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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

Kokoda Property

National developer Kokoda Property have revealed what they intend on doing with their mega-site in Brisbane's Tenerrife.

Kokoda, who have previously completed apartment developments Chester &amp; Ella in Newstead and The Ambrose in Milton, has lodged plans for three towers on the 17,612 sqm site at 17-27 Skyring Terrace site, one of the last undeveloped riverfront sites in Brisbane.

The former Riverside Industrial Sands site, which Kokoda paid over $100 million for earlier this year, will home a total of 380 residences, with the towers ranging from 12 to 30 levels.

There will be&nbsp;a 9,149 sqm hotel, a large plaza, extended riverwalk and laneways throughout with lively public spaces, complemented by 15 office tenancies totalling 2,400sqm and 2,800 sqm of retail, cafes, and restaurants.

<img alt="Kokoda" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9ec2305e-70a5-4a36-ac2d-ebc33fcf7872" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-04%20at%207.28.41%20pm.png?VersionId=jgld7Pq53oSKaLPnjL1PkWV6NISC_Q.w" />

&nbsp;

Kokoda Property Founder and Managing Director, Mark Stevens, said that the project aims to provide enhanced design and landscaping that speaks to Brisbane's subtropical biophilic surroundings and Woolstore design intent while providing large, open public spaces.

“Kokoda Property is passionate about providing riverfront amenity on this site and we are committed to creating a contemporary, welcoming place that extends Teneriffe’s culture to the riverfront,” Stevens said.

The project is a collaboration between Kokoda's longtime design partners Cottee Parker Architects, who have designed Chester &amp; Ella and Kokoda's newest Milton tower Ruby Ruby, Carr, and Urbis Town Planning and Landscaping. Leaning into the cultural fabric of Teneriffe, the development will create a much sought-after address for residents and the community.

"Unique to the proposal is the ground plane public plaza, which will unlock 8,902 sqm of public open space, comprising 50 per cent of the site, to residents and visitors of Teneriffe," Urbis said.&nbsp;

<img alt="Render of the proposed Teneriffe development" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a28d3cd7-1302-4d3f-82c9-c264f65934ac" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/KK%20SRT%20RIVERWALK%20%281%29.jpg?VersionId=v1PO.i3CEx01WC63_m78mDiOoPKXLq4s" />

The development will be delivered in stages.&nbsp;The first stage will include shorter buildings on Skyring Terrace and Commercial Road (Tower 3 &amp; 4), followed by stage two (Tower 2), and ultimately stages three and four (Tower 1).

Tower 1, the tallest of the towers, is set to have 114 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, including a handful of sub-penthouses and penthouses. Tower 1 will also home a 160-room hotel.&nbsp;

Tower 2 will comprise 159 apartments and Tower 3 will have around 100 apartments with some loft-style residences.

"While the riverwalk attracts pedestrians and cyclists, we have an opportunity to create something in and of the neighbourhood—that speaks to the history, quality, and sensitivities of the local area, for a modern global audience," Cottee Parker noted in their design statement.&nbsp;

"Rarely can you affect the fabric of a neighbourhood in such a profound way, restitching the iconic heritage of a storied suburb to the source of its fortune and fame: the Brisbane River."

<img alt="Render of the proposed Teneriffe development" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e9927613-4e4b-4dfd-b82d-26fc62406a89" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/KK%20SRT%20-%20Plaza%20Teneriffe%20%281%29.jpg?VersionId=dLLbVzeQfP9gJsdLIexjpicuB933_T54" />

Towers 1 and 2 will be connected by a sky bridge on level 14, offering access to a VIP lounge in Tower 2, exclusively for hotel guests. Additional hotel amenities on this level include a 350 sqm day spa, a 437 sqm restaurant and bar, and a 179 sqm Brisbane River-facing pool and deck. Meeting rooms, three ballrooms, and a 556 sqm outdoor terrace lawn with another lounge on level 5 further enhance the hotel's offerings.

Residents will also benefit from rooftop communal decks on each of the towers, including a&nbsp;podium level pool deck on Tower 1. Tower 2 offers additional amenities on level 2, such as a karaoke room, dining/meeting rooms, a sports games lounge, a residential lounge, gym, a cinema room, a multi-sports simulator, barbecues, and a play space room. Tower 3 features a rooftop lap pool, hot spa, cabanas, sun lounges, an outdoor cinema lawn, barbecues, and a sunset lounge.&nbsp;

To further enrich the neighbourhood, the development plans include a small amount of office space on the ground, levels one, two, three and four, as well as loft-style and terrace housing facing Skyring Terrace.

The podium's design places great emphasis on the balance between the hardness of construction materials and the softness of landscaping. Greenery defines its character, softening its edges and connecting residents and the wider community to the natural riverfront environment.

<img alt="Render of the proposed Teneriffe development" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b9dfad62-26e3-4715-9dd5-273775586bdd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-04%20at%203.22.52%20pm_0.png?VersionId=Y4xG43LoyXuEt1lbx0VAkzmjDdVxAPAX" />

The proposal also includes the construction of a new lane, 'Wool Lane,' off Skyring Terrace, connecting a newly created plaza at the end of Commercial Road to Skyring Terrace near Gasworks. The new riverside public plaza will span approximately 9,023 sqm, providing a view of a new 220-metre riverwalk extension.

This extension, a 'missing link' between existing sections of the Riverwalk, has long been an unfulfilled dream, which could soon come to fruition with Kokoda's development.&nbsp;

While neighbouring areas like Newstead, New Farm, and Fortitude Valley have seen a surge in their lifestyle economies, attracting patrons to their trendy establishments, modern Teneriffe stands out for its unique character. It boasts an array of relaxed local eateries, galleries, and creative agencies, as well as the annual Teneriffe Festival, a vibrant celebration of diverse music, performances, and art.

“It is an opportunity to create something special for Teneriffe and the broader neighbourhood that speaks to the history, quality, and sensitivities of the local area,” Stevens added.&nbsp;

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Kokoda propose $1.5 billion, triple-tower riverside development in Teneriffe

It was the creative licence in property development that first lured the then Jeans West Director Mark Stevens into the game back over 25 years ago.

In 1997 he founded Kokoda Property, with his first development being a renovation of a house in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Fast forward a quarter of a century and they've completed over 100 projects in Melbourne, and they've just <a href="/news/qld/kokoda-snare-last-remaining-riverfront-in-teneriffe-for-mixed-use-development">spent a record $100 million on a 17,600 sqm site</a> in Brisbane's Teneriffe which is one of the last of it's kind.

"Ultimately it was a real love of architecture," Stevens told me when I asked him what took him from the corporate world to developing property.

He said always loved the creative process.

"Architecture allows you to create an environment, and I really believe architecture can change the way you feel."

Over the years Stevens' architecture preferences have changed somewhat.

"I used to be besotted with&nbsp;classicism," Stevens said. Now he's into "uber-cool modern."

Kokoda's striking Malvern project, the Malvern Collective, is a testament to the uber-cool, modern design. Two glass-facaded buildings rise from a more heritage-style streetscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12457 project_image_fid=200172]

It was Stevens' love of architecture, paired with his passion for gardens and wanting to develop in another economy, that led him to Brisbane around 10 years ago.

While he'd travelled to Brisbane in his more corporate life, Stevens admitted that he didn't really know it as well as he'd like. He says however he will never forget his first visit.

"When I saw James Street (in Fortitude Valley) for the first time, I remember saying to myself 'oh my god, what an amazing precinct.'

"It has a story to tell. There's nothing like it in Melbourne," Stevens said.

There was the draw of Brisbane's climate and the Brisbane City Council's Buildings That Breathe Design Guide, which encourages developing to the climate. More than any other capital, there's more encouragement to incorporate gardens into high-rise towers, something which Stevens also had a personal affinity towards.

"I've always had a real passion for gardens, and I've invested a lot in them over the years," Stevens said.

He believes gardens change the topography of the street.

"With gardens you see a big difference between say summer and autumn, whereas architecture doesn't change."

Stevens says Brisbane offers an amazing climate and amazing amenity, particularly in the life of Teneriffe and New Farm, where living near the river offers a perf

Kokoda's first Brisbane project was the two-tower Chester &amp; Ella in Newstead, which was completed in 2020. Kokoda stayed waterside with their most recently completed project, The Ambrose in Milton, which was finished earlier this year.

Now the team are preparing to launch Ruby Ruby, a 21-level tower with 145 apartments, just around the corner.

<img alt="Ruby Ruby" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0e62f0f8-8731-4aca-8ced-4b689815aac8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-07-10%20at%201.32.57%20pm.png?VersionId=itC5hruAoFXlJSzFuICTJAlRdtX4MYI3" />

Both The Ambrose and Ruby Ruby have been designed by Cottee Parker, who Stevens says are very open to different styles.

The burgeoning developer is also at the early planning stages of the masterplan precinct in Teneriffe which they secured early last year. The 17,600 site Skyring Terrace riverfront block will be transformed into a $1.75 billion mixed-use development that will activate the waterfront at a scale not yet explored.

Kokoda’s vision for the site comprises apartments and townhouses, a waterfront office tower, a luxury hotel, a retail precinct comprising high-end luxury retail and F&amp;B, and a&nbsp;marina, connecting the expanding Brisbane riverwalk replete with waterfront hospitality, retail and dining.

"We're in the design and development phase of what we think will be a game-changing precinct in Brisbane for years to come," Stevens said.

"It's very community focussed. We're giving a lot back to open space and architecture. It will be a place-making experience. It's not a case of putting what we can on the site, it's about being respectful to what's there, as well as the history of the area."

While there's considerable hype about Brisbane's future growth prospects due to the 2032 Summer Olympics, Stevens said it's not what defines the Queensland capital.

"The Olympics isn't what will make Brisbane amazing. It was already amazing before it got the Olympics," Stevens said.

"If you look at the history of The Olympics, they're being hosted by cities that don't need them to be come amazing. Think San Francisco, Tokyo, London.

"What the Olympics will bring is international attention so the whole world can see Brisbane's appeal."

It was the creative licence in property development that first lured the then Jeans West Director Mark Stevens into the game back over 25 years ago

How a love of architecture inspired a move into property development: Five minutes with Kokoda's Mark Stevens

Buyers at Kokoda Property&#39;s Malvern Collective, on the southern end of the dress circle Glenferrie Road, will be offered the ultimate convenience, with Woolworths signing as anchor tenant at the new mixed-use project.

The 600 sqm Woolworths Metro will adjoin&nbsp;the precinct&#39;s central piazza,&nbsp;a mix of high-end food and entertainment-focused specialty retailers, which connect via laneways to Glenferrie Road and offers direct commuter access to Malvern train station.

Malvern Collective will home 265 residences across its JCB-designed tower, with interiors by Carr Design.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12457 project_image_fid=200172]

Kokoda Property&rsquo;s founder and managing director, Mark Stevens, says as the largest privately led urban renewal development in the suburb&rsquo;s history, Malvern Collective is set to restore a significant part of Malvern&rsquo;s original high street.

&ldquo;The arrival of Woolworths is testament to our group&rsquo;s vision to reinvigorate this prominent section and bring it back to its former glory,&rdquo; Stevens said.

Today with a median house price of $3.1 million, Malvern is a highly sought-after lifestyle suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12457 project_image_fid=200188]

&ldquo;Malvern Collective presents a rare opportunity to introduce luxury apartments alongside carefully curated fresh food retail, health and wellness services, and high-end food and entertainment offerings,&rdquo; Stevens added.

&ldquo;Ultimately, this is about place making and bringing together the fundamental elements that contribute to community wellbeing, and reflecting where the suburb&rsquo;s culture, design and demographic are moving.&rdquo;

Furthermore, approximately 1.1 million passengers use Malvern station each year &ndash; representing an average of 3,000 commuters per day. This number is set to increase when the $2.7 billion Metro Tunnel project is completed in 2025.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12457 project_image_fid=200159]

&ldquo;The precinct will not only reinvigorate the southern end of Glenferrie Road, but also create considerable convenience, connectivity and amenity to commuters who frequent Malvern station,&rdquo; Mr Stevens said.

Early site works commenced at Malvern Collective in 2020 with the $1 million refurbishment and reopening of the suburb&rsquo;s oldest pub, The Angel. The historic watering hole reopened in March with a new front bar, kitchen and head chef, alongside regular live entertainment.

The next phase of construction has commenced earlier this year, with the mixed-use development scheduled for completion in Q1 2024.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=12457]

Malvern Collective will home 265 residences across its JCB-designed tower, with interiors by Carr Design

Kokoda Property secure Woolworths as anchor tenant at Malvern Collective development

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Construction begins on The Ambrose

<a href="/developers/kokoda-property">Kokoda Property’</a>s next Brisbane project, <a href="/buildings/the-ambrose-19-23-mcdougall-street-milton">The Ambrose</a>, has recently begun construction after <a href="/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> were appointed as builders. The $150 million luxury residential tower located in McDougall Street in <a href="/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a> features 181 apartments across 19 storeys. 
Designed by <a href="/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, the buildings’ façade comprises organic fins and ascending greenery in addition to an earthy palette for the interiors which creates tranquil, light-filled apartments. <a href="/buildings/the-ambrose-19-23-mcdougall-street-milton">The Ambrose</a> will be the second collaboration between <a href="/developers/kokoda-property">Kokoda Property</a> and <a href="/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a>, with the pair recently completing the two-tower <a href="/buildings/chester-ella-7-chester-street-newstead">Chester &amp; Ella</a> project in <a href="/developments/newstead-qld-4006">Newstead</a>. 
And it of course wouldn’t be a contemporary Brisbane apartment development without a rooftop recreation deck, which <a href="/developers/kokoda-property">Kokoda Property</a> look to have knocked out of the park on this one. Make sure to take a peek at the exquisite finishes in the bathrooms, and the incredible kitchen islands. 
Construction is scheduled for completion in 2022.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="362" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/0-3_1.jpg?itok=AD9EGaFU" title="Built Brisbane" width="580"><figcaption>Built Brisbane</figcaption></figure><figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="580" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/0-2_2.jpg?itok=XmbCWMVX" title="Built Brisbane" width="580"><figcaption>Built Brisbane</figcaption></figure><hr>
 

Coredelia Changes Lodged

<a href="/developers/arklife">Arklife</a> have lodged a minor change development application this week for a 29 storey, build to rent project at <a href="/new-apartments/cordelia-13-17-cordelia-street-south-brisbane">13-17 Cordelia Street</a> in <a href="/developments/south-brisbane-qld-4101">South Brisbane</a>. Dubbed ‘<a href="/new-apartments/cordelia-13-17-cordelia-street-south-brisbane">Cordelia</a>’, the redesign reflects a similar scale of the previous approval, with the new proposal featuring 265 apartments and over 2,400sqm of communal space, in addition to retail and office uses in the heritage premises on site. 
The redesign comes from local firm <a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and features a stunning, six storey sky garden in the centre of the tower, opening up the core to natural light and views. Housing lush subtropical planting, Lat27 have also noted that the skygraden “acts as a series of indoor/outdoor spaces at the mid point of the building that provides residents with a mix of social, relaxation and working environments spread over a number of levels”. 
Capped off by an eclectic rooftop, the tower would also offer residents stunning city views from the gardens and pool area. What do you think of the new design?

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="844" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/0-4_1.jpg?itok=vL31CS1M" title="Built Brisbane" width="580"><figcaption>Built Brisbane
</figcaption></figure><figure><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="255" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/0-5_1.jpg?itok=xfiGW893" width="580"><figcaption>Built Brisbane</figcaption></figure><hr>
 

Stay up to date on either <a href="http://www.instagram.com/builtbrisbane/">Instagram</a> or <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/builtbrisbane/">LinkedIn</a>.
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Kokoda Property’s next Brisbane project, The Ambrose, has recently begun construction after Hutchinson Builders were appointed as builders. 

Arklife have lodged a minor change development application this week for a 29 storey, build to rent project at 13-17 Cordelia Street in South Brisbane. Dubbed ‘Cordelia’.

jake

Construction begins on The Ambrose; Coredelia Changes Lodged

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Revised plans for one of suburban Melbourne's largest developments that Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/malverns-super-development-site-subject-to-a-considerable-application">touched upon during August</a> are now available for public comment.

The site in question sits adjacent to Malvern Railway Station and has a principal address of 641-675 Dandenong Road. At 4,739 square metres the land holding was offered for sale during 2017, with Kokoda Property subsequently revealed as the purchaser.

Dubbed <a href="https://www.kokodaproperty.com.au/en/residences/malvern/">Malvern Collective</a>, Kokoda Property carries imagery of the initial design on its website. The Jackson Clements Burrows-designed development seen below has been replaced by a more modest revised application which sees lower than initially intended built form across the site.

The highly angular initial design for the scalene-shaped site has also been tempered to resemble more traditional buildings with a 'defined' roof.

<h2>641-675 Dandenong Road application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image89aq.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dandenong Road perspective. Image: JCB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image89aq.jpg?itok=2nJ7-Dtj" title="Dandenong Road perspective. Image: JCB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Dandenong Road perspective. Image: JCB Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>4,739 square metre site with three street frontages</li>
	<li>Expected build value: $80 million</li>
	<li>Proposed: 17 and 10 storey buildings with the taller at 55.9 metres</li>
	<li>265 apartments: 94 x 1BR, 154 x 2BR, 16 x 3BR, 1 x 4BR</li>
	<li>5 level basement with option for a subterranean link to Malvern Railway Station</li>
	<li>Provisions for 371 vehicles and 203 bicycles</li>
	<li>Existing 'Angel Tavern' to be restored</li>
	<li>7 retail tenancies amounting to 1,137 square metres with ability to increase if required</li>
	<li>753 square metre commercial tenancy</li>
</ul>
Jackson Clements Burrows on Malvern Collective's form:

<blockquote>
The unique qualities of the site have determined the proposals siting, massing and overall form.

With interfaces to Glenferrie Rd, Dandenong Rd, Station Place and the rail corridor to the north, the lower podium is characterised by a series of articulated columns that set the rhythm of the pedestrian experience and whose datum closely aligns to that of the adjacent heritage buildings. The columns also fluctuate in depth to provide protection from traffic to the south, the summer sun to the north and visual privacy on the oblique approach.

The upper forms are conceived as a series of undulating peaks that strategically lower to sensitive interfaces and minimise overshadowing to the south. The chamfered forms allow the implementation of generous east and west facing terraces which offer select apartments ‘gardens in the sky’.

The mostly light coloured curtain walls and associated fins are articulated as the main facade element with the enclosed areas recessed back from the outer envelope. This provides permeability through the extremities of the building and a depth to the facade through the use of light and shadow.
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image92_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The initial Dandenong Road design cited via Kokoda's website"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="259" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image92_8.jpg?itok=bPqY5nnT" title="The initial Dandenong Road design cited via Kokoda's website" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The initial Dandenong Road design cited via Kokoda's website</figcaption></figure><h2>Kokoda Property true to their word when it comes to infill development</h2>

During 2017 Kokoda Property prompted calls for <a href="/news/kokoda-property-calls-for-in-fill-development-in-the-eastern-middle-ring">more in-fill development sites in what it calls "Melbourne’s undersupplied eastern middle-ring"</a> in order to fill the demand for quality apartments and townhomes in the leafy suburbs.

At the time Kokoda Property Sales and Marketing Director Sam Tucker spoke of the underlying demand for apartment developments across Melbourne's eastern middle-ring suburbs, driven by wealthy downsizers. This has been reflected in the recent projects undertaken locally by the developer.

Malvern Collective joins a boutique current apartment development dubbed The Mowbray at Camberwell's 553-555 Burke Road and the recently completed Trentwood at 25 Trent Street, Glen Iris as examples of kokoda Property's shift in focus to inner eastern Melbourne suburbs.

<h2>641-675 Dandenong Road development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Kokoda Property Group (Malvern Development Partnership Pty Ltd)</li>
	<li>Architect: Jackson Clements Burrows Architects</li>
	<li>Urban Planning: Contour Consultants</li>
	<li>Landscape Plan: Tract Landscape Architects</li>
	<li>Cultural Heritage Statement: Archaeology At Tardis</li>
	<li>Traffic Impact Assessment: GTA Consultants</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Utility Services: Intrax Consulting Engineers</li>
	<li>Noise and Vibration Consultants: Octave Acoustics</li>
	<li>Heritage Consultant: Lovell Chen</li>
	<li>Urban Design Consultant: Message Consultants</li>
	<li>Site Survey: Bosco Jonson</li>
</ul>
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