing so rapidly and it informed how we approached the design of this site. We want this area to become a social, economic and residential hub on the city fringe that makes people’s lives better – and that’s achievable through a combination of great housing, world-class amenity and vibrant retail.
<cite>Kavellaris Urban Design director Billy Kavellaris</cite>
</blockquote>

Joseph Place will also likely include a rock climbing wall and theatre, with the array of amenities onsite possible due to the excessively large size of the site.

<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/image42.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Podium top garden. Image: Growland Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image42.jpg?itok=Yt9u35_5" title="Podium top garden. Image: Growland Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Podium top garden. Image: Growland Group</figcaption></figure>In early design iterations Joseph Place was to have maintained <a href="/news/council-apprehensive-over-the-revamped-939-apartment-8-hopkins-street">an all glass exterior</a>, although new renders have seen the project's exterior change markedly in composition but not so in shape. Joseph Place's buildings will still carry an eye-catching undulating form.

Growland Group's advancement of Joseph Place comes as the expanding developer is working on further apartment projects in Moonee Ponds, St Kilda Road and Highett, with the latter <a href="/news/rothelowman-seeks-a-new-high-design-benchmark-of-highett">recently covered</a> by Apartments.com.au, although Joseph Place is expected to be the first project to launch sales.

<blockquote>
Footscray is currently in the midst of a demographic shift - attracting a new wave of students, young professionals and working families who are looking to reside in a well-connected community with easy access to transport services and state-of-the-art retail, dining and leisure facilities on their doorstep.

The inner west has been recognised as one of Melbourne’s most undervalued opportunities and is due for rapid growth over the next two to five years. The future growth potential of Footscray is huge and Joseph Place signals a renaissance in the area.
<cite>Growland CEO Stephen  Yau</cite>
</blockquote>

Pending approval the project's sales campaign will be launched in coming months with construction expected to begin in early 2017.
</body></html>

silvermb

Growland Group readies Joseph Place as Footscray's next super project

<html><body>
Highett is set to mirror neighbouring suburbs such as Cheltenham and Moorabbin with a taste of high density apartment living. No stranger to smaller stature apartment projects, a planning application was lodged with City of Kingston during February for a prime Highett development site located at 1233-1237 Nepean Highway.

Designed by RotheLowman for developer Growland Group, the 13 level building sits on a site of 4,383sqm. Apartments.com.au recently <a href="/news/growland-group-assumes-a-greater-presence-across-melbourne">touched upon the site</a> which was subject to a concept design by McBride Charles Ryan, although RotheLowman has been installed as project lead.

Dubbed the Highett Gateway Project, the large tract of land holds frontages to Southland Shopping Centre and an open air car park to the south, the ever-busy Nepean Highway to the west and low-rise residential properties to the north and east. The proposal also maintains a secondary address of 60-64 Matthieson Street, Highett.

The development site was offered for sale by Savills during September 2015.

<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/image66_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective of the site. Image: Savills"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="388" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image66_1.jpg?itok=6RQnfDle" title="Aerial perspective of the site. Image: Savills" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective of the site. Image: Savills</figcaption></figure>RotheLowman Senior Associate Belinda Nincevic provided Apartments.com.au with the following project description:

<blockquote>
The concept for this proposal focuses on the opportunity to create a community, through the building’s composition, articulation and iconic presence in this location.

The overall development will create a visual buffer to the blank hard edges at the northern side of the shopping centre while the commercial frontage will activate and improve the urban streetscape. A new pedestrian link is also proposed along the southern boundary promoting an improved pedestrian experience and connection between transport, commercial and residential destinations.

The proposal is for a collection of buildings varying in height from three to thirteen storeys; all of which connect at pedestrian level.
<cite>Belinda Nincevic, Senior Associate, RotheLowman</cite>
</blockquote>

<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/v1article.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new Nepean Highway focal point? Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="349" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v1article.jpg?itok=p5i6m6bd" title="A new Nepean Highway focal point? Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Nepean Highway focal point? Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure>Overall the 13 storey proposal totals 31,282.1sqm in Gross Floor Area, and will consist of approximately 265 apartments with associated amenities. Provisions for 289 car spaces have been included.

City of Kingston currently have the project at a Request for Further Information stage, with public advertising likely to follow for may would become Highett's tallest building.
</body></html>

Growland Group

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Growland Group

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News