Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

First look: Winx billionaire’s beachfront Surfers Paradise apartment development greenlit

Melbourne apartments

<h2>Expert Observer</h2>

With the Federal election all but wrapped up, what can prospective buyers expect from the change in government, with the Labor party&rsquo;s win bringing a raft of policy changes.

With a look to address the property market&rsquo;s biggest issues,&nbsp; the headlining &lsquo;Help to Buy&rsquo; scheme is likely to be popular with prospective home buyers, as it provides a more affordable entry point to the Australian housing market for those individuals on low-to-mid level incomes.

This will contribute to more equality in rates of home ownership across income cohorts, and could create more opportunities for key workers to live in more central areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27815 project_image_fid=185118]

Being able to share up to 40% of the purchase price with the government, along with only a small deposit and opportunity to save on lenders mortgage insurance, helps to overcome several of the hurdles of home ownership.

Keeping in mind buyers will still have to fund their transactional costs, including stamp duties, legal costs and bank fees.

Labor&rsquo;s Help to Buy scheme will involve an equity contribution from the Federal Government of up to 40 per cent of the purchase price of a new home, and up to 30 per cent for an existing home for 10,000 Australian&rsquo;s each financial year, with homebuyers needing just a 2 per cent deposit.

With a cap of 10,000 places, the scheme could be quickly oversubscribed as prospective Australian home buyers take advantage of the leg up into the housing market, Lawless says, highlighting the First Home Loan Deposit scheme, which saw the first 10,000 places of the scheme allocated within six months.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112253 project_image_fid=193233]

However places for new homes were not taken up as quickly, and building constraints and high construction costs could deter the uptake of a shared equity scheme for new homes.

Having said that, a higher interest rate environment, which may see lower prices, could make people more cautious of buying, reducing demand for the scheme in the short term.

Historically, residential transaction activity correlates with property price movements. Additionally, we have just been through a period of significantly elevated transaction activity, including from the first home buyer cohort, where many home purchasing decisions were likely brought forward to take advantage of the swathe of home buying grants and incentives over 2020 and 2021.

The added flexibility of buyers being able to &lsquo;top up&rsquo; their ownership stake once in a better financial position is another advantage of the scheme, although any change in the proportion of ownership would presumably be accompanied by a paydown in the share of equity that has accrued in the property back to the government.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3260 project_image_fid=62316]

Help to Buy scheme

<ul>
	<li>Government helps with up to 40% of property price for new homes, 30% for established, households source the rest of finance with as little as 2% deposit. Government holds a part ownership stake in the property, which can be bought out over time.</li>
	<li>Spots: 10,000 ▪ Income cap: $90k for individuals / $120k for couples</li>
	<li>Property price cap: varies by region, from $400k up to $950k ▪ Restricted to owner occupier buyers who don&rsquo;t currently own a property</li>
	<li>Commences from July 2022 Although the scheme is expected to be popular among buyers, Lawless warned anyone considering the scheme should be aware of the risks associated with buying on such a small deposit.</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68832]

With the housing market probably heading into a downturn over the coming year or years, some buyers may find their home is worth less than the debt held against it.

It&rsquo;s important to know if the government will share in the downside risk if the property is sold while in a negative equity situation.

KeyStart Loans in WA is a good example of what can happen to a shared equity scheme in a declining market. According to the WA government, the portion of KeyStart loan accounts in default did rise between January 2017 and September 2019, from 0.92% to 1.21% of KeyStart accounts, in the midst of a long, large housing downturn across WA.

However, he also added the default rate is still relatively low and the scheme has helped thousands of people into home ownership, saying, the nature of the housing and economic downturn in WA has posed a lot more risk to serviceability than the relatively tight labour market conditions we see in Australia at the moment.

While the Help to Buy scheme will help thousands of Australian&rsquo;s enter the property market, it&rsquo;s only addressing the symptoms of housing affordability rather than aim to actually fix the underlying issues.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7020 project_image_fid=25155]

Similar to the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme, the new Labor Government appears to be adjusting from housing affordability solutions to more pragmatic policies that target home ownership, avoiding any downward pressure on housing prices.

It is also worth considering any demand-side incentives can add upward pressure to home prices. For this reason, the limited number of places in this particular scheme, along with price caps and income caps, should help to contain some of the excess demand that could result in upward pressure on prices.

Help to Buy is restricted to Australian&rsquo;s with a taxable income of up to $90,000 for individuals and up to $120,000 for couples. Capped at 10,000, applicants are also required to be Australian citizens and first home buyers.

Regional First Home Buyer Support Scheme 

<ul>
	<li>Government provides a deposit guarantee for regional home buyers with a deposit of at least 5%</li>
	<li>Spots: 10,000</li>
	<li>Income cap: $125k for individuals / $200k for couples</li>
	<li>Property price cap: varies by region, from $350k up to $800k to be reviewed half yearly</li>
	<li>Restricted to owner occupier buyers who haven&rsquo;t previously owned a property and have been living in the region for at least 12 months</li>
	<li>Commences from January 2023</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=197738]

The Regional First Home Buyer Support Scheme extends the existing First Home Loan Deposit Scheme by providing an additional 10,000 places specifically for regional first home purchases, providing a guarantee of up to 15 per cent for eligible first home buyers &ndash; so that locals with a&nbsp;five per cent deposit can avoid paying mortgage insurance.

Based on the property price caps, the scheme is likely to be most popular for those buyers targeting a unit purchase, or lower priced regional markets where detached housing values are more affordable.

CoreLogic&rsquo;s analysis of regional Australian suburbs shows roughly one third recorded a median house value equal to or under the Regional First Home Buyer Support Scheme price cap, and 71.1 per cent recorded a median unit value equal to or less than the price cap.

The Labor party notes &lsquo;the housing crisis is hitting regional Australia the hardest&rsquo;, which isn&rsquo;t necessarily true from a purchasing perspective.&quot;

Although regional housing values have risen faster than capital city housing values over the past few years, we are still seeing the dwelling value to household income ratio across regional Australia (a ratio of 7.9 in March 2022) lower than the capitals (a ratio of 8.5).

From a rental perspective, regional renters have been dedicating a larger proportion of their incomes towards rent than the capital cities since 2017.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3459 project_image_fid=179458]

Establishment of a National Housing Supply and Affordability Council 

<ul>
	<li>The newly established council would sit within an expanded remit of NHFIC (National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation) renamed Housing Australia. ▪ The council would: ▪ take a leadership role for setting land supply targets (in consultation state and territory governments)</li>
	<li>Establish a housing data warehouse focussed on housing supply, demand and affordability</li>
	<li>Advise on town planning policies and land supply</li>
	<li>Report on government owned land releases, rental affordability, homelessness and the number of new social &amp; affordable homes built annually</li>
	<li>Advise on appropriate housing measures within all current and future City and Regional Deals.</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=192963]

Many of the factors contributing to worsening housing affordability, such as insuffficent land release and restirive town planning policies will soon be part of an extended remit for the reframed NHFIC, which would be re-branded as Housing Australia, The expanded role will administer the various government programs, including the Help to Buy scheme, existing deposit guarantee schemes and the Housing Australia Future Fund, as well as take responsibility for the newly created National Housing and Affordability Council and National Housing and Homeless Plan.

Lawless said NHFIC&rsquo;s expanded remit should help to address the issues that make housing unaffordable, while also providing more transparency and reporting about the release of government owned land and helping to steer policies related to social and affordable housing supply.

It was interesting to note Labor intends to fund some of these initiatives by applying higher fees on foreign buyer purchases.

Higher fees and costs associated with foreign buying activity comes after a recent history of substantially higher federal and state-based taxes on this buyer segment. In fact, this may have contributed to foreign buying approvals hitting record lows according to FIRB data.

Further disincentives for foreign buying have the potential to keep foreign purchasing at low levels, which could have a negative outcome on rental supply. Arguably, higher levels of foreign buying activity could help to alleviate the rental crisis Australia is navigating by introducing more rental housing into Australia, given that foreign buyers generally have to buy new homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111979 project_image_fid=194079]

The Housing Australia Future Fund 

<ul>
	<li>A $10 billion initiative with the objective of funding social and affordable housing properties.</li>
	<li>Over the first five years the fund has a goal of building:
	<ul>
		<li>20,000 social housing properties &nbsp;</li>
		<li>10,000 affordable homes for key workers</li>
		<li>$200 million in maintenance/improvements of housing in indigenous communities</li>
		<li>$100 million for transitional housing options supporting women and children in domestic violence situations</li>
		<li>$30 million for housing veterans who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.</li>
	</ul>
	</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90532 project_image_fid=180653]

With the stock of social housing increasing only marginally since 2006, investment in social and affordable housing is long overdue.

While the additional funding and housing support for disadvantaged sectors of the community is welcome, the 30,000 additional dwelling over five years remains insufficient.

A recent report from Brendan Coates at the Grattan Institute noted even with 100,000 extra social housing properties targeted towards people in most need, more than two thirds of low-income Australians would remain in the private rental market where national rents are currently rising at around 9% per annum.

National Housing and Homelessness Plan 

<ul>
	<li>Aims to establish key short, medium and longer term reforms making it easier for Australians to buy a home, rent and provide shelter for homeless Australians.</li>
</ul>

There is little detail so far on this initiative and the plan is yet to be formulated. However, the Labor party has expressed a commitment to working with a broad range of stakeholders including the states and territories, local governments, industry bodies, superannuation funds and other relevant experts on how to address housing, finance and urban development.

Tim Lawless is CoreLogic&#39;s Research Director.

Labor’s Help to Buy scheme will involve an equity contribution from the Federal Government of up to 40 per cent of the purchase price of a new home, and up to 30 per cent for an existing home


tlawless

What a Labor Government means for housing affordability and the Australian property market

For those who love the finer things in life, Urban have taken a closer look at eight of Melbourne&#39;s best&nbsp;luxury apartments.

We think you may love them....&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>The Bradford, Kew - 365 Cotham Road, Kew</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112356 project_image_fid=197077]

The Bradford in Kew presents an opportunity to join the ranks of one of the Melbourne&rsquo;s most exclusive enclaves, with heritage overlays and planning controls limiting obtainability.

Developed by Jafari Property Group with a focus on those looking to downsize without compromising on quality and luxury appointments, The Bradford offers discerning buyers the chance to secure a blue-chip property and enhanced lifestyle, enjoying the area&rsquo;s abundance of amenities and relaxed community atmosphere.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112356 project_image_fid=197082]

Surrounded by grand estates and mansions and tree-lined thoroughfares, The Bradford comprises 10 luxury residences curated by the highly-regarded Cera Stribley architecture and interior design studio.

Designed over three levels, the building integrates into the surrounding streetscape, cleverly divided into four smaller entities, with generously-proportioned single-level apartments, including two penthouses, ranging from 95 sqm to 227 sqm, with gardens and outdoor terraces from 13 sqm to 148 sqm, which add to the sense of light and space.

<h2>Euroka Toorak - 5 Brookville Road, Toorak</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109759 project_image_fid=185211]

The Sydney-based developer, Sun Property Group, broke into&nbsp;the Melbourne apartment market with Euroka.

Landing at 5 Brookville Road, Euroka is inspired by Melbourne&rsquo;s iconic Roy Grounds House &ndash; once home to one of Victoria&rsquo;s most influential modern architects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109759 project_image_fid=185213]

The renowned architect and design firm,&nbsp;<a data-uw-styling-context="true" href="/architects/carr-design" target="_blank">Carr Design</a>, has created the 10 luxury apartments, which features a robust form, with a gallery-like, three-tiered elevation. Each apartment has been designed with a unique aspect across the three levels.

The theme of Euroka is &lsquo;welcome to the light&rsquo;, with the developer given permission from the Aboriginal Council, Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, to use the name.

<h2>La Storia - 195 Cardigan Street, Carlton North</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111979 project_image_fid=194079]

A limited series of just 20 apartments, La Storia&nbsp;is a considered residential building designed to pay homage to both Carlton and Italy.

M3 Design, led by father and son, Frank and Gianni Mancuso, are behind the interiors, delivering a range of three-bedroom apartments within Marcocci Property Group&rsquo;s development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111979 project_image_fid=194083]

Each residence prioritises natural light and airflow, with functionality at the heart of each floor plan.

The design has been inspired by the designs of the late legendary&nbsp;Venetian architect Carlo Scarpa with four different&nbsp;residences available; Residenza Lusso, Residenza Centro, Residenza Giardini, and Residenza Allegria.

<h2>Soul Hampton - 14-16 Grenville Street, Hampton</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93042 project_image_fid=193034]

Differentiating itself from the larger projects on the market in the area, Soul Hampton offers just eight apartments in the Finnis Architecture-designed building, which features a sleek modern exterior blending with lush greenery.

A stone&#39;s throw from Hampton Beach at 14-16 Grenville Street, Soul Hampton is made up of two and three-bedroom apartments, ranging in size from a generous 120 sqm to 181 sqm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93042 project_image_fid=197035]

Soul of Hampton isn&rsquo;t just located in one of the most prestigious and luxurious suburbs in Melbourne, it&rsquo;s in the heart of it.

Located on the doorstep of the Sandringham Yacht Club &ndash; Australia&rsquo;s number one yacht club &ndash; Soul apartments have created resort style living, with interiors of natural stone and high-end veneer timber panelling, as well as high-end finishes and Gaggenau appliances.

<h2>Awaken &ndash; Brighton - 30-32 Rooding Street, Brighton</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30087 project_image_fid=177703]

Offering just 13 three-bedroom residences, Awaken is uniquely positioned in a secluded area of Brighton at 30-32 Rooding Street, but just a short walk to the popular Bay Street.

Partnering with renowned Melbourne architect Travis Walton, Awaken takes a contemporary and restrained approach to bayside luxury living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30087 project_image_fid=143715]

Comprising locally-sourced European-style brickwork and contrasting electro-bronze metal detailing, the architectural composition draws focus to the verdant landscape, combining natives and evergreen plants to create softness and seasonal change.

Situated in a uniquely secluded, tree-lined, laneway-style street in Brighton, the project features an equally tranquil garden setting, landscaped by Acre Studio.

<h2>Hawthorn Park - 33 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=195894]

Dahua Group&rsquo;s $300 million Hawthorn East apartment development Hawthorn Park is their biggest apartment development in Melbourne to date.

Hawthorn Park is a sophisticated residential mid-rise that is strategically located amongst Hawthorn East&rsquo;s several transport, education, lifestyle and amenity offerings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=195900]

Designed by&nbsp;<a aria-label="Rothelowman - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-brl="false" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" data-uw-styling-context="true" href="/architects/rothelowman" target="_blank" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/rothelowman$rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>,&nbsp;<a aria-label="Hawthorne Park - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-brl="false" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" data-uw-styling-context="true" href="/buildings/hawthorn-park-33-camberwell-road-hawthorn-east" target="_blank" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/hawthorn-park-33-camberwell-road-hawthorn-east$hawthornepark">Hawthorne Park</a>&nbsp;delivers 368&nbsp;one, two and three-bedroom apartments, featuring several amenities, including Melbourne&rsquo;s first suspended sky pool. Theatre rooms, a sky lounge,&nbsp;gym with a yoga and meditation studio and massage suites,&nbsp;hammock lounge, an indoor residents lounge and a garden pavilion are also part of the impressive offerings.&nbsp;

The tower also features over 2000 sqm of parkland curated by acclaimed landscape architect&nbsp;<a aria-label="Jack Merlo - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-brl="false" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" data-uw-styling-context="true" href="/news/jack-merlo-sheds-light-on-the-landscape-design-for-hawthorn-park" target="_blank" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.urban.com.au/news/jack-merlo-sheds-light-on-the-landscape-design-for-hawthorn-park$jackmerlo">Jack Merlo</a>&nbsp;that bring the&nbsp;Hickory-constructed building to life. One, two and three-bedroom apartments are still available in&nbsp;<a aria-label="Hawthorne Park - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-brl="false" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" data-uw-styling-context="true" href="/buildings/hawthorn-park-33-camberwell-road-hawthorn-east" target="_blank" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/hawthorn-park-33-camberwell-road-hawthorn-east$hawthornepark">Hawthorne Park</a>.

<h2>Sky Garden - 235 Springvale Road, Glen Waverley</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2881 project_image_fid=184595]

Sitting high above the revamped and most sophisticated shopping centre in the East of Melbourne &ndash; The New Glen &ndash; Sky Garden transcends both luxury and location, offering residents the very best in modern living.

Conceptualised by award-winning architects&nbsp;<a aria-label="Rothelowman - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-brl="false" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" data-uw-styling-context="true" href="/architects/rothelowman" target="_blank" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/rothelowman$rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a aria-label="DKO Architecture - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-brl="false" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" data-uw-styling-context="true" href="/news/dko-architecture-on-the-changing-face-of-hotel-design" target="_blank" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.urban.com.au/news/dko-architecture-on-the-changing-face-of-hotel-design$dkoarchitecture">DKO Architecture</a>, Sky Garden offers a range of one and two-bedroom residences that boast panoramic views, from the Dandenong Range across to Melbourne&rsquo;s city skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2881 project_image_fid=195633]

The towers are individually distinctive while also sharing a design language of flowing lines and timeless materiality across the fa&ccedil;ade.

Sky Garden gets its name from its&nbsp;4,000 sqm outdoor podium garden complete with a relaxation zone, entertainment lounges, vegetable gardens, children&rsquo;s play area, private cabanas and an outdoor fitness area.

<h2>St Boulevard - 601 St Kilda Road, Melbourne</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1260 project_image_fid=177631]

Landing on the fringe of the Melbourne CBD, St Boulevard is a three-tower project by&nbsp;<a aria-label="the Shakespeare Group - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-brl="false" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" data-uw-styling-context="true" href="/developers/the-shakespeare-group" target="_blank" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/shakespeare-group$theshakespearegroup">the Shakespeare Group</a>.

Completed back in 2021, St Boulevard offers an unrepeatable location, located in a prime position on the corner of St Kilda Rd and High Street, and at the southern tip of Albert Park Lake.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1260 project_image_fid=177965]

Designed by Elenbery-Fraser, St Boulevard still has on offer a mix of two and five-bedroom apartments, with features of long-wrapped balconies and interiors centred on key modes of contemporary living.

St Boulevard offers a multitude of exclusive facilities including, a heated lagoon and lap pool, resort style pavilions, water sunbeds, outdoor barbecue pods, garden seating areas and a children&rsquo;s play area.

For those who love the finer things in life, Urban have selected eight luxury apartments we think you may love.


alisonwarters@gmail.com

Luxury Melbourne apartments you MAY love

The Whitehorse City Council has approved <a href="/developers/vicinity-centres">Vicinity’s</a> $700 million plans to bring to life the first stage of its mixed-use precinct of <a href="/new-apartments/box-hill-central-17-21-market-street-box-hill">Box Hill Central</a>.

Part of a 10-year masterplan, the leading Australian retail property group will transform 5.5 hectares into a&nbsp;mixed-use and retail precinct, with the first stage at&nbsp;17-21 Market Street set to include an office tower, a new town square, and a residential tower which will deliver 366 apartments.

Vicinity’s Chief Development Officer, Carolyn Viney, said the proposed redevelopment of the Box Hill Central precinct will transform the heart of Box Hill into a new, world-class destination for Melbourne.

<a href="/new-apartments/box-hill-central-17-21-market-street-box-hill"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="4000" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/box-hill-central-vic-artist-s-impression-residential-tower.jpg" width="2668" /></a>

“Since plans were submitted, we have worked closely with Council, State Government and the community to ensure that design reflects the site’s rich history and responds to the community’s aspirations and preferences to live, work and play close to home," Viney said.

“Reaching this important milestone makes way for the first stage of development that will create a new east-west pedestrian connection through the town centre which will be complemented by a community plaza and Spanish-steps inspired amphitheatre, a new residential tower for more than 600 residents and commercial office space for 2,000 workers.&nbsp;

“This exciting project reflects our long-term confidence and investment in Box Hill’s future growth and builds on its existing strengths, including its longstanding reputation as a key destination to visit for fresh food and rich dining experiences.”

<a href="/new-apartments/box-hill-central-17-21-market-street-box-hill"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="630" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/box-hill-central-vic-artist-s-impression.jpg" width="970" /></a>

Box Hill Central is set to become one of <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne’s</a> largest private mixed-use developments, with the first stage expected to deliver more than 50,000 sqm of commercial office space, along with 3,350 sqm of new public space. &nbsp;

It will also create new walkways and roads to interconnect to the precinct’s transport, retail, and dining offerings.&nbsp;

Overall, Vicinity says the redevelopment is expected to deliver approximately 2,400 construction jobs during the building phase and more than 6,000 new jobs for the precinct upon completion.

The group commenced construction works at Box Hill Central back in 2021, revitalising one of Melbourne’s busiest shopping centres and transforming it into a fresh and modern market-leading destination.

Vicinity’s Chief Development Officer, Carolyn Viney, said the proposed redevelopment of the Box Hill Central precinct will transform the heart of Box Hill into a new, world-class destination for Melbourne.



Vicinity secures approval for first stage of Box Hill Central redevelopment

Those seeking either a sea change or a lifestyle change have been popular with the new Brighton apartment project, Awaken, currently being created by the luxury developer Skelton Group.

Projects by Buxton Director,&nbsp;Heath Thompson, who is handling the sales, said the majority of buyers so far have come from outside the local area.

&ldquo;A lot of buyers are looking for a sea-change or a lifestyle-change, coming from outer suburbs and away from the bay to a lifestyle where they can walk down to the beach or the local caf&eacute; or train station,&rdquo; he said, adding that one of the most recent buyers has come from Mansfield, in the foothills of the Victorian Alps.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30087 project_image_fid=143715]

Thompson says Awaken, which is due for completion in spring this year,&nbsp;offers a more realistic entry to&nbsp;Brighton compared to other developments on the market.

&quot;A lot of Brighton has been saturated with big beautiful apartments, which come with a big price point, over $2.5 million plus,&quot; Thompson says.

&quot;Not everyone is selling a $5 million home and downsizing,&quot; Thompson adds, suggesting Awaken caters for a wider type of buyer.

The three-bedroom apartments in Awaken start from $1,395,000.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30087 project_image_fid=177708]

The&nbsp;luxury offering, now over 60 per cent sold,&nbsp;comprises just 13 three-bedroom apartments. It is located in a quiet&nbsp;area of Brighton at 30-32 Rooding Street, a laneway-style street just a short walk to the popular Bay Street&nbsp;and Martin Street activity centres.

Nearby is Brighton Beach and the famous Bay Trail, refined pubs, lively cafes, and boutique shopping experiences line the streets, offering the ideal blend of city amenities and beach-side lifestyle.

In collaboration with acclaimed Melbourne architect Travis Walton, Awaken takes a contemporary and restrained approach to bayside luxury living, with interiors taking on generous proportions and a palette of natural stone, aged metal and natural oak timber flooring.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30087 project_image_fid=177706]

Michael Skelton, Founder and Managing Director at Skelton, said they wanted to replicate the success of their nearby Brighton East project, Avenue.

&quot;We brought the same exceptional, proven Bayside team to Awaken and the results speak for themselves&quot;,&nbsp;Skelton said.

Awaken has been landscaped by the well known landscape firm ACRE, who have combined&nbsp;natives, evergreen and flowering plants to deliver visual impact and create seasonal change that blends seamlessly with the suburb&rsquo;s landscape.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=30087]

Projects by Buxton Director, Heath Thompson, who is handling the sales, said the majority of buyers so far have come from outside the local area


Sea changers and lifestyle changers popular at Awaken, Brighton apartments

The recently launched Walsh Grange, in Melbourne's Ormond, is drawing attention from everyone, from first home buyers to downsizers.

Projects by Buxton director Heath Thompson says it's due to the uniqueness of the project.

"There's nothing nearby locally that offers such a wide mix of both configurations, price point, and quality of development," Thompson says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108897 project_image_fid=180973]

Young families have shown keen interest in the larger three-bedroom apartments, particular the ground-level garden apartments that offer extensive landscaped courtyards, most of which are north facing.

“With Kilvington Grammar just around the corner, along with a host of other schools and parks and family-orientated amenity, we’re expecting to have a number of buyers amalgamate apartments also, to create that bigger space that is taking over the current property market," Thompson adds.

There's a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments on offer in the development of just 23 contemporary units.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108897 project_image_fid=180980]

The project is being developed as a joint venture between CQ Property Developments and Loi Projects. the latter being behind the likes of Arbour Park in Surrey Hills and MaSt in Brighton.

Walsh Grange has been designed by the local architecture studio Telha Clarke&nbsp;to deliver the security of community and the comfort of a private, premium residence.

The modern low-rise building focussing on creating connections to nature through the&nbsp;surrounding gardens and trees.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108897 project_image_fid=180972]

On the fringes of Brighton and Caulfield, Ormond is well connected to the rest of Melbourne through extensive bus&nbsp;and train network, as well as&nbsp;access to major road networks.

The small pocket in the Glen Eira district has grown substantially, and is&nbsp;now brimming with&nbsp;bustling retail precincts, extensive amenities and education options, as well as having many spacious public parks and gardens, and of course its proximity to Brighton Beach.

Ormond came to life more than 150 years ago, growing with the nearby CBD while still maintaining its community charm of a Bayside lifestyle.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108897]

Melbourne-based architects, Telha Clarke designed the Ormond apartments with the modern low-rise building focussing on creating connections through shared public spaces and surrounding garden and trees. 



How Walsh Grange brings something different to Melbourne's Ormond

Cornus Developments has just launched its latest residential project at 1637 Malvern Road,&nbsp;Glen Iris, with the new project set to be released across two stages.

The first release stage is set to include a collection of one and two-bedroom apartments, starting from $545,000, while the second stage of the release will comprise a handful of two-bedroom residences, along with three-bedroom configurations.

The 42&nbsp;boutique apartments have been designed to cater for the downsizer and first-home buyer, with Cornus bringing their signature style to the Glen Iris development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112842 project_image_fid=197660]

The spacious apartments will be fitted with European marble benchtops and splashbacks in all kitchens and bathrooms, along with European oak engineered floorboards, Bosch appliances, Polytec&nbsp;custom joinery, and integrated dishwashers.

Opening out onto generously sized courtyards, residences are open and light, encompassing the Glen Iris charm in the architecture.

Located in the desirable pocket of Glen Iris, residents will enjoy close proximity to public transport and freeway access, as well as being nearby to educational institutes, an array of cafes and eateries and boutique fashion retailers.

&ldquo;As a trusted, reliable and experienced developer we pride ourselves on providing the highest quality homes in an appropriate timeframe with the build expected to take 12 months,&rdquo; said a Cornus spokesperson.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112842 project_image_fid=197484]

&ldquo;Now is the best time to purchase as the project is in the pre-construction phase and purchasers can capitalise on the maximum off-the-plan stamp duty savings available,&rdquo; they added.

First home buyers purchasing an off-the-plan property in the state of Victoria can qualify for a stamp-duty concession if the home is valued at up to $1 million, until June 30 2023.

A full 100 per cent stamp duty exemption is also available for new residential properties that have been on the market for more than 12 months.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112842 project_image_fid=197485]

Earlier this year, Cornus&nbsp;completed their <a href="/buildings/cornus-la-frank-362-burwood-highway-burwood">La Frank</a> project located at <a href="/buildings/cornus-la-frank-362-burwood-highway-burwood">362 Burwood Highway, Burwood</a>, as well as their <a href="/buildings/cornus-woodlands-1399-1401-dandenong-road-malvern-east">Woodlands</a> project at <a href="/buildings/cornus-woodlands-1399-1401-dandenong-road-malvern-east">1399 Dandenong Road, Malvern East</a>.

Construction is well underway at <a href="/buildings/cornus-carnegie-1258-glen-huntly-road-carnegie">Cornus Carnegie</a>, which is now over 60 per cent sold, with construction slated to commence soon on the group&#39;s <a href="/buildings/cornus-oakleigh-35-41-dalgety-street-oakleigh">Oakleigh project</a>.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=112842]

The 42 boutique apartments have been designed to cater for the downsizer and first-home buyer, with Cornus bringing their signature style to the Glen Iris development.



Cornus Developments launch Glen Iris apartments 

Keystone Property Group are well on track to deliver its latest apartment development, Ovation, in the heart of the burgeoning Footscray area.

Ovation, on the popular&nbsp;Buckley Street, is currently being built by&nbsp;Platinum Construction and will home&nbsp;131 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments just over five kilometres from the Melbourne CBD.

Kavellaris Urban Design (KUD) handled the design of Ovation.

KUD&#39;s&nbsp;Billy Kavellaris said the&nbsp;vision for the Buckley Street development was to honour Footscray&rsquo;s unique architectural character while still establishing a new level of design ingenuity for the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5490 project_image_fid=78492]

&ldquo;Positioned in one of Melbourne&rsquo;s fastest emerging domains, innovation and liveability were of equal importance when designing ovation,&rdquo; Kavellaris said.

The fa&ccedil;ade speaks to the domain&rsquo;s industrial past, exhibiting red brick, concrete and steel, while the building&rsquo;s form is bold in its depiction of recessed voids, distinctive shapes and protrusions.

Bringing a layer of greenery to the development, the landscape design by John Patrick Landscape Architects is integrated tactfully into recesses on the fa&ccedil;ade, juxtaposing the building&rsquo;s-built form with lush, natural beauty.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5490 project_image_fid=78495]

According to the architects, Ovation&rsquo;s interiors were designed to evoke a homely atmosphere and a sense of familiarity in residents.

Featuring textured timber joinery teamed with oak floors, kitchen bench-tops are appointed with a modern concrete finish, along with brushed-nickel and matte black tap-ware, Bosch appliances and integrated storage.

The interiors of Ovation are also very much defined by what exists outside of the apartments, with full height windows enveloping residences with natural sunlight whilst also providing vistas to the city skyline and surrounding streetscapes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5490 project_image_fid=78490]

Level one of Ovation is where the residential amenities are located. The facilities include a lap pool, theatre, and barbecue and dining areas.

On the outskirts of the Melbourne CBD, Footscray is a rare suburb&nbsp;that, while possessing a strong village atmosphere, enjoys connectivity characteristic to that of a city fringe locale.

Located in the heart of Middle Footscray, Ovation reaps all the benefits of this attribute, close to public transport and an exorbitant list of convenient amenity.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5490]

KUD's Billy Kavellaris said the vision for the Buckley Street development was to honour Footscray’s unique architectural character while still establishing a new level of design ingenuity for the area


Keystone Property’s Ovation apartments under-construction in Footscray

Melbourne&#39;s Carlton is set to score a new collection of&nbsp;apartments on the sought-after fringe of the green Carlton Gardens.

The $80 million plans for a 13-level apartment tower and seven townhomes have been lodged by a company associated with Chinese businessman Wang Hau, the chairman of the Nanjing-based conglomerate Jeshing Group.

He paid $20.68 million for the site a 1-23 Rathdowne, on the corner&nbsp;of Rathdowne and Victoria Street, in 2013 from the&nbsp;Anti Cancer Council of Victoria. Currently on the 3,106 sqm block is the old 1970s Cancer Council building and a red brick warehouse.

Previously a much bigger site homed the Coffee Palace building, which was built in 1888. It was demolished after a fire in the late 1960s.

<a href="/new-apartments/1-23-rathdowne-street-carlton">To be notified on the next stage of the development, enquire here.</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/1-23-rathdowne-street-carlton"><img alt="" height="726" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-17_at_9.28.31_am.png" width="902" /></a> 
A c1888 drawing of the original Coffee Palace building. Source: Albert Charles Cooke.

There will be 77 apartments, designed&nbsp;to take in extensive views over the gardens with extensive vision glazing in all living rooms and bedrooms. The majority will be two-bedroom apartments, 42 of them. There will be only a single one-bed apartment, 27 three-bedders, six four-bedroom apartments, and a massive 557 sqm penthouse.

Just seven townhouses will be located on the ground level, a mix of one, two and three-bedrooms.

Residents will have access to private amenity on level one, which will include a pool, gym, yoga, sauna and steam room, and further amenity of two open space terrace areas with seating, a meeting room, and a library.

<a href="/new-apartments/1-23-rathdowne-street-carlton">To be notified on the next stage of the development, enquire here.</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/1-23-rathdowne-street-carlton"><img alt="" height="285" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-17_at_9.42.25_am.png" width="556" /></a>

There will be three office suites totalling around 615 sqm, and a 221 sqm ground floor cafe.

In readiness for Zero Carbon operation the development will be entirely serviced using electricity.

Bates Smart has designed the building to be separated into three distinct volumes that are arranged around a central landscaped forecourt. The two smaller volumes present as podium forms to the street,&nbsp;while the third volume comprising the upper levels &nbsp;is designed &nbsp;as a recessive and neutral element in contrast to the podiums below.

<a href="/new-apartments/1-23-rathdowne-street-carlton">To be notified on the next stage of the development, enquire here.</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/1-23-rathdowne-street-carlton"><img alt="" height="608" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-17_at_9.43.18_am.png" width="929" /></a>

&quot;The proposal is envisaged as a collection of stacked objects, with three&nbsp;distinct hierarchies, low, mid and upper,&quot; Bates Smart noted in their design statement submission.

&quot;These three&nbsp;distinct zones are further broken down through scale, form, setbacks and materiality, which respond to each orientation of the site.

&quot;Careful articulation of the facade, breaks these objects down even further and wrap around and inset balconies and recesses provide additional depth to the facade and a play of light and shade.

&quot;A primary fa&ccedil;ade grid is overlaid on the stacked objects and creates an ordered framework, framing balconies, windows and edges. The colour, materiality and texture of the fa&ccedil;ade grid is varied in response to the orientation.&quot;

Bates Smart worked in collaboration with the landscape architecture firm Barber, who in their statement said they&nbsp;landscape response to 1 Rathdowne Street is a unified program in close collaboration with Bates Smart Architects responding to the local context; the surrounding, existing victorian townhouse architecture, their private landscapes and the central urban milieu.

&quot;The landscape responds equally to the performance of landscape in buildings and specifically a tailored response to the proposed architecture and site development,&quot; they noted.

<a href="/new-apartments/1-23-rathdowne-street-carlton">To be notified on the next stage of the development, enquire here.</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/1-23-rathdowne-street-carlton"><img alt="" height="716" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-17_at_9.33.24_am.png" width="1094" /></a>

There is no heritage issues following the heritage impact statement report, however it did note the importance&nbsp;&nbsp;of face brick, bluestone and rendered masonry construction materials within the precinct.

&quot;The proposed material schedule for the building directly references this combination of materials, however reinterprets them in a contemporary manner that ensures they will remain legible as new development,&quot; the report read.

The submission to the City of Melbourne Council noted the 99 walkability score from the development, with everything accessible by foot, as well as solid public transport infrastructure.

First look: New apartments to hit Carlton Gardens

Spacious Group’s latest residential development, Voyage, has been designed by the Melbourne-based Cheah Saw Architecture, who took inspiration from its enviable location in the beachside suburb of Altona.

Located at 102-106 Pier Street, Voyager has an asymmetrical form with refined materiality.

The architecture takes on the surrounding landscape, referencing the natural beauty of Altona, structured with a contemporary edge.

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“We wanted to encapsulate the best of living in Altona, by the beach yet with all the conveniences of a bustling retail precinct at your doorstep,” Eugene Cheah and Joanne Saw said.&nbsp;

“By connecting the residences to the memories and experiences of the beach - the reflections and refractions on the water, the dappled light, sea breeze - we wanted these experiences to enhance the rituals of daily living at Voyage, so that residents would always be aware of their beautiful coastal location.”

The layered and textured design is echoed throughout the interiors, creating a sense of unison between the outdoor and indoor spaces with the flow of the living areas benefitting from full-height windows, before opening out onto expansive outdoor spaces.

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“We wrapped the building in a translucent screen to give privacy from the street and protect from the weather, whilst still allowing outdoor living year-round," the duo added.

“The glistening sunlight on the waves is translated into the dappled light filtering through perforated screens.

“These outdoor rooms, while still private and protected, mediate between the domestic interior spaces of the residences and the urban context and expansive surrounding coastal landscape."

Tying into the Altona landscape, Voyage is an extension of Pier Street and the Altona Pier out into the bay. The architecture evokes the experiences of the beach close by says Cheah and Saw

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=192849]

“The greenery of the foreshore reserves is echoed in the landscaped courtyard running through the heart of the project.”

The garden is overlooked by the bridges that connects the two residential blocks, raised over the ground floor, it opens up the building to views toward the ocean and envelopes apartments in natural light.

“We’re very excited by the expansive communal garden located in the heart of the project, where residents can relax in their own private oasis whilst taking in the prime views of Voyage’s location.”

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=112195]

The layered and textured design is echoed throughout the interiors, creating a sense of unison between the outdoor and indoor spaces with the flow of the living areas benefitting from full-height windows, before opening out onto expansive outdoor spaces.



How Cheah Saw Architecture designed the Altona Voyage apartments: Five minutes with Eugene Cheah and Joanne Saw

The streamlined Tower One at Queens Place is now completed, marking the steadfast progress of what is set to become the tallest twin tower development&nbsp;in Australia. The $235m project has been designed by both&nbsp;Fender Katsalidis and Cox Architecture, and a competition-winning design scheme for developer 3L Alliance.

Located near the Queen Victoria Market precinct and Flagstaff Garden, Tower One at Queens Place delivers an urban-scale residential building responding to the site&rsquo;s conditions and to a multitude of the residents&rsquo; needs.

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&ldquo;With a rich cultural history right at the foot of the site, the compelling and streamlined design of Queens Place will activate and connect this vibrant new precinct, and complement Melbourne&rsquo;s evolving skyline&rdquo; says Fender Katsalidis director, James Pearce.

&ldquo;The striking towers and podium have the potential to greatly enrich the liveability of Melbourne&rsquo;s CBD by providing residents with a considered masterplan design that places an emphasis on connection to this iconic pocket of the city,&rdquo; he added.

Cox&nbsp;Architecture director Pete Sullivan said that with the understanding that the Queen Victoria Market precinct was set to change, they wanted to generate a design that complements the broader streetscape.

&ldquo;The five-level podium is conceived as a &lsquo;mini-town,&rsquo; with a bustling series of arcades and lanes activated through a mixed-use program,&quot; Sullivan said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2806 project_image_fid=197226]

&quot;The podium&rsquo;s design ascends the streamlined tower form with an unembellished fa&ccedil;ade, shaped and sculpted by contextual drivers within and around the unique site.&rdquo;

Responding to the site&rsquo;s exposure to north-westerly winds, the 80-storey Tower One, with its silver curtain wall glazing, has been rounded to capture and reflect light and views into each residential apartment.

The tower is complete with quality amenities and spaces designed to offer residents the potential to optimise their way of living, working and play. Resident socialisation is promoted through communal amenities such as the pool and spa, games rooms, karaoke suite, cinema, library, poker, and mah-jong room.

Breaking up the progression of dwellings, a high-rise lobby at level 51 offers further amenity, including a swimming pool, karaoke, and dining space. Beyond that are the high-rise apartments occupying level 53 to 68.

Through-site connections and unobstructed solar access under the mixed-use podium provide pedestrians with practical accessibility to the surrounds and encourages circulation through the block.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2806 project_image_fid=197227]

For visitors to the area, the publicly accessible plaza is also emboldened as a space for gathering or as sheltered resting spots.

The multi-level podium enriches the ground plane with new linkages and an enhanced public realm within the Queen Victoria Market precinct.

Intended for a variety of uses, the five-level podium includes retail tenancies, commercial suites, and a childcare centre. The podium and tower form are expressed through contrasting yet complementary materials.

In distinction to the sleek silver tower, the detailed podium is armoured with curvaceous fins and an external terrace interwoven with planters, with the earthy tones and exposed stonework creating&nbsp;a distinctly Melbourne ground-level experience.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=2806]

Located near the Queen Victoria Market precinct and Flagstaff Garden, Tower One at Queens Place delivers a gleaming urban-scale residential building responding authentically to the site’s conditions and to a multitude of the residents’ needs.



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