Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils signature penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

Melbourne apartments

SQM Research has again advised the national residential rental vacancy rate continues to tighten, down at 1.8% from 1.9% in April.

The total number of vacancies Australia-wide now stands at 62,144 residential properties, down from 66,411 in April.&nbsp;

There were 76,600 vacant dwellings last December.

While they remain elevated, the latest fall in vacancy rates included the Sydney CBD down to 6.9% and Melbourne CBD to 8%.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2905 project_image_fid=162743]

Sydney CBD briefly sat at 16 percent in May last year, and and its 6.9% current rate has only been matched on two prior occasions, briefly in 2019 and 2009.

Melbourne CBD&#39;s vacancy rate peaked last August at close to 11 percent, and its 8% current rate has only been matched on two prior occasions, briefly in 2010 and 2005.

The vacancy rates continuing to fall Australia-wide was &quot;forcing up in rents, particularly in regional locations,&quot; Louis Christopher, the boss of SQM noted.

&quot;This trend is likely to remain through the second half of the year, given the fierce competition for rental accommodation in many areas.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=137896]

&quot;We are still seeing falling vacancies everywhere from Victoria&rsquo;s Mornington Peninsula, the Gold Coast, right through to inland areas like the Murray Regions of NSW and South Australia to outback Northern Territory, along with Darwin, which is having the effect of boosting rents as tenants compete for rental homes.&nbsp;

&quot;However, vacancies rates rose for the NSW North Coast, as some renters headed back to town and we also saw a rise in vacancy accommodation in Perth, though the rate was unchanged.

&ldquo;In addition, in what is long-awaited news for landlords in the Melbourne and Sydney CBDs, vacancies rates have fallen there too.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3490 project_image_fid=92411]

&quot;Those vacancy rates could begin a downward trend over the second half of 2021, particularly in Sydney, as life resumes relative normality.&nbsp;

&quot;However, the loss of international student tenants, along with unit oversupply, will keep vacancy rates relatively high as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.&rdquo;

Brisbane&rsquo;s vacancy rate fell to 1.3% in May from 1.4% in April, according to SQM Research.

It is note the tightest of capital cities as Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Darwin and Hobart all have a vacancy rate below 1.0%.

Melbourne&rsquo;s vacancy rate fell to 3.7% in May from 4.0% in April.

Sydney dropped to 2.9% from 3.1%.&nbsp;

SQM Research calculates the national residential rental vacancy rate fell to 1.8% during from 1.9% in April

jchancellor

Sydney and Melbourne CBD landlords see further improvement in vacancy rates: SQM

Melbourne will see 34,250 new apartments completed over the next three years, according to Knight Frank&#39;s Australian residential development review.

The pipeline is well below the 42,250 recorded in the prior three year 2018-20 period.

Of the new Melbourne apartment projects, 24,125 are planned in inner Melbourne, 8,150 in the middle suburbs and 1,975 in the outer suburbs.

However the slowdown in apartment activity hasn&rsquo;t stopped Melbourne remaining the most attractive investment proposition for overseas developers and investors, who completed $185m in residential development site sales last year.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29880 project_image_fid=161789]

This was the second year Melbourne led the national rankings with the total representing 53% of all international investment made in Australia in 2020 ($350m) and ahead of Sydney ($139m in 2020), Knight Frank&rsquo;s head of residential research, Michelle Ciesielski said.

&quot;Melbourne&rsquo;s residential development market is best described as being in a holding pattern in 2020, with significant compression in the volume of major sites purchased by developers, although we haven&rsquo;t seen any downward pressure on average values to date.

&ldquo;For new apartment schemes in Melbourne, there will need to be increased focus on wellbeing elements, functional gardens with dry and wet exercise areas in their design features &ndash; especially given the sheer amount of time Melbournians have spent lockdown in their homes.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2881 project_image_fid=148829]

High-density developments accounted for 59.3% of total sales last year in Greater Melbourne, down from 69.4%.&nbsp;

Low density developments were also lower at just 15.2%.

&quot;This shift resulted in huge growth across Greater Melbourne for sites purchased for medium density development, accounting for 25.5% in 2020 in comparison to 4.9% the prior year,&quot; the report noted.

&quot;As part of this, medium density building approvals in Victoria increased slightly by 0.8% in 2020, to total 11,194 dwellings.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=600 project_image_fid=13472]

Greater Melbourne recorded $520m of high-density purchases last year, down 39% from 2019, with Box Hill, South Melbourne and Southbank seeing the greatest volume of high-density sales in 2020.

Knight Frank&#39;s director of investment sales in Victoria, James Thorpe said developers are expressing a strong demand for quality medium to lower density projects in core CBD fringe locations.&nbsp;

He also noted properties holding permits for higher density development are being considered for repositioning into the Build to Rent space.

&ldquo;Although Melbourne currently holds the highest number of BTR schemes in the pipeline, recent tax announcements by the state government could derail the momentum for this emerging as set class.&rdquo;

Greater Melbourne recorded $520m of high-density purchases last year, down 39% from 2019, with Box Hill, South Melbourne and Southbank seeing the greatest volume of high-density sales in 2020.

Of the new Melbourne apartment projects forecasted over the next three years, 24,125 are planned in inner Melbourne, 8,150 in the middle suburbs and 1,975 in the outer suburbs

Wellbeing will be the best pitch to buyers as Melbourne apartment pipeline shrinks: Knight Frank

Apartment buyers at Riverbank, the recently completed Abbotsford development on the banks of the Yarra River, will pay $0 stamp duty if they secure an apartment&nbsp;before June 30*.

The Melbourne development firm Salta Properties,&nbsp;one of Australia&#39;s largest privately owned companies, is matching the VIC government&#39;s 50 per cent stamp duty savings, which end at the end of June.

Riverbank&#39;s one- and two-bedroom apartments fall in to the criteria for stamp duty savings, only applied to apartments&nbsp;under $1 million.

The one-bedroom apartments at Riverbank&nbsp;start from $505,000, and two-bedrooms from $740,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4136 project_image_fid=89831]

The nine-level building has been designed&nbsp;by&nbsp;SJB&nbsp;Architects and is finished with interiors by&nbsp;Sue Carr&nbsp;at&nbsp;Carr Design Group.

&ldquo;Our intention was to create a space that had a true sense of home but also a memorable atmosphere,&quot; Carr says.

&quot;We want the purchasers to feel the connection with the landscape beyond, with the building and their apartment becoming a welcoming sanctuary for them to take in all this development has to offer.&rdquo;

Each apartment has a sustainable 6+ energy rating and features Gaggeneau appliances in the kitchen, engineered oak floors and marble-effect stone.&nbsp;

Riverbank&nbsp;is one of two buildings at The Park House.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4136 project_image_fid=156265]

Set on the Yarra River, Riverbank &ndash; The Park House is located near the&nbsp;Yarra Trail, Boat House and Tea Garden and Melbourne&rsquo;s best open-access golf course, Yarra Bend, around the corner.

The short commute to the city is convenient for residents, with&nbsp;tram routes 12 and 109 on the doorstep of Park House and North Richmond station just a short walk away.

Riverbank also features hotel-style amenities throughout the development.

There&#39;s the Club House, which comprises a residents&#39;&nbsp;lounge with fireplace, a Movie House, an eight-seater cinema room which can be hired privately, the Fitness Hub gym, The Swing golf simulation room and The Splash, the swimming pool that opens to the courtyards.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4136 project_image_fid=156277]

* - Terms and conditions apply

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=4136]

The nine-level building has been designed by SJB Architects and is finished with interiors by Sue Carr at Carr Design Group

Buyers pay $0 stamp duty at Riverbank in Abbotsford, as Salta matches VIC government offer until June 30

A former tea warehouse in Southbank is set to be transformed under the latest plans to build a new precinct.

The historic Robur Tea House site is set for a hotel, apartment, office, retail and dining hub with its buildings up to 25 storeys high.

The $89m proposal to surround historic Robur Tea House in Southbank with seven new buildings has yet to be considered by the City of &shy;Melbourne.

New buildings between three and 25 storeys tall would be built around it on the 2948 sqm plot.

Apartments are proposed for levels 16-25.

<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_0.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Developer CostaFox Developments Pty Ltd bought the property for $28 million last year.

The Melbourne developer has a track record of incorporating historic buildings into new developments as in 2014, it won the Australian Property Institute heritage property award for its redevelopment of the former Art Deco Tip Top Bakery, in Brunswick East.

A 2017 application for a 39-storey development of the tea warehouse was rejected by Heritage Victoria.

The six-storey warehouse was built in 1889 at 28 Clarendon Street, then ranked for years after completion as the tallest structure outside of the Melbourne CBD.

CostaFox director Michael Fox told the realestatesource.com.au website that &ldquo;the plan was to create an international hotel with branded residences, a complete refurbishment of the old Tea House building that will include world class retail and hospitality offerings together with a new public realm and forecourt&rdquo;.

A former tea warehouse in Southbank is set to be transformed into a new precinct designed by Oslo architectural practice, Snøhetta

Former Southbank tea warehouse transformation back on the boil

The Peak is the latest Melbourne CBD development from the property developing Auriton Group.

The $102 million building, rising 140 metres above La Trobe Street, has been a landmark addition to the city skyline since its completion in mid-2020 due top its strikingly thin design.

The Peak homes 177 apartments across its 43 levels, with just four apartments per floor, resulting in each apartment having a corner aspect.

Urban has taken a look at five reasons why The Peak should be on a buyer&#39;s shortlist.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2905 project_image_fid=162748]

1. The Location

The Peak is located at 141 La Trobe Street, on the quieter north-eastern side of Melbourne just off Carlton Gardens.

Within short walking distance of The Peak is the State Library Victoria, one of Melbourne&#39;s most impress heritage-listed buildings.

The transport options&nbsp;are immediate, with bus and tram stops located at the foot of the building.

2. The Value Proposition

The Peak has been reasonably priced given its location and apartment prices of surrounding apartment developments.

Nearby developments are selling between 20 per cent and 40 per cent higher than The Peak.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2905 project_image_fid=162746]

The Peak is also located just off Spring Street, one of Melbourne&#39;s premier apartment addresses.

3. The Stamp Duty Savings

The Victorian Government announced in the budget that all apartments&nbsp;within the City of Melbourne that had been built for 12 months or longer would see $0 stamp duty paid by buyers.

The concession only applies&nbsp;for apartments under $1 million.

The Peak just falls in to the category, having finished construction just over 12 months ago. The most expensive apartments remaining in The Peak are the two bedrooms which max out at $767,000 for the biggest floorplates.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2905 project_image_fid=163853]

4. The Architecture

The Peak was designed by the national architecture firm&nbsp;Plus Architecture.

&quot;The design focus was to create the highest quality of luxury apartment living with an engaging eastern fa&ccedil;ade providing uninterrupted views to Carlton Gardens and beyond,&quot; Plus Architecture advise.

&quot;The Peak is located at the very heart of Melbourne and forms a dramatic pinnacle within the urban fabric of the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2905 project_image_fid=163859]

&quot;The striking eastern fa&ccedil;ade, comprising triangular forms and abstract shapes, creates a signature building in this part of town.

&quot;With its striking jagged peak towering above, the edge to the glass tower forms a sharp triangular point, framing views over the city skyline and Carlton Gardens beyond.&quot;

5. The Investment Potential

Since The Peak has been completed, and despite the raft of COVID-19 induced lockdowns, landlords have continued to see a solid take-up in the apartments held by investors.

There&#39;s currently long terms tenants in The Peak, as well as short-term, those who are seeking to stay in the Carlton Gardens location for a slice of the price as surrounding developments.

The pool of owner-occupiers and tenants tend to be the young professional demographic, who want to stay away from Melbourne&#39;s busier areas but still want to be within walking distance to the action.

Auriton are also offering a rental guarantee for investor purchasers.

The Peak homes 177 apartments across its 43 levels, with just four apartments per floor, resulting in each apartment having a corner aspect

Five reasons The Peak in Melbourne should be on a buyer's shortlist

The socially-conscious property developer&nbsp;Assemble are offering rental concessions for key workers in their Kensington project 393 Macaulay Road.

Seven apartments have been reserved exclusively for key workers as part of the Key Worker Program, which will offer a 20 per cent rental concession for those on a moderate income&nbsp;and work within the City of Melbourne or in surrounding suburbs.

The likes of school teachers, medical professionals, carers, social workers, emergency services, arts and culture, and hospitality and service industry workers fall in to the key worker category.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8415 project_image_fid=81527]

Eligible key worker applicants will lease their apartments under the developer&rsquo;s innovative&nbsp;Assemble&nbsp;Futures housing concept and will receive a 20% rent concession&nbsp;for the total lease period of five years. At the end of the lease, applicants will have the option to purchase the property at an agreed price.

Assemble&nbsp;Managing Director, Kris Daff said&nbsp;that last year highlighted the vital role that key workers play in our society.

&quot;This is our opportunity to give back in a meaningful way,&quot; Daff said.

&quot;This includes frontline workers, such as our health and emergency services personnel, but also our local barista and the team working at the news agency.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8415 project_image_fid=81536]

&ldquo;We have been collaborating with the City of Melbourne over the past three years to design our Key Worker Program that ensures our most essential workers have access to quality housing near their place of employment at a reasonable rental price,&rdquo; said Mr Daff.

Designed by Fieldwork, the apartment development comprises 73 apartments over eight levels and is located three kilometres north-west of Melbourne&rsquo;s CBD in Kensington.

The project topped out in March and will welcome residents toward the end of the year.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8415 project_image_fid=27091]

393 Macauley Road was identified as one of Resilient Melbourne&rsquo;s&nbsp;Resilient Communities&nbsp;(an initiative of 100 Resilient Cities &ndash; pioneered by the Rockefeller Foundation).

Assemble are also developing a rent-to-buy apartment block in Brunswick.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160734]

The current factory site at 4 Ballarat Street, Brunswick will be converted by architecture firm Fieldwork to home 171 studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments.

The built form takes inspiration from the Brunswick streetscape, with Fieldwork&rsquo;s design integrating raw materials such as corrugated iron, blue stone paving and concrete to create a timeless ribbed-textured &lsquo;patina&rsquo; exterior.&nbsp;

"This is our opportunity to give back in a meaningful way," Assemble Managing Director Kris Daff said.



Assemble reserve apartments for key workers and offer rental deductions at Kensington project

The Melbourne developer Keystone Property Group is offering investors in their new Footscray apartment development Ovation a guaranteed five percent yield for two years following the development&rsquo;s completion this time next year.

Investors have been creeping back into the property market in recent months, with investment activity across Victoria up 13.7 per cent in March.

Footscray ranks highly as an attractive investment proposition, with $1.2 billion committed to infrastructure, as well as the $1.5 billion investment granted to the redevelopment of the Footscray Hospital, where works began earlier this year.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5490 project_image_fid=78492]

The western suburb is tightly held, with a vacancy rate of just one per cent, compared to the wider Melbourne vacancy rate of 1.9 per cent.

Population in Melbourne&rsquo;s west is also forecasted to rise by 180 per cent between 2016 and 2041.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5490 project_image_fid=78497]

The Buckley Street development of 131 apartments designed by KUD has a walking score of 90, located just 300 metres from Middle Footscray Station, a tram which is less than 15 minutes in to the Melbourne CBD. Nearby there&rsquo;s also the popular restaurant and bar strips of Victoria Street and Barkly Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5490 project_image_fid=78493]

Ovation will likely be appealing for student renters given its proximity to the nearby Victoria University, ranked in the top two per cent of universities in the world by Times Higher Education magazine. Just over 50 per cent of the popular of Footscray are aged between 20 and 39, considered to be an ideal renter demographic.

Keystone are also offering investors a free blinds package for their apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5490]

Investors have been creeping back into the property market in recent months, with investment activity across Victoria up 13.7 per cent in March

Keystone offer investors guaranteed rental yield at new Footscray apartment development Ovation

First home buyers have propped the real estate market up since the pandemic hit Australia last March.

A country-wide trend, Victoria saw 44 per cent more loan commitments to first home buyers over the 12 months to April.

And in attempt to gain the market share, astute developers&nbsp;are prepared to offer their own incentives to attract the growing cohort of buyers looking to get on the ladder for the first time.

In their latest Footscray apartment development Ovation, Keystone Property Group are offering first home buyers a free car when a buyer settles on a purchase of an apartment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5490 project_image_fid=78494]

Each first home buyer will be given a brand new Volkswagen Polo, valued at $25,000.

Entry level apartments in Ovation, the Buckley Street development designed by KUD Architects to reflect Footscray&rsquo;s industrial past, start from $367,500.

The one bedroom apartments with a car space start from $410,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5490 project_image_fid=78497]

Two bedroom apartments are priced from $540,000, still well below Melbourne&rsquo;s growing $605,000 apartment median. There are a handful of three bedroom apartments, which span 143&nbsp;sqm, which start from $900,000.

There will be 131 apartments in the contemporary building set in a prime location within walking distance to Middle Footscray Station.

Completion of Ovation is slated for mid-2022.

Astute developers are acutely aware of the impact first home buyers have on the off the plan property market, and are prepared to offer their own incentives



First home buyers at Ovation Footscray given free car on purchase

The Fabric in Melbourne&#39;s Altona North presents a vibrant master-planned community of townhouses in an ideal location.

Located just nine kilometres from Melbourne&rsquo;s CBD and 2.5 kilometres cycling distance from Newport train station, the Mirvac development prioritises convenience.

&ldquo;Living at The Fabric means being immersed in the best education, dining, shopping and outdoor options that the Inner West has to offer&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22699 project_image_fid=70089]

Designed by the Mirvac in-house design team, the community boasts unique architecture, private gardens and beautiful open spaces to meet up with family and friends or to explore on your own.

Mirvac&rsquo;s consideration of how residents live in their home is reflected in every design decision.

Urban takes a look at three floorplan configurations that are still available at The Fabric.

1. The Angora 
Lot 57 available from $990,000

<a href="/new-townhouses/the-fabric-altona-north-188-198-blackshaws-road-altona-north-vic-3025"><img alt="" height="980" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-06-08_at_12.44.07_pm.png" width="694" /></a>

The Angora townhome offers a convertible living option, delivering either four bedrooms or three bedrooms with a second living zone.

With a total area of 238sqm, this floorplan offers seven-star family living and is conveniently located directly across from the Patchwork Park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22699 project_image_fid=70088]

Patchwork Park will offer green open spaces, playgrounds, BBQ facilities and a communal herb garden for residents and be the central heart of this soon to be thriving community.

2. The Bedford 
Lot 61 available from $920,000

<img alt="" height="1754" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/the_bedford.jpg" width="1240" />

Another townhouse situated just moments from the lush Patchwork Park is the Bedford configuration.

The three-bedroom, two-bathroom property includes two secure garage parking spaces, and an abundant open-plan living and dining area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22699 project_image_fid=39044]

With a total area of 240sqm, the home boasts a courtyard and balcony with park views, and the master bedroom features an ensuite and walk-in robe.

3. The Zephyr 
Lot 82 available from $695,000

<a href="/new-townhouses/the-fabric-altona-north-188-198-blackshaws-road-altona-north-vic-3025"><img alt="" height="882" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-06-08_at_12.46.15_pm.png" width="854" /></a>

&ldquo;The Zephyr townhome is perfect for any first home buyer, offering two bedrooms, open plan living and dining space and a secure garage park&rdquo;, Mirvac said.

The home enjoys a northern aspect, expansive first-level balcony and easy access to Patchwork Park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22699 project_image_fid=70089]

Set on a total area of 150sqm, the Zephyr boasts intelligent and flexible design solutions, prioritising functionality.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=22699]

Mirvac’s consideration of how residents live in their home is reflected in every design decision

max.kwok_55688

Floorplan focus: A look at the townhouse layouts at The Fabric in Altona North

ASX-listed developer AVJennings is matching the government stamp duty concession on all Piper Townhomes for those who buy before the end of June.

Piper is a boutique collection of 14 modern, low-maintenance townhouses in the stunning bayside suburb of Williamstown.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102256 project_image_fid=163752]

The development references Williamstown&rsquo;s well-known local personality Richard Piper, the postmaster&nbsp;of the Williamstown Post Office during the mid-nineteenth century.

&ldquo;With a rich maritime history, this picturesque suburb is situated within Hobson Bay and offers cafes, restaurants, supermarket, shops, swimming beaches and renowned boating clubs&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.

Residents can secure one of nine three-bedroom homes facing Nelson Place, an extension of the neighbouring Lonsdale and Lysander townhomes at Waterline Place.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102256 project_image_fid=163757]

According to the developers, the vision for Waterline Place is to be &ldquo;a village within a village&rdquo;. It will be home to approximately 500 residences and feature a series of green, active and pedestrian-friendly streets and laneways.

Featuring bluestone and an angled roofline that pays homage to Williamstown&rsquo;s industrial past, the three-bedroom homes blend in with the established character of the area.

With full-height windows, clever storage solutions and a large living area that opens into a room-sized balcony, these larger residences are ideal for couples, young families and downsizers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102256 project_image_fid=163754]

The five two-bedroom, two-bathroom terraces fronting Waterline Place are designed for first time buyers or couples looking for intelligent layouts.

Delivering a compact design, the two-bedroom townhomes include a ground-floor study, living room, under-stair storage and a single-car garage.

Prices for the homes in the Piper collection start from $830,000 and reach up to $1,495,000 for a three-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom property.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102256 project_image_fid=163752]

For residents who purchase the off-the-plan residence before 30th June, AVJennings will pay a rebate at settlement to the same value as the government concession.

The development is expected to reach completion in mid-2022.

About the developer

AVJennings is a leading residential property development company that has been part of the Australian landscape for more than 85 years.

With over 12,700 lots in its portfolio, the company has experience in home building, land development, pre-planned integrated housing and medium density activities.

Other projects by AVJennings include <a href="/developments/bethania-qld-4205">Parkside, a townhouse project in Queensland&rsquo;s Bethania</a>. 
[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=102256]

For residents who purchase the off-the-plan residence before 30th June, AVJennings will pay a rebate at settlement to the same value as the government concession

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