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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

Hotels

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CBRE Hotels has reinforced its Capital Markets investment sales team with the appointment of former iPG Hotels director, Raymond Tran as director. 
Based in Sydney, Mr Tran brings over 23 years of experience in hotel operations, project management, asset management and investment sales working with a number of hotel brands including Minor Hotels, Choice Hotels International, Marriott International and Accor. 
CBRE Hotels Managing Director Michael Simpson said; “We are pleased to welcome Raymond to CBRE Hotels. He has an extensive track record and is well-known for his diverse experience and multi-faceted skill set.”
“Raymond is also regarded as the leading hotel market expert within the Asian real estate community in Australia.”
Mr Tran said; “I’ve been very fortunate throughout my experience to have a full view of the hotel industry working as a hotel operator, a broker and most recently on the ownership side.”
“I am very excited to be back working on the investment and brokerage side of the industry and thrilled to be part of the CBRE Hotels team,” he added. 
The CBRE Hotels team is the largest in the Pacific region, with representation in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Auckland.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

CBRE Hotels appoints Raymond Tran

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Australia’s hotel sector is entering the era of refurbishment and repositioning as owners identify the need to stay competitive in a changing market. 
According to Colliers International, maintaining facilities to the standards expected by discerning guests and determining how and when to upgrade those facilities is one of the biggest challenges faced by hotel owners. 
“Money never sleeps, and neither do hotels,” Karen Wales, Colliers International Director of Hotels, said.  
“It is a simple fact that eventually every property will need an upgrade but with the opening of more than 15,000 new rooms over the past three years, existing owners will need to consider expediting the renovation cycle to compete with significant new supply. 
“The majority of Australia’s accommodation rooms were built in the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s. The owners of these properties will need to give greater regard to major capital refurbishment plans, particularly if ongoing repairs and maintenance have not been maintained.”
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/14/HOTEL%20.jpg" alt="">
Source: Colliers International 
Nigel Greenaway, Colliers International National Director of Hotels, said.  said owners who carefully considered guests’ needs and used any property upgrade as an opportunity to reposition the asset would ultimately be the ones to get the most out of their renovation and improve the value of their hotel asset in the long-term.
“Capital expenditure can be initiated for many different reasons such as commercial business opportunity, compliance with current legislation (WHS/NCC/DDA), end of life replacement or meeting consumer trends,” Greenaway said. 
“But it should ultimately have the common objectives of maintaining market position and/ or upgrading the hotel business, increasing owners’ return in this highly competitive market with the future long-term goal to increase the real estate value of the property.” 
Greenaway said while a successful hotel refurbishment or renovation came with significant challenges, a major property refresh presented a hotel with the unique opportunity to reposition itself in the market and ultimately support its longer-term revenue goals. 
“Owners that take a considered approach, determining the right time to relaunch renovated rooms while also having the right pricing strategies in place, will ultimately get the most out of their renovation,” he said.
“Refurbishments can include both soft and hard elements, as well as a Return on Investment component.”
Ian Pert, Colliers International National Director of Project Management, said first impressions were of vital importance to helping guests distinguish between hotels or brands.
“The design of a hotel, both interior and exterior, is often the most effective way to make an exceptional first impression,” Pert said.
“Product offerings are also changing as hotels look to satisfy new ways of living and working.
“Current trends include a greater focus on the lobby as a central meeting point and the development of new food and beverage concepts which showcase local produce and meet a growing awareness of health a wellbeing. 
“The hotel sector is also under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint and develop truly sustainable operations. Hotel buildings have significant opportunities to reduce their energy, water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and we will see this become a key focus as a growing number of owners look to refurbish.”
Pert said refurbishment programs rolled out in the near future would also have a greater focus on technology and distribution.
“Guests have a high expectation when it comes to technology capability, particularly of a high-end hotel,” he said.
“Most guests are self-sufficient, tech-savvy travellers who expect seamless connectivity across platforms and devices. 
“New developments include service automation, mobile device as door key and on-demand technology in relation to smart televisions.”
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Australian hotels enter new era of refurbishment to adapt to changing market: Colliers

Laurence Dragomir

A closer look at Melbourne's booming hotel sector

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International designer hotel owner operator, Ovolo, has been appointed as hotel manager for <a href="/developments?developer=Perri%20Projects">Perri Projects</a>' $50 million <a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne hotel</a>, expected to open in 2020. Located at 183-199 Moray Street, the project comprises 100 rooms spanning six floors based around Ovolo’s ethos of ‘effortless living'.

Founded by Girish Jhunjhnuwala in 2002, Ovolo Hotels has become one of Hong Kong’s largest independent owner, operator hospitality firms. The company says it keeps in touch with the modern traveller through award-winning interior designs, detail-driven comforts, focused all-inclusive service and cutting-edge en suite technology, all done in Ovolo Hotel’s signature style.

<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/170516_smh_v01_hero_final.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ovolo South Melbourne will open in 2020. Image: Perri Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="464" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/170516_smh_v01_hero_final.jpg?itok=8LAfI-8f" title="Ovolo South Melbourne will open in 2020. Image: Perri Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ovolo South Melbourne will open in 2020. Image: Perri Projects</figcaption></figure>Ovolo says the <a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne</a> project represents a new phase of growth for the company, made possible through a shared vision with Perri Projects and is confident it will be well-received by the growing pool of higher-end established housing and major commercial office buildings emerging in South Melbourne.

According to Perri Projects, Ovolo’s international track-record for delivering innovative, design-led destination hotel concepts that empahasise lifestyle aligned with Perri Projects’ vision for the site. With a planning permit already in hand, Ovolo’s appointment paves the way for construction to commence in the second half of 2019.

Perri Projects has been keeping busy with a growing development pipeline of projects including a <a href="/new-apartments/23-29-victoria-street-melbourne">$150 million tower opposite the Carlton Gardens</a>, and its most significant, the West Melbourne Waterfront along the banks of the Maribyrnong River.

Following support from The City of Melbourne, Amendment C221 was considered and adopted by the Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne mid-year, allowing for the project to progress. To this end, Perri Projects has engaged Woods Bagot, NH Architecture and Oculus for this significant 'place making project' which boasts over 250 metres of frontage along the Maribyrnong River.

Perri Projects says Amendment C221 will ensure the 2.8-hectare West Melbourne Waterfront site is successfully rezoned to Mixed Use, paving the way for a "dynamic, master-planned urban renewal precinct to revitalise the area into a pre-eminent waterfront destination."

<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/40_wmw_render-16.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artisit's impression of West Melbourne Waterfront. Image: Perri Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="271" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/40_wmw_render-16.jpg?itok=W56U5ovB" title="Artisit's impression of West Melbourne Waterfront. Image: Perri Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artisit's impression of West Melbourne Waterfront. Image: Perri Projects</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
“We are delighted to partner with Ovolo to realise our original vision for this site as a mixed-use lifestyle precinct featuring destination bars and restaurants, as well as leisure, event and function facilities.

Ovolo hotels are internationally renowned for their high-end, high-energy designs that blend form and function to ensure each hotel delivers a unique experience for guests and visitors. Ovolo is well established and revered, yet agile and bold enough to challenge convention and break the mold on new sites, ensuring that each design complements and enhances the location of their hotels.”

- David Scalzo, Managing Director of Perri Projects
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“Ovolo is a proud owner and operator of hotels and this HMA will be the start of a new chapter in order to take our disruptive lifestyle designer hotel collection to the next level in Australia and internationally.

Ovolo is committed to ensuring our guests can expect the unexpected from us and like all our sites, Ovolo in South Melbourne will stand alone from a design perspective, but the experience will be unmistakeably Ovolo.

The underlying demographic of South Melbourne has been evolving steadily as creative industries in particular look to take advantage of the central location and raw industrial edge the suburb has to offer.

But while the suburb is on the rise with those in the know, local hospitality amenity has not kept pace with this change, and we believe Ovolo South Melbourne with its bars, restaurants and even a roof-top function and events space will be uniquely placed to provide a focal point for those local communities.”

- Dave Baswal, COO &amp; CFO of Ovolo Australia
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“The Hotel Management Agreement with Perri Projects represents a natural evolution for our business as we continually look to expand our offering in new markets.

While we each bring our respective expertise in property development and hospitality management to this project, this partnership was forged through our mutual affinity for delivering truly unique projects and a shared vision for the South Melbourne site."

- Girish Jhunjhnuwala, Ovolo CEO and Founder
</blockquote>
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Perri Projects and Ovolo combine for South Melbourne hotel

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Adelaide's CBD is set to welcome the arrival of two new developments; one the city's first Indigo Hotel and the other a sizeable new student accommodation complex.

It was revealed yesterday that Hotel Indigo will gain access to the Adelaide market via 23-29 Market Street which will host a 17 level purpose-built hotel. Adjacent to Adelaide's Central Market, Indigo Hotel Adelaide Markets is backed by Primefield Property who will develop the tower for InterContinental Hotels Group who will assume management rights.

137 rooms are included, supplemented by meeting spaces, a gym, pool and sun deck, café and rooftop bar.

Construction on the Market Street site will begin shortly, ushering in what will be the sixth Hotel Indigo in Australasia, adding to existing Brisbane, Sydney, Auckland and dual Melbourne locations. Another Melbourne presence has been mooted in South Yarra.

<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/image273.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Adelaide's newest hotel. Image: IHG"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="318" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image273.jpg?itok=Y_UvcLTk" title="Adelaide's newest hotel. Image: IHG" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Adelaide's newest hotel. Image: IHG</figcaption></figure>For Primefield Property Director Nick Lee the signing underpins Adelaide's strong hotel development credentials. “Adelaide is currently one of the more stable Australian hotel markets and the Central Market is the most visited place in South Australia, with approximately 8 million visitors per year.

We are thrilled to partner with IHG, one of the world’s leading hotel management companies, to bring the Hotel Indigo brand to Adelaide."

Indigo Hotel Adelaide Markets joins an already crowded Adelaide hotel development scene. Among other developments in the works are <a href="/developments/adelaide-sa">Westin Adelaide</a> on King William Street, <a href="/developments/adelaide-sa-5000">Tribe</a> on Wakefield Street, <a href="/developments/adelaide-sa-5000">Quest's</a> continued expansion to a new North Terrace location and Adelaide Casino's new addition which is at construction.

The City of Churches highest profile hotel in waiting is the proposed six-star Riverbank hotel which would cost up to $300 million and span 27 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/image277.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Student accommodation is proving popular in Adelaide's CBD. Image: IPG"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image277.jpg?itok=B1nzT3YD" title="Student accommodation is proving popular in Adelaide's CBD. Image: IPG" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Wee Hur's initial Adelaide development is under construction. Image: IPG</figcaption></figure>Close to Market Street, 124 Waymouth Street is also subject to development with Intergen Property Group securing the site for Singapore-based Wee Hur.

In line with Wee Hur's rapid expansion into the Australian student accommodation market the Waymouth Street site is earmarked for a new $90 million build. Spanning 1,836 square metres, as many as 721 student beds are expected onsite by late 2021. Design's for Waymouth Street have yet to be revealed.

124 Waymouth Street was purchased for $9.275 million and follows on from 89-109 Gray Street. Currently under construction, the Grey Street site is Wee Hur's initial Adelaide project and will see 772 beds created over 17 levels.

Wee Hur's latest Adelaide play comes on the tail end of a rash of additional student accommodation projects being built across the city. More recent applications have become taller and more sophisticated, as evidenced by GSA Australia's <a href="/buildings/269-north-terrace-adelaide">approved North Terrace Tower</a>; the project involves 680 student beds over 34 levels.

In a sign of the underlying strength of demand for student accommodation within Adelaide, an application submitted during August for 29 Twin Street is seeking to go even higher, providing accommodation for 510 students over 36 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/image190_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Adelaide's new tallest syudent accommodation building? Image: Hines Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="315" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image190_1.jpg?itok=wjFaFb0P" title="Adelaide's new tallest syudent accommodation building? Image: Hines Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Twin Street may be Adelaide's new tallest student accommodation building. Image: Hines Property</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Adelaide primed for two telling new developments

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Brisbane’s largest integrated CBD development continues to take shape at 300 George Street.

Backed by Shayher Group and being built by Multiplex, the development consists of three towers containing residential apartments, commercial office space and what is now the first 5-star hotel to open in Queensland’s capital in more than 20 years. Overseen by parent company Marriott International, W Brisbane Hotel is open for business and includes 312 guest rooms.

The importance of the chic hotel brand's arrival in Brisbane was not lost on the development team. Along with project architects ZENX International and DBI Architects, Melbourne-based Studio Ongarato were enlisted to provide W Brisbane with a unique, and arguably quirky identity.

Having already worked on other W branded hotels such as W Shanghai, Studio Ongarato was already in the position of understanding and delivering on W’s unique brand of playful luxury.

<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/image94_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="W Brisbane's reception area. Image: Justin Alexander"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="346" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image94_5.jpg?itok=0EH40kEJ" title="W Brisbane's reception area. Image: Justin Alexander" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>W Brisbane's reception area. Image: Justin Alexander</figcaption></figure>Co-founder Fabio Ongarato explains "Our first narrative-led hotel was for the W Hong Kong back in 2010. Using narrative at that time was uncommon. It successfully injected greater vibrancy into the brand and rewrote the rulebook for narrative-led hotel design.

It also successfully set the tone for all the W hotels since."

In this regard four Brisbane-inspired sub-narratives were created for W Brisbane by Studio Ongarato. The implementation of bold and immersive environmental design narratives is an emerging trend in the hotel and hospitality space, but taken to the enth degree within W Brisbane.

On the wider aspect of providing a story or direction for hotel guests, Ongarato says "It’s important for design to tell meaningful stories that customers, users and guests can respond to. Defining and building a thematic framework is the first step for holistic and narrative-driven design to take shape.

A brand foundation enhances a guest’s experience by encouraging them to become more aware and engaged with their environment. It offers a world within a world for experience hunters but ultimately it aims to engage, delight and transport.”

<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/image92_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pool area backdrop. Image: Justin Alexander"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image92_7.jpg?itok=t3QQHdSb" title="Pool area backdrop. Image: Justin Alexander" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pool area backdrop. Image: Justin Alexander</figcaption></figure>Also playing a hand in W Brisbane's interior expression was Ronnen Goren, who alongside Ongarato has been at the forefront of the studio for the past 25 years. The long standing partnership with W Hotels flows from the ability to marry unique design outcomes with commercial objectives.

“Studio Ongarato’s engagement with W Brisbane strengthens the design studio’s relationship with a truly international brand, showcasing our ability to interpret myriad social and cultural contexts as design outcomes, imbuing the W brand with a sense of place and personality” says Goren. Guest rooms aside, areas that received the Studio Ongarato touch included communal zones such as the dining room, bar, pool, spa and yoga facility.

The main narrative within W Brisbane centres around A River Dreaming, a theme developed by Nic Graham and Associates. This is a nod to the indigenous Turrbal people which sees the (Brisbane) river as the giver of life.

Thereafter Studio Ongarato conceived four sub-narratives: Native Allure, Tropical Eden, Brisvegas and Dark Paradise. How they manifest themselves via W Brisbane's interiors is a subjective matter, but Studio Ongarato hope the interplay of ideas creates a "tribal meets pop hybrid personality that electrifies in its many incarnations."

<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/image95_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Typical bedroom design feature. Image: Justin Alexander"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image95_6.jpg?itok=ut4WyYW2" title="Typical bedroom design feature. Image: Justin Alexander" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Typical bedroom design feature. Image: Justin Alexander</figcaption></figure>Fabio Ongarato says “For W Brisbane we looked at the W brand DNA, which is bold, witty and shows a lust for life. And we studied the context of the site – its physical, social and historical parameters.

We looked carefully at many aspects of the Brisbane identity to create our themes. Taking ownership of that originally derogative nickname Brisvegas, Brisbanites are celebrating their tongue-in-cheek persona. From giant fruit landmarks to slogans, slang, stubby shorts and caftans, we deeply absorbed the Queensland vernacular to create our design narratives.”

Whilst W Brisbane remains the nation's sole W branded outlet for now, construction continues on both new Sydney and Melbourne locations. Sydney's The Ribbon will host 402 hotel rooms upon its completion next year whilst <a href="/buildings/collins-arch-447-collins-street-melbourne">Collins Arch will see 294 rooms</a> under the W Melbourne banner.

<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/image96_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Common area hallway. Image: Justin Alexander"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image96_2.jpg?itok=Y1qI2nA6" title="Common area hallway. Image: Justin Alexander" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Common area hallway. Image: Justin Alexander</figcaption></figure>
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Profiling Studio Ongarato's quirky and incredible W Brisbane interior designs

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Another piece of the substantial Melbourne hotel puzzle has fallen into place as King Street prepares to host the nation's maiden Quincy Hotel.

After a period of speculation, 33 King Street will formally host the outlet after developer BPM came to terms with multinational investment fund InterGlobe. Toga Far East will manage the Quincy Hotel-branded tower after InterGlobe picked up the approved site for $91.3 million.

Asia One initially backed the project with BPM coming on at a later stage. After guiding the 241-room development through to approval, BPM then sough to offload the permit.

Similarly structured to BPM's fellow hotel development at <a href="/new-apartments/9-11-exploration-lane-melbourne">9-11 Exploration Lane</a>, the King Street build will be developed by BPM although final ownership will rest elsewhere. Contractor Maxcon has been assigned to both the King Street and Exploration Lane builds.

Maxcon is expected to begin works onsite in the third quarter of 2018.

<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/2016-8-18-elenberg-king-street-c1-wxh_hero1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Another hotel for Melbourne. Image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="776" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2016-8-18-elenberg-king-street-c1-wxh_hero1.jpg?itok=PN6NQwaX" title="Another hotel for Melbourne. Image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Another hotel for Melbourne. Image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Given the risks associated with developing in the current lending environment, BPM sought a unique fund-through arrangement to remove any reliance on local financiers.

We have proven as a business that we can prevail during times of economic uncertainty through our agility alone. Our extensive global relationships, and our ability to innovate the development sector and its existing finance structures, allows the BPM business to see continued growth when many local developers become victims to the property cycle.
<cite>Managing Director of BPM, Jonothan Hallinan</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The appetite from international investors was substantial. The ability to partner with an experienced local developer like BPM was certainly seen to de-risk the project’s delivery, however it was the composition of the deal and its unique terms that made the opportunity so sought-after.

The structure of this contract is a first in the Australian market and is the result of several weeks of collaborative discussions.

To lead these discussions with international giants like InterGlobe and Toga Far East is demonstrative of BPM’s scalable business model and sound strategic delivery, which allows us to traverse multiple development sectors and work with a multitude of partners.
<cite>BPM’s Development Director, Tom Howgate</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Hotels still standing strong</h2>

The Quincy Hotel and Exploration Lane projects stand to add a further 371 hotel rooms to Melbourne already super strong pipeline. 

Major CBD and Southbank projects at construction which are solely, or in part dedicated to hotel accommodation include W Hotel at <a href="/buildings/collins-arch-447-collins-street-melbourne">Collins Arch</a>, <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Vibe Hotel</a> Queen Street, <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Holiday Inn Express</a> City Road, <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Adina Southbank</a>, <a href="/buildings/west-end-185-rosslyn-street-west-melbourne">Adina Apartment Hotel</a> at West End and the Ritz-Carlton at <a href="/buildings/west-side-place-melbourne-250-spencer-street-melbourne-vic-3000">West side Place</a>.

In another Australian first Melbourne is also set to host the nation's first St Regis hotel with local interior architecture practice CHADA announcing they will provide design input for the forthcoming 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/explporation-lane.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="9-11 Exploration Lane is also due for a construction start. Image: Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="820" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/explporation-lane.jpg?itok=91Rf8EWQ" title="9-11 Exploration Lane is also due for a construction start. Image: Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>9-11 Exploration Lane is also due for a construction start. Image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne lands the nation's first Quincy Hotel

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Mascot's Holiday Inn Sydney Airport is poised for major expansion, as a bevvy of additional hotel operators earmark a presence in the blossoming aviation turned development precinct.

Plans were lodged last week seeking to add another hotel building adjacent to the existing Holiday Inn Sydney Airport. Created by Cox Architecture, the submission looks to wedge the new building in at the corner of Bourke Road and O'Riordan Street.

The Silversea Trust-backed proposal holds a build value near on $45 million and is expected to account for a small portion of the overall 6,534 square metre site. Agent Savills has been installed as project manager.

Holiday Inn Sydney Airport's location is in the heart of the Mascot Station Town Centre Precinct approximately 7 kilometres form Sydney's CBD, with surrounding uses generally dedicated to commercial offices and other hotels servicing the wider aviation precinct.

<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/image158_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A crude representation of the expansion in situ. Image: Cox Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="292" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image158_2.jpg?itok=mKxWNrhV" title="A crude representation of the expansion in situ. Image: Cox Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A crude representation of the Holiday Inn expansion in situ. Image: Cox Architecture</figcaption></figure>As a result of the expansion hotel numbers onsite would increase from the current 252 to 456 rooms, with onsite vehicle capacity expanding to 212.

Holiday Inn maintains a lengthy lease over the site and adjacent road reserve which expires in 2039, with another 50 year lease extension at their discretion. The current hotel spans 11 storeys whilst the new Cox Architecture-designed wing increases to 12 storeys or 43 metres.

A precast art wall fronts the major intersection, with either flank dominated by precast panels with aluminium highlights.

<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/image159_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Ewan Street mixed-use project. Image: Savelle"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image159_4.jpg?itok=es-m5zGJ" title="The Ewan Street mixed-use project. Image: Savelle" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Ewan Street mixed-use project. Image: Savelle</figcaption></figure>In and among the thousands of apartments in development within Mascot, a strong hotel delivery pipeline also exists. Pro-invest Group is endeavouring to gain approval for a new 178-room Holiday Inn Express at <a href="/developments/mascot-nsw-2020">2-8 Sarah Street</a> whilst Apartments.com.au earlier in the year <a href="/news/savelle-supersize-their-mascot-mixed-use-development">outlined developer Savelle's upscaled intentions for 5-11 Ewan Street</a>.

Included within Savelle's development is capacity for 187 hotel rooms.

Sydney Airport Corporation is looking to capitalise upon Mascot's robust short stay demand with intentions to create a portfolio of hotels on airport land. The corporation began this process last year with the opening of a Mantra-branded hotel adjacent to the domestic terminal last year.
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Holiday Inn stays ahead of the Mascot curve with a sizeable expansion planned

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Developer Alfasi Group's intended hotel development at 2-10 River Street looks to have advanced with Hyatt Centric earmarked for the project.

Current planning documents and renders note Hyatt Centric as the operator of the intended 10 storey hotel development design by Carr Architecture. 153 keys are slated for the mid-rise development which is situated behind The Como Centre.

Alfasi Group picked up the 2,116 square metre commercially zoned site for $18 million during 2017. If Hyatt Hotels Corporation ratifies the South Yarra location, it will be the second Hyatt Centric in Melbourne behind the <a href="/news/little-projects-lands-hyatt-centric-for-downie-street">recently announced CBD location</a> which will carry 278 guestrooms and suites.

<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/image120_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alfasi River Street development. Image: Carr Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="351" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image120_0.jpg?itok=nmJu4hPZ" title="Alfasi River Street development. Image: Carr Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alfasi River Street development. Image: Carr Architecture</figcaption></figure>Little Projects is back in the apartment game with a planning application on Prahran's Grattan Street.

After divesting itself of an approved development site at 89 Lorimer Street and choosing not to proceed with South Yarra's 38-40 Claremont Street, the developer is chasing approval for a development at 17-22 Grattan Street. Currently Little Projects only have <a href="/buildings/hedgeley-60-belgrave-road-malvern-east">Hedgeley</a> within Malvern East at construction.

The unique Plus Architecture-designed scheme includes 55 apartments over 7 levels, split between 19 single, 30 double and 6 triple bedroom dwellings.

<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/image38_21_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Little Projects' Prahran development. Image: Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="351" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image38_21_0.jpg?itok=nSp4DrdU" title="Little Projects' Prahran development. Image: Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Little Projects' Prahran development. Image: Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>Also in Prahran, a site on Porter Street has been earmarked for a commercial reincarnation.

C.Kairouz Architects has designed a boutique 9 level commercial building that would replace a current Bridgestone dealership. Expected is a bulging, serrated facade dominated by a brick exterior, plus an adjacent pocket park.

56-58 Porter Street is designed to include approximately 4,200 square metres of commercial space above three basement levels. The $11 million build was lodged with Stonnington during June and is backed by entity Seventeenth Android Pty Ltd.

<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/image124_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Porter Street's new purpose. Image: C.Kairouz Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="398" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image124_0.jpg?itok=D8GNZVh6" title="Porter Street's new purpose. Image: C.Kairouz Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Porter Street's new purpose. Image: C.Kairouz Architects</figcaption></figure>Malvern Road's transformation into a low-rise apartment strips roll on, this time in the form of 1757-1767 Malvern Road, Glen Iris.

1757 Malvern Road Pty Ltd has utilised Cera Stribley Architects to come up with a tri-level apartment block aimed primarily at owner occupiers. 9 double and 20 triple bedroom apartments are included within the proposal, as are 57 car spaces.

1757-1767 Malvern Road is the latest in a string of dozens of low-rise apartment developments that have proliferated along the thoroughfare in recent years. There are 30 plus apartment developments that are now active within the Apartments.com.au Project Database along the Malvern Road corridor.

<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/image128_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Malvern Road's latest. Image: Cera Stribley Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="279" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image128_4.jpg?itok=m3bXSCfi" title="Malvern Road's latest. Image: Cera Stribley Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Malvern Road's latest. Image: Cera Stribley Architects</figcaption></figure>Additional residential projects at 1755 Malvern Road, Glen Iris and 1399-1401 Dandenong Road, Malvern East are also set to join the Apartments.com.au Project Database shortly. All in all Apartments.com.au is keeping tabs on 122 residential projects within City of Stonnington, in addition to a handful of commercial developments.

2-10 River Street aside City of Stonnington is also seeing a number of hotels in progress, including <a href="/new-apartments/402-416-chapel-street-south-yarra">Aloft Chapel Street</a>, <a href="/developments/chadstone-vic-3148">MGallery by Sofitel</a> and South Yarra's <a href="/developments/south-yarra-vic-3141">35-41 Claremont Street</a>.
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Hyatt Centric circling South Yarra headlines Stonnington's development news

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AccorHotels is rolling out an aggressive expansion across Australia and New Zealand, resulting in a presence across five new locations.

Auckland aside, AccorHotels' Mercure brand will land in four new Australian locations over the next three years, boosting its presence to beyond 50 hotels in the region. The commitment is also a boon for the respective hotel developers, allowing hundreds of millions of dollars worth of development to proceed.

The addition of these new four new Australian developments to the Apartments.com.au Project Database takes to 90 the number of hotel developments being tracked.

<h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
We are thrilled to announce our 50th milestone for the Mercure brand and add four new Mercure hotels to AccorHotels’ Pacific network in dynamic locations including the Gold Coast, Canberra, Melbourne and Auckland.

Mercure is a leading global midscale brand with a strong reputation for delivering quality service and great guest experiences. Each of these hotels will have significant impacts locally, driving employment and tourism to each location. We look forward to working with the owners and further expanding our new-build Mercure network of hotels.
<cite>Simon McGrath, AccorHotels Chief Operating Officer Pacific</cite>
</blockquote>

Mercure Canberra Belconnen 

<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/image81g.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the Belconnen development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="490" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image81g.jpg?itok=yauN34QX" title="Artist's impression of the Belconnen development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the Belconnen development</figcaption></figure>ACT Labor Club has joined forces with AccorHotels to deliver a new Belconnen hotel ready for occupancy during 2019.

After receiving approval for a 12 storey development during 2017, the new look design will see Mercure occupy 5 levels and 125 rooms within the development, with event and conference facilities also combined. 

Northwest of Canberra's city centre, Belconnen is receiving increased higher density development, with towers of up to 27 storeys planned.

Mercure Melbourne Doncaster 

<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/image78_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Accord Property Group moves into the hotel game"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="372" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image78_4.jpg?itok=r_yCI7ET" title="Accord Property Group moves into the hotel game" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Accord Property Group moves into the hotel game</figcaption></figure>Doncaster Hill will finally receive a hotel with Accord Property Group pursuing their maiden hotel development.

Slated to open during 2021, Mercure Melbourne Doncaster will include 190 rooms over six floors, plus retail at ground level. A restaurant and bar, fitness centre and function room constitute the project's amenities.

Delivering small-scale residential projects in the area previously, Accord Property Group's first hotel will be located on Doncaster Road adjacent to Westfield Shopping Centre.

Mercure Southport 

<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/image84_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Southport will benefit from extra visitor stays"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="372" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image84_12.jpg?itok=_c_vTNLB" title="Southport will benefit from extra visitor stays" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Southport will benefit from extra visitor stays</figcaption></figure>Another for a 2021 completion is Centro Group of Companies' new Southport development. AccorHotels have come to terms for the new-build hotel, agreeing to manage 130 rooms within the complex.

Once more, a restaurant, bar, fitness centre and pool round out the development's amenities, whilst event and meeting space will take on a more pronounced role with an eye toward the local community and the wider conference scene.

Centro Group of Companies will also overhaul the precinct, adding residential apartments and additional retail space. 

Mercure Sydney Bankstown

<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/image80a.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Poly Australia's Bankstown RSL development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image80a.jpg?itok=luqwWF26" title="Poly Australia's Bankstown RSL development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Poly Australia's Bankstown RSL development</figcaption></figure>Poly Australia has landed AccorHotels for their Bankstown RSL development.

Mercure Sydney Bankstown will be operational during late 2020 with 120 rooms in tow. Spanning 5 storeys and fronting Marion Street, the hotel is part of the new Bankstown RSL development which is valued at in excess of $60 million.

The hotel will have a restaurant and bar, two meeting spaces and a gym in a wider 18,000 square metre development.
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