National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

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.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

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

Lowe Living

Design-led developer Lowe Living has announced the sales launch of their latest development, <a href="/new-apartments/emerald-place-by-lowe-living">Emerald Place</a> in <a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne</a>.

Alongside joint venture and development partner ICON Developments, a wholly owned subsidiary of Japanese property giant Kajima Corporation, the $160 million mixed-use project located at <a href="/new-apartments/emerald-place-by-lowe-living">182-200 Clarendon Street in South Melbourne</a> will deliver 1,500 sqm of ground-floor retail, 12 premium commercial tenancies over two levels and six levels of 36 apartments.

Following a <a href="/news/vic/lowe-living-secure-quick-approval-for-160-million-south-melbourne-development">fast-tracked planning permit within four months</a>, the two groups continue to remain focused on delivering a market-leading design, leading build quality and a high-quality end product.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135816 project_image_fid=231196]

Promising to deliver a significant addition to the area's vibrant urban landscape, the project’s design partners include architect, Woods Bagot and landscape architect Acre.

The design vision for <a href="/new-apartments/emerald-place-by-lowe-living">Emerald Place</a> embraces the rich architectural history of the <a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">surrounding late 19th and early 20th-century buildings</a>. Woods Bagot's innovative approach incorporates polychromatic brickwork and scale, that harmoniously blends with the site context. Acre has complemented the architecture to deliver a lush, verdant botanic setting in vertical landscapes, ensuring a seamless connection with nature.

Ana Sá, Associate Principal at Woods Bagot highlights, says&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/emerald-place-by-lowe-living">Emerald Place</a> represents a prominent corner statement and a contemporary interpretation of Victorian charm that sits sympathetically within its South Melbourne context.

“Drawing inspiration from the ubiquitous corner pubs, the design principles of detailed brickwork and a strong vertical grid have informed the project's narrative. The polychromatic brickwork references the local 19th-century palette in a uniquely contemporary expression for a timeless architecture that is truly of its place.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135816 project_image_fid=231203]

The residential offering includes a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as a limited number of three and four-bedroom Skyhomes, coming to market soon. Lowe Living has received a high-level of interest in the project off-market and is currently working with waitlisted clients.

The two-bedroom apartments on offer have internal areas between 111 sqm to 132 sqm are priced from $1.55 million, while the three-bedroom apartments, spanning between 135 sqm to 268 sqm, start from $1.99 million.

The Skyhomes will comprise of four expansive apartments positioned at the top of the building on levels seven and eight, with internal areas ranging from 268 to 391 sqm. These apartments also offer bay or city views with triple-aspect outlooks, with pools to select apartments.

High-quality finishes and appliances feature throughout the apartments, with natural stones, porcelain tiles, engineered timber flooring, wool carpets, premium fixtures, as well as Gaggenau and Liebherr appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135816 project_image_fid=231200]

<a href="/developers/lowe-living">Lowe Living</a> is targeting a minimum 7-Star NatHERs rating in operation. The commercial offering comprises 12 premium strata office tenancies which are also available for sale. Two have already been snapped up. The adjacent three-level car park is currently on the title to service the car parking needs of the office and retail tenancies.

Drawing on their expertise in the boutique luxury development space, Lowe Living aimed to draw on this to deliver a premium offering whilst retaining a distinct customer focus on luxury owner-occupier.

<a href="/developers/lowe-living">Lowe Living</a> Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe says the team are&nbsp;very excited to bring this unique project to market.

"No detail has been spared in <a href="/new-apartments/emerald-place-by-lowe-living">Emerald Place</a>, and it truly embodies our commitment to excellence and innovation," Lowe said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135816 project_image_fid=231201]

"We were astutely focused on the luxury owner occupier, therefore we wanted to ensure the design responded to both the expectations of this buyer, as well as the desired lifestyle with local amenity on your doorstep.

"We worked closely with Woods Bagot to ensure the floorplans offered a variety of considered layouts to suit the unique needs of our buyers with expansive and thoughtfully landscaped private outdoor spaces by Acre. Arriving home to <a href="/new-apartments/emerald-place-by-lowe-living">Emerald Place</a> is an opportunity for our buyers to escape the urban atmosphere of South Melbourne and step inside a verdant, tranquil and luxurious haven.”

ICON Developments is expected to start construction early next year, with a build time of around 20 months meaning completion will fall around mid to late 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135816]

Design-led developer Lowe Living has announced the sales launch of their latest development, Emerald Place in South Melbourne

Lowe Living launch Emerald Place, South Melbourne apartments

Prominent Bayside developer Lowe Living expanded their predominantly Bayside footprint when they started developing Larnook <a href="/developments/armadale-vic-3143">Armadale</a>, bringing their expertise of developing large apartments to owner-occupiers a little <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">closer to the city</a>.

Collaborating with renowned architectural firm Warren and Mahoney, Larnook presents an exclusive collection of just 11 two and three-bedroom residences, including one grand penthouse, with the homes surrounded by verdant greenery by landscape architects Eckersley Garden Architecture.&nbsp;

The <a href="/developments/armadale-vic-3143">history of the area</a>, with its subdivided Victorian mansions and meticulously planned streets, serves as a catalyst for reimagining traditional aesthetics in a modern framework.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106276 project_image_fid=169739]

Situated on the corner of Larnook Street and Orrong Road, Larnook <a href="/developments/armadale-vic-3143">Armadale</a> draws inspiration from the <a href="/developments/armadale-vic-3143">area's rich heritage</a>, paying homage to the grandeur and botanical beauty established by the historic Larnook Mansion in the 1800s.

The design philosophy of the building focuses on openness while maintaining privacy and filtering natural light into every apartment.&nbsp;With passive ventilation, a thoughtful material palette, and ample natural light, each residence becomes an anchor within the streetscape. The generous wrap-around balconies and terraces establish a physical connection between the apartments and the serene tree-lined neighbourhood.

Through a combination of materials, screening elements, planters, and well-established street trees, Larnook Armadale achieves a harmonious balance between transparency and seclusion.

Eckersley Garden Architecture has worked its magic by incorporating verdant planters and gardens that seamlessly blend with the existing tree canopies, creating a captivating interplay of light and shade, while floor-to-ceiling windows and doors dissolve the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106276 project_image_fid=169742]

The kitchens feature a suite of integrated Gaggenau and Liebherr appliances, natural stone benchtops, brushed nickel tapware, and stone-clad sculptural island benches, while the bathrooms boast floating marble-topped vanities, complemented by porcelain tiling surrounds and floors.

The feature tiling in the bathrooms reflects the allure of handmade effect tiles, while brushed nickel cylindrical tapware and fixtures add a final touch of refinement to the spaces. Select residences even include a feature bath, as well as heated towel rails in the master ensuites.

Remaining apartments start from 143 sqm of internal space and range in size up to the 436 sqm penthouse.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=106276]

Collaborating with renowned architectural firm Warren & Mahoney, Larnook presents an exclusive collection of just 11 two and three-bedroom residences

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Lowe Living's Larnook Armadale delivers fusion of tradition and contemporary sophistication

Design-led developer Lowe Living has partnered with established property developer and financer ICON Kajima to deliver its $160 million mixed-use project in South Melbourne which has received a fast-tracked planning permit after just four months.

The announcement comes after Lowe Living first acquired the site at 200 Clarendon Street and achieved the fast-tracked planning permit, which motivated Lowe Living to bring on a trusted joint venture partner in the form of ICON Kajima to accelerate the project’s construction timeframe.

The swift approval was a result of Lowe Living’s intrinsic focus on market-leading design, architectural expression – led by architect Woods Bagot – and functional built-form which gave the City of Port Phillip confidence in greenlighting the notice of decision (NoD).

The appointment of Woods Bagot as architect also gave council confidence in granting the approval – the practice worked in lockstep with Lowe Living to control design outcomes and create a carefully considered architectural product.

The project will consist of a 2,000 sqm two-level commercial office building with an adjacent 500 sqm car park alongside 1,000 sqm of ground-floor retail, and 36 apartments which range from 110 sqm – 390 sqm across two, three and four-bedroom offerings. The building will be targeting a minimum 7-Star NatHERs rating in operation.

The official sales launch for the $160m project is scheduled to commence in Q3 2023, with construction commencement in Q4. The build is expected to take 18 months.

<img alt="Lowe South Melbourne" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a48ec8cb-7cef-4450-9457-83df559bc03f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Lowe%20Toorak.jpg?VersionId=I2YJahPz12WipOrzdURpk5gmlboV5v1A" />

Poised to be a leading precinct on the corner of Clarendon Street and York Street, on the edge of the Melbourne CBD, the two groups are focused on delivering functionality, enduring design and trust, alongside luxurious finishes, high-quality end product and leading build quality. As Lowe Living continues to expand its portfolio of larger-scale mixed-use developments across residential, commercial and retail, adding to its already established stable of high-end boutique projects in Melbourne’s bayside suburbs, the South Melbourne joint venture partnership represents the next evolution in the Lowe Living portfolio, said founder and managing director Tim Lowe.

“We feel very confident in South Melbourne’s owner-occupier market, and believe strongly that Lowe Living’s focus on luxury boutique projects across design and quality product will translate to a larger mixed-use precinct," Lowe said.

“The fundamental reason for the joint venture partnership is ICON Kajima’s experience in delivering exceptional projects of comparable size and scale.

“Our aim is to continue to acquire and bring to market 1 – 2 of these larger scale projects per annum; this partnership with ICON Kajima allows us to fast-track this objective for this South Melbourne project while maintaining our current pipeline activity across our boutique division.

<img alt="Lowe South Melbourne" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="25328225-28a8-4b1a-8ea1-60fab45ff5b2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-27%20at%203.33.09%20pm.png?VersionId=JDhDYuZpl7pfk32AjOUY5eWem5uRLhmA" />

“We worked closely with both Woods Bagot and the City of Port Phillip to achieve the permit in under 4 months. The approval means we are now ready to hit the ground running on this major site."

Lowe said the team are actively pursuing further acquisitions across Melbourne.

ICON Kajima Chief Executive Officer Matthew Bourke said they are looking forward to working on delivering&nbsp;a market-leading project to one of Melbourne’s most sought-after commercial areas.

“Icon Kajima is pleased to partner with Lowe Living for what is set to be one of the most exciting built-form precincts in South Melbourne – as has been recognised by the City of Port Phillip.

"The strength of our multi-faceted business model positions us well to deliver quality and scalable mixed-use projects with a structured finance solution. With our proven track record and Kajima Corporations' balance sheet capacity, this will allow the joint venture to realise innovative outcomes and play a significant role in shaping the built environment of Clarendon and York Streets, South Melbourne.”

ICON Kajima has a $1 billion project portfolio of residential, commercial and mixed-use sites across Australia and NZ.

The official sales launch for the $160m project is scheduled to commence in Q3 2023, with construction commencement in Q4



Lowe Living secure quick approval for $160 million South Melbourne development

Design-led developer and builder Lowe Living has launched Oceano, an exclusive collection of luxury apartments in the sought-after bayside suburb of Hampton.

It's the prominent developers second multi-residential project with interiors designed by Australian media personality Bec Judd.

Located on the leafy Ocean Street in Hampton – close to the gourmet and boutique luxuries of Hampton’s main precinct and the coastal charm of Hampton Beach – Oceano comprises nine contemporary residences, including two luxury penthouses.

Over 40 per cent of the apartments have already sold through Lowe Living's database, a total of $8.5 million in sales.

Both the penthouses were snapped up, as well as two lower level apartments. Only five apartments remain, and start from $1.63 million.

Lowe Living's Emma Lowe, owner and managing director of the company, says&nbsp;Lowe Living is passionate about delivering iconic and timeless spaces, and Oceano is another example of how they are offering uncompromising luxury, coastal charm and modern comfort in one of Melbourne’s most aspirational suburbs.

Lowe pointed to the expertise of Bec Judd and the ease of working collaboratively with Judd and the project team noting that a shared vision and passion led to the delivery of a conscious, contemporary development that has been well-received by the exclusive database release ahead of the official launch.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138593 project_image_fid=210190]

“We’ve experienced an outstanding response off-market and it’s a testament to Bec’s talent and the Lowe Living brand," Lowe says.

"To have sold 40 per cent of Oceano, including the two penthouses, before officially launching is something that we’re really proud of, and is reflective of the calibre of work and dedication the entire team has put into this project."

The collaboration marks the second time Lowe has had Judd handle the interiors, following the successful debut project Sera Brighton.

“It has been a pleasure to work with Bec once again to bring Oceano to life," Lowe added.

“Bec’s natural design ability and unique, considered style has resulted in interiors that are effortlessly sophisticated yet welcoming, perfectly achieving our design vision."

<img alt="Bec Judd" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="06df7ac1-bd7f-496f-81d8-6d9ff08af996" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-02-08%20at%209.14.13%20am.png?VersionId=VQ.UsRZLFIGCPTYcJHBZiZKP_QmjWuJx" /> 
Bec Judd sitting alongside Emma and Tim Lowe. Image supplied

Architecturally designed by boutique practice ADDARC, the exteriors of Oceano will balance statement brickwork with bold graphite sunscreens and stucco rendering, creating a contemporary, refined, and timeless project in which each individual residence has been created and considered as an individual dwelling.

Landscape architect Florian Wild has been engaged to bring the landscaping to life, establishing an experiential, evocative sanctuary that will complement the striking built form and respond to the distinguished bayside locality.

Judd says she wanted to blend sophisticated form and coastal sensibility for the interiors of Oceano, complementing the impressive external façade and creating richly textured, inviting interiors that instantly felt like a home.

“The intention was for Oceano’s interiors to beautifully juxtapose the bold exterior with a soft aesthetic that feels luxurious, cosy and sophisticated. I wanted to establish a design narrative that felt unique to this address,” Judd said.

Judd chose a natural stone benchtop to present the heart of the home, the kitchen, complemented by timber flooring and beautifully contrasted against striking gunmetal fixtures for a bold edge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138593 project_image_fid=210189]

Handcrafted ceramic feature tiles frame a suite of high-end Miele appliances – a level of luxury surpassed only by the fully-integrated fridge cloaked in an unassuming French door, while the juxtaposition of V-groove 2PAC panelling against metal finishes creates a striking level of sophistication that invites elegant personalisation.

“The gravitas of the kitchen flows effortlessly through to a living space, creating a functional yet aesthetic interior environment that radiates with a refined vitality.

Luxury furnishings are accompanied by customisable joinery, blending beauty with practicality, and allowing residents to personalise Oceano into their true dream home.

“The project departs from a typical beachside aesthetic with earthy finishes and an industrial inspired façade, while the interiors are led by a warm, inviting interior palette that is responsive to the soft natural surrounds of the gardens and landscaping,” Judd said.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138593]

&nbsp;

Over 40 per cent of the apartments have already sold through Lowe Living's database, a total of $8.5 million in sales

Lowe Living launch luxury Hampton apartments Oceano, with Bec Judd interiors

The design-driven Melbourne developer and builder Lowe Living has made a play for its largest project to date, submitting plans for a $160 million mixed-use development in the heart of South Melbourne.

Lowe Living, led by its founder Tim Lowe, will turn a two-level office building on the corner of&nbsp;Clarendon and York Streets into a mixed-use precinct with 1,000 sqm of ground floor retail, two levels of office space, and six levels of luxury apartments.

The adjoining three-level car park on Ross Place will be retained for parking for the retail and office components of the project.

Woods Bagot has put together the plans for the project, with the designs resembling a tiered horseshoe which will allow natural light to penetrate through an eight-level void into each commercial tenancy and residential level.

The horseshoe design has also allowed for the creation of numerous dual-fronted apartments with expansive terraces. There are 36 apartments in total, two, three and four-bedroom configurations ranging in size from 110 sqm to 390 sqm.

Woods Bagot have proposed polychromatic brickwork and repetition of rhythm, scale and proportion so the building was in keeping with the surrounding late 19th and early 20th century architecture in South Melbourne.

Landscape architects Acre have been engaged to create a verdant botanic setting in both the soaring void and vertical landscapes.

The existing car parking bays on title mean Lowe Living can position the retail and commercial parking off-site and deliver a minimum of two car parks per apartment via the on-site basement, complete with private lockable garages that include electric car charging provision. The building will be targeting a minimum 7-Star NatHERs rating in operation.

Tim Lowe said the latest acquisition represented the next evolution of the business, drawing on its expertise in the boutique development space to leverage more larger-scale residential and mixed-use projects, while retaining a distinct customer focus on luxury owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110170 project_image_fid=185822]

“Fundamentally our core philosophy hasn’t changed. We are astutely focused on the luxury owner occupier and downsizer market and have a very specific buyer in mind," Lowe said.

"By seeking out larger sites in locations like South Melbourne, we can apply this knowledge on a grander scale to projects that have scope for more height and mixed-use applications.

“This allows us to create larger apartments that are still boutique in terms of volume, just with larger floorplates and more amenity to conceptualise. We always have, and will continue to prioritise luxury, and will be targeting $1.4m - $9.5m price points within this South Melbourne project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106276 project_image_fid=169739]

“This site in particular, appealed to us because of the demand for luxury commercial in city outskirts like South Melbourne, in particular the distinct lack of super high-end luxury apartment stock in the South Melbourne Market precinct.

“This really was a rare opportunity to find such a large development site in South Melbourne; there really aren’t many remaining undeveloped sites of this scale, if at all.

“We will always retain a focus on the Bayside market but we are keen to support this with a portfolio of larger sites. We are actively targeting more acquisitions and ideally want to be developing one to two larger mixed-use projects per annum."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89716 project_image_fid=142627]

Plans were submitted to council in August and are now pending permit approval.

Lowe Loving has a $450m pipeline of luxury residential and mixed-use sites located inand around Melbourne’s Bayside, purchased the site via an on-market campaign earlier this year.

Lowe Living will turn a two-level office building on the corner of Clarendon and York Streets into a mixed-use precinct with ground floor retail, two levels of office space, and six levels of luxury apartments.

Lowe Living file $160 million mixed-use, South Melbourne development plans

Design-led developer and builder Lowe Living has announced a unique partnership with Australian personality, TV presenter and brand ambassador, Bec Judd, to collaborate on the design of two of the developer’s upcoming Bayside projects.

Judd has been appointed to collaborate on the design of both the final release of Lowe's Sera project in Brighton, launching to the market later this year with residents ready to move in mid-2023, and another project in Ocean Street, Hampton, that will launch in early 2023.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89716 project_image_fid=142625]

Working closely with Lowe Living’s internal team of interior designers and architects, Judd’s signature style will inform the two collections, delivering bespoke and contemporary residences to Melbourne’s affluent Bayside.

The Lowe Living collaboration represents Judd's first foray into multi-residential design following four successful series of The Style School and the renovation of a number of bespoke residential homes, including her forever home in Brighton and her private ski chalet in Mount Buller.

While designs for both Sera and Ocean Street are currently being finalised, Judd said each project would have its own distinct character, yet still be driven by timeless materiality.

“I’m extremely excited to be partnering with Lowe Living on two Bayside projects," Judd said.

"Both the Sera and Ocean Street developments reflect my personal interior design aesthetic with a focus on luxury and unique detailing to really elevate them in terms of sophistication and individuality."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89716 project_image_fid=142624]

Led by co-owners and Managing Directors, Tim and Emma Lowe, Lowe Living has been quietly building a half-a-billion-dollar pipeline since 2015, with a focus on luxury medium-density residential apartments and townhomes in Melbourne’s most aspirational suburbs.

Lowe said both him and his co-founder wife Emma share a passion for bespoke design and materiality along with Bec Judd, making the collaboration a natural fit for both parties.

<img alt="Lowe Judd" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e5b8383-93aa-4b6c-b368-8d6ed1f616c3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-07%20at%209.19.57%20am.png?VersionId=TSiZZanU3DSW9x2e6evFGTeHVOeZAHTh" /> 
Tim Lowe, left, Bec Judd, centre, and Emma Lowe, right. Image supplied

“Everything that we do, every design decision we make, is driven by the pursuit of absolute luxury,” Tim Lowe said.

“Our reputation has been forged on creating homes with an uncompromising dedication to luxury and design that are elevated beyond the norm.

“Our partnership with Bec Judd is the next evolution of this commitment to unparalleled quality and attention to detail. Through Bec’s impeccable style and eye for interior design, we are bringing these two collections to life through a fresh lens, ensuring we continue to innovate and deliver homes that are at the forefront of luxury in Australia."

Judd has been appointed to collaborate on the design of both the final release of Lowe's Sera project in Brighton and another project in Ocean Street, Hampton



Lowe Living partner with Bec Judd for interior designs on upcoming Bayside apartment projects

The owner-occupier-focused Melbourne developer, Lowe Living, have concentrated on a specialist market since they started developing back in 2015.

While the term &quot;prominent Bayside developer&quot;&nbsp;is banded around&nbsp;(which they certainly are), my recent chat with Lowe Living Founder and Managing Director, Tim Lowe, showed the builder developer&nbsp;to be much more than that.

&quot;Really we operate anywhere in what I would call the Bayside corridor,&quot; Lowe told Urban.

Lowe Living have previously&nbsp;had successful developments as far south as&nbsp;Chelsea, in the City of Kingston area on the coast, running right through to Elwood in Port Phillip to the north of the Bayside area.

&quot;We know our demographic is downsizers who are seeking a lifestyle upgrade. We know the Bayside corridor&nbsp;can offer that,&quot; Lowe added.

Construction recently commenced at Lowe&#39;s Sera Brighton development, a project of just 13 apartments by architecture firm Warren &amp; Mahoney&nbsp;in the heart of Dendy Village.

And Lowe Living&#39;s most recent Bayside launch saw them secure over 50 per cent of sales at Hampton Hill, which Tim says wasn&#39;t a surprise.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110170 project_image_fid=185822]

&quot;We knew we had the right location, and the offering was different to what else was being offered in Hampton,&quot; Lowe said, adding that there was plenty of demand for premium stock in the small suburb.

&quot;We were also excited for our first collaboration with Woods Bagot, a brand which would underpin the strength of the product,&quot; Lowe added.

It was all about timing and experience for Lowe Living, with the structured phases of pre-launch campaigns and the launch timed to perfection.

&quot;Most people are starting to digest the market again after January and in to Feb, so we knew we&#39;d see traction toward the end of February and in to March.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110170 project_image_fid=185810]

It bodes well for Lowe Living&#39;s next project, just a few hundred metres around the corner.

&quot;The Ocean Street development will be more of a residential offering, more appealing to those who don&#39;t want to live right amongst Hampton Street, or want a pet with a ground floor and some yard,&quot; Lowe said.

Targeting the downsizer more so than the rightsizer, the Ocean Street project will have just 10 apartments.

&quot;It&#39;s really cool in that it offers the convenience of being right on the fringe of the activity centre, while having the added benefits of being on a quiet street&nbsp;just one block down from the beach.&quot;

Tim Lowe said however because they know their demographic, they know they can dip in to other markets than the Bayside corridor.

&quot;Putting good quality apartment living in good location along the Bayside corridor has been successful for us, but our capability and strength can see us developer outside of Bayside.&quot;

&quot;We are confident in the revenue and location, and confident we have a great following and a great pool of clientelle which is will allow us to branch further in to some city pockets,&quot;&nbsp;Lowe added.

The team is soon to start construction on&nbsp;Larnook, another boutique project of just 11 apartments&nbsp;in the inner Melbourne suburb of Armadale. Lowe are set to commence construction of the&nbsp;Warren &amp; Mahoney-designed building in the new few months.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106276 project_image_fid=169742]

&quot;We&#39;re definitely looking at a few plays on projects closer to the city,&quot; Lowe said.

Following Ocean Street in Hampton, Lowe will be looking to develop again in Parkdale, another coastal spot south of the Bayside area.

They&#39;ve recently submitted plans for 30 apartments on Como Parade East, not far from their successful Topaz which has sold out all of its 22 apartments, and three of its four townhouses.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29852 project_image_fid=89862]

Lowe are in a secure position moving forward in to 2022, a year which has already been problematic for a number of developers.

They have their own&nbsp;construction arm, Lowe Create, which builds their developments.

&quot;We&#39;ve certainly seen first hand the changing in costs of materials and labour, however we&#39;re a little more protected as a builder developer than maybe a traditional developer who has to negotiate fiercely with construction companies,&quot; Lowe added.

&quot;It also gives buyers security knowing that the developer is also building the project, which means we control the whole process from start to finish. Having our own construction company means we can deliver on the promises we make to off the plan buyers surrounding the quality of the built form.&quot;

An important principle which Lowe Living keenly follow is to be respectful to the local community when looking to develop new projects.

&quot;We know a lot of our buyers come out of the local community they are the ones impacted first hand by development, so it&#39;s important for us to listen to community feedback when putting forward plans for a new project.&quot;

Lowe Living recently secured over 50 per cent of sales at their recently launched Bayside project, Hampton Hill, which Lowe says wasn't a surprise.



Lowe Living

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Lowe Living

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News