Melbourne’s City Circle tram loops past a dense matrix of culture, education and commerce, but few intersections offer as much access in so little walking distance as the northern end of King Street.

Here, Aspire Melbourne rises 64 storeys from the edge of Flagstaff Gardens, with immediate connectivity to tram and train networks, and pedestrian access to Queen Victoria Market, Marvel Stadium and Melbourne’s major university precincts.

Developed by ICD Property with design by Fraser &amp; Partners, Aspire Melbourne brings 570 apartments to one of the CBD’s most spatially balanced positions, directly between civic green space and key employment infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2575 project_image_fid=248847]

Everything from retail and dining to sporting events, art, theatre, and festivals, or the serenity of the city’s gardens, is within walking distance of Aspire.

Melbourne's thriving coffee culture is showcased in the CBD's cobblestoned laneways, with popular cafes such as Brother Baba Budan, Krimper, Stagger Lee's, Higher Ground, and Manchester Press all nearby.

For culinary enthusiasts, Melbourne offers a variety of dining experiences. Highly recommended establishments include Maha, Farmer's Daughter, Coda, and MoVida Next Door, offering everything from Middle Eastern dinners to a night out.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2575 project_image_fid=79443]

Getting around Melbourne is as effortless as finding a great cup of coffee, thanks to the city’s clean, reliable and extensive public transport network. Aspire’s curved tower is a short walk from Melbourne Central Station, Southern Cross Station and the Free Tram Zone, offering seamless connections across the CBD and out to suburban precincts.

This inner-city accessibility is complemented by Aspire’s rare proximity to green space. The tower directly overlooks Flagstaff Gardens, the city’s oldest park, with Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens also nearby, framing the CBD in natural beauty.

Just 11 minutes on foot, Queen Victoria Market adds another layer of amenity. A longstanding hub of culture and commerce, it offers fresh produce, gourmet foods, artisanal goods and vibrant multicultural fare, all woven into the daily rhythm of city life.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2575 project_image_fid=79445]

To the west, the CBD’s entertainment quarter features Marvel Stadium, just 750 metres from Aspire, ideal for sports fans and major events.

To the south, Crown Casino along the Yarra River offers entertainment, dining and family-friendly activities, accessible in under 10 minutes by tram.

The Arts Centre Melbourne, a hub for visual art, theatre, music and performance, is also within easy reach by public transport or car.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2575 project_image_fid=311]

For families looking to set up roots in the CBD, education options abound within a one-kilometre radius of Aspire.

The prestigious Haileybury opened its Melbourne CBD campus in January 2017 offering Melbourne's first Early Learning Centre to Year 12 private school campus in the CBD.&nbsp;

<a href="/developments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">North Melbourne</a> Primary School, South Melbourne Primary School, Ozford College, and Simonds Catholic College are among the other choices, while universities like Victoria University, La Trobe University, and Monash University are less than 600 metres away.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2575 project_image_fid=79444]

A limited selection of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments remain for sale, with pricing starting from $647,000.

“The Melbourne CBD apartment market has evolved in response to both the strong growth of the overall city as well as the increasing attraction of the CBD which offers unique lifestyle appeal, especially to the fast-growing cohorts of young professionals and university students,” <a href="/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a>&nbsp;Managing Director Residential Tim Storey said.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=2575]

Joel Robinson

On the fringe of Flagstaff Gardens: Aspire Melbourne's prime location

The onset of the pandemic was a tough time for developers across the country.

In Western Australia, development came to a grinding halt.

“There had been little to no increase in the cost to build for about 12 to 13 years before the pandemic,” Gavin Hawkins, Executive Director of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a>, one of Perth’s premier developers, told Apartments.com.au.

“Everything then went up overnight. Costs escalated, and so did the prices buyers had to pay. Pair the cost increase with the lack of available builders, and any project worth upwards of $100 million had to be paused because it wasn’t feasible to deliver.”

There were also a series of builder insolvencies, while many tier-one firms shifted their focus away from residential towers. “A lot of the large builders had taken on major government contracts for hospitals, schools and transport infrastructure, which offered lower risk and steadier returns. That left very few willing or able to deliver large-scale apartment projects in WA,” Hawkins said.

As a solution-driven business, Edge decided they would bring construction in-house.

“The builder-developer model is a more common model in the eastern states, but it hasn’t really been done in WA before,” Hawkins says. In the middle of 2023, they established Edge Construction, hiring senior staff members from reputable tier-one builders.

“We showed them our pipeline of projects, which de-risked the process somewhat, and now we have a 45-strong construction team working across our six projects currently under construction.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138456 project_image_fid=214895]

Edge’s portfolio is arguably one of the most enviable in the state, with a diverse spread both geographically and in terms of density.

In Crawley, the team is approaching completion of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/broadway-on-the-bay-crawley-168-broadway-crawley-wa-6009">Broadway on the Bay</a>, just 21 riverfront apartments in an eight-level building. North of Crawley, Edge is also soon to complete <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/claytons-mindarie-beachfront-mindarie-50-alexandria-view-mindarie-wa-6030">Claytons Mindarie Beachfront</a>, an 89-residence community comprising apartments, penthouses, and two-storey townhouses.

One of Edge’s most notable developments is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-dunes-beachfront-residences-scarborough-1-reserve-street-scarborough-wa-6019">The Dunes</a>, a landmark project on the iconic Scarborough beachfront. Its 223 residences are spread across two buildings that will also feature a lagoon pool, wine cellar, and a series of formal and informal dining and lounge areas, reinforcing its positioning as one of the suburb’s most ambitious residential undertakings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134709 project_image_fid=248321]

Edge’s Fremantle project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/muse-at-artisan-place-fremantle-19-burt-street-fremantle-wa-6160">Muse at Artisan Place</a>, is also breaking new ground as the first, and most premium stage, of a new residential precinct in the city’s east end. They have two of the four buildings, Muse West and Muse East, under construction, which will deliver 153 of the broader Artisan Place precinct that will eventually comprise 277 residences.&nbsp;

Not forgetting the CBD fringe, Edge has also commenced the build of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lumiere-south-perth-35-mends-street-south-perth-wa-6151">Lumiere</a>, a mix of 115 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments in a striking curved building by Hilliam Architects in South Perth. Lumiere also leans heavily on resident amenity, with an infinity heated pool with cabanas, a gym with a sauna and yoga deck, billiards room and cocktail bar, a residents’ lounge with fireplace and dining area, and a street-level café and wine bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101025 project_image_fid=250028]

Edge is doubling down in South Perth, having recently acquired a site on Harper Terrace, the last privately held riverfront block in South Perth’s Mends Street precinct. Hawkins says the team had been working for years to secure the adjoining block, which had four separate owners in an original apartment building. Then the neighbouring cleared block came up for sale, allowing them to create a prized and unrepeatable 4,000 sqm-plus site.

The plan is to launch Harper on Swan, an 11-level building with around 71 apartments, mostly three-bedroom residences, to the market soon. Hawkins says the downsizer market in particular continues to be resilient in WA. “Now their homes are up to double what they were four years ago, and they are ready to take advantage of that and move into a new apartment,” Hawkins says.

“With strong population growth, full employment, and limited supply in the new apartment space, WA is well positioned heading into 2026.”

Edge’s portfolio is arguably one of the most enviable in the state, with a diverse spread both geographically and in terms of density.

How EDGE Visionary Living navigated the pandemic, and came out stronger: Five minutes with Gavin Hawkins

Construction has officially commenced at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/botanical-turner-2-forbes-street-turner-act-2612">Botanical Turner</a>, one of Canberra’s most anticipated new residential communities, with site works well underway in preparation for the piling rig to arrive in November. &nbsp;

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/amalgamated-property-group">Amalgamated Property Group</a> in partnership with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/base-developments">Base Developments</a>, Botanical Turner builds on the team’s proven track record of delivering landmark projects across Canberra and beyond. It is being brought to life by the highly respected team at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/milin-builders">Milin Builders</a>, known for delivering a number of award-winning projects across the ACT.&nbsp;

Almost 50 per cent of the residences have already sold during Stage 1, signalling both the strength of &nbsp;buyer confidence and the rarity of Botanical’s offering.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149632 project_image_fid=338672]

Graham Potts, Principal and Founding Director of Amalgamated Property Group, said the market response affirms the vision for Botanical.&nbsp;

“To see construction now underway is a milestone for both our team and our buyers. Nearly half &nbsp;of the residences have been secured in this first stage, which validates our approach of creating &nbsp;homes that are both distinctive in design and generous in scale. Botanical is more than a &nbsp;residential project, it’s a contribution to the future of Canberra’s inner north, designed to hold its &nbsp;value for generations to come.”&nbsp;

Proving popular with owner-occupiers, Botanical Turner offers a broad range of floorplans with one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences designed for flexibility. The project has drawn the attention of downsizers in particular, who value the low upkeep, leafy inner-north location, and forward-thinking considerations for storage and functionality.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149632 project_image_fid=338671]

Designed by award-winning <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB Architects</a> (2023 International Interior of the Year at World &nbsp;Architecture Festival and 2024 Premiers Prize at NSW Architecture Awards), Botanical Turner &nbsp;makes a statement in both presence and liveability. The building’s bold geometric form is layered in a palette of red brick, terracotta and crisp white.

Carefully integrated communal spaces, including a landscaped courtyard, arched walkways &nbsp;and open thoroughfares, give residents a sense of connection and ease, while the abundant &nbsp;amenities reflect the expectations of a discerning market backed by Amalgamated’s lifestyle-led approach. These include a concierge, indoor lap pool set among greenery, spa, sauna, &nbsp;steam room and a fully equipped gym.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149632 project_image_fid=338674]

Keenan Veraar, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/lj-hooker-project-marketing-act-0">LJ Hooker</a>, said Botanical Turner has exceeded expectations in terms of demand.&nbsp;

“Botanical Turner has attracted strong early interest and I believe that is because of three key factors; its beautiful build form, the generous apartment sizes, and buyers know they are purchasing into a project backed by one of Canberra’s most respected development partnerships,"&nbsp;Veraar said.

"Amalgamated and Base have delivered time and again, and that consistency gives people confidence. SJB Architects has created outstanding projects interstate using similar &nbsp;tones and materials, all of which have been incredibly well received. That pedigree reassures &nbsp;our buyers that Botanical will set a new benchmark for Canberra.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149632 project_image_fid=338672]

Dennis Milin, Principal of Base Developments and Milin Builders, said construction progress is advancing on schedule.&nbsp;

“Off-site works and site servicing are nearing completion, with excavation and preparation for &nbsp;piling equipment in progress to allow for the commencement of basement earthworks," Milin says.

"With decades of delivery experience and a longstanding partnership with Amalgamated, we’re &nbsp;committed to bringing SJB’s vision for Botanical Turner to life. The project will be defined by the &nbsp;same uncompromising standards and attention to detail that underpin every one of our developments.”&nbsp;

Apartments at Botanical start from $600,000.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149632]

Construction commences at Botanical Turner as stage one reaches 50 per cent sold

Design-led property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/orchard-piper">Orchard Piper</a> has achieved $125 million in sales prior to publicly launching its latest Toorak Village development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-toorak-place-7-19-carters-avenue-toorak-vic-3142">One Toorak Place</a>, to market.

The milestone was reached with the sale of a four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom apartment to a Toorak local for $13.75 million, achieving per square metre rates of $37,000.

Another notable recent transaction is the sale of a four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom residence to Toorak local Paul Rosen for $12.65 million in July representing a square meter rate of $43,174.&nbsp;

In May, the development made history with the record-breaking penthouse sale of more than $20 million, to Group CEO at Accent Group Limited Daniel Agostinelli and his wife Lynette.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140659 project_image_fid=352237]

Orchard Piper Director Luke McKie said the record breaking achievement and sales success reflects the demand for thoughtfully designed, luxury residences and the unique lifestyle proposition of a serviced residential building that offers the scale of a home, but with added lifestyle benefits, high security and amenity.

“The early purchasers of this project are very familiar faces to Orchard Piper. Many of them are Toorak locals who have waited years for the right project to buy into. They understand how rare this offering is, and trust us to deliver them an outstanding property.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140659 project_image_fid=352236]

Developed in collaboration with joint venture partner NPACT (a partnership between James Packer’s family office and Todd Nisbet), One Toorak Place introduces a new model of hotel-style residential living to the suburb.&nbsp;

Located at 7-11A and 17-19 Carters Avenue, the development includes a collection of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences and penthouses, boutique commercial suites, curated retail and an integrated hospitality precinct by acclaimed restaurateur Chris Lucas.

Delivered in his signature style, the precinct will be curated to reflect the spirit of the neighbourhood and the lifestyle of its residents. Lucas will also design a suite of bespoke services for residents of the building, including in-residence private dining, cellar concierge services and priority access to all Chris Lucas restaurants.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140659 project_image_fid=352238]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/kerry-hill-architects">KHA (Kerry Hill Architects)</a>, residents will enjoy access to hotel-style five-star services and amenities, including concierge, a 25-metre lap pool, full-service gym, sauna, steam room, and hot and cold therapies. Also included are a dedicated resident lounge, resident meeting room, a golf simulator, and practical facilities such as dog-wash and car-wash bays.&nbsp;

One Toorak Place is Toorak’s largest planning approval to date, occupying the 3,589 sqm former Mercedes-Benz Toorak site. With a total of 5,000 sqm of premium land under development across two projects in Toorak Village, Orchard Piper’s contribution to the precinct is set to surpass $550 million in value, reinforcing its long-term commitment to design-led renewal in the area.&nbsp;

Construction on One Toorak Place is expected to commence towards the end of 2025.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140659]

The development is now over 30 per cent sold by value in under three months, with significant sales including a record-breaking $20 million penthouse, and two four-bedroom apartments for $13.75 million and $12.65 million. 

Orchard Piper achieves $125 million in pre-launch sales at Packer-backed Toorak Village development

The first large-scale residential community built on the Gold Coast’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/isle-of-capri-qld-4217">Isle of Capri</a> in more than 30 years is nearing sell-out, with limited villas now available in the exclusive island enclave.

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/monaco-property-group">Monaco Property Group</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/greyburn">Greyburn</a>, Capri Villas brings 48 architect-designed homes to one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after addresses. The gated community combines privacy, security and premium design in a central location.

Michael Kollosche, Managing Director of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/kollosche-new-projects">Kollosche</a>, said security and lifestyle are front of mind for today’s buyers.

“Capri Villas offers the comfort of a home, the convenience of a central location, and the confidence that comes with a gated community.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139511 project_image_fid=351864]

With only a handful of villas remaining, the sales momentum reflects both strong buyer demand for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/capri-villas-81-salerno-street-isle-of-capri-qld-4217">Capri Villas</a> and a broader shortage of new, move-in-ready boutique homes on the Gold Coast.

The villas span two levels, each with three bedrooms, generous living areas and high-end finishes such as marble kitchens with Gaggenau appliances. Solid concrete construction underpins the design, while landscaped courtyards extend living spaces outdoors. Practical inclusions like secure garaging, ducted climate control and ample storage enhance everyday comfort.

Residents also have access to resort-style facilities within the gated grounds, including a swimming pool with cabanas and day beds, landscaped outdoor entertaining areas with barbecues, and a residents’ lounge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139511 project_image_fid=351872]

“Opportunities like this don’t come up often,” Kollosche added.

“Capri Villas combines security, design and location in a way that is rare on the Gold Coast and the level of interest we’re seeing reflects that.”

Isle of Capri is an island community tucked in behind Surfers Paradise, offering residents a quieter lifestyle while remaining close to the action. Linked to the beachfront by bridge, the suburb is favoured for its walkability, with Capri on Via Roma (including Harris Farm Markets) providing dining, cafes and essentials just 800 metres away. Beaches, restaurants and entertainment are close at hand, while transport connections add to the suburb’s appeal.

Capri Villas are located at 81 Salerno Street, Isle of Capri. Two-level, three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.4 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139511]

Capri Villas approach sell-out following recent completion

Jam Factory

The ambitious once-in-a-generation plan to transform Chapel Street’s Jam Factory into a world-class retail, residential, hotel and commercial precinct will soon become reality as the City of Stonnington this week approved the project by proponents Newmark Capital, GURNER™ and Qualitas.

The five-tower redevelopment will deliver 18,500 sqm of new retail space, 20,000 sqm of commercial office and 400 residences across 42,020 sqm of residential space, alongside a 5-star 200-room hotel, a cinema upgrade, and a new public realm. GURNER™ CEO Tim Gurner noted the planning approval achieved for the visionary redevelopment as a remarkable effort by all involved, including consultants and the council.

“We’ve been working closely with the project team, as well as council, to deliver something truly world-class – the redevelopment will put Chapel Street back on the map, not only as a retail hub, but as a luxury travel and lifestyle destination as well,” he said.

Touted as the cornerstone of Chapel Street’s future renaissance, the redevelopment will inject more than $800 million into the Victorian economy annually, in addition to over $500 million in construction alone; workers and residents are expected to spend more than $28 million at the precinct annually, while hotel guests will bring in over $12 million every year.

"The overwhelming support for the project speaks to the blue-chip nature of the location, the world class vision of the project team and the combined power of the joint venture. Our fund investment strategy places an unrelenting focus on quality of our partners and quality of real estate, which gives us confidence this vision will soon become a reality,” added Mark Fischer, global head of real estate and co-founder of Qualitas.

Newmark Capital will deliver and retain ownership of the commercial and retail component, while GURNER™ and Qualitas will deliver the luxury residential and hotel component.

&nbsp;

<a data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" href="/new-apartments/500-chapel-street-south-yarra"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1923" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gurner_jam_factory_residential_tower24.jpg" width="2181" /></a>Rendering of the proposed residential tower at the Jam Factory site. Image supplied.&nbsp;

“This will take everything we have learnt from projects like Hawksburn Place Residences and Saint Moritz and elevate it to a whole new level – this is something that will truly put South Yarra at the upper echelon of world luxury property,” Tim Gurner said.

Designed by Bates Smart, the new masterplan is set to re-ignite the river end of Chapel Street and become a world-class mixed-use precinct.

“Architecturally, the site will exhibit strong sculptural forms, carefully managed massing to optimise light and sun access along with natural materiality responding to the context – the buildings will balance the need for solidity with a delicacy and lightness rarely seen in contemporary residential developments," said&nbsp;Bates Smart managing director, Simon Swaney.

The Lovers Walk laneway will become the main pedestrian link for the new Jam Factory, beckoning both cyclists and pedestrians to enter through to the retail and food and beverage tenancies, before they reach the central plaza and town square that define the project characterised by the heritage chimney, open plaza, and amphitheatre.

Newmark Capital Managing Director Chris Langford said the redevelopment celebrates the Jam Factory’s heritage, unlocking the potential of an iconic site.

“Our vision revitalises the Jam Factory, celebrating its rich character and history. The heritage facade on Chapel Street will be refurbished, bringing back the detail and original character. The laneways will draw people through the precinct, seamlessly integrating with Chapel Street and surrounding areas. It will be a thriving, integrated, shopping, working, living and entertainment precinct, the perfect place to live, work, play and stay. It will be a world-leading shared precinct, an asset for the whole community," he said.&nbsp;

“The new Jam Factory will be a signature, vibrant destination for Melbourne. Permeability will be further boosted by reinstating Turnbull Street, improving accessibility from Chapel Street and through the north-south Bray Lane, which is accessible via Garden Street. The layout of residences will maximise amenity access, both within and outside of the apartment, with generous balconies, natural light, and access to the world-class network of retailers, restaurants, bars, and more.

<a href="/new-apartments/500-chapel-street-south-yarra"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1773" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gurner_jam_factory_aerial23.jpg" width="2364" /></a>

Aerial shot of the proposed redevelopment of 500 Chapel Street. Image supplied.&nbsp;

Rooftops across the towers will also be utilised, with gardens, private open spaces, panoramic views, and indoor/outdoor areas – residents will have access to 2,700 sqm of indoor common amenity and over 5,000 sqm of outdoor common space on rooftops alone.

The hotel, which occupies the podium floors of the central residential towers, will welcome each guest into a naturally lit lobby with views of the nearby rooftop gardens and beyond, before they arrive in their room. Sitting above a revitalised heritage façade will be an ethereal, curvilinear office building, hosting large floorplates and touchless technology, providing true workplaces of the future. “ The offices will offer every amenity within an ideally located and connected community,” Langford said.

“With stunning views and large floorplates, they represent workplaces of the future. They will boast spectacular views back to the city and the bay, and will hold a special place in the Melbourne skyline,” said Langford.

The development team has spent 12 months working closely with council, reimagining the scheme from its originally permitted use; it will now become a world-class destination with residential towers, a hotel and more community spaces. Lead architects Bates Smart will be joined by Townshend Landscape Architects and Leonard Design Architects, to create a bold and innovative mixed-use precinct. “ All remnant heritage fabric will be retained and restored - streets and lanes will connect the site to the surrounding street network and context.

An active ground plane centred around a large northfacing village square will provide retail experiences, a new easily accessible supermarket and other essentials. When complete, the redevelopment is expected to support 2,282 jobs on a full-time equivalent (FTE) basis, with an estimated 1,286 indirect jobs created as a knock-on effect. Works on the redevelopment are expected to commence when all relevant approvals are secured.

"The team we have assembled for this ambitious project is in a league of its own, and we’re looking forward to commencing works on the site as soon as possible,” Gurner added.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5351]

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Gurner gets sign off for Jam Factory precinct on Chapel Street

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The redevelopment of the Jam Factory on Chapel Street will now include between 550 and 650 apartments after Gurner and Qualitas have bought into Newmark Capital’s $1.4 billion redevelopment.

The Gurner-Qualitas partnership will reportedly tip in about $75 million of equity.

The partnership will acquire part-ownership of the iconic site, with the project to be jointly developed with Newmark.

Construction is expected to be completed in 2025 if works start next year.

Chapel Street’s forlorn Jam Factory was acquired by Newmark, led by Chris Langford and Simon Morris, for about $165 million in 2015 from Challenger.

Newmark's sale will see less commercial office space, and a 170 room hotel, in the proposal that updates the 20,000 square metre mall at 500 Chapel Street.

Langford told Nine Entertainment the project would reinvigorate the Chapel Street precinct.

"We have a strong belief in the area and the economy,” he said.

Newmark will retain the retail centre and new office tower, while Gurner and Qualitas will acquire the hotel portion along with having a share in the profits and revenues stemming from the apartments sales.

Mark Fischer, the global head of real estate at Qualitas, told Nine the real estate fundamentals of the location were “indisputable”.

“The deal provides the opportunity to bring together great real estate, nimble large-scale capital, and market-leading development capabilities,” he said.

The latest residential projects on Chapel St include 661 Chapel with 116 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across 30 floors at the Yarra River end of the strip.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=600]

Gamuda Land’s 661 Chapel Street enjoys views of the river and Melbourne CBD.

The architecture firm, Bird de la Coeur, designed the compex winning the 2019 Good Design Awards in the category of commercial and residential architectural design.
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The redevelopment of the forlorn Jam Factory on Chapel Street will now include between 550 and 650 apartments

jchancellor

Chapel Street gets fillip from Gurner with Jam Factor renaissance

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In this week's podcast I catch up with Stonnington Mayor Cr Steve Stefanopoulos to discuss the changes afoot along this retail high street and surrounds, which follows on from Apartments.com.au's piece on <a href="/news/the-changing-face-of-chapel-street-south-yarra">'The Changing Face of Chapel Street'</a>.

Cr Stefanopoulos outlines the $1 billion worth of public and private investment underway and soon to begin within the Chapel Street Precinct, and the importance of Council working closely with the development industry to achieve good outcomes for the community.

Council projects include the recently completed Greville Street streetscape improvement (with further works to come), substantial upgrade of Prahran Town hall and Library, the <a href="/news/construction-commences-on-one-of-2018s-most-significant-projects">10,000 sqm Cato Square project</a>, and the <a href="/news/princes-gardens-upgrade-adds-to-prahrans-public-realm-project-pipeline">upgrade of Princes Gardens</a> amongst others.

Cr Stefanopoulos also highlights projects such as the <a href="/new-apartments/500-chapel-street-south-yarra">Jam Factory redevelopment</a> which will feature commercial office space supported by retail offerings, and the <a href="/new-apartments/402-416-chapel-street-south-yarra">Aloft Hotel</a> as really adding to the Precinct's diversity.

A summary of projects within the City of Stonnington is illustrated in Apartments.com.au's development map below;

<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments?field_local_government_area_name=Stonnington%20%28City%29&amp;embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/498867348&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=true&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true&amp;visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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Laurence Dragomir

Weekly Podcast: Episode 31 - City of Stonnington Mayor Cr Steve Stefanopoulos

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Following on from Apartments.com.au's in-depth look at the <a href="/news/the-rise-and-rise-of-melbournes-spencer-street">development activity along Spencer Street</a> on the edge of Melbourne's CBD, today we turn our attention to the development shaping one of Melbourne's renowned High Streets - Chapel Street.

The street which stretches through South Yarra, Prahran and Windsor before crossing Dandenong Road into St Kilda, has been previously characterised as a retail strip, but has struggled in recent years due to high rent sought by landlords which has in turn had an impact on the street's liveliness.

According to Stonnington Mayor, Councillor Steve Stefanopoulos, the City of Stonnington is excited about the private and public capital investment being injected into the Chapel Street precinct.

Chapel Street is currently undergoing massive growth and change, he says, with the State Government having commenced construction of the eastern portal of the Metro Tunnel. Redevelopment of the entrance to South Yarra Station (the busiest outside the CBD) and the construction of accessible trams stops out the front, will hopefully commence in the new year.

The South Yarra section of Chapel Street in particular has started to evolve with a more diverse mix of retail offerings and further introduction of food and beverage outlets. The construction slated over the next 3 years will have further impact on the street in the short term but will ultimately enhance and contribute to the street's vibrancy in the long term, according to Beller Commercial's Fred Nucara.

The projects which are due to have the greatest impact on the streetscape are highlighted below:

<h2>Capitol Grand </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/capitol_grand_redden_aug18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Capitol Grand beginning to make its mark on the corner of Chapel St and Toorak Rd. Images: Bates Smart | Urban member redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="264" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/capitol_grand_redden_aug18.jpg?itok=vHdqHT21" title="Capitol Grand beginning to make its mark on the corner of Chapel St and Toorak Rd. Images: Bates Smart | Urban member redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Capitol Grand beginning to make its mark on the corner of Chapel St and Toorak Rd. Images: Bates Smart | Urban member redden</figcaption></figure>LK Property's towering edifice is beginning to take shape on the corner of Chapel Street and Toorak Road, with the development's sinuous forms beginning to emerge from behind the construction screens as the first traces of glazing also begin to appear. After months in the ground constructing the basement levels, head contractor Multiplex is now well above the street on the dual tower development which will top pot at 50 and 10-storeys respectively.

<blockquote>
The 180m residential tower brings together three elliptical forms, ensuring that light and shadows play across its surface. The design creates an elegant, slender composition of dynamic character, changing with one’s viewpoint and the weather. The tower top is expressed differently by reducing the mass to create a unique iconic tower worthy of its landmark location.

- Bates Smart
</blockquote>

<h2>627 Chapel Street </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/627_chapel_before_and_after.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Before &amp; after - 627 Chapel Street. Images: Melbourne Acquisition | COX Architecture "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/627_chapel_before_and_after.jpg?itok=Irp42uPv" title="Before &amp; after - 627 Chapel Street. Images: Melbourne Acquisition | COX Architecture " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Before &amp; after - 627 Chapel Street. Images: Melbourne Acquisition | COX Architecture</figcaption></figure>Currently at planning, the 24-storey COX Architecture-designed office building would replace the current office building which was sold by Fridcorp to Goldfields in December last year.

Should it receive approval in its current guise, 627 Chapel street would rise to a height of 89m and provide a '3d ground plaza' setback from Chapel Street. 

<blockquote>
The design proposal for 627 Chapel Street takes the opportunity to make the most of this unique island site in Forrest Hill.

A 3m setback pushes the building back from Chapel Street, this allows for greater public space at street level and ensures that the Capitol remains visible on approach. The podium is defined by the green landscaped arbor - a permeable screen that wraps the building and connects through to the Daly Street landscaped street

- COX Architecture
</blockquote>

<h2>Jam Factory </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/newm9968jam-factory-stage-2ia01main-square.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the Jam Factory's main square. Image: Floodslicer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/newm9968jam-factory-stage-2ia01main-square.jpg?itok=183sbNDq" title="Artist's impression of the Jam Factory's main square. Image: Floodslicer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the Jam Factory's main square. Image: Floodslicer</figcaption></figure>Owner of the Jam Factory, Newmark Capital is free to proceed with its substantial redevelopment of the landmark site receiving planning approval. Under the approved plans prepared by Bates Smart, the landmark South Yarra site will be transformed it into a significant commercial hub supported by a network of retail laneways.

According to Bates Smart, the vision for the Jam Factory redevelopment is for a highly permeable site that is an extension of the local context.

<blockquote>
An ensemble of buildings will embody and reflect the site’s rich character, establishing a new commercial workplace, but also creating an activated space where the public can enjoy a variety of new hospitality venues.

The redevelopment has been designed to be open and inviting and will deliver a new elevated public realm for the community to enjoy. The precinct’s character provided inspiration for the design.

The existing materiality of the Jam Factory is characterised by solid, authentic materials and industrial rawness. The new façade will reflect the factory typology and structured design language. The public realm on the ground floor will incorporate laneways and a central courtyard and will act as an extension of the urban context and street network.

- Bates Smart
</blockquote>

<h2>671 Chapel Street</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/671_chapel_street.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="671 Chapel Street has approval in hand. Image: Architecton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/671_chapel_street.jpg?itok=tfKzVRCI" title="671 Chapel Street has approval in hand. Image: Architecton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>671 Chapel Street has approval in hand. Image: Architecton</figcaption></figure>Amended plans for a 21-storey residential tower at 671 Chapel Street were approved earlier this year, permitting 158 dwellings to be built replacing a single storey building.

The original application lodged with City of Stonnington during 2015 sought approval for a 30-storey building comprising 352 apartments, at an average of 12 apartments per floor. 

<h2>Esque - 649 Chapel Street</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/image10_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site works are currently underway at Esque. Images: Valeo Construction | Mark Baljak"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="280" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_18.jpg?itok=nas5uwlg" title="Site works are currently underway at Esque. Images: Valeo Construction | Mark Baljak" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Site works are currently underway at Esque. Images: Valeo Construction | Mark Baljak</figcaption></figure>Bulk excavation and piling works commenced onsite in January of this year that will ultimately deliver 72 apartments across 20 floors on a narrow site along the northern reaches of Chapel Street.

Valeo Construction is at the helm of the Fender Katalidis-designed tower for developer Mitraland, with the core set to grace the South Yarra streetscape by year's end.

<h2>Aloft - 402-416 Chapel Street</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/aloft_streetview.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Aloft hotel will change the Chapel Street streetscape. Image: Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="308" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/aloft_streetview.jpg?itok=njyelKgC" title="The Aloft hotel will change the Chapel Street streetscape. Image: Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Aloft hotel will change the Chapel Street streetscape. Image: Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide</figcaption></figure>The stage is set for Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide to debut its Aloft brand in Melbourne, following the demolition and site clearing works in preparation of builder Crema Constructions taking occupation and commencing construction works on the 176-room hotel.

The hotel will anchor a mixed-use development located at 402 Chapel Street designed by international architect Tim Kobe of Eight Inc.

<h2>430-438 Chapel Street</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/430-438_chapel_street.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="430-438 Chapel Street will replace the 'huts' site in South Yarra. Image: Franze Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/430-438_chapel_street.jpg?itok=tr3FEcwJ" title="430-438 Chapel Street will replace the 'huts' site in South Yarra. Image: Franze Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>430-438 Chapel Street will replace the 'huts' site in South Yarra. Image: Franze Developments</figcaption></figure>Franze Developments' joint venture with development partner Sampieri Group would see South Yarra's 'huts' site transformed into an 8-storey mixed-use development designed by Jackson Clements Burrows.

The $55 million project will include the retention of the heritage facade on site, while also providing a new pocket park on Bray Street designed by Aspect Studios incorporating water sensitive design

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
We have developed a structure plan for the precinct entitled Chapel ReVision, which guides future development of the largest commercial precinct outside the CBD.

Council is also investing over $60m in its largest capital project in 160 years, converting the 10,000sqm car park behind Chapel Street, Prahran into a contemporary European-style plaza due to open in mid 2019.

- Cr Steve Stefanopoulos, Mayor of Stonnington
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Chapel Street is at the bottom of a bell curve at the moment. These major developments within the precinct are detracting from the usual vibrancy, because of the inconvenience, noise and distraction of the construction.

On a positive note, these major infrastructure investments are scheduled for completion in 2019 and 2020.

- Fred Nucara, Director Beller Commercial
</blockquote>

For a full recap from Beller Commercial's Fred Nucara listen to our <a href="/guides/chapel-street-podcast-on-the-phone-with-beller-commercials-fred-nucara">podcast interview</a>.

Lead image: Jam Factory Redevelopment Bates Smart/Floodslicer
</body></html>

The changing face of Chapel Street, South Yarra

<html><body>
When a site spans 19,280 square metres, it becomes a 'district'. That's the case according to the development team behind the Jam Factory's pending overhaul.

Reporting on the project to date has focused on the close to 60,000 square metres of new commercial space that is earmarked for the site, but more importantly from a layperson's perspective is the extensive new public realm that is planned as part of the development.

<blockquote>
Our vision for the new Jam Factory is to create a highly permeable site, an extension to its context - a district defined through an ensemble of buildings that embodies and reflects the site’s rich character and establishes a new district, a breathing space, a destination of shopping, eating, working.

Jam Factory shapes as  far more than just a commercial reworking of the existing complex. A genuine gesture to the people.
</blockquote>

The opportunity to create this grand gesture has fallen to Bates Smart and Nottingham-based Leonard Design Architects. Their challenge as set down by developer Newmark Capital was to create Australia’s premiere mixed-use district.

<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/image49_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Green rooftop expanses. Image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="337" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image49_7.jpg?itok=XyCSagm-" title="Green rooftop expanses. Image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Green rooftop expanses. Image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>A highlight of the reworked Jam Factory's design is the publicly accessible network of green terraces and passages that will sit atop level 3.

<blockquote>
The spaces feature direct access from ground level from a number of locations and will be highly activated throughout the day due to the location of the commercial lobbies on these levels.

In addition, the proposed garden terrace located along the northern edge of the site will receive high exposure to direct northern sun throughout the day due to abutting rail reserve which prevents the interface from being ‘built out’.
</blockquote>

The multiple access points will join with a network of activated roads and laneways at ground level.

In the application now with City of Stonnington, Newmark Capital's stated goal is to revitalise the current complex so that it reflects the needs of the whole community.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image45_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Chapel Street permeability. Image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_7.jpg?itok=t7EENNpy" title="Chapel Street permeability. Image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Chapel Street permeability. Image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>According to planning documents, key features of the proposed ground floor treatment include: 

<ul>
<li>A new north facing dining terrace with extensive greenery and public realm opened up. Vertical links to the level three elevated garden terrace will also be incorporated.</li>
	<li>A new laneway entry from Garden Street aligned with Bray Street to the south. This new laneway physically and visually reconnects the site to the southern road network and offers unique opportunities for walkable and pedestrian-scaled ground plane treatments.</li>
	<li>Re-opening the existing original façade on Garden Street to introduce a variety of smaller scaled retail and dining formats will activate Garden Street from a moribund vacant street to a vibrant and pedestrian-friendly street.</li>
	<li>The proposed design ‘opens up’ new access points from Chapel Street by reinstating Turnbull Street lanes and a new open plaza on Chapel Street to the north of the site.</li>
	<li>Internal privately managed, publicly accessible spaces, laneways and streets feature different widths, lengths and overall design which creates a series of different spaces with different identities, character and ‘feel’ similar to what would be expected across a typical city block.</li>
	<li>Depending on their purpose, the width of each internal laneway has been modelled on analysis of successful outcomes within Melbourne – Bank Place, Degraves Street, the Causeway within the central city have informed this aspect of the proposal.</li>
	<li>A new ‘Jam Factory Square’ similar in scale to QV Square in Melbourne. Designed with a number of events in mind (normal day, small events, larger events).</li>
	<li>The courtyard is north facing and will allow light to filter through the space and define the proposed series of streets and lanes.</li>
</ul>
Submitted during October, the cost of construction for the project exceeds $400 million, making it one of Melbourne's largest pending projects.

<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/image48_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A green view toward South Yarra's Capitol Grand building. Image: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="684" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image48_8.jpg?itok=AGz1Z3ZR" title="A green view toward South Yarra's Capitol Grand building. Image: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A green view toward South Yarra's Capitol Grand building. Image: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>
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