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.

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"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.

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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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Developer Riverlee is seeking to rework an approved commercial scheme within Docklands, in order to capitalise upon Melbourne's near rampant hotel sector.

The developer has released details regarding its intended project at 731-739 Flinders Street which encompasses the heritage Northbank Goods Shed. Under plans submitted this week, the approved plans for a commercial building straddling the goods shed will be dropped in favour of a mixed-use hotel and residential proposal.

Included in the new scheme are 180 hotel suites, which would further bolster the hotel pipeline along the Yarra. Four Points By Sheraton, PARKROYAL and Quest Newquay are at differing stages of development, with another hotel project at nearby Victoria Harbour also a possibility.

Opposite Northbank Goods Shed, Probuild are undertaking an expansion of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre which incorporates the construction of a 331-room hotel tower.

<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/riv_northbank_v01_across_river1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Riverlee have chosen Fender Katsalidis for North Wharf. Image: Riverlee"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/riv_northbank_v01_across_river1.jpg?itok=xINjgmkw" title="Riverlee have chosen Fender Katsalidis for North Wharf. Image: Riverlee" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Riverlee have chosen Fender Katsalidis for North Wharf. Image: Riverlee</figcaption></figure>Riverlee have installed Fender Katsalidis as project architect, with the hotel supplementing 250 intended apartments.

In line with original plans, landscape architects Oculus have been retained and are tasked with creating a new 3,500sqm public park that Riverlee expects will act as the missing connector between Docklands and the Yarra River’s north bank. As part of the intended works the onsite heritage listed crane will also be brought up to scratch with a complete restoration planned.

Retail and event spaces are envisaged within the restored Goods Shed. Creating a new waterfront promenade will see the refurbishment of the area's wharf, while a pontoon is optioned with an eye toward waterfront activation.

Riverlee's change of use for the project is underpinned by the aforementioned expansion of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the precinct playing host to a multitude of conferences and conventions. The subsequent undersupply of hotel suites has prompted the change of use; the state of the commercial leasing sector would have also been taken into consideration.

<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/nw03_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The superseded scheme. Image: Oculus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nw03_0.jpg?itok=_KBr7tUo" title="The superseded scheme. Image: Oculus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The superseded scheme. Image: Oculus</figcaption></figure>The change of use is also expected to bring activity to the area around the clock, something that the 25,000sqm commercial scheme would have struggled to achieve.

How the intended public aspects of the building stack up relative to the initial scheme remain to be seen. With Oculus retained and Lovell Chen acting as Heritage Architects, the new scheme's public interface is difficult to judge based on the sole image released by Riverlee.

<blockquote>
Our plans include an extruded glass pavilion at the eastern end of the shed both to help preserve the heritage façade and hero it within the design, particularly at night when the façade will be lit from within the glass to create a beacon for night-time activity.

We’ve created a number of places to integrate and encourage interaction with these heritage elements, such as the former slipway which will be covered with glass inside the pavilion so people will be able to walk literally right on top of this unique piece of history
<cite>Karl Fender, managing principal architect, Fender Katsalidis</cite>
</blockquote>

What's established is the developer's existing work along the Yarra's north bank in the area. <a href="http://riverlee.com.au/projects/world-trade-centre">Riverlee refurbished more than 150 metres of water frontage</a> in the adjoining World Trade Centre complex, with the subsequent WTC Wharf retail zone completed during 2010.

Riverlee also initiated <a href="http://riverlee.com.au/projects/7-23-spencer-st">redevelopment of the former Melbourne Convention Centre</a> with the site now nearing demolition completion. In the interceding time, approval was obtained for a tri-towered residential complex onsite, with the site recently sold.
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silvermb

A reborn North Wharf adds to Melbourne's swelling hotel numbers

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Quest Apartment Hotels has opened Quest Mounts Bay Road in central Perth, the second from Quest in Perth's CBD. It features 71 fully self-contained studio and one-bedroom apartments.
Quest East Perth will open in September.
Zed Sanjana, chief executive officer of Quest said Western Australia is experiencing a tourism resurgence, along with significant growth across the education and agricultural sectors.
“The Australian headquarters of many global companies are located in the City of Perth due to its proximity to key international markets. Strong growth is expected to continue over the next decade as major industries strengthen and diversify, thereby expanding the workforce in the CBD," he said.
“State Government investment in WA is strong, with an ongoing commitment to several major redevelopment projects, including the $1 billion Gateway WA project improving access to and from the Perth Airport precinct, the $2 billion Fiona Stanley Hospital and the new $1.2 billion Perth Children’s Hospital.”
Quest Mounts Bay Road franchisee Don Goode said the new property is ideally located for both the corporate and leisure guest, within walking distance of Mount Hospital, the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, Esplanade Station, Elizabeth Quay, the Perth Arena, and the State Theatre.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Quest Mounts Bay Road, Perth opens

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Shayher Group have landed a key piece of their mixed-use Pentridge puzzle with the announcement that TFE Hotels will operate an Adina Apartment Hotel as part of the former prison's regeneration.

Partly set within the walls of the former B cell block, Adina Pentridge will accommodate 120 serviced apartment suites with the task of designing the heritage-based project handed to Cox Architecture. A new building will also be built adjacent to B cell block, with remaining suites, apartments and communal facilities within at least a 16 level building, which coheres to the overall site masterplan.

Whilst some cells will be converted into serviced apartments, a number of cells will be preserved in their original condition.

With conceptual imagery released yesterday and the formal tie-up between Shayher Group and TFE Hotels announced, heritage consultation, feasibility and architectural design will now proceed in earnest.

Working toward a 2020 opening, Adina Apartment Hotel will also see a restaurant, day spa, 400sqm conference and meeting facility, an indoor pool and gym as part of the development. The prison’s former chapel will also be maintained for functions and events.

<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/p18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Visualised lobby for Adina Pentridge. Image: Shayher Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="375" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/p18.jpg?itok=tEUItz_d" title="Visualised lobby for Adina Pentridge. Image: Shayher Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Visualised lobby for Adina Pentridge. Image: Shayher Group</figcaption></figure><h2>Pentridge gathers momentum</h2>

Most relevant to Adina's arrival is the recent <a href="http://www.moreland.vic.gov.au/globalassets/key-docs/meeting/agenda-council-upc/upc-agenda-22-june-2016.pdf">review of an application by Shayher Group</a> to extend the approved planning application for Champ Street B Division. Issued during 2009, the approval for the then VALAD Property Group allowed for the construction of a 19 level tower adjacent to B Division with SJB Architects taking the design lead.

Located in the south-west courtyard of the historic B Division building, approval of the extension would see the project start no later than November 2018 and be completed no later than November 2020. Revised plans would need to be presented to Council in the interim.

It was recommended that City of Moreland's Urban Planning Committee resolves to approve the extension of time of two years to the planning permit.

Shayher Group's first project within Pentridge dubbed Horizon Coburg has structurally topped out, with internal fitouts now proceeding at pace for the 50 dwellings. Also in the pipeline is <a href="/buildings/victoria-tower-21-pentridge-boulevard-coburg">21 Pentridge Boulevard</a> with approximately 220 apartments in play over a site area of 6,300sqm.

<h2>The Arrival of Adina: what they say</h2>

<blockquote>
We have challenged Cox Architects to deliver a design that sets a benchmark in sensitive and adaptive reuse and breathes new life into this historic asset, returning it to the public. In developing these plans, we have taken inspiration from similar projects in the United States and United Kingdom that have readapted jails into beautiful accommodation, paying tribute to the past by repositioning them for the future.

The masterplan and its density was created in line with the government’s future vision for this area to become an urban hub and easily accessible, with affordable housing options, transport, services and much more.

The hotel remains subject to Shayher Group obtaining the relevant planning and heritage approvals and we will be working closely with the Moreland City Council and Heritage Victoria. We are also working with the community to involve local stakeholders in aspects relating to the transformation of the site, with a recent community open day attracting around 3,000 interested people.
<cite>Anthony Goh, Shayher Group</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
This site speaks to a rich history and we believe locals and visitors from overseas will be intrigued to learn about Australia’s penal past.

Hotels provide a great way to preserve the history of heritage-listed buildings, allowing unique and memorable experiences for guests who learn and experience aspects of that rich past.
<cite>Rachel Argaman, CEO, TFE Hotels</cite>
</blockquote>
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Adina Hotel adds to Shayher Group's Pentridge vision

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Relative newcomer <a href="/developers/dcf-property">DCF Property</a> has made a play for a mixed-use tower in the rapidly expanding fringe CBD pocket opposite Flagstaff Gardens.

With two low-rise apartment projects to their name, DCF Property are seeking to greatly expand their presence with <a href="/buildings/407-415-king-street-west-melbourne">407-415 King Street</a>. Now Flagstaff House, the West Melbourne corner site plays host to the two to three storey building which carries an individual Heritage Overlay, affording the property a B grade listing.

While the existing exterior would be incorporated under the proposal, design lead <a href="/architects/plus-architecture">Plus Architecture</a> have added a 23 level tower above which would host both a hotel and apartments.

407-415 King Street abuts two development sites. <a href="/developers/samma-property-group">SPEC Property</a> are actively marketing Flagstaff Green apartments fronting Batman Street while Haileybury College have recently completed an overhaul of 383 King Street, itself subject to a failed application for a 75 metre apartment building in recent years.

<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/flagstaff_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="407-415 King Street. Image - Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flagstaff_2.jpg?itok=XH5afeHn" title="407-415 King Street. Image - Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>407-415 King Street. Image - Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>​

<h2>407-415 King Street application summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>Submitted May 2016</li>
	<li>Existing 930sqm site home to heritage listed Flagstaff House</li>
	<li>Proposed 23 level mixed-use building at 81.3 metres atop Flagstaff House</li>
	<li>158 hotel suites</li>
	<li>70 apartments: 19 x 1BR, 47 x 2BR, 4 x Penthouse</li>
	<li>Hotel office, gym, meeting and function rooms, restaurant/bar</li>
	<li>Level 12 communal area and rooftop garden</li>
	<li>64 car parking spaces and 44 bicycle bays over four basement levels</li>
	<li>Estimated cost of development: $50 million</li>
</ul>
<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/flagstaff_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="407-415 King Street. Image - Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="821" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flagstaff_3.jpg?itok=-tPCcJnh" title="407-415 King Street. Image - Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>407-415 King Street. Image - Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>​

Flagstaff House is a Yuncken Freeman design which was completed during 1968, with the heritage overlay covering the exterior only. Thus the development calls for only the facade to be retained, with the tower to rise behind.

The project's hotel and apartment components are separated by a design feature midway up the tower which also houses communal facilities. Plus Architecture refer to the separation as a truss feature, drawing a design parallel to Yuncken Freeman's timeless 140 William Street found within <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's CBD</a>.

One and two bedroom dwellings aside, the planning application calls for a sprawling whole floor penthouse. At 439sqm, the four bedroom penthouse shapes as one of, if not the largest apartment created within <a href="/new-apartments/west-melbourne-vic-3003">West Melbourne</a>.

Set above the penthouse is a 236sqm rooftop garden.

<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/image23_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="407-415 King Street was once Yuncken Freeman's offices. Image: Wikipedia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="358" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image23_4.jpg?itok=eLNGkb7k" title="407-415 King Street was once Yuncken Freeman's offices. Image: Wikipedia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>407-415 King Street was once Yuncken Freeman's offices. Image: Wikipedia</figcaption></figure>To date DCF Property's presence on the Apartments.com.au Project Database has been limited to two projects in Melbourne's eastern suburbs.

<a href="/buildings/inqu-140-cotham-road-kew">INQU at 140-142 Cotham Road, Kew</a> is completed with <a href="/builders/orange-building-solutions">Orange Building Solutions</a> delivering the project encompassing 40 apartments, six retail tenancies and one restaurant. DCF Property's other current pursuit is for a vacant block in Balwyn North.

76-78 Doncaster Road is a DKO Architecture-designed residential project which if approved adds another 60 apartments on the developer's books.

<h2>407-415 King Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: DCF Property</li>
	<li>Architect: Plus Architecture</li>
	<li>Planning: Planning and Property Partners</li>
	<li>ESD, Structural &amp; Services engineer: WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff</li>
	<li>Heritage: Bryce Raworth</li>
	<li>Traffic: Traffix</li>
	<li>Waste: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Wind: SLR Consulting</li>
</ul>
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DCF Property looks to capitalise atop Flagstaff Hill

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Following the approval of shareholders, AccorHotels Group will acquire FRHI Hotels &amp; Resorts (FRHI) and its three prestigious luxury hotel brands: Fairmont, Raffles and Swissôtel. 
“Today is a great day for our group.
"It will open up amazing growth prospects, lift our international presence to unprecedented heights, and build value over the long term,” said Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of AccorHotels.
Joining AccorHotels’ global network is a portfolio of globally admired brands, which includes management of many of the world’s most iconic and historic hotels located in key strategic cities around the world, including: The Savoy in London, Raffles Singapore, Fairmont San Francisco, New York’s The Plaza, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City, and Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris.
Bazin said by leveraging the operational synergies between FRHI and AccorHotels, they were well-positioned to accelerate the growth of our luxury brands.
The transaction with Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) and Kingdom Holding Company (KHC) of Saudi Arabia provided $840 million (€768 million) cash payment and the issuance of 46.7 million AccorHotels shares in consideration for the contributed FRHI shares.
The transaction gives QIA and KHC respective stakes of 10.4% and 5.8% in Accor’s share capital. Ali Bouzarif and Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo from QIA and Sarmad Zok from KHC will now join AccorHotels’ Board of Directors.
AccorHotels plans to generate approximately €65 million in revenue and cost synergies. Significant enhancements will also be made in terms of customer data, thanks to the integration of FRHI’s customer base that includes three million loyalty members, of which 75 percent are in North America.
The vast majority of Fairmont, Raffles and Swissôtel’s 154 hotels and resorts (of which 40 are under development) and 56,000 rooms spanning 34 countries and five continents are operated under long-term management contracts, with an average term of nearly 30 years; six hotels are leased and one hotel is owned. The Fairmont, Raffles and Swissôtel brands employ more than 45,000 worldwide.
AccorHotels is a world-leading travel and lifestyle group and digital innovator offering unique experiences in more than 4,000 hotels, resorts and residences.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

AccorHotels acquires FRHI hotels

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Visionary Investment Group has announced the arrival of Silkari – an exceptional hotel and residential brand that will deliver a new level of luxury in Australia. 
Silkari will launch in Australia with three properties billed as bringing together "the finest of East and West with an extraordinary level of service."
Silkari Suites at Chatswood are set to open 1 December with registrations of interest and sales for Silkari on Castelreagh and S Pagewood available through The Property Gallery from 1 July.
S by Pagewood (above) will feature 219 apartments and 37 townhouses.
VIG chief executive officer Michael Guo said Silkari will offer a new level of luxury, weaving together the finest elements from cultures and destinations across the world to create transcendent experiences that define a new standard in the Australian market.   “At VIG we sought some of the best designers, architects and partners from around Australia and the globe and brought them together to create a brand that will represent a new level of style for all to enjoy.  
"I am extremely proud today to be revealing Silkari to the market and excited about the delivery of our first three projects, as well as many more that we have in the pipeline."
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Visionary bring Silkari to Australian hotel market

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Cbus Property has appointed agent Savills to handle the sale of the hotel portion of their pending 447 Collins Street development.

With the overall value of the urban renewal project tipped to exceed $1.25 billion, Cbus Property will look to capitalise upon the booming Melbourne hotel sector by offering the pre-purchase of a new 294 room 5 star luxury hotel which forms part of the overall development.

The project has maintained a high degree of public interest of late owing to the project's design impetus and the altogether public manner in which its planning process has transpired.

With the hotel component designated a 435 Collins Street address, the successful buyer will inherit the freehold title over the property and can expect Cbus Property to oversee the turn-key delivery of the hotel with a targeted completion date of Q4 2019.

<h2>Hotel facilities</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/imagepreview_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of a typical hotel suite. Image: Savills"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imagepreview_1.jpg?itok=_eDy9xyR" title="Artist's impression of a typical hotel suite. Image: Savills" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of a hotel suite. Image: Savills</figcaption></figure>As noted 435 Collins Street will hold 294 hotel suites with three separate configurations on offer: Standard, Junior Suite and King Suite. The smallest suites within the project begin at 37sqm and increase to 86sqm for the largest King suite.

An average of 24 suites are spread over each floor, with 12 levels dedicated to hotel accommodation which will be set above a double height vaulted lobby with multiple entrances.

435 Collins Street's indicative hotel area schedule also sees a raft of facilities attached to the hotel. An all-day restaurant and hotel bar are slated for ground level while Level 1 will include a 529sqm ballroom, function room and meeting room.

More typical amenities such as 223sqm pool deck, sauna, fitness centre and a 202sqm business lounge are also included over lower 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/imagepreview_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the hotel lobby. Image: Savills"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="604" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imagepreview_3.jpg?itok=BvU_CCNT" title="Artist's impression of the hotel lobby. Image: Savills" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the hotel lobby. Image: Savills</figcaption></figure><h2>A clearer picture of the overall development</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image4coll.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the project's exterior. Image: Savills"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="185" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4coll.jpg?itok=Ywy_qLmh" title="Artist's impression of the project's exterior. Image: Savills" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the project's exterior. Image: Savills</figcaption></figure>In addition to the 5 star hotel, the mixed-use development will also hold approximately 49,000sqm of premium commercial office with typical floorplates of between 1,800sqm and 2,300sqm, and in excess of 200 luxury apartments.

Supporting the expected 5 star NABERS Energy Rated - 5 star Green Star Rated commercial space will be 130 car parking spaces and extensive end of trip facilities which include 500 lockers, 500 bicycle parks and 50 showers.

As has been reported extensively near on 2,000sqm of highly activated public realm will surround the tower footprints. A retail emporium with an approximate NLA of Net lettable area of 800sqm is also designed into the project's lower levels, supplementing the dedicated hotel facilities.

Savills agent Michael Simpson is handling the sales process which will close at 4pm on Friday 17 June 2016.
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Cbus Property seeks to sell part of 447 Collins Street

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Leading Australian real estate group Raine &amp; Horne has been appointed as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) representatives for Lemon Tree Hotels, a fast-growing Indian chain of business and leisure hotels.
Founded in 2002 by Patu Keswani, a first generation Indian entrepreneur, Lemon Tree Hotels has three brands catering to both luxury and economy travellers – the Lemon Tree Premier, Lemon Tree Hotels and the economy Red Fox Hotel – which it will bring to the GCC region.
The deal comes as Dubai Tourism reported a growth of 17% in Indian visitors in the first quarter of 2016, with over 467,000 visitors between January and March.
Dubai had 4.1 million overnight visitors in the first three months of 2016, a 5.1% increase over the same period last year, backed by strong double digit growth from its top two proximity markets, the GCC and India, according to figures released by Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism).
Raine &amp; Horne’s Dubai office will support eight hotel openings across the GCC region in the next three years, by identifying properties, managing relationships, and executing agreements, according to a media release.
The Lemon Tree group will initially focus on Dubai and Abu Dhabi, before turning its attention to Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait and Qatar.
“We look forward to leveraging our regional property expertise and network of contacts to roll out the Lemon Tree brand out across the GCC,” said Sanjay Chimnani, managing director of Raine &amp; Horne Dubai.
“There’s a big need for quality affordable or midscale segment hotels and serviced apartments, and they’re key to the development of the region and its objective of having 20 million visitor arrivals by 2020.”
Deputy managing director of Lemon Tree Hotels, Rattan Keswani, outlined his vision for the group’s expansion.
“We’re proud to now have 29 hotels and over 3,200 rooms in 18 cities of India, and another 11 hotels with 1,500 rooms currently under development,” he said.
“Expanding within the GCC was the next logical step in the company’s evolution as the fastest growing hotel company in India, and by 2018 we should have over 4% of hotel rooms in India, which are owned, managed, or under development.”
Raine &amp; Horne Dubai were also appointed in late 2015 by Turkish investment trust Nurol REIT as their lead agency in marketing an extensive AED 3 billion ($1.12 billion) Turkish real estate portfolio to GCC states.
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Raine & Horne appointed by Indian hotel chain for Middle East expansion

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By both necessity and opportunity, the owners of Hotel Lindrum are seeking approval for a high-rise tower set behind their historic former Romanesque tea warehouse which fronts Flinders Street.

Entity TMG Developments Pty Ltd is pursuing the development in part due to Hotel Lindrum's pending loss of guest car parking in the adjoining multi-level car park which is subject to a development application. In addition to expanded hotel suites and residential apartments, guest car parking will be consolidated onsite under the proposal.

Bates Smart has conceived a slim tower of some 30 levels, substantially lower than the initial site application which called for 53 levels.

<h2>26-30 Flinders Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image5lind.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Street level perspective of the proposed tower. Planning image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="882" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5lind.jpg?itok=uHLLjvwg" title="Street level perspective of the proposed tower. Planning image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Street level perspective of the proposed tower. Planning image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Existing 5 storey Hotel Lindrum contains 59 suites</li>
	<li>Proposed 30 level mixed-use tower at 100 metres in height</li>
	<li>Hotel suites numbers expanded to 77</li>
	<li>62 residential apartments: 12 x 1BR, 36 x 2BR, 2 x 3BR, 12 x 4BR</li>
	<li>Total Gross Floor Area: 12,448 square metres</li>
	<li>Two basement levels</li>
	<li>1 podium restaurant space at 276 square metres</li>
	<li>Capacity for 80 bicycles and 38 vehicles in a Multiparker system</li>
</ul>
<h2>What remains of the existing structure</h2>

With over 100 years of history, the existing structure was best known as a billiard and snooker centre with the niece of champion billiard player Walter Lindrum managing the business, hence the Lindrum reference within the current name.

Heritage advisory Bryce Raworth prepared a Heritage Impact Analysis as a response to Council queries toward the development of the building which is included on the heritage overlay schedule of the Melbourne Planning Scheme as HO 1034.

Under current plans it's expected that the majority of the existing structure will be demolished for the proposed tower, with the southern facade to remain intact. Approximately half the eastern and western facades will remain as will limited interior walls according to plans.

<h2>53 levels at a stretch </h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image4lind.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hotel Lindrum in its earlier, taller guise. Planning image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="222" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4lind.jpg?itok=8Bz3-uJE" title="Hotel Lindrum in its earlier, taller guise. Planning image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hotel Lindrum in its earlier, taller guise. Planning image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>The initial version of 26-30 Flinders Street was submitted during July 2015 with revised plans put forward in recent weeks. City of Melbourne found a number of issues with the original proposal which would have spanned 183.3 metres in height and included 143 residential apartments above 83 hotel suites.

A 'facaded' outcome and a deviation from "accepted conservation standards" were chief amongst Council's concerns, with a "significant height reduction, increased setbacks and refinements to the architectural treatment of the intermediate levels of the tower" included in the revised plans.

The current version also sees an increase in separation from the existing building to tower above by way of an expanded transitional design element separation the two.

<h2>It's a trend</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image9_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hotel developments proposed for significant locations"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="220" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_5.jpg?itok=GGQZQkcH" title="Hotel developments proposed for significant locations" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hotel developments proposed for significant locations</figcaption></figure>Hotel Lindrum is the fifth significant building in the eastern reaches of the CBD to see new or expanded hotel facilities proposed. Whilst some projects have faltered, others are poised to advance.

Windsor Hotel and Bourke Street's Palace Theatre are the two highest profile projects, with both now free to pursue expanded or new hotel developments.

The proposed hotel above what was Rosati Restaurant at 95 Flinders Lane failed to eventuate whilst the most recent development incarnation of the Forum Theatre had its processing suspended midway through planning with City of Melbourne.
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Hotel Lindrum the latest to seek high-rise development 

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Confidence in the CBD hotels sector outweighs office and retail for the year ahead by sector, according the NAB Quarterly Australian Commercial Property Survey Q1 2016, which noted the Commercial Property Index fell to +12 points but is above the long term average.
According to the report all markets are tracking above long-term average levels, except CBD Hotels, which it continues to out-perform the broader market. 
NAB chief economist Alan Oster said Property professionals in the CBD hotels sector are also the most confident in the next year, followed by office and retail.
"However, confidence levels are broadly similar across all market sector participants in 2 years’ time," he said.
"By state, sentiment improved in NSW and it continues to lead the country by some margin, led by a strong contribution from the Office sector. Sentiment also improved a little in WA, but remains deeply negative and by far the worst performing state, dragged down by chronically under-performing Office and Industrial property markets. Sentiment was lower in all other states. 
“Property professionals in NSW are the most optimistic in the next 2 years, but those in Victoria are expecting the biggest improvement. WA remains the most pessimistic state, but only just ahead of SA/NT." 
On average, capital values are expected to increase most for CBD hotels in the next 1-2 years (1.4 percent &amp; 3.4 percent). 
"Office rents are expected to grow 1.1 percent and 1.5 percent in the next 1-2 years, led by  NSW and to a lesser extent Victoria. Significantly, for developers intending to start new projects, a survey low 38 percent indicated they were targeting residential developments, down from 54percent in Q4, presumably reflecting the over build in apartment markets,” he said. 
<a href="/images/2016/04/27/Screen%20Shot%202016-04-27%20at%201.26.06%20PM.png" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/04/27/Screen%20Shot%202016-04-27%20at%201.26.06%20PM.png" alt="">
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