<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]

For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370900]

The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]

Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150499]

Joel Robinson

Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

Investors may soon find themselves with fewer reasons to buy established property and more incentives to look towards the new apartment market.

Proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions would see new and off-the-plan apartments retain access to the tax benefits, while established properties would miss out, creating a clear advantage for buyers purchasing newly built housing.

The policy direction aligns with what many developers have been saying for several years. Australia needs more housing supply, and governments are increasingly looking for ways to encourage investment into new stock rather than existing homes.

The challenge for investors is that suitable product is becoming harder to find.

For much of the last decade, one-bedroom apartments were the cornerstone of investor demand. They offered a lower entry price, strong rental appeal, and were a common feature across most apartment developments.

Today, the development pipeline looks very different.

Across both New South Wales and South East Queensland, developers are increasingly targeting owner-occupiers and downsizers, delivering larger two, three and four-bedroom apartments in response to changing buyer preferences. While one-bedroom apartments still exist, they now form a much smaller portion of many new projects.

That shift has created a shortage of investor-friendly stock, particularly in well-located projects close to transport, employment hubs and lifestyle amenity.

At the same time, rising apartment prices have pushed many new developments beyond the reach of traditional investors. On the Gold Coast and across South East Queensland, it's becoming increasingly difficult to find new apartments priced around the $1 million mark, particularly those offering strong rental fundamentals and long-term growth prospects.

We've rounded up four new apartment developments where investors can still secure a foothold in the market for around $1 million or less.

<h2 data-end="1140" data-start="844">Flourish Soleira</h2>

<h2>Priced from: $1.07 million</h2>

Popular Palm Beach developer Sherpa is soon to officially launch its newest local apartment development, Flourish Soleira.

The one-bedroom apartments in the building were only offered to first home buyers rather than investors, and all of those have been snapped up. The two-bedroom apartments will start from $1.07 million, and the three-bedrooms, still a good investment given the popularity of Palm Beach for owner-occupiers, starting at $2,045,000.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

Flourish Soliera will comprise 153 apartments across two buildings, connected by a skybridge, the first ever delivered in the suburb.

True to Sherpa's booming Flourish brand of apartment projects, Flourish Soleira will have extensive rooftop amenity across both buildings including a&nbsp;wellness centre with gym, work from home, yoga, pilates, a&nbsp;heated pool, private dining rooms, pizza oven and barbecues, basketball court, and golf simulator.

<h2>Corallo, Palm Beach</h2>

Priced from: $841,500

Nearby Flourish Soleira is Changfa Group's beachfront-inspired Corallo development. They still have some one-bedroom apartments remaining, priced from $841,500.

The 105-apartment project on Palm Beach Avenue is otherwise dominated by larger two and three-bedroom residences, many of which are aimed at owner-occupiers and downsizers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=808]

For investors, the appeal lies in Palm Beach's continued transformation from a laid-back beachside suburb into one of the Gold Coast's most sought-after residential markets. Residents at Corallo will be within walking distance of Palm Beach's surf beaches, the recreational amenity of Tallebudgera Creek, and the increasingly popular collection of cafes, restaurants and boutique retailers along the suburb's central dining precinct.

<h2>Corner House, Stones Corner</h2>

<h2>Priced from: $880,000</h2>

One of only two Brisbane apartment developments to make the list with prices under $1 million is DeMartini Fletcher's Corner House development in Stones Corner.

One-bedroom apartments start from $880,000 within the 88-apartment development, providing investors with exposure to one of Brisbane's most established inner-south locations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149098 project_image_fid=330594]

Stones Corner has long been supported by strong tenant demand due to its proximity to major employment and education destinations. The suburb sits less than five kilometres from Brisbane's CBD and is within easy reach of the Princess Alexandra Hospital, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Queensland Children's Hospital and several university campuses.

The project's location within a walkable urban village environment, surrounded by retail, dining and public transport infrastructure, continues to attract both professionals and healthcare workers seeking accommodation close to work.

Parkdrive Apartments, Chermside

Priced from: $749,000

The most affordable apartments across Brisbane's new and off the plan market are in Chermside where developer AusDev is selling one-bedroom apartments from $749,000, and two-beds from $929,000, at its recently launched Parkdrive development.

The development is strategically positioned in one of Brisbane's largest employment and retail precincts, placing residents within easy walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, St Vincent's Private Hospital Northside and the suburb's major bus interchange.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Already under construction and scheduled for completion in early 2028, Parkdrive benefits from Chermside's ongoing evolution into Brisbane's northern metropolitan centre. The suburb continues to attract significant public and private investment, supporting population growth and underpinning long-term rental demand.

For investors focused on yield and tenant depth, the combination of healthcare, retail and transport infrastructure within close proximity provides a strong foundation for occupancy and rental performance.

Investors to turn to new apartments after Federal Government changes spark hunt for Queensland's best $1 million apartments

A mix of Gold Coast locals, fly-in, fly-out purchasers from Sydney and Melbourne, and Brisbane-based families has driven early sales success at Broadbeach's newest apartment tower, Lumara.

The 26-level project, a joint venture between builder-developer 5Point Projects and Bourke Projects, comprises just 37 luxury residences and is attracting a buyer profile that is looking for exclusivity, above the most amenity-rich suburb on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150454 project_image_fid=364156]

Jamie Bourke, Director of Bourke Projects, says every buyer secured so far intends to use Lumara as a lock-up-and-leave residence, combining holiday use with the ability to work remotely when required.

“The size of the apartments, both half- and full-floor options, and the different zones within the floorplans, lends itself perfectly to dedicated home office setups and multi-generational family holidays,” Bourke says.

That flexibility has become a key drawcard for affluent buyers seeking a second residence on the Gold Coast without sacrificing the ability to conduct business away from their primary home base.

The absence of holiday letting within the building has also resonated strongly with purchasers.

“This type of buyer doesn't need to generate holiday rental income,” Bourke says. “They're paying for exclusivity, privacy and certainty around who their neighbours are.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150454 project_image_fid=366491]

The strong demand comes amid broader shifts in the high-end apartment market following the Federal Budget announcements in May.

“We were already seeing strong enquiry from high-net-worth buyers, but that has only accelerated since the policy changes,” Bourke says.

“A lot of those buyers are looking to place more capital into premium lifestyle assets rather than investment-grade stock that has been targeted by the Federal Government.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150454 project_image_fid=366486]

Designed by Cottee Parker, Lumara adopts a slender, sculpted form with an emphasis on natural materials suited to its beachfront setting. The architectural approach draws on coastal influences, with a palette of stone, timber and concrete selected for durability and the ability to weather over time.

Apartments are limited to three and four-bedroom configurations, with a maximum of two residences per floor through the mid-levels and a selection of full-floor and dual-level homes in the upper levels. All apartments are oriented to the north to maximise natural light, cross-ventilation and views across the ocean, city skyline and hinterland.

A two-level amenity offering is positioned high within the building on levels 20 and 21, conceived as a sky wellness retreat. Facilities include a magnesium pool, spa, sauna and steam rooms, alongside more social spaces such as a private dining room, resident lounge, workspaces and outdoor barbecue areas integrated with landscaped greenery.

The uppermost levels are reserved for larger-format residences, including several full-floor homes and a dual-level penthouse with its own private wellness features and recreational spaces.

&nbsp;

To give buyers confidence, 5Point and Bourke commenced construction ahead of the apartments launching to the market, a sure-fire way to prove they mean business, and the building will be delivered. They are targeting a 2028 completion date.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150454]

Locals, interstate holiday makers, drive early sales at Lumara, Broadbeach's newest luxury apartment tower

Often when it comes to purchasing property, the biggest barrier to entry is the deposit. Buyers of established homes typically aim for a 20 per cent deposit to avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance, while most property transactions require around a 10 per cent deposit when contracts are exchanged.

The off-the-plan market works differently, with buyers typically paying a deposit during construction and settling the balance upon completion. As completion approaches at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/fabbrica-fitzroy-369-gore-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">Fabbrica Fitzroy</a>, developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pace-development-group">Pace</a> is making it easier for buyers to secure a residence through a deposit-matching incentive. Purchasers need only contribute a five per cent deposit*, with Pace matching the remaining five per cent.

The offer comes as Pace unveils a completed display apartment and townhouse, now available for inspection by appointment ahead of the project's Spring completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139552 project_image_fid=371009]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/winwood-mckenzie-architecture">Winwood Mckenzie</a> and landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a>, Fabbrica draws on Fitzroy’s industrial and manufacturing history, incorporating references to the former Argyle Shirt Factory and Life Savers Confectionery Company that once occupied the site.

The development comprises 85 residences, spanning low-maintenance apartments through to larger-format townhouses with private street access and double lock-up garages, a relatively uncommon offering in Fitzroy’s higher-density apartment market.

Pace says the project has been designed to appeal to buyers seeking inner-city convenience without sacrificing space, flexibility, or amenity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139552 project_image_fid=371016]

Inside the residences, Winwood Mckenzie has focused on adaptable layouts and integrated detailing, with features including custom joinery, and concealed storage solutions. The material palette leans into warm, tactile finishes intended to complement the building’s industrial architectural language.

Fabbrica’s rooftop amenity is a key part of the project offering. Spanning around 800 sqm, the communal rooftop includes a private dining room, communal kitchen, lounge spaces, work-from-home zones, and outdoor dining areas overlooking the Melbourne CBD skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139552 project_image_fid=371017]

Landscape architecture studio Acre has introduced a layered rooftop garden designed to soften the urban setting while creating a more communal environment for residents.

The Fitzroy location also positions residents within walking distance of Brunswick Street, Smith Street, parks, cafés, galleries, and public transport, while remaining only minutes from Melbourne’s CBD. The project has an enviable Walk Score of 96.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139552 project_image_fid=371025]

Pace, which is also delivering the project as builder, has developed more than 100 projects across Melbourne over the past three decades. The vertically integrated approach has become increasingly common among developers seeking greater control over construction delivery amid broader market pressures affecting the apartment sector.

The strikingly contemporary Gore Street development is now around 70 per cent complete, with purchasers expected to move into their new homes in Spring 2026. A limited number of residences remain available under the current deposit match offer.

*Conditions apply in relation to the deposit match offer.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139552]

Pace offers five per cent deposit match at Fabbrica Fitzroy ahead of Spring completion

Sydney developer Hyecorp's roots on the Lower North Shore stretch back three generations, and that deep understanding of the market continues to shape where and how it develops today.

From high-rise towers to boutique apartment projects, the family-run developer has built its reputation by focusing on a part of Sydney it knows intimately. Founded by Michael Abolakian in the early 1990s, Hyecorp is now led by his sons Stephen, Troy and Patrick.

Stephen Abolakian, joint managing director alongside Troy, has spent more than two decades in the business, overseeing development, planning, finance, marketing and sales.

Abolakian says the developer's disciplined focus on where it chooses to operate has been, and continues to be, one of Hyecorp's greatest strengths.

“We know the buyer profile exceptionally well,” Abolakian says.

“The demographics between places like Willoughby, Chatswood, St Leonards and Roseville are very similar. There are nuances between suburbs and projects, but culturally and from a buyer perspective, there’s a strong overlap.”

That buyer has historically been overwhelmingly owner-occupier driven.

Unlike many Sydney apartment developers that have traditionally relied heavily on investor demand, Hyecorp’s projects have typically attracted downsizers, upsizers, rightsizers and family owner-occupiers seeking long-term homes rather than short-term investments.

“Historically, investors have been a much smaller portion of our demand profile,” Abolakian says.

“We design for owner-occupiers. We don’t design for yield, we design for comfort, amenity, family living and long-term usability.”

That philosophy extends well beyond apartment layouts.

From landscaping and communal gardens to shared amenities and circulation spaces, Hyecorp’s developments are designed around how people actually live, something Abolakian believes has become increasingly important in Sydney’s apartment market.

“There was probably a period where having an approved project in market was enough,” he says.

“There wasn’t as much competition and if you built it, buyers would come. That’s no longer the case.”

“There’s more supply in the pipeline now, particularly with TOD precincts and low and mid-rise reforms opening up opportunities across Sydney. Buyers have more choice, so if you get the product wrong, they’ll simply go elsewhere.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=311393]

The shift has forced developers to become more sophisticated in how they approach apartment design, particularly as owner-occupier expectations continue to rise.

For Hyecorp, that means thinking beyond who the buyer is today and designing for who they may become in five or 10 years' time.

“People buying now often aren’t moving in for several years,” Abolakian says.

“You might have a young couple buying today, but by the time they move in they may have children, older children, or changing lifestyle needs. You’ve got to think about how families evolve.”

That thinking also shapes Hyecorp’s approach to amenity, which positions wellness at the forefront.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149594 project_image_fid=362634]

While resort-style facilities have become increasingly common marketing tools across Sydney apartment developments, Abolakian says the challenge is ensuring amenities are genuinely usable and appropriate for the scale of the project.

“If amenities are done right, they can materially improve the living experience,” he says, adding however that if you&nbsp;overdo it or get it wrong, you can end up with facilities nobody uses that simply create ongoing strata costs.”

That balance is something Hyecorp is aiming to strike with projects like Roseville Avenue, one of the group's upcoming Lower North Shore developments, which Abolakian describes as bringing a resort-style living experience into a metropolitan setting.

“It’s about creating something that feels special without being excessive,” he says.

“Good gardens, quality apartments, thoughtful amenity. Creating that resort feeling in a metro location.”

<img alt="Hyecorp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13c4c0f3-b1b7-44cf-9344-0b3d1d07797a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-02%20at%2012.14.57%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=9OLWjyj2bYkDV35F78WJnyMSPfc2bJ2z" />

The focus on owner-occupier product comes as Sydney’s apartment market continues to navigate a difficult development environment.&nbsp;For Hyecorp, maintaining an in-house operating model across construction, sales, marketing and development management has become increasingly important in navigating that environment.

“We’ve always believed in keeping a lot of the process in-house,” Abolakian says.

“It creates efficiencies, but it also creates quality control. You can make faster decisions and ensure the end product stays aligned with the original vision.”

Despite the challenges, Abolakian believes demand for quality owner-occupier apartments across Sydney remains strong beneath the surface, particularly across established Lower North Shore suburbs where downsizers continue to seek new housing options close to existing communities.

“There are definitely people waiting,” he says.

“Once some of the broader uncertainty settles, whether that’s the global environment or some of the local economic noise, I think the right projects will perform very strongly.”

Hyecorp currently has three residential developments on the market across Sydney’s Lower North Shore.&nbsp;Audrey, St Leonards, positioned opposite Newlands Park, is nearing completion and preparing to welcome its first residents, with the project now almost sold out.

Hyecorp has also recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celine-chatswood-37-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">Celine Chatswood</a>, an architectural tower, while continuing to deliver&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet Roseville</a>, a more boutique scale of development with just 34 apartments.

Why Hyecorp continues to back Sydney's Lower North Shore apartment market

Interior Design

Walsh Grange is a contemporary collection of just 23 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, developed in a joint venture between CQ Property Development and Loi Projects.

Local &nbsp;architecture firm, Telha Clarke is behind the design of the modern low-rise building, with their focus to create a feeling of connection, through shared public spaces, and surrounding gardens and trees.

“This collection of homes delivers seamless modern living, architecturally designed to bring pleasure to your life every day,” Projects by Buxton agent Heath Thompson says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108897 project_image_fid=180972]

Every surface, fitting and element of the Walsh Grange residences has been carefully chosen to create a home that works together and provides a balanced, flowing home.

“Everything works together, providing a balanced, harmonious flow. You feel it the moment you walk in, a welcoming warmth and an air of luxury - exactly what you would expect from this gem," Thompson added.

The ground floor comprises nine apartments, with a mix of one, two and three bedroom offerings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108897 project_image_fid=180973]

G02 and Go3 are one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments, each with one car space. G02 covers 49 sqm of floor space, while the latter sits across 51 sqm.

G05 and G07 are two-bedroom, two-bathroom configurations, both spanning 71 sqm, with one car space.

G04 is a three-bedroom, two-bathroom, north facing apartment, with 96 sqm of floor space. It has a 73 sqm private courtyard, as well as two car spaces.

Similarly, G08 is a three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment, on the Grange Road side of the development, spanning 95 sqm internally, along with 111 sqm of private courtyard space. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108897 project_image_fid=180974]

Selected ground-floor residences include rear entries, adding further texture to the building’s character.

G06 and G09, both two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments have already been sold.

A step up, level one features eight two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments, all sitting across upwards of 70 sqm of floor space, along with one, two-bedroom, one-bathroom residence, that covers 68 sqm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108897 project_image_fid=180980]

Level two of Walsh Grange comprises five apartments, with two, two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments, two, two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments and one, three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment.

Apartment 205 is the biggest of the level two, covering 97 sqm internally, adjoined with a 45 sqm north-facing terrace.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108897]

Local  architecture firm, Telha Clarke is behind the design of the modern low-rise building, with their focus to create a feeling of connection, through shared public spaces, and surrounding gardens and trees.



alisonwarters@gmail.com

Inside the floorplans of Ormond's latest apartment development, Walsh Grange 

The Gratis is the latest offering from Hive Properties, transforming Melbourne&rsquo;s inner-eastern suburb of Deepdene.

Situated at 918-920 Burke Road, the residence boasts contemporary finishes and high-quality features at a sought-after address.

Featuring just 12 three-bedroom apartments, residents can enjoy luxurious light-filled homes and great interior design by Adele Bates.

&ldquo;We really curated each interior of the twelve to be unique in its own way in terms of ensuring the space planning was really resolved, and how we best maximise the space for entertaining, for living&rdquo;, Bates said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7337 project_image_fid=170638]

The Embrace Architects-designed building boasts a metallic finish to concrete soffit, double glazed aluminium windows and natural stone cladding.

A grand lobby features a chandelier, Control 4 automated entryway and natural stone tiling.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7337 project_image_fid=170649]

The Gratis delivers residents a luxurious living experience with herringbone oak flooring, Vintec wine fridge, natural stone islands and integrated fridge and freezer.

Open-plan living and dining, a built-in fireplace and the choice of two colour schemes are among the offerings in these boutique apartments.

The built-in cocktail bar boasts LED strip lighting, Zip HydroTap, natural stone benchtops and brass finishes that harmonise with the interior styling in the kitchen and bathroom.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7337 project_image_fid=170641]

Among the great features in the bathroom include a free-standing bath and fluted glass shower screens.

With landscaped gardens and planter boxes designed by landscape architect Jack Merlo, residents can enjoy connecting with the outdoors.

&ldquo;The Gratis offers a unique opportunity for people who might be coming out of a larger home or property in the area with all the beautiful leafy streets and gardens.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7337 project_image_fid=170650]

&ldquo;You&rsquo;ll certainly have the added benefit of apartment living and the lower maintenance aspect of that, but you won&rsquo;t need to lose the nice leafy aspect that perhaps you have been used to&rdquo;, said Merlo.

The features that make this home very special include the handcrafted tiles in the living space that offer the home a contemporary and luxury feel, as well as the impressive Molteni.&amp;C Gliss Master walk-in closet.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7337 project_image_fid=170644]

The closet, available in select residences, is designed by Vincent Van Duysen and includes a sophisticated pull-out shirt rack, pull-out drawers and trays, glass shelving and a drawer island.

Showcasing a bold yet neutral colour palette throughout generous living zones, discerning Melbourne buyers need not look past The Gratis.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=7337]

The Embrace Architects-designed building boasts a metallic finish to concrete soffit, double glazed aluminium windows and natural stone cladding

max.kwok_55688

A look inside luxury: The Gratis, Deepdene apartments designed by Adele Bates

EXPERT OPINION

COVID-19 has changed the world in ways that will never be undone, and just as we&rsquo;ve adapted to the &lsquo;new normal&rsquo;, we&rsquo;ve also acquired a new perspective on how we view our homes.

Up until recently, the notion of spending every hour of every day for months on end cooped up inside your home - with your entire family - would have seemed absurd, and a little terrifying. For many, our sanctuaries became stressful cesspools, as work, school, and play became compressed inside our four walls. It&rsquo;s no wonder Australians are spending a record one billion dollars a month on renovations.

COVID lockdowns have magnified the niggling inadequacies of our homes and caused shortcomings we previously overlooked to become daily bugbears. The old desk shoved in the spare room doesn&rsquo;t cut it as a functional space to work from home, the kitchen counter can&rsquo;t double as a classroom for weeks on end, and the low maintenance yard, for those of us lucky enough to have one, doesn&rsquo;t add much spice to a life that&rsquo;s become infinitely more constrained. COVID&rsquo;s forced us all to re-evaluate many aspects of our lives, and one big-ticket item is our home. Homeowners are realising the importance of having a space that&rsquo;s far more functional and comfortable to inhabit.

Research by Stockland reveals almost three quarters of Australians are rethinking their living situation, while 80% say they&rsquo;re more aware of how their home and environment affects their wellbeing, and 10% are currently planning to move to a new dwelling that better suits their needs. But what are these needs exactly?

<img alt="" height="634" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/lennox_pool_.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The swimming pool in The Lennox in Parramatta. Image supplied

Health and wellbeing

Pre COVID-19, most of us had never given aerosols the slightest thought, but no doubt anyone living in an apartment this past year has wondered at some point what airborne intruders might be wafting under the door or through the vents. Air purifiers sold out during the Black Summer bushfires, and who can forget the Sydney water crisis in the late 90s, which forced millions of residents to boil their tap water due to parasite contamination.

Lockdown has increased the intimacy we have with our homes, and our reliance on them. A simple investment like a water purification system for a building project can pay dividends. Some reports suggest 70% of buyers would be willing to spend an extra US$1,000 for air and water filtration systems alone in a property. Developers shouldn&rsquo;t underestimate the pull of such features when marketing their properties. Relatively small investments like these can have a big impact on how desirable the property is to buyers. Other ways to stand out when marketing your property include offering low VOC paint options, antimicrobial surfaces such as benchtops and handles, and even low allergy flooring.

Biophilic design is becoming a must too. It aims to integrate nature into the built environment and improve the wellbeing of occupants. Numerous studies have shown the stress and wellbeing benefits of indoor plants, and incorporating greenery and functional outside spaces into your design is another simple way to entice buyers. For those looking at the prospect of apartment living, simply having a space to take your child for a quick play without having to leave your address can be very valuable. But the space must be functional and appeal to the target demographic of your project. Communal spaces should not be a &lsquo;cut and paste&rsquo; addition, they should be designed with the buyer in mind.

With the Waterbrook Retirement Lifestyle Resort, we created a sense of serenity and calm by incorporating floor to ceiling windows and skylights to flood shared amenities with natural light and sustain a variety of plants inside the building. Knowing the residents would rely heavily on the communal spaces for their leisure time, we wanted to create a serene and pleasant environment that feels like an extension of their private residences.

Bespoke design at an affordable price

One factor hampering apartment living is the often the dull, generic, and limited design alternatives on offer. You only have to look at the lacklustre performance of some developments in areas like Zetland, Waterloo in Sydney, or Docklands in Melbourne to see that poor standards or a glut of cookie-cutter options puts buyers off. But, by adding some smart features and options you can position your property as a preferable alternative to others on the market.

Increasing fitout and design options usually increases costs and complexity of the build, but it doesn&rsquo;t have to. When designing The Lennox, we wanted to ensure buyers at every price point felt like they could make their space their home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=82396]

We were able to offer six variations of the two main themes offered: sleek and classic. We did this by selecting colours and materials that worked well together in a variety of combinations, which allowed us to turn the usual two- tone option into several alternatives for buyers. We also selected a different plank width and installation pattern for a more opulent feel in the larger apartments. We offered ceramic and marble alternatives in a single tile pattern and gave options for the benchtop stone to be wrapped around the island in place of wood to create a more luxurious effect for buyers who wanted it. By implementing clever design, we were able to maximise choice for buyers, while maintaining a streamlined process for the developer and builder.

Customisable design is another string in your marketing bow. Buyers conduct about 90% of their research for a new home online, so having customisable options to show in your sales collateral is a huge plus for your project. Creating a design that&rsquo;s tailored to your project&rsquo;s demographics doesn&rsquo;t need to be difficult, you just need to select a good designer who can create a unique identity for your project that will catch the eye of the right buyers.

About Lorena

Lorena is an award-winning interior designer with more than 20 years&rsquo; experience designing for property developers, including several Fortune 500 companies, in the US, China, and Australia.&nbsp;

Some of her most recent projects here include&nbsp;The Lennox&nbsp;in Parramatta for which she won a Gold Nugget Award, and the&nbsp;Waterbrook&nbsp;Retirement Lifestyle Resort in Bowral. She also has an extensive&nbsp;portfolio&nbsp;of work for individual homeowners. Lorena&rsquo;s based in Sydney where she heads an all-female team of interior architects and designers.&nbsp;

One factor hampering apartment living is the often the dull, generic, and limited design alternatives on offer

What the ‘new normal’ means for developers as buyer expectations shift: Interior designer Lorena Gaxiola

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Furniture stores are often filled with designs that look similar to others. But is copying furniture legal, and should we feel bad about buying replicas?
Recently, interior designers accused the supermarket Aldi of copying an Australian designer’s stool in the launch of a new range of “luxe” furniture. Some, including the Design Institute of Australia, noted the stool’s similarities to designer Mark Tuckey’s eggcup stool, which retails for more than $550. Aldi withdrew its stool (priced at $69) on the day of the sale, citing quarantine issues and said it was scheduled to return to stores in late August. (There is no suggestion that Aldi has broken the law here).
In general, copying furniture designs that have not been registered in Australia is likely to be legal. This means that, in most circumstances when designers have not registered their work, businesses are able to sell, and Australian consumers are able to purchase, replica furniture without breaking the law.
How designs are protected
A designer of furniture, fashion or any other product will normally start out by creating a 2D drawing of their product. The drawing might be made by hand or using a computer or machine. This initial design is automatically protected under copyright law as an “artistic work”. For most types of artistic works, copyright lasts for the lifetime of the creator plus an additional 70 years.
Copyright law prevents a person from copying someone else’s work if they do not have permission or a legal excuse. Making a 3D reproduction of a 2D artistic work counts as “copying” under law. So a person who makes, for example, a physical 3D chair using a designer’s 2D design of that chair may be infringing copyright of that 2D artistic work.
However, there is an interesting feature of copyright law that applies only to designers. A designer will lose copyright protection in their 2D artistic work if it is “industrially applied”.
“Industrial application” is generally understood to mean that 50 or more copies of the 3D product deriving from the design are made and offered for sale. Any mass commercial production will therefore take the product outside of the scope of copyright law.
However, mass-designed products can be protected by Australia’s designs system. This system protects the visual appearance of a product. Unlike with copyright, designers must register their designs to be protected under law.
For a design to be registered, it must meet certain minimum requirements. Importantly, it must be new and visually distinctive. The novelty of a design is critical to protection. These requirements ensure that ordinary and unremarkable designs are not constrained by intellectual property law, but are free for people to make and sell.
How is this determined? An application for design registration is filed with and assessed by IP Australia, located in Canberra. It usually takes between three and 12 months to process an application, and costs around $300 to apply. Once registered, design protection lasts for five years, with the opportunity to renew registration for a further five years - so 10 years in total.
The designs register is searchable online. Our search did not reveal any designs registered to Mark Tuckey.
Incomplete protection is deliberate
There are important policy reasons why designers are not given complete protection under intellectual property law. For one, it is often difficult to determine what is an original design when aesthetics meets functionality - there are a limited number of ways to design a seat that people will actually want to sit on! Designs protection is limited so that consumers can affordably access practical products.
Designs law tries to balance a designer’s right to protect their product with the public’s right to access. Getting the balance right is tricky, and is likely to be under increasing pressure with the advent of 3D printing for the home.
It is now possible to print replica furniture, and this practice may become more popular as 3D printing technology becomes simultaneously more sophisticated and more widely available. This is likely to raise ongoing questions about the scope of designs protection under copyright and designs law, and whether the law is appropriately tailored to protect designers.
For Australian designers, the answer may not be stronger legal protection. First, we should ensure that the designs registration system is working effectively. Anecdotal reports suggest that the designs system is underused. We need to make sure that registration is affordable and accessible. Only then will we be in a position to know whether the protection offered by designs registration is enough.
For consumers, the good news is that replica furniture is likely to continue to be available in retail stores. There is certainly nothing illegal about buying replica furniture. Those with the budget to do so, however, may want to consider supporting local Australian designers of furniture and home crafts.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/100336/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
Kylie Pappalardo, Lecturer, School of Law, Queensland University of Technology
Karnika Bansal, Research Assistant, Faculty of Law, Queensland University of Technology
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/explainer-can-you-copyright-furniture-100336" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Is it possible to copyright furniture?

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Research shows humans don’t like being caged in, preferring to be in larger, more open spaces. And different factors – such as the shape of rooms, the colour of surfaces and the positioning and brightness of lighting – all influence how we perceive space.
These are the elements designers and architects consider when creating spaces. And there are several tips you can use yourself to make your apartment, or any living space, seem roomier.
Extending space
If your apartment has outside views, you should use these. By facing living areas and furniture towards the window or balcony, the outside landscape becomes an extension of the inside space, increasing the perception of the room’s size.
Architects (including Frank Lloyd Wright in his famous work Fallingwater, pictured above) have long used this tactic to draw the eye outside, as a contrast to smaller spaces with low ceilings. A window doesn’t need to be large to create this effect, but some research has shown it needs to take up about 20% of the wall to improve satisfaction with the interior space.
You can also place a mirror opposite that view, which will reflect the outside and contrive another illusory kind of “outside”. A mirror’s view into another room would have a similar effect.
Ceilings with light fittings tend to shrink a space. Lights are best located on walls, about 300mm below ceiling height and directed to shine up across the ceiling and down the walls. This spreads light over the surfaces, rather than concentrating it in a single direction, creating an illusion of size.
Standing and desktop lamps provide the same diversity of spread and reflection.
Using colour
Interior designers do follow guidelines based on studies of colour and light theory to create the appearance of more space, though these may be seen as subjective and relying on intuition.
Lighter colours, for instance, best reflect light and so create the appearance of space. Darker colours, decorative wallpapers and patterned fabrics shrink space and absorb light. Studies have shown lighter ceilings are perceived to be higher than darker ceilings.
Dark colours for floors can constrict a space. Deeply ornate textures and fabrics also shrink volume, as do exaggerated patterned carpets and rugs. Open and continuous flooring surfaces, like timber boards, engineered flooring, broadloom carpet and tiles, create an appearance of space.
Flexible space
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/227731/original/file-20180716-44082-obq7hq.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
A wall at door height doubles as a cupboard that faces the bedroom side of the divide. Jason Busch/Stanhill Studio renovation by Normam Day&amp;Associates, Architects., Author provided
You could reorganise the apartment to change the functions of the rooms. Think, for instance, are the bedrooms well placed, or should the living areas be relocated?
Generally, external views are best adopted for the daylight hours and so for the living and working areas. And bedrooms rely less on broad outside views.
Melbourne’s heritage Romberg’s Stanhill Building was designed in 1950 with flexible apartment spaces that could be used as residences, offices and medical suites.
Later renovations repurposed the dining and living spaces as smaller bedrooms. The original bedrooms were redesigned as open-plan living and dining spaces, with views to Albert Park Lake.
A studio renovation (see photo above) in the building adopted a storage unit (facing into the bedroom area) to door height, which acts as a screen to divide the nominal “rooms”.
Things that normally work for a single purpose can take on more functions, which aids in using a small space for many purposes. For instance, if you own the apartment, you could replace a normal brick or timber dividing wall with a built-in cupboard which can face, back-to-back, into both rooms.
For the apartment renovation in the same building, a storage unit was designed to be a bookshelf taking up most of a wall (below).
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/227733/original/file-20180716-44097-1ds5gox.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
A wall can become a storage unit to save space. Trevor Mein/Stanhill Aptartment 2013 Norman Day &amp; Associates., Author provided
Using furniture
While there is limited research on the perceived spatial dimensions of furniture and its effect, studies do show the more furniture you put into a space, the smaller it appears. And most of us know the less “stuff” we have in our apartments the bigger they seem.
Fitted living room furniture with built-in side tables that hug the wall is better than having large single units and isolated tables. TVs and sound systems incorporated into storage are more space-efficient than stand-alone units.
Big furniture, like settees and coffee tables, ornate bedheads and oversized loose chairs, also overcrowds space. It’s not comfortable to have to walk around large pieces of furniture rather than through space.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/229222/original/file-20180725-194149-1hlygxl.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/229222/original/file-20180725-194149-1hlygxl.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
The less stuff you have, the more spacious things appear. <a class="source" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BilnL1FHdIb/?taken-by=elisabeth_heier" target="_blank">@elisabeth_heier/Instagram (screenshot)</a>
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/98941/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">The best types of furniture to use in small spaces are simple open-framed chairs and tables, furniture with light frames, steel or timber, and open backs.
Kirsten Day, Course Director Interior Architecture, Swinburne University of Technology
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/live-in-a-small-place-an-interior-designers-tips-to-create-the-illusion-of-space-98941" target="_blank">original article</a>.
Main photo:  <a href="https://www.loc.gov/pictures/collection/highsm/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Carol M. Highsmith Archive</a> collection at the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Library_of_Congress" target="_blank" title="en:Library of Congress">Library of Congress</a>.
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An interior designer's tips to create the illusion of space: Kirsten Day

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The winners of the City of Port Phillip Design &amp; Development Awards 2018 were announced on Tuesday 20 March at the NGV International, as a part of the programme for Melbourne Design Week 2018.

Hosted by Tim Ross and Mayor Cr Bernadene Voss, and presented by jurors Professor Donald Bates, Shelley Penn, Deputy Mayor Cr Dick Gross, Cr Katherine Copsey and Cr David Brand, the event brought together community, industry and Council to celebrate and promote design excellence in the municipality.

<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/20180321_234958.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The evening was hosted by Tim Ross and Mayor Cr Bernadene Voss with awards presented by jurors"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="412" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/20180321_234958.jpg?itok=vQJ_CaKm" title="The evening was hosted by Tim Ross and Mayor Cr Bernadene Voss with awards presented by jurors" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The evening was hosted by Tim Ross and Mayor Cr Bernadene Voss with awards presented by jurors</figcaption></figure>This year's list of winners included a community park for all ages, the renewal of the iconic Palais Theatre, the restoration of a Victorian timber worker’s cottage and the conversion of Port Melbourne’s first post office.

<blockquote>
This year’s Design Week theme, Design Effects, recognises the importance of design excellence and thoughtful development in balancing growth and maintaining the unique character of diverse and distinctive neighbourhoods.

I can’t think of a more relevant theme for Port Phillip as we are very proud of our much-loved neighbourhoods and have pledged in our long-term vision to do our utmost to keep our City’s character as Port Phillip continues to grow.

- Bernadene Voss, Mayor City of Port Phillip
</blockquote>

The winners of each category and commendations are listed below:

Mayor's Choice Award

<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/maritime_oculus.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Maritime Cove Community Park. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/maritime_oculus.jpg?itok=kJoPa--O" title="The Maritime Cove Community Park. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Maritime Cove Community Park. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>Winner(s) : 

<ul>
<li>The Maritime Cove Community Park - OCULUS Landscape Architecture &amp; Urban Design with Port of Melbourne</li>
</ul>
Residential dwelling - alteration or new build

<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/acute_st_kilda_mixed.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Acute House and St Kilda Mixed Use House. Images : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="213" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/acute_st_kilda_mixed.jpg?itok=9FNBy6z1" title="Acute House and St Kilda Mixed Use House. Images : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Acute House and St Kilda Mixed Use House. Images : Supplied</figcaption></figure>WInner(s) : 

<ul>
<li>Acute House – OOF! Architecture with Mitty Price, and;</li>
	<li>St Kilda Mixed Use House – DDB Design Development &amp; Building with Matt Gibson Architecture &amp; Design</li>
</ul>
Commendation(s) :

<ul>
<li>Baffle House - Clare Cousins Architects</li>
	<li>Myrtle Tree House - MAKE Architecture</li>
</ul>
Multi-unit and mixed use 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/elwood_house_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elwood House. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="359" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/elwood_house_0.jpg?itok=gAMsN9aV" title="Elwood House. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elwood House. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>WInner(s) : 

<ul>
<li>Elwood House – Piccolo with Hecker Guthrie &amp; Woods Bagot</li>
</ul>
Commendation(s) :

<ul>
<li>House and a half - Three C Architects</li>
</ul>
Place making

Winner(s) : 

<ul>
<li>The Maritime Cove Community Park - OCULUS Landscape Architecture &amp; Urban Design with Port of Melbourne</li>
</ul>
Non-residential 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/albert_park_6degrees.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Albert Park College Environmental Arts Hub. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="304" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/albert_park_6degrees.jpg?itok=tZiGLSM8" title="Albert Park College Environmental Arts Hub. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Albert Park College Environmental Arts Hub. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>Winner(s) : 

<ul>
<li>Albert Park College Environmental Arts Hub – Six Degrees Architects</li>
</ul>
Commendation(s) :

<ul>
<li>The Gipson Commons, St Michael's Grammar School - Architectus</li>
	<li>Point Ormond Amenities Block - Garner Davis Architects</li>
</ul>
Interior fit out

<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/dogs_bar_st_kilda.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dog’s Bar St Kilda. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/dogs_bar_st_kilda.jpg?itok=X6Y2jocx" title="Dog’s Bar St Kilda. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Dog’s Bar St Kilda. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>Winner(s) : 

<ul>
<li>Dog’s Bar St Kilda with Colin Sheppard &amp; Grant Amon Architects</li>
</ul>
Commendation(s) :

<ul>
<li>MeatworksCo, South Melbourne</li>
</ul>
Heritage Conservation

<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/palais_copp.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Palais Theatre restoration. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="366" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/palais_copp.jpg?itok=ji3QU_y2" title="The Palais Theatre restoration. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Palais Theatre restoration. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>Winner(s) : 

<ul>
<li>Albert Park College Environmental Arts Hub – Six Degrees Architects</li>
	<li>Palais Theatre – Development Victoria with DELWP and City of Port Phillip</li>
</ul>
Commendation(s) :

<ul>
<li>Acute House - OOF! Architecture</li>
	<li>Beetson-Reid House -  RBA Architects &amp; Conservation Consultants</li>
</ul>
Out of Bounds Citation

<ul>
<li>Icon, St Kilda - Pace Development Group</li>
</ul>
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Laurence Dragomir

Winners of 2018 City of Port Phillip Design & Development Awards announced

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The City of Port Phillip has announced the shortlisted entries in its Design &amp; Development Awards for 2018. The jury panel and staff were impressed with the quantity and high quality of entries across all categories creating a welcome challenge during the shortlisting process for all involved. 

The Design &amp; Development Awards encourage and celebrate design excellence within the Port Phillip municipality, and intend to showcase exemplars in the fields of residential and non-residential architecture, urban design, heritage conservation, environmental and sustainable design, public art, interior design and placemaking.

The awards have generally been held biennially since 1998, with the last Awards event being held in 2014.

The shortlisted projects are as follows: 1. Residential dwelling: alteration or new build 

<ul>
<li>Acute House - OOF! Architecture</li>
	<li>Baffle House - <a href="/architects/clare-cousins-architects">Clare Cousins Architects</a>
</li>
	<li>Brooke Street Residence - Toby Earle</li>
	<li>Dreamcatcher - Fred Architecture</li>
	<li>Loch Street Residence - Matyas Architects</li>
	<li>Mills, The Toy Management House - Austin Maynard Architects</li>
	<li>Myrtle Tree House - <a href="/architects/make-architecture">MAKE Architecture</a>
</li>
	<li>St Kilda Mixed Use House - DDB Design Development + Building</li>
	<li>St Vincent Place House - <a href="/architects/nicholas-murray-architects">Nicholas Murray Architects</a>
</li>
	<li>The Corner House - <a href="/architects/poly-studio">POLYstudio</a>
</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/baffle_house.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Baffle House, Clare Cousins Architects. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="358" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/baffle_house.jpg?itok=MPk_Kso1" title="Baffle House, Clare Cousins Architects. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Baffle House, Clare Cousins Architects. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure> 2. Multi-unit and mixed-use development

<ul>
<li>Art House - <a href="/architects/justin-architecture">Justin Architecture</a>
</li>
	<li>Elwood House - <a href="/developers/piccolo">Piccolo</a>
</li>
	<li>James Joyce - Bojan Simic Architecture</li>
	<li>St Kilda East Townhouses - Jost Architects
</li>
	<li>West Beach Townhouses - <a href="/architects/grant-amon-architects">Grant Amon Architects</a>
</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/elwood_house.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elwood House, Piccolo + Woods Bagot + Hecker Guthrie. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="359" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/elwood_house.jpg?itok=elKqWAyO" title="Elwood House, Piccolo + Woods Bagot + Hecker Guthrie. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elwood House, Piccolo + Woods Bagot + Hecker Guthrie. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>3. Place making

<ul>
<li>The Maritime Cove Community Park - OCULUS landscape Architecture &amp; Urban Design</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/maritime_cove.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title=" Maritime Cove Community Park, OCULUS. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/maritime_cove.jpg?itok=nAkoWIKm" title=" Maritime Cove Community Park, OCULUS. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Maritime Cove Community Park, OCULUS. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>4. Non-residential development

<ul>
<li>Albert Park College Environmental Arts Hub - <a href="/architects/six-degrees-architects">Six Degrees Architects</a>
</li>
	<li>Palais Theatre Project - <a href="/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a>
</li>
	<li>Point Ormond Amenities Block - Garner Davis Architects</li>
	<li>The Gipson Commons, St Michael's Grammar School - <a href="/architects/architectus">Architectus</a>
</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/albert_park_college.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Albert Park College Environmental Arts Hub, Six Degrees Architects. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="304" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/albert_park_college.jpg?itok=LSDCeZbn" title="Albert Park College Environmental Arts Hub, Six Degrees Architects. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Albert Park College Environmental Arts Hub, Six Degrees Architects. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>5. Public Art

<ul>
<li>'Blue Wren' - ADA Consulting</li>
	<li>'Elwood House' - Piccolo</li>
	<li>'Ode' - <a href="/developers/pace-development-group">Pace Development Group</a>
</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/blue_wren.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="'Blue Wren', ADA Consulting. Image : Supplied "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="712" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/blue_wren.jpg?itok=YDb14dqC" title="'Blue Wren', ADA Consulting. Image : Supplied " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>'Blue Wren', ADA Consulting. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>6. Interior fit out

<ul>
<li>Dog's Bar, <a href="/new-apartments/st-kilda-vic-3182">St Kilda</a>
</li>
	<li>MeatworksCo, <a href="/new-apartments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne</a>
</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/meatworksco.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="MeatworksCo, South Melbourne. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="381" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/meatworksco.jpg?itok=GH4MEVMu" title="MeatworksCo, South Melbourne. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>MeatworksCo, South Melbourne. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>For the full set of images and project descriptions click <a href="http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/DDAWARDS2018_PROGRAM_A5__SHORTLIST_FINAL_PROOF_HIRES.pdf">here</a>.

The Awards presentation event will be hosted at the National Gallery of Victoria on 20 March 2018 as part of the NGV's Melbourne Design Week 2018 (15 - 25 March). 

The ticketed free public event will be hosted by comedian Tim Ross who has a long-standing passion for architecture and design. Register for tickets <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/city-of-port-phillip-design-development-awards-2018-registration-41987311178">here</a>.

The theme for this year's design week is 'Design Effects' "reflecting the view that it takes design excellence and thoughtful development to balance increasing growth and maintain the unique character of diverse and distinctive neighbourhoods." 

Lead Image: Cave Urban, 'Regenesis 2017.' Photo by p1xels
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City of Port Phillip's Design & Development Awards 2018 shortlist revealed

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A recent survey by Finder.com.au has revealed that some buyers indicated they would offer up to 25 percent less than the asking price for a property that had presented badly, further solidifying the importance of property presentation.
These results are really no surprise to us. Over the years we have seen unstyled or poorly presented properties have very little interest, only to sell over reserve following a spruce up by a professional stylist.
In a tough market place, property presentation can really make or break a sale.
Top tips for preparing your home or investment for sale include:
1. Improve your street appeal by tidying the gardens, repairing any fences or guttering, adding a fresh coat of paint and making sure to have a definitive pathway to the front door.
2. Declutter by removing excess furniture and personal items – too many items such as photo frames and figurines can make a property feel small and cramped and will distract buyers from focusing on the property itself.
3. Conceal day-to-day items such as laundry, piles of paperwork, dishes, keys and garbage or remove completely from the property for open for inspections.
4. Set up the property well in advance by opening all curtains and blinds, turning on heating or air conditioning, opening balcony doors and windows, and turning on lights and lamps – this will make the property feel light and airy.
5. Finishing touches create good first impressions – adding a bunch of flowers, bright scatter cushions and colourful throws along with burning a scented candle will make buyers feel welcome.
 
Justine Stedman is director and principal stylist of Vault Interiors and can be contacted <a href="https://www.vaultinteriors.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>.
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