<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sunland-group">Sunland Group</a> has officially lodged plans for its first Gold Coast apartment project since the departure of the Abedian family from the company three years ago, unveiling a new high-rise proposal for a prominent Broadbeach corner site on Old Burleigh Road.

The application was submitted by an entity directed by Tom Jamieson, stepson of longtime Sunland leader Soheil Abedian, and Riaz Rezvanipour, brother-in-law of Sahba Abedian, Soheil’s son.

Sunland acquired the 1,283 sqm site on the corner of Old Burleigh Road and Armrick Avenue for $9.5 million late last year and is now seeking approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-101-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">42-storey tower with 81 apartments</a>.

<img alt="First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fea2946d-90ee-4cfc-babe-2a8ad5db2cb6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers.png?VersionId=BV0fihJw31nDIQ8ozY_h3GbS8mxDyhnm" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, the proposed tower at 99-101 Old Burleigh Road would deliver a predominantly larger-format apartment mix aimed at the owner-occupier market. Plans include 17 two-bedroom apartments, 55 three-bedroom apartments, and nine four-bedroom residences across 35 residential levels.

The development also incorporates three basement levels, four podium parking levels, two levels of communal recreation facilities, and rooftop plant and equipment. A total of 189 car spaces are proposed, significantly exceeding the 90 spaces required under the planning scheme.

The architecture adopts a sculpted, curvilinear form, with deep wraparound balconies and integrated landscaping intended to soften the tower’s vertical expression. The planning report states the building’s “slender footprint/form provides a complimentary yet varied built form within the local streetscape” and contributes to “a varied, yet ordered skyline.”

Contreras Earl noted in its Architectural Statement that from the early stages, the project addressed a fundamental challenge: how to accommodate the required residential yield while avoiding the conventional model of a tower sitting on a rigid, fully resolved parking podium.

“The most direct response would have been to consolidate parking into a singular, flat podium and extrude a repetitive tower above,” the statement said. “While efficient, this approach would result in a consolidated built form with limited engagement with the surrounding landscape and public realm.”

Instead, the conventional podium model was “deliberately rejected”. The architects described the base of the building as “a landscaped architectural condition where structure, planting and circulation are integrated”.

“Rather than presenting a continuous built mass, the base of the building is articulated through a series of concrete planter elements that organise the podium into a fragmented system,” the statement said. “This approach reduces the perceived bulk of the lower levels while establishing a more permeable interface with the streetscape and adjacent open space.”

<img alt="Sunland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="923fad8d-c960-4527-8fbe-975cf1ddf88d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%2010.32.03%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=pngwb0hYOIUpq9vDw6F2EsOiVuHF3DiX" />

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The site sits within the High Density Residential Zone and inside the City of Gold Coast’s unrestricted “HX” building height area, where the planning framework anticipates intensified residential development tied to the expanding light rail corridor. The planning report notes the area is undergoing “transition toward more intense development forms” given its proximity to Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and high-frequency public transport infrastructure.

Positioned directly opposite Broadbeach Park and within walking distance of Florida Gardens light rail station, the development would sit among a rapidly evolving stretch of Old Burleigh Road that has become one of the Gold Coast’s most active apartment development corridors.

The application joins a growing pipeline of luxury residential projects reshaping Broadbeach, including nearby developments by 5Point Projects, Polycell, and Graya.

The planning report argues the project contributes toward the Gold Coast’s long-term housing targets under the South East Queensland Regional Plan, which forecasts the need for more than 100,000 additional high-rise dwellings across the city by 2046.

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The Abedian family departed Sunland Group in late 2023, ending a four-decade association with the company, and subsequently established the private development firm Abedian &amp; Co. The group is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/greenmount-residences-cnr-hill-street-and-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Greenmount Residences</a> at Rainbow Bay and recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/18-mary-avenue-14-18-mary-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">18 Mary Avenue</a> in Broadbeach.
</section>

Joel Robinson

First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach new apartment market with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans

The Minns Labor Government has established the new Bays West Delivery Authority to lead the development&nbsp;of the Bays West Precinct and Blackwattle Bay Precinct.&nbsp;

The Authority is charged with creating Sydney’s newest precinct, a thriving, connected, sustainable hub with White Bay Power Station as its cultural heart. Its vision is to build on the area’s natural, cultural and industrial history to shape a vibrant new neighbourhood.

The precinct will deliver up to 8,500 well-located homes, including a minimum of 10 per cent affordable and essential worker homes. Combine new housing with public open space, opening public access to the waterfront for the first time in more than 100 years, while retaining important deep-water facilities to support Sydney’s working harbour.

Located just minutes from the Sydney CBD and connected to a world-class metro, ferry, walking and cycling links, the Bays West precinct will rebalance housing growth towards well-serviced inner-city locations and help tackle the state’s housing crisis.

The Bays West Delivery Authority,&nbsp;an agency of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, will report to the NSW Minister for Lands and Property who already has oversight of major precinct renewal projects including at Blackwattle Bay and Barangaroo.

As part of the broader Bays West transformation, the Minns Government recently announced that a proposal from Lendlease to redevelop part of the Bays West Precinct has progressed to Stage 2 of the NSW Government’s unsolicited proposals process.

<img alt="Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ed71eb9-d8e8-4fa7-b9d1-de4531dcf2f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%209.42.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=IDryFIbped9SNDg72LEN_EecvhUsOPvp" />

The Minns Labor Government has also confirmed the Bays West precinct will have a new suburb name. This will be the first major suburb built in close proximity to Sydney’s CBD in decades and will encompass the area currently being referred to as Bays West, including Glebe Island and the White Bay Power Station. Served by a new Metro station just five minutes from the CBD, it will become one of the most populous suburbs in the Inner West and one of Sydney’s premier cultural destinations.

An early works program is taking shape, which&nbsp;includes the first stages of an international design competition.&nbsp;

The aim of the Bays West&nbsp;International&nbsp;Design Competition is to&nbsp;ensure design excellence is embedded in the project from the start. The competition will deliver an&nbsp;urban framework that defines the character, ambition and long-term identity of&nbsp;this&nbsp;former industrial precinct as it transitions to a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable residential&nbsp;neighbourhood.

The competition will be led by the Bays West Delivery Authority in partnership with Government Architect NSW.&nbsp;

It will launch with an invitation for a global Expressions of Interest, before moving to an invitation-only stage that will be assessed by a panel that&nbsp;will provide advice to Cabinet who will select a winner.

Premier of NSW, Chris Minns said the establishment of the new Authority is the first step in transforming the Bays West precinct into a vibrant, livable suburb minutes from the Sydney CBD and two stops from Hunter St Station on the Metro West line.

“The Authority will deliver well-located homes close to the heart of the city and integrate the new precinct with Blackwattle Bay and the new Sydney Fish Market.

“This is a generational opportunity to build a new suburb on the city’s edge and open the harbour foreshore to the public for the first time in a century.”&nbsp;

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the new Bays West Delivery Authority established by the Minns Government will turbocharge the development of Sydney’s newest suburb.

“The Authority is working at a record pace to deliver an international design competition, planning pathways and a financial model so that this development benefits Sydney with well-designed homes in a central location, close to public transport, jobs, entertainment and essential services.

“If we want Sydney to stay liveable and affordable, we need to be bold about using underutilised government-owned land to deliver homes for the future while making sure essential working harbour functions can be accommodated.”

Bays West Delivery Authority established to "turbocharge" Sydney’s newest suburb

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.

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

Melbourne apartments

The mixed-use Riverlee development Seafarers is one of the most anticipated apartment and hotel combination&#39;s to hit Melbourne in recent years.

The development will home Australia&#39;s first 1 Hotels, along with 123 apartments which have already <a href="/news/vic/entrepreneurs-and-executives-favour-hotel-lifestyle-as-seafarers-docklands-sales-surge">been a hit with entrepreneurs and business executives</a>.

Designed by the international architecture studio Fender Katsalidis, Seafarers is expected to be completed in late 2023.

Urban recently spoke to&nbsp;Gabriella Castelmore, a published author who recently moved back to Melbourne having lived overseas for the last 26 years and has found a home in Seafarers.

How did you discover Seafarers?

I first discovered Seafarers when I was in Paris. At the time, I wasn&rsquo;t ready to buy a property in Australia as I was still living overseas. When I did finally make the move, I had a good sense of the market and made the decision to look into Seafarers further. After visiting a few different developments, Seafarers was the obvious choice. The location and value for money exceeded my expectations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=73049]

What attracted you to Seafarers?

Riverlee went straight to the top shelf in appointing the architect and interior designer, and that really stood out for me. I also liked the 1 Hotel component and its high standard of sustainability.

Location was important - I wanted to be central as in the past I had long commutes to work. Now, I will be in close proximity to the office and able to walk or ride to work easily. Coming from Paris where most people live in apartments, it&#39;s comforting knowing there is a beautiful rooftop garden terrace, river views and access to the public park.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=73042]

What qualities were you looking for in a home?

First and foremost I was looking for quality fixtures and fittings, as well as floorboards and carpets. Moving to Melbourne, I had to factor in the need for storage. I was able to secure two units of storage in addition to a car park space.

Other qualities that were important were the amenities - having access to the gym, pool and sauna.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=97032]

What are you looking forward to most about living at Seafarers?

To be honest, I am really looking forward to the sheer comfort and luxury Seafarers offers. My apartment is really spacious with a big bathtub and lots of storage for me to keep everything organised and out of sight. I am also looking forward to using the hotel, inviting friends for coffee or a drink and experiencing 1 Hotel in Melbourne.

<a href="/news/vic/what-buyers-need-to-know-about-the-newest-northbank-project-seafarers-five-minutes-with-riverlees-david-lee">Read more:&nbsp;What buyer&#39;s need to know about the newest Northbank project Seafarers: Five minutes with Riverlee&#39;s David Lee</a>

Are there elements you customised when designing your new home?

I spent a bit of time changing the floorplan and Riverlee was really accommodating throughout the whole journey. I took out the laundry sink which I moved to the large en-suite with access via the hallway. By removing this, I was able to build a substantial study nook large enough for two people with built in cabinetry and shelving.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=73043]

We also finished the study area 20cm short from the kitchen allowing full floor to ceiling cupboards in the kitchen instead of a wall, and providing an enormous amount of additional pantry space.

<a href="/news/vic/the-design-details-fender-katsalidis-architects-discuss-riverlees-mixed-use-docklands-development-seafarers">Read more:&nbsp;The Design Details: Fender Katsalidis Architects discuss Riverlee&#39;s mixed-use Docklands development Seafarers</a>

What attracted you to the Northbank area?

Accessibility to the city and knowing everything is within walking distance, from the variety of great restaurants and bars Melbourne has to offer to the Arts Precinct and Botanical Gardens. Being a big tennis fan, I am also looking forward to being able to walk to the Australian Open when it&rsquo;s on.

I was also attracted to the bike tracks located directly around Seafarers and liked the fact that I&rsquo;ll be able to easily access the South Melbourne and Queen Vic markets.

Are there features at Seafarers that surprised you? 

Yes, the heritage aspect really surprised me, with the building retaining as much of the original site as possible. In today&#39;s world we need to be more conscious about our waste, and knowing this is something Riverlee is prioritising is very much aligned with my values.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=27728]

Urban recently spoke to Gabriella Castelmore, a published author who recently moved back to Melbourne having lived overseas for the last 26 years.



Why I bought a Seafarers, Melbourne apartment: Buyer Q&A

The Melbourne developer Riverlee has seen an interesting buyer demographic emerge at its&nbsp;luxury mixed-use Docklands development, Seafarers.

Entrepreneurs and executives have swarmed the Fender Katsalidis-designed development, which incorporates a 280 room 1 Hotel, as well as 123 apartments, which together have been dubbed 1 Hotel and Homes.

Around 70 per cent of buyers so far have been business owners or those in C-suite and executive positions.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=161090]

They&#39;ve been drawn to Seafarers, with the under construction development giving buyers the ability to customise their apartments, including adding home office spaces.

They&#39;ve also been keen on the unique inclusion of the hotel support staff, who they can lean on for tasks similar to personal assistants.

David Lee, development director at Riverlee, says they are catering to those that are accustomed to or seeking an international way of living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=161089]

&ldquo;The hotel residence lifestyle has gained a lot of traction in places like New York and Asia, but there is a need for this type of home in Australia.

&quot;There are various residential buildings out there with features such&nbsp;as a concierge service but hotel-branded residences, particularly those with an international focus, take it to another level,&rdquo; Lee added.

&ldquo;Business owners and executives are a key target market at Seafarers with its connectivity to the city and the airport as well as the lifestyle on offer.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=73042]

&quot;Looking at hotel-branded residences globally, they hold their value extremely well, showing that their enduring appeal is also a savvy investment.&rdquo;

Residents will be able to use&nbsp;the hotel amenity, including the swimming pool, gym, sauna and spa, housekeeping and personal shopping, in home room service and wellness treatments, and 24-hour concierge services.

Residents will also have access to exclusive resident only amenities, including a rooftop BBQ and garden overlooking the Yarra River, bookable private dining rooms, and library and lounge areas.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=27728]

Around 70 per cent of buyers so far have been business owners or those in C-suite and executive positions

Entrepreneurs and executives favour hotel lifestyle as Seafarers, Docklands sales surge

Dahua Group recently completed their $300 million Hawthorn East apartment development Hawthorn Park, their biggest apartment development in Melbourne.

They had architecture firm Rothelowman, one of Australia&rsquo;s leading architecture practices, collaborate with the landscape architect Jack Merlo on the Camberwell Road development of 330 residences.

Now the development is complete, Urban has taken a look at five of the key selling points of Hawthorn Park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=158928]

<h2>The Developer</h2>

Dahua Group was established in 1988 in Shanghai and was established in Victoria in 2014, a year before they entered New South Wales. In 2017 they completed their first apartment development in Melbourne, the 91 apartment block Noir in South Yarra.

Led by managing director William Huang, Dahua has currently a number of master planned communities across Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.&nbsp;

<h2>The Architect</h2>

The Melbourne-based, but very much internationally renowned architecture firm Rothelowman handled the unique design of Hawthorn Park.

&ldquo;Dahua Group wanted a sense of community and tranquillity in a common garden setting as a transition from the hustle/bustle of Camberwell road&rdquo; Rothelowman senior associate Frances Hall told Urban.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=158934]

&ldquo;All of the colours inside and outside were influenced by tones found in nature.&nbsp; Hence the name Hawthorn Park.&rdquo;

<a href="/expert-insights/buying/rothelowman-discuss-the-design-principles-of-dahua-groups-hawthorn-park-apartment-project">Read more: Urban spoke with Rothelowman about the design of Hawthorn Park</a>

<h2>The Amenities</h2>

Hawthorn Park&rsquo;s striking 25 metre floating lap pool with glass bottom immediately catches the eye, acting as a bridge between two of the four buildings.

Rothelowman said it was the feature of the development they were most looking forward to seeing.

&ldquo;We were most excited about delivering the pool bridge as it is testament to our collaboration with the contractor Hickory Group and the consultant team, to realise a design which resolves many complex requirements,&rdquo; Rothelowman&rsquo;s Frances Hall said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=158931]

As well as the pool, Hawthorn Park features a fully-equipped gym with a yoga and meditation studio and massage suites, a sky lounge, hammock lounge, an indoor residents lounge and a garden pavilion.

<h2>The Landscaping</h2>

One of Australia&rsquo;s leading landscape architects Jack Merlo created the central park and a series of garden spaces through Hawthorn Park, with the plan to soften and complement the built form.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Our brief was also to find a balance between providing a level of privacy in communal spaces while also providing spaces for residents to enjoy with friends,&rdquo; Merlo told Urban. &ldquo;We have achieved this with a design that caters for larger groups and smaller so it can be used by everyone for any occasion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=158940]

&ldquo;Dahua wanted to use landscaping wherever possible, so we also have spaces like the Eastern Courtyard that provides light, greenery and a view for residents.&rdquo;

<a href="/news/jack-merlo-sheds-light-on-the-landscape-design-for-hawthorn-park">Read more: Jack Merlo sheds light on the landscape design for Hawthorn Park</a>

<h2>The Location</h2>

Located in one of Melbourne&rsquo;s most blue chip suburbs, the Hawthorn East development is surrounded by heritage homes and buildings, cafes, boutiques and bars, as well as a well connected public transport system.

The major train and tram lines that provide services into the Melbourne CBD only six kilometres away.

Residents will be surrounded by nature by being within walking distance of Fritsch Holzer Park, and a cycle to the trail that lines the Yarra River.

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There&rsquo;s a number of educational institutions nearby, ranging from primary school to university campuses.

<a href="/news/vic/walking-tour-whats-within-walking-distance-from-hawthorn-park">Read more: Urban gave a full walking tour of what is around Hawthorn Park</a>

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Dahua Group recently completed their $300 million Hawthorn East apartment development Hawthorn Park, their biggest apartment development in Melbourne

Five key selling points of Dahua’s Hawthorn East apartment development, Hawthorn Park

Crown Group are on the look out for apartment development sites, as the Sydney headquartered developer looks to bulk up its apartment development pipeline for the next five to 10 years.

They&#39;re not limiting their search to opportunities just in the Harbour capital however, with&nbsp;Crown Group Chairman and chief executive Iwan Sunito suggesting they are also looking in Melbourne and Brisbane.

&ldquo;While the international border remains closed, growth will be hampered significantly,&quot; Sunito said, adding that the hampered growth is why they are looking at development deals.

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&ldquo;The market is more realistic than three to five years ago as foreign groups and state-owned enterprises have left the market.&nbsp;

&ldquo;The market contracted due to the Government&rsquo;s policy on foreign buyers having to pay double the stamp duty as well as difficulty in finding access to funding.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&ldquo;Covid-19 and the shutdown of the international border also dramatically impacted Australia&rsquo;s residential apartment market, where foreign buyers used to make up at least 50 per cent of purchasers,&rdquo; Sunito noted.&nbsp;

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Despite the international border remaining closed, Crown Group remains confident in the future, based on initiatives such as government stimulus packages such as Jobkeeper which has buoyed Australia&rsquo;s economy.&nbsp;

Sunito compares the stimulus supply offered by the Australian government as similar to the US.

&ldquo;Property prices have risen in the US in the last 12 months, which is not dissimilar to Sydney,&rdquo; Sunito noted.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7020 project_image_fid=163817]

&ldquo;There is such a shortfall of city apartments. The first home buyer grant really only impacts the house and land market due to the price point. It&rsquo;s barely making an impact in the apartment market as apartments in the inner city are upwards of $1 million.&rdquo;&nbsp;

&ldquo;The city will experience a crisis of supply which will in turn push the price growth even further in inner city apartment developments,&rdquo; Sunito said.

Crown are currently marketing two inner city Sydney projects, the luxury Waterfall by Crown at Waterloo, completed in late 2019 shortly before COVID hit, and the nearby Mastery by Crown which will be Australia&#39;s first Japanese-themed community.

Designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma in collaboration with&nbsp;Koichi Takada&nbsp;Architects and Silvester Fuller, the masterplanned community will have five&nbsp;uniquely designed and distinct residential buildings positioned above a 2,175&nbsp;sqm&nbsp;retail precinct which will home&nbsp;27 stores and a new&nbsp;Japanese eat street.

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“While the international border remains closed, growth will be hampered significantly," Sunito said

Crown Group look to expand apartment development pipeline, weighing up opportunities in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne 

Buyers in the Home, Alphington apartment complex have been offered rebates up to $101,000.

The rebates on settlement ranged from $27,000 to $60,000 for two-bedroom units.

The rebates range from $51,000 to $101,000 for three-bedroom units in the 16-storey complex.

The two-bedroom apartments eligible for the grant are priced from $691,000 to $1.508 million while the three-bedroom homes are priced from $1.29 million to $2.548 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24441 project_image_fid=84982]

At its 2019 launch the prices for its two-bedroom offerings was $532,000 to $1.598 million and its three-bedroom layouts were priced from $1,120,000 to $2,615,500.

The initiative, dubbed the Caydon Home Grant, comes as the state government&#39;s 50 per cent stamp duty concession ends June 30.

All homebuyers were eligible for the new stamp duty discounts, but only until the end of the 2020-21 financial year.

The Victorian Government&#39;s stamp duty savings of 50% was across new builds and off-the-plan apartments valued up to one million dollars.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24441 project_image_fid=84979]

Caydon has sold just over 50 per cent of the 324 apartments.

Completion is scheduled for July next year for the development to be located at YarraBend, the site of the old Amcor paper mill.

Set at 626 Heidelberg Rd at the Chandler Highway corner, the 7470 sqm Home sits alongside Glenvill&rsquo;s 14.5ha YarraBend precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24441 project_image_fid=84980]

The Caydon Home Grant does not apply to its other projects such as Due North at 70-82 High Street, Preston.

The Caydon Home Grant &ndash; rebated by CP Alphington Development - is available from 28 June, 2021 until 30 September, 2021 on two and three-bedroom apartments and skyhomes in Home, Alphington.&nbsp;

A potential purchaser should seek independent legal advice and make their own enquiries in relation to this offer and before entering into a contract of sale, the Caydon website advises.

A year away from completion, Caydon has announced a Caydon Home Grant with up to $101,000 rebated to apartment buyers in Home, Alphington 

jchancellor

Caydon offers up to $101,000 rebate for Home, Alphington apartment buyers

The recently completed and ready-to-move-in The Brass Edition, the contemporary Empire Properties-developed&nbsp;Moonee Ponds development of just 22 apartments, has been designed by the renowned architecture firm ClarkeHopkinsClarke.

The brief from Empire was for a boutique range of apartments that would each feel like a home.

&quot;We interpreted this through the generosity of space; internally, vertically, and outdoors,&quot; CHC advise.

They designed the 22 two and three bedroom apartments, geared at the owner-occupier, with a generous amount of indoor and outdoor living space per residence.

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The two bedroom, two bathroom apartments, which each come with a car space, start from $650,000, around half of the price of the median house price for the inner-north west suburb.

<a href="/news/vic/the-brass-edition-walking-tour-six-local-offerings-that-residents-should-embrace-at-moonee-ponds">Read more: Take a walking tour of what&#39;s around Brass Edition</a>

There are three bedroom apartments still for sale in the development, starting from $950,000 and spanning over 100 sqm.

There are larger three bedroom apartments priced at $1.12 million, and four bedroom apartments from $1,495,000.

Set just 100 metres from Queens Park, the Brass Edition takes cues from the surrounding industrial heritage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3233 project_image_fid=160014]

Large terrace areas are framed by large floor to ceiling windows which maximise&nbsp;natural light and allow the internal surfaces to exude warmth and enhance their textural element.

<blockquote>
&quot;The&nbsp;architecture is inspired by modern, clean lines that are accentuated by the use of linear cladding and formwork which draw on the heritage aspect of the streetscape.

&quot;Reclaimed brickwork offers contrast against striking bronzed elements, while greenery on every level brings an organic element to every aspect.&quot;

Tony Masa, Empire Properties co-founder
</blockquote>

About the developer

Empire is a family owned and operated property development and building company that has been consistently delivering&nbsp;properties to the Melbourne community for a number of years. Empire was established by Tony and&nbsp;Cena Masa and is run in collaboration with their two sons Alexander &amp; Nicholas Masalkovski.

With a passion for design and a philosophy that promotes functionality, Empire Properties has built a reputation for quality and is renowned for excellence in the residential, retail and retirement sectors of the Melbourne property market.

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&nbsp;

The brief from Empire was for a boutique range of apartments that would each feel like a home

Inside the completed apartments at Brass Edition in Moonee Ponds

Beulah has appointed the world renowned urban design practice Grant Associates and the international design practice ASPECT Studios to create the landscaping on their landmark Southbank development, STH BNK by Beulah. 
 
The development will be the first in Melbourne for the UK-based Grant Associates, who are most recognised for designing&nbsp;Singapore&#39;s well known Gardens by the Bay. They also handled the public area in the development of Barangaroo South in Sydney.

They&#39;ll&nbsp;be working with the Melbourne-based ASPECT Studios, who were the landscape architects for&nbsp;Prahran Square in Melbourne and Darling Square in Sydney.

The duo will join&nbsp;UNStudio, Cox Architecture and global design and engineer firm&nbsp;Arup, along with &lsquo;living infrastructure&rsquo; specialists Junglefy, in&nbsp;bringing to life the green spaces proposed in the winning concept from the 2018 Southbank by Beulah architecture competition.

&nbsp;The landscape design will be centred on the planted vertical facades and outdoor spaces that will create the world&rsquo;s tallest vertical garden, stretching from the street level to the top of both towers.

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Upon completion there will be&nbsp;the Future Sky Garden, an expansive conservatory space at the top of the tallest tower. Extended planted terraces will characterise the facing facades of the two towers as they twist towards each other.

The&nbsp;mixed-use development on the current BMW showroom site on Southbank&#39;s&nbsp;City Road will comprise nearly 500 apartments and around 390 hotel rooms, as well as retail and office space.

On Grant Associates&rsquo; appointment, Beulah Executive Director Adelene Teh said the practice&rsquo;s reputation, globally, is second to none.

&ldquo;Making considerations for the team on this project is a monumental task as this will be a world-class precinct for the city,&quot; Teh said.

&quot;Grant Associates were selected, not only because they are leaders in sustainable urban landscapes, but because they truly understood our vision of connecting people through nature. Through dynamic biophilic design, our vision is to redefine notions of retail co-creation, cultural possibilities, workplace innovation, the learning economy, sustainable living and urban belonging.&rdquo;

<img alt="" height="741" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gardens_by_the_bay.jpg" width="1200" /> 
Singapore Garden&#39;s by the Bay, landscaped by Grant Associates. Image:&nbsp;Patrick Bingham Hall

Teh said the Beulah team is also thrilled to have ASPECT Studios join the team, bringing their local and global experience, as well as their extensive knowledge of landscape architecture, urban design, and urban strategy.

&ldquo;It is about creating a sense of place and a signature location for Melbourne and Australia, which connects people and nature, as well as promoting a healthy city community and we know the ASPECT Studios team can help us achieve this.

<a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/template_photoshop_southbank_1.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Grant Associates Director Keith French said the practice believe in combining the latest design technology and thinking about nature, an opportunity which Southbank by Beulah represents.

&ldquo;Southbank by Beulah is a pioneering project and delivering such a complex piece of integrated greening and place making in Melbourne is only possible through a collaborative approach and the collective efforts of many disciplines and specialists. We are really pleased to be working in close partnership with ASPECT Studios on this incredible project that brings nature and biophilic design to the forefront

ASPECT Studios&rsquo; Studio Director Matthew Mackay said they are looking forward to drawing on our experience of designing and delivering green infrastructure, biophilia and living architecture and pairing it with our local knowledge to provide a significant urban greening outcome for the city of Melbourne.

The development will be the first in Melbourne for the UK-based Grant Associates, who are most recognised for designing Singapore's well known Gardens by the Bay



Beulah appoint landscapers Grant Associates and ASPECT Studio for Southbank by Beulah apartment development

With beautiful architecture, a vibrant community and great local offerings, Moonee Ponds&rsquo; The Brass Edition provides the ideal residence for new homebuyers.

Situated at 144 Pascoe Vale Road, the development is the latest project delivered by Empire Properties.

Designed by esteemed architects Clarke Hopkins Clarke, the boutique collection of 22 two and three-bedroom homes draw on the heritage of the streetscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3233 project_image_fid=160012]

Each apartment offers living areas with abundant natural light, floor-to-ceiling windows and large balconies with climbing greenery.

Owner-occupiers and investors are flocking to the development thanks to its rare location in a sought-after pocket of Moonee Ponds allowing easy to access to the city and surrounds.

Urban takes a look at eight local offerings that make a compelling case for purchase. &nbsp;

1. Queens Park

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In this pocket of Moonee Ponds you have everything at your fingertips, Queens Park with its beautiful gardens, walking trails and outdoor swimming pool is only moments away.

The park features a picturesque cottage, idyllic surrounds and lovely public art pieces.

Perfect for families, the park includes seating and picnic tables, lakeside walking paths and lush greenery.

2. Caf&eacute;s and Eateries

With an amazing array of caf&eacute;s and eateries, residents will be spoilt for choice with local favourites including St Rose, Caf&eacute; Celine and Brother Hen only a minute walk away.

&ldquo;Moonee Ponds plays host to a variety of casual, family and fine dining experiences&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.

The precinct also comes to life in the afternoon and evenings with local bistros, cocktail and wine bars providing the perfect place to socialise, relax and unwind.

3. Puckle Street Precinct

<img alt="" height="600" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/02-1.jpeg" width="800" />

Puckle Street Precinct features over 100 retail stores and fashion outlets with a variety of local and international branded stores in close proximity to The Brass Edition.

As one of Melbourne&rsquo;s most famous shopping and dining strips, residents can browse dozens of speciality shops and fashion boutiques, as well as enjoy the Victorian and Edwardian architecture that freckles the streetscape.

4. Moonee Ponds Central

The recently revamped Moonee Ponds central is the perfect place to satisfy daily cravings and everyday necessities.

Only a short walk away, the centre features major stores like Kmart, Coles and Aldi and houses over 68 fashion, food and variety stores.

5. Public Transport

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3233 project_image_fid=160015]

Tram and bus stops are only metres from The Brass Edition, which transport locals into the city and beyond.

The tram 59 stop is well-serviced by trams to the Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne Central and Flinders Street Station.

Essendon Station is a short 10-minute walk away.

6. Schools and Education

Moonee Ponds features a variety of educational offerings for families, no matter the age.

Both public and private educations options are available, including the popular Moonee Ponds Primary only a two-minute walk away and the esteemed Penleigh &amp; Essendon Grammar also close by.

The Monash Parkville campus, RMIT Brunswick campus and University of Melbourne main campus are all within equally close proximity to the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3233 project_image_fid=160012]

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max.kwok_55688

The Brass Edition walking tour: Six local offerings that residents should embrace at Moonee Ponds

The Melbourne-based builder developer Cornus has seen solid buyer demand in its Carnegie apartment development, Cornus Carnegie.

Around 20 per cent have sold since the launch, with the majority&nbsp;of the 61 two and three bedroom apartments snapped up by first home buyers who took advantage of government incentives earlier in the year.

Most of the apartments that have sold have been close to the $600,000 mark, which qualified for the first home buyer grant.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=96653 project_image_fid=158222]

Cornus were expecting a surge in first home buyers, and don&#39;t expect the appetite from first home buyers to&nbsp;cool off despite the government grants expiring at the end of June.

As house prices across Melbourne continue to rise, Cornus are receiving interest from buyers who have been priced out of the housing market and are keen on the fixed price for off the plan apartments.

The surge in the housing market however has seen the emergence of the downsizer, who are selling their larger homes at premium prices and looking to downsize to larger apartments.

Cornus told Urban that a lot of first home buyers had been drawn to Cornus Carnegie due to the location of the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=96653 project_image_fid=158220]

&quot;It&#39;s a really popular area and doesn&#39;t really have many properties for sale,&quot; Cornus said.

&quot;The coveted suburb has great amenities and is great for young people, with good restaurants, bars and cafes.&quot;

Two bedroom apartments in Cornus Carnegie start from $575,000, with the three bedroom apartments priced from $849,000. Completion is slated for the end of 2022.

Cornus has also recently launched Cornus Oakleigh, in the neighbouring suburb.

The development of 69 apartments and 10 townhouses has prices starting from $449,000 for one bedroom apartments, $549,000 for two beds and $789,000 for three bedroom apartments.

The three bedroom, two bathroom townhouses start at $1.15 million.

&nbsp;

Most of the apartments that have sold have been close to the $600,000 mark, which qualified for the first home buyer grant

Why first home buyers are snapping up apartments in Cornus Carnegie

The Melbourne developer Lowe Living has sold nearly two thirds of its&nbsp;seaside Parkdale apartment development, Topaz Parkdale.

The developer, led by managing director Tim Lowe, has seen a diverse buyer profile for the premium apartments, which have been designed by Chamberlain Architects in collaboration with the landscape architect Jack Merlo.

First home buyers and downsizers have both been prominent in the purchasing in the 22 apartment block.

Lowe&nbsp;said that the meticulous craftsmanship and unparalleled attention to detail of Topaz Parkdale, combined with the prized bayside location, will present a sought-after opportunity for several buyer types looking to leverage government incentives.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29852 project_image_fid=89861]

&ldquo;Topaz Parkdale is inspired by its desirable location,&rdquo;&nbsp;Lowe said.

&ldquo;With the beauty of Port Phillip Bay only a short walk away, along with the enviable amenities of the much-loved Parkdale Village and neighbouring bayside suburbs. Topaz Parkdale will give a variety of buyer types the rare opportunity to enjoy a sea change while not compromising on locale or quality.&quot;

One, two and three bedroom apartments are still available. The one bedders start from $524,000, the two bedroom apartments from $889,000 and the bigger three bedroom apartments from $1,069,000.

There are also a small selection of three bedroom townhouses, which are priced from $1,395,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29852 project_image_fid=89866]

Construction is underway at Topaz, with completion slated for late 2022.

Lowe says that one of the most unique aspects of Topaz Parkdale is the relationship between architecture, landscaping and surrounds.

Lush planting design by Jack Merlo, spilling over private courtyards and balconies, match the low maintenance, textural palette of contrasting brickwork, toned renders and metal cladding.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29852 project_image_fid=89863]

&ldquo;These elements have all been carefully considered to create a sense of sanctuary, synonymous with a relaxed beachside lifestyle,&quot; Lowe says.

&ldquo;Carefully crafted floorplans promote light-filled rooms with spacious interiors that seamlessly transition for complete outdoor connection.&quot;

About the developer

Lowe Living&nbsp;was developed in 2015 due to market opportunity and to continue the Lowe name&rsquo;s strong legacy of delivering high-quality projects, particularly specialising in multi-level residential apartments in Melbourne.

Through the combination of Lowe Living and Lowe Create, Lowe Living offers end-to-end services in land acquisition, design and building services, development management, preparation for launch including sales and marketing support, and post purchase support.

The developer, led by managing director Tim Lowe, has seen a diverse buyer profile for the premium apartments



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