Sun Property Group (SPG) has taken a major step to reinforce its commitment to consumer trust by securing Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) from Resilience Insurance for its nearly completed Willoughby development on Sydney’s Lower North Shore.

The boutique project, Aurora, comprising 12 apartments and a ground-floor commercial space, is one of few in the region to adopt the forward-thinking insurance model—offering a point of difference in a competitive market.

For Cameron Johnson, General Manager at Sun Property Group, the decision to adopt LDI was rooted in the company’s long-standing philosophy of maintaining a highly personalised relationship with its end users.

“We’ve always taken ownership over our product,” Johnson said. “Introducing LDI is not just about peace of mind for the buyer—it’s about raising the internal bar. It becomes the baseline for how we do things going forward.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=205006]

While hundreds of developers and builders have taken out an LDI policy from Resilience Insurance, the insurance is still relatively new to Australia. Johnson says he sees significant future potential with LDI nationwide, with both&nbsp;regulatory and market frameworks starting to evolve to support its wider use in class two buildings.

“When we started the Willoughby project, LDI was still just a concept being floated by the Building Commissioner’s office," Johnson says.

"Delays in the construction timeline gave us the unique opportunity to adopt it as the product became more available in late 2023."

That timing aligned with a shift in construction contractors on the project, which opened the door for a more collaborative and considered implementation of the insurance. According to Johnson, Resilience Insurance was proactive and solution-oriented.

“It wasn’t just about us buying a product off the shelf. It was a dialogue—how can we work together to deliver something that meets both of our needs?” he added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=5717]

LDI covers major structural defects for up to 10 years post-completion and offers an alternative to the traditional developer bond held under the Department of Fair Trading’s scheme. SPG prudently factor in a two per cent cost profile for such measures into its feasibility, treating it as “business as usual.”

“What LDI does is show the consumer that we’re front-ending our responsibilities—design, delivery, documentation, execution. That whole chain of custody is assessed and independently reviewed throughout construction. It’s a rubber stamp on quality,” Johnson said.

In a region where no other nearby developments currently carry LDI, the move also creates a market differentiator. While some projects may carry an iCIRT rating, few offer the depth of protection and oversight that LDI provides, especially outside of publicly listed organisations.

Aurora is being brought to market by Henry Burke of McGrath Projects. With the recent cut in interest rates Burke expects that many first home buyers and investors will jump at the chance to buy in Aurora due to its convenient location, fantastic retail amenity, picturesque parks with leafy walks, and excellent transport connections with only one stop to Sydney CBD. He expects a local owner-occupier to secure the standout penthouse which offers 175 sqm of internal space and further 200 sqm of outdoor space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=205010]

Johnson says Aurora residents will not only benefit from the first right insurance policy, which means action is taken immediately rather than often long and complicated battles as developers and builders point fingers at each other as to who created the issue, but from how it can benefit the strata communities of the building.

Many buyers, especially first-time apartment owners, have limited understanding of shared infrastructure or the responsibilities of Owners Corporations. LDI adds an important layer of education, structure, and protection.

“People want to move in and enjoy what they’ve bought. But when things go wrong, that’s when emotions and stress levels rise. The insurance policy gives owners a clearer path to resolution—an assured, regulated compensation process. It also helps equip owners and managers with the knowledge they need to maintain the building properly.”

The insurance includes tools such as service penetration matrices and access documentation—going far beyond standard build drawings. Johnson says it’s about delivering not just a home, but a sustainable, manageable asset.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=343670]

Sun Property Group continues to build on its strong track record across Sydney’s Lower North Shore, with an upcoming major development of its Bowen Street, Chatswood landholdings and additional projects underway in Melbourne. The team recently completed its debut Melbourne apartment project, The Brookville in Toorak, showcasing their commitment to delivering high-quality, design-led communities.

In a region where no other nearby developments currently carry LDI, the move also creates a market differentiator

Joel Robinson

Sun Property Group approaches completion of Willoughby's first apartment development with 10-year Latent Defects Insurance

Renowned developer-builder DASCO has unveiled its much-anticipated new development in the heart of Epping.

The architectural brief for Turner Studio was to “create a community where residents are completely immersed in a paradise for the senses.”

The result is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/senso-epping-242-244-beecroft-road-epping-nsw-2121">Senso</a>, a series of buildings that have been oriented around an unrepeatable 10,000 sqm-plus site to create a facility-laden, landscape-first precinct, something of which Epping and its surrounds have not seen before.

There are 479 apartments available in a variety of floorplans across the five buildings, a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in addition to a curated penthouse collection.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4553]

The apartments have been designed to appeal to the owner-occupier market, with generous floorplans, premium materials, and optional upgrades including integrated refrigeration, bespoke joinery, and motorised blinds.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dasco-australia">DASCO</a>, who builds its own developments, is once again bringing peace of mind to its clients by taking the 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy offered by Resilience Insurance, which protects buyers against any structural or waterproofing issues for 10 years post completion of the building. This insurance can only be taken out by the builder or developer and not by individual apartment owners.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4552]

DASCO is known for creating more than just apartments — they create places where people connect. Senso will have over 4,000 sqm of resort-inspired communal amenity in the form of two rooftop pools, a celestial outdoor cinema, wellness club, sensory walk, and an observation deck, in addition to multiple BBQ and outdoor communal areas on multiple levels, intended to deliver a complete lifestyle offering within the residential environment.

There will be over 800 sqm of retail space on street level, which will likely be run as hospitality venues.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4396]

Located adjacent to the new Epping Town Centre masterplan, and just a five-minute walk from Epping Metro Station, Senso offers seamless access to Macquarie Park, Chatswood and the Sydney CBD. Families who are interested in the large two- and three-bedroom apartments are within proximity to several regarded educational institutions including Macquarie University, James Ruse Agricultural High, and Cheltenham Girls School.

The project also leverages Epping’s growing dining and retail precinct, proximity to Macquarie Centre, and access to natural assets including Terrys Creek walking trails and Boronia Park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4399]

With a 33-year track record and over 7,000 dwellings delivered, DASCO continues to develop and build; a business model that enables integrated delivery and peace of mind, especially when Senso is backed by Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), providing 10 years of protection for buyers at no additional cost.

The launch of Senso Epping reinforces DASCO’s active pipeline of Sydney-based developments at a time when the market is increasingly focused on owner-occupier appeal, delivery confidence, and long-term quality.

DASCO is partnering on Senso Epping with leading Australian alternative asset management firm Metrics, which has more than $30 billion in assets under management.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134954]

DASCO reveals Senso, Epping’s first resort-style apartment development

Preliminary data by research giant Charter Keck Cramer reveals a 54 per cent decline in Build to Sell apartments across Australia's capital cities, while the Build to Rent boom continues with a 378 per cent increase over the last five years.

Charter Keck Cramer's upcoming National State of the Market Report - Key Metropolitan Areas, scheduled for release in September, will reveal&nbsp;a dramatic transformation in apartment supply patterns across Australia's capital cities between FY2016-2020 and FY2021-2025.

The Build to Sell (BTS) apartment sector has experienced a substantial contraction, with total supply falling by 54 per cent compared to the previous five-year period. The decline represents a reduction of 149,200 apartments across all capital cities.

<img alt="BTS Charter Keck Cramer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3db2ddf3-e7c0-481f-b8b9-63efb365cb80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-20%20at%2011.26.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bsQl8inhZA7FeiPamnGvw1tse0obBdSd" />

Sydney led the downturn with a decrease of 73,600 apartments, followed by Melbourne (-42,800) and Brisbane (-26,800). Perth and Adelaide also recorded significant declines of 6,400 and 2,400 apartments respectively. Only Gold Coast and Canberra bucked the trend, with modest increases of 500 and 2,300 apartments.

In stark contrast, the Build to Rent (BTR) sector has emerged as a major force in the apartment market, recording a remarkable 378% increase in supply. This growth added 8,590 apartments across the capital cities during FY2021-2025. Melbourne dominated BTR growth with 6,160 additional apartments, while Sydney contributed 2,100 units. Brisbane and Canberra also recorded growth of 800 and 330 apartments respectively. Gold Coast and Perth recorded minor declines, while Adelaide maintained steady levels.

<img alt="BTR CKC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ca13ffd4-ab93-4828-afd2-4c3dccbd2b51" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-20%20at%2011.28.54%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=SXNnpcJuFD36ViWOwF6izBBqcQc3NWao" />

“These preliminary findings indicate a fundamental shift in Australia's apartment development landscape, with traditional Build to Sell models giving way to institutional Build to Rent developments,” said Richard Temlett, Charter Keck Cramer’s National Executive Director of Research.

"This transition reflects changing investor preferences, regulatory environments and housing affordability challenges across major metropolitan areas.”

The complete Charter Keck Cramer National State of the Market Report – Key Metropolitan Areas will provide comprehensive analysis of these trends, their underlying drivers and implications for developers, investors and policymakers when released in September.

Build to Sell apartment supply drops 54% in five years across Australian capital cities

Verso Development Group is seeking to bring over 1,100 apartments to the heart of Brisbane's Toowong, with plans filed for a $1 billion, triple tower development known as Toowong Central.

The landmark urban regeneration project "aims to reshape the core of Brisbane’s inner-west riverside suburb."

Covering over 1.4-hectares across&nbsp;Sherwood Road, High Street, and Jephson Street, Toowong Central has been designed by KHA and will comprise three towers rising 49, 55, and 58 levels.

<img alt="Toowong Central" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48611e3d-7123-4b99-b2cb-bfa4bc98024f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenities.png?VersionId=yKBexB.BgCkq4OET8fHDkWs0d3DjxOKJ" />

According to the Urban Context Report prepared by Urbis, Toowong Central is positioned as a “city-defining precinct reclaiming Toowong as ‘the best destination in the west’,” with a vision to deliver density differently, strengthen Toowong’s identity, and lead subtropical urban design.

There will be a wide range of apartment configurations, from one-bedrooms to five-bedroom penthouses, as well as short-term accomodation offerings. The design prioritises pedestrian permeability, with an activated public realm featuring a central civic plaza, laneways, and street-level retail and dining.

“The central square’s structure, programming, scale and location creates a social anchor - shaped by its edges, flexible for use, and animated by a diversity of experiences throughout the day and into the evening,” the Urban Context Report noted, reinforcing the project's ambition to become a vibrant community destination.

Design excellence was pursued through an international design competition, attracting entries from renowned practices such as UNStudio and BIG. KHA’s winning design distinguished itself with a ceremonial approach to the public realm, integrating terraces, tiered seating, and green infrastructure to promote social interaction and resilience.

The development builds upon two existing approvals: the 25- and 20-storey towers of the Aviary Toowong proposal, and a separate 25- and 24-storey approval at 88 Jephson Street. Consolidation of these fragmented landholdings under a precinct-wide approach allows for increased community value and cohesive urban integration.

Urbis Director Nicholas Stevenson said Toowong Central will bridge the gap in Toowong's current experience, unlocking the potential of the wider precinct.

"Overcoming experiential constraints and leveraging contextual advantages – Toowong Central will redefine Brisbane's inner west.”

<img alt="Toowong Central" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73f7a702-625d-452d-9df2-30a0863ac1e8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/master.png?VersionId=TZdh6wxGC_8IIroXpdkZfuhlS8mFZnea" />

Toowong Central’s ambition extends beyond residential and commercial outcomes. Uses under consideration include a world-class hotel, university facilities, a museum, and health and wellness services, reflecting its role as a western gateway to Brisbane’s growing innovation corridor between the CBD and the University of Queensland.

Urbis Managing Partner James Tuma said Brisbane has no greater opportunity to showcase the future of urban living than Toowong – a sustainable, economically vibrant, and people-centric place that embodies the best of Brisbane.

[The plans] gives us a glimpse into our future as a globally relevant, youthful, entrepreneurial, and distinctly subtropical city.”

$1 billion Toowong Central to deliver 1,100 apartments to undersupplied Brisbane market

In <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/runaway-bay-qld-4216">Runaway Bay</a>, new townhouse-scale waterfront residences are rare - but ones built to the standards found on Sovereign Island are almost unheard of.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/ocean-suites-on-jennifer-10-12-jennifer-avenue-runaway-bay-qld-4216">Ocean Suites on Jennifer</a>&nbsp;changes that, delivering a calibre of construction and detailing that places its seven villas well above the typical market offering in this northern Gold Coast pocket.

Ocean Suites on Jennifer will be move-in ready before Christmas this year, giving buyers the chance to spend the summer on the water in one of Runaway Bay’s rare new waterfront residences.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214444]

The development is a collaboration between <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/stuart-osman">Stuart Osman Design</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sand-side-developments">Sand Side Developments</a>, with construction by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/alroe-constructions">Alroe Constructions</a>.

Architect Stuart Osman says the intent from the outset was to create a home people would be drawn to. “When you build anything, the design is to make you want to go hang out in this house,” he says.&nbsp;

Ocean Suites on Jennifer’s design features a front façade softened with planter boxes, rear pool areas, and rooftop decks looking over the water.&nbsp;

Inside, voids and high skylights bring daylight deep into the centre of each home, while ceiling heights of 2.85 metres maintain a strong sense of volume.

Each four-level residence spans 345 to 388 sqm, with layouts accommodating multi-generational living - a ground-floor bedroom suite for older family members and upper levels for the rest of the household. A lift connects all floors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214435]

For Andrew Erwin, Director at NPA, the project’s appeal lies in both its location and the detail in execution.&nbsp;

"At Ocean Suites, you’ve got a canal-front setting with direct Broadwater access and a level of finish you’d normally only see in the city’s most prestigious addresses. The four-level layouts, the glass-framed living areas, the private pools, even the extended kitchens, every part of it has been designed with the buyer in mind,” he says.

Those buyers have so far been a mix of Gold Coast locals and interstate purchasers, many seeking a lock-up-and-leave holiday home or a downsized residence without sacrificing space for visiting family.&nbsp;

Older households with teenage children are a recurring profile, drawn to layouts that support multi-generational living and the ability to host extended stays.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214432]

Material selection reinforces the project’s quality-first ethos, with every home appointed to a premium standard. Kitchens and ensuites feature engineered stone surfaces, complemented by prestige oak engineered timber floors, Victorian ash hardwood staircases, and soft loop-pile carpet.

Premium lighting, statement pendants, ceiling fans, and Fujitsu ducted air conditioning elevate both comfort and design. Each residence also includes a suite of high-end appliances as standard - Fisher &amp; Paykel integrated fridges, Bosch ovens, induction cooktops and dishwashers, Vintec wine fridges, and Franke sinks.

Beyond the interiors, residents enjoy an enviable lifestyle with rooftop terraces, private plunge pools, fire pit areas, outdoor showers, smart home automation, laundry chutes, and private pontoons.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214452]

With no additional upgrade costs, Sand Side Developments underscores its no-shortcuts approach, delivering homes where luxury and amenity come as standard.

Osman adds that the kitchen has been designed as “the main hub of the house” with six metres high skylights above a galley-style layout that “makes it feel bigger, brighter, whiter” and “brings light into the centre of the home.”

Both architect and builder emphasise a shared commitment to delivering the intended design without compromise. “Working with Alroe’s structural team and their construction team, it’s been great to make sure that the look and feel that was originally intended is the result achieved at the end of the project,” Osman says.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214453]

Outdoor living has been given equal consideration, with rooftop terraces designed for entertaining with a fire pit and bar, and spacious undercover patios featuring private plunge pools.

The marine access is as carefully executed as the homes themselves. An eight-metre gangway leads to a six-metre private pontoon capable of mooring vessels up to 30 feet, just 300 metres by water from the Broadwater.&nbsp;

Even the orientation of each villa has been optimised to capture long views down the canal, across the Broadwater, and south to Main Beach.

With construction in its final stages, just three of the seven villas remain, priced from $3.365 million to $3.695 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138718]

Sovereign Island standards come to Runaway Bay with Ocean Suites on Jennifer

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>
</body></html>

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