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

Joel Robinson

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

The long-planned transformation of Brisbane's historic Shafston Estate has taken another major step, with Capella Hotel Group announced as the luxury hospitality partner behind what will become Brisbane's first branded residences.

The project, to be known as Capella Residences Brisbane, is being delivered by Verso Projects at the landmark Kangaroo Point riverfront estate, with completion targeted for 2029.

The announcement follows a series of planning changes to the project over recent years. The site was originally approved in 2023 for a 15-level, 37-apartment development designed by Rothelowman for Burgundy Group before Verso Projects took over the 10,070 sqm riverfront holding and lodged revised plans with Kerry Hill Architects to increase the development to a 25-level tower with 51 apartments.

The latest announcement confirms Capella Hotel Group will bring its branded residential offering to the project, marking just the second Capella Residences development globally after Seoul, and the group's first branded residential project in Australia.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/23-castlebar-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Castlebar Street development</a> will centre around the restoration of the heritage-listed Shafston House, one of Brisbane's oldest residences, originally constructed in 1851 by Reverend Robert Creyke as a single-storey cottage known as Ravenscott.

<img alt="Capella" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b9f4ce5-638f-4d6b-8082-3ca7e4b75fca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-09%20at%207.20.41%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=f7aeqsW_DzOJI4FymWb3lD8NptSfsP7q" />

Capella said the project aligns with its focus on heritage-led developments, with the Brisbane estate combining the restored historic residence with a new luxury apartment tower and hospitality-inspired resident amenities.

Residents will have access to the Capella Living Room, a concierge-led communal space inspired by the group's luxury hotels, alongside landscaped gardens, six swimming pools, wellness and recreation facilities.

The broader estate will also include two riverfront homes, a six-berth private marina, porte cochère arrival experience, secure basement parking and a new section of public riverwalk along the Brisbane River frontage.

The heritage Postal Depot Building will also be retained and repurposed as a guest house, in line with the revised development plans.

The project represents another evolution for the site, which Kerry Hill Architects previously described as a rare opportunity to restore one of Brisbane's most significant heritage estates while creating a new benchmark for apartment living.

"The Shafston Estate provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to restore one of Brisbane's finest heritage precincts and to reinstate residential use as a unique site perched on the edge of Kangaroo Point," Kerry Hill Architects said in its Urban Context Report accompanying the planning submission.

"The project will celebrate excellence in sub-tropical residential design, setting a new benchmark for vertical living in Brisbane."

Verso Projects, which now has an $8.5 billion development pipeline spanning more than 6,000 dwellings across apartments, townhouses, retail and commercial projects, said the partnership with Capella would elevate the development beyond a traditional residential project.

"We feel honoured to be restoring Shafston Estate to its former glory, elevating it to new heights of luxury and excellence underpinned by Capella's distinctive service ethos and design philosophy, and making it a standout landmark in Brisbane," Verso Projects CEO Steve Laffey said.

"By partnering with Capella, globally recognised for its refined approach to luxury hospitality and deep respect for cultural and historical context, we will elevate this project beyond a residential offering into a world-class destination."

Capella Hotel Group President Roland Fasel said Brisbane's emergence as a global city made it the right location for the company's Australian residential debut.

"Brisbane is a city on the cusp of something remarkable, and Capella Residences is our commitment to being part of that story," Fasel said.

"The Capella residential experience is more than luxury. It is about a sense of belonging to a place with deep meaning."

Private appointments have now opened for the project, with a display suite expected to open in late 2026 ahead of the planned 2029 completion.

Capella to launch Brisbane's first branded residences at Shafston House, Kangaroo Point

Melbourne Townhouses

Development Victoria is making it easier for buyers to get a foot in the door in its latest residential development, <a href="/buildings/coomoora-townhomes-springvale-south-15-29-coomoora-road-springvale-south">Coomoora</a> in Springvale South.&nbsp;

With just a 10 per cent deposit, buyers can purchase a home at <a href="/buildings/coomoora-townhomes-springvale-south-15-29-coomoora-road-springvale-south">Coomoora</a>, located in Melbourne’s established south-east, and there’s nothing more to pay until settlement.&nbsp;

You simply need to choose a floorplan that suits you and any upgrades, sign a fixed price contract and&nbsp; the rest is taken care of by Development Victoria.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104061 project_image_fid=209878]

With no progress payments required buyers can continue saving whilst their townhome is being constructed.

A limited number of two, three and four-bedroom townhomes remain at <a href="/buildings/coomoora-townhomes-springvale-south-15-29-coomoora-road-springvale-south">Coomoora</a>, with the final release coming soon.

Development Victoria also has a special offer available where you can secure a two-bedroom home at <a href="/buildings/coomoora-townhomes-springvale-south-15-29-coomoora-road-springvale-south">Coomoora</a> with just a five per cent deposit. This is ideal for first home buyers wanting to enter the property market.&nbsp;

These modern townhouses are also built with a range of sustainable inclusions as standard, meaning homes require less energy to heat and cool, minimising running costs and enhancing occupant comfort while also reducing the home's environmental impact.

The homes achieve a 6.5 Star NatHERS rating, along with featuring heat pump hot water and minimum 3.5KW solar PV systems.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104061 project_image_fid=209883]

Double glazed windows help to minimise external noise and the sealed air gap between the two panes acts as an added layer of insulation, reducing heat loss in winter, keeping the homes at a more comfortable temperature, while heat pump water systems are in place, utilising heat from the surrounding air to reduce energy usage.&nbsp;

EV charger provisions are also in place across all homes, while residents will also be able to monitor energy usage with an energy monitoring system.

Through best practice design and construction, investment in innovation, and partnerships with industry leaders, Development Victoria aims to create places with a strong legacy. It’s about doing everything they can today, for a more sustainable tomorrow. This means that their homes need to be comfortable, resilient, affordable and healthy to live in.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104061 project_image_fid=209872]

A range of Government grants are also on offer for buyers in Victoria, including the Victorian Homebuyer Fund, First Home Owner Grants and Stamp Duty Concessions.&nbsp;

The Victorian Homebuyer Fund allows buyers with a five per cent deposit saved to buy their home receive up to a 25 per cent contribution of the purchase price, in exchange for an equivalent share in the property.

The $10,000 First Home Owner Grant can also be utilised on townhomes at Coomoora, for homes valued at $750,000 or less, while the government will also remove stamp duty payments for homes valued under $600,000. Eligibility criteria applies to all Victorian Government grants.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=104061]

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Buying a home at Coomoora is easy thanks to Development Victoria

Melbourne’s Altona North is renowned for its industrial past.

The suburb's industrial origins can be traced back to the establishment of the Altona Oil Refinery in 1949, which was built by BP and was the largest oil refinery in Australia at the time.

Factories and warehouses followed, as did prominent industrial companies, with the likes of Ford Motor Company establishing themselves in the area in 1956.&nbsp;

The industrial development of the suburb had a significant impact on the local community. A population boom ensued as people moved to the area in search of employment, which led to extensive infrastructure improvements such as roads, schools, and healthcare facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29947 project_image_fid=187293]

And now Altona North, just 11 kilometres of Melbourne CBD, is undergoing a huge gentrification, and is being targeted by young professionals and families.

Acquiring the site back in 2017, ASX-listed developer Stockland identified Altona North as a thriving suburb for their latest residential community, Haven.

In conjunction with the property undergoing a rezoning from Industrial use to General Residential Use, the newly established community was created as one with convenient connectivity and liveability, catering to residents from all walks of life.

Haven forms part of a broader 67 hectare Precinct 15 urban renewal zone which will eventually include approximately 3,000 new dwellings as well as office buildings, retail premises, and public areas.

Stockland, during the design phase, focused on a vision to create an active inner west neighbourhood that brings together contemporary designs influenced by the industrial heritage.&nbsp;

In collaboration with renowned SJB Architects, the homes boast seamless, open-plan living spaces that integrate with the surrounding environment.&nbsp;

In conjunction with this, one of Haven’s key pillars is a strong sustainability focus and that is showcased through community initiatives and townhome designs.

The community combines smart, sustainable features as standard with open, flowing living spaces.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29947 project_image_fid=159031]

The townhomes, which have an average 6.5 star Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) rating, have features including 1.5kW of solar panels, double glazing, a rainwater tank or solar hot water unit, while also incorporating natural light and economical water usage to reduce the overall household carbon footprint and energy bills.&nbsp;

The biggest uptake in the community has come from first home buyers, due to Haven’s competitive price point, with the cheapest two-bedroom offering currently priced from $694,065.

Connectivity has also been a big drawcard, with the suburb easily accessible by car, train, bus and bike, offering quick and easy access to Newport and Spotswood train stations, which connect directly to Melbourne’s CBD within 15 minutes. And for those heading further afield, the train line offers a direct link to regional centres like Geelong, Ballarat, and Bendigo.

A number of bus routes traverse Altona North as well, while cycling and walking trails along the Maribyrnong River offer a scenic way to explore the area. For drivers, the West Gate Freeway is just a stone’s throw away, making it easy to commute to the heart of Melbourne’s CBD.

What sets Haven apart, however, is its commitment to creating a sustainable, green, and close-knit community. Stockland is creating a small neighbourhood, which includes a 4,000 sqm park with a playground designed for four to 10-year-olds, a picnic shelter, and barbecue facilities. The park will be the focal point for community events.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29947 project_image_fid=93185]

Haven’s parks and trees will be nurtured with passive irrigation that captures storm water without wasting precious drinking water. This improves tree growth and increases amenity in the streetscapes.

Residents will also be within close proximity to a range of sports and recreational facilities within the Altona North community, including a gym, public pool, badminton centre, indoor climbing, and a golf course. And with the Maribyrnong cycle path, parklands, and reserves all within reach, there will be no shortage of opportunities to stay active and explore the neighbourhood.

Of course, it’s not all about physical activity. Altona North also offers an abundance of local eateries, shops, and retail therapy opportunities, from major shopping centres to local boutiques.

For families with young children, Altona North has plenty to offer as well. With quality day care, swimming, art, and drama centres all within the catchment area, with families well catered for in the area.

Plus, there are a number of established schools within walking distance, including Altona North Primary School, Newport Lakes Primary School, and Bayside Secondary College. The nearby Altona North Library also provides learning options and community activity spaces.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=29947]

Altona North: From thriving industrial precinct to creative corridor

A new townhouse development has just launched to the market in one of Melbourne's most sought after addresses.

Sitting squarely in Sandringham’s coveted blue chip postcode, Early 3191 is the work of development group, DM Property, led by&nbsp;Brendan Mullan and David Dordevic who have a combined 20 years of experience developing across Melbourne, Queensland and London.&nbsp;

Located at 3-11 George Street, renowned architecture group Rothelowman has designed the collection of 35 townhouses, with a mix of three and four-bedroom floorplans on offer across three levels.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138081 project_image_fid=209566]

The townhouses boast a timeless facade that offer striking contrast with textured materials, with materials and finishes selected to not only stand out amongst the crowd, but to also carry a sense of longevity and luxury.&nbsp;

A considered palette of warm timbers, textural natural stone, paired with refined detailing creates a sense of lightness, and sanctuary in each of the homes, with the interiors of Early 3191 crafted by award-winning designer, Adele Bates.

The townhouses have been designed to make the most of natural light, with large windows and open living spaces that invite the outside in, with warm timber inviting the outside in.&nbsp;

The three-bedroom townhouses feature two bathrooms and two car spaces, while the four-bedders include three bathrooms, along with two car spaces.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138081 project_image_fid=209569]

The kitchens are fitted with CDK Marble benchtops, as well as SMEG and Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances and an island, with the space flowing into the living and dining areas. They then open to generously sized terraces, designed to cater for the warmer months in Melbourne where residents can opt for alfresco dining.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;shared mews runs through the entirety of Early 3191, creating a welcoming and open passage for residents to bask in, while also providing a peaceful sanctuary to relax and unwind in.&nbsp;

Early 3191 is still in the pre-construction phase, so prospective buyers are still able to save significantly on stamp duty costs, with construction slated for completion by late 2024.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138081]

Located at 3-11 George Street, renowned architecture group Rothelowman has designed the collection of 35 townhouses, with a mix of three and four-bedroom floorplans on offer across three levels.

Rothelowman-designed townhouses Early 3191 to bring something new to Sandringham

The dream team of CHT Architects, Sora Interior Architecture and Design, and Tract Landscape Architects have combined with construction heavyweights Hamilton Marino to deliver the first stage in Blue Earth Group’s community, Spotswood Yards.&nbsp;

CHT has a long history collaborating with Blue Earth, spanning over 10 years across 22 projects, with the group boasting a long line of luxury apartment developments in their time.&nbsp;

Based in Melbourne, with projects both local and interstate, the group’s work consists of high-quality, distinctive buildings and spaces that respond to the aspirations of modern Australia, with the added experience of Sora Interiors only bolstering the development.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112971 project_image_fid=198408]

143 residences will be delivered across the first stage in Porter, with the functional interiors kept deliberately neutral and timeless, with considered detail across three collections, the Premier Collection, the Penthouse Collection and the Townhouse Collection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Porter project, set on Birmingham Street, uses only carefully selected, timeless materials of brickwork, concrete, steel and glass. Designed to contribute to the existing neighbourhood, Porter combines compositions of form and material to present a timeless facade, softened by the townhouse courtyard landscaping.

With floorplans designed for comfort and functionality, Porter’s generous open plan spaces benefit from premium materials and a natural ambiance that champion sophistication and style.

The Townhouse Collection incorporates a range of two-level residences which benefit from private street entrances.&nbsp;

With impressive floor plans designed for comfort and functionality, the open-plan interiors include premium materials and a natural ambiance that champion sophistication and style.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112971 project_image_fid=198411]

Directly integrated with the Birmingham Street neighbourhood, the Porter Townhouses feature sun drenched landscaped courtyards creating a sense of the traditional home.&nbsp;

One-bedroom is featured across the ground floor in each of the townhouses, with an additional bedroom and a flexi-room on the first floor, providing buyers with the option of transforming the space into a home office, kid's zone or second living area instead.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112971]

Inside the Townhouse Collection at Spotswood Yards

Kincrest are gearing up to set a new benchmark for residential development in Essendon.

The group has launched it's latest project, The Watson, just 37 apartments at 1 Thorn Street, offering it's future residents the convenience of Mt Alexander Road's transport connections to the east, and Lincoln Park to the west.

The Watson is designed to be lived in, Kincrest Director Tom Howgate says, with the group creating homes that are a combination of functionality, timeless design and quality materials.&nbsp;

“We pair unrivalled locations with our prestige design and construction partners to surpass our purchasers’ expectations," Howgate says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135737 project_image_fid=207821]

"We are driven to expand as an iconic and recognised leader in quality, innovation, sustainability and property development."

And buyers have certainly noticed, with 25 per cent of the residences already sold in the first two weeks of being on the market.&nbsp;

The 37 apartments offer a mix of one two and three-bedroom floorplans, spread across the six-level building. There are also four townhomes on offer.

The exterior of the building has been designed by renowned architects Rothelowman, who have created apartments with spacious balconies and floor to ceiling windows, making the most of the uninterrupted city and bay views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135737 project_image_fid=207828]

“Our intent was to create homes that stand the test of time, both through design and the selection of practical materials,” the architecture firm said. &nbsp;

“At Rothelowman, we respond to the contextual elements of the urban environment to create spaces that contribute to cities, communities and individuals.”

Local architecture and design shop Telha Clarke were engaged to design the interiors of The Watson, focusing on the family-occupier and downsizer in their designs.

Internally, the apartments feature a neutral colour palette, with timber floors and Miele appliances throughout. The open plan living and dining spaces provide generously-proportioned areas for entertaining, complemented with plentiful natural light pouring into every space in the homes.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135737 project_image_fid=207845]

Essendon has had a long and rich cultural standing within Melbourne since its establishment.

The suburb’s quintessential palms, planted in 1929, are the longest and largest single planting of their kind in Victoria. And with the area homing one of the AFL’s most passionately supported teams, it’s not been left behind in the gentrification and modern development of the enclave.&nbsp;

Residents of The Watson will be near to the best Essendon has to offer, while also being within&nbsp;minutes of tram, train and bus connection, providing easy connection to the greater Melbourne region.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135737]

The 37 apartments offer a mix of one two and three-bedroom floorplans, spread across the six-level building. There are also four townhomes on offer

Kincrest launch The Watson, Rothelowman-designed Essendon apartments

Mirvac has just wrapped up construction on its highly anticipated Transformation House charity home within their community, Smith Lane.&nbsp;

The Clyde North one-of-a-kind architecturally designed home is set to be auctioned off on Saturday November 12 in a bid to raise much-needed funds for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal.&nbsp;

The build of Transformation House took just eight months by Mirvac, with Head of Residential Stuart Penklis saying it wouldn’t have been without the help of their 25 generous and trusted suppliers who rallied together to donate and reduce material costs, products and trades.&nbsp;

<img alt="Inside the Clyde charity home, Transformation House " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a565b75-b1c6-4b71-9ec4-5931ca49fd20" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Smiths%20Lane%20by%20Mirvac_Transformation%20House_Main%20Living.jpg?VersionId=B1kn.GHMMMyVX4VFPYlGjpYuPq7cUTIZ" />Inside the Smiths Lane charity home, Transformation House. Image supplied.&nbsp;

“Mirvac has been reimagining urban life for 50 years and the future-ready Transformation House demonstrates our ongoing commitment to creating sustainable communities, from an environmental, economic and social perspective. It has been truly wonderful to see our community come together to help raise vital funds to ensure The Salvation Army can continue to create a better future for those impacted by homelessness,” Penklis said. &nbsp;

MIrvac are hoping to achieve a sale price of more than $1 million come auction day, with a $500,000 fundraising target for the Red Shield Appeal, which could support safe emergency accommodation for those in need for 2,564 days - transforming the lives of thousands of people across Australia.&nbsp;

Designed by the award-winning Mirvac Design team, the two-storey four-bedroom home will be move-in ready, with GlobeWest furniture and other high-quality furnishings selected and styled by Dani Wales from Healthy Homes Australia, Dan Reilly of The Block, in conjunction with their team at Manna Made.&nbsp;

The future-ready 7-star NatHers rated home sits across a 393 sqm block, designed to minimise energy consumption and maximise livability, with prospective bidders now able to register their interest to inspect the home.&nbsp;

Offering open plan and flexible living spaces, Transformation House also includes a double car garage, premium Smeg appliances, solar panels, walk-in-wardrobes, a family bathroom and two ensuites, along with an alfresco resort-style backyard, complete with timber decking and a Plungie Studio pool.&nbsp;

<img alt="Inside the Smiths Lane charity home, Transformation House " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b937a615-91d1-450d-a652-557177405397" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Smiths%20Lane%20by%20Mirvac_Transformation%20House_Outdoor%20Area.jpg?VersionId=jGeWf7pzMkWuogt2APS3Jr4ALFcZtHnA" />Inside the Smiths Lane charity home, Transformation House. Image supplied.&nbsp;

“We’ve been really proud to be involved in the styling of this beautiful Mirvac-designed home. For us, it was all about creating a soft, calm palette, with furnishings that work harmoniously with the home’s existing fixtures and fittings,” said Wales.&nbsp;

“We wanted to provide a really good foundation for the lucky future homeowners, so that they can move in and put their own stamp and personality on the space. With heaps of space and natural light that make it perfect for entertaining friends, we’re excited to see as many people as possible on auction day to support The Salvation Army Australia,” she said.&nbsp;

Salvation Army Australia (Major) Corps Officer, Michael Wright said that the contribution will play a significant role in helping the Salvation Army Australia provide housing, food, financial aid and other assistance to those who are homeless or living in poverty.&nbsp;

“Now, more than ever, so many Australians are under housing stress and in need of our support. Homelessness is a crucial issue that impacted over 278,300 Australians in 2020-21* and the sale of the Transformation House will raise much-needed funds to help us continue to provide crisis, transitional and long-term accommodation, refuges for women and their children, rooming houses and community housing,” Wright said.&nbsp;

<img alt="Inside the Smiths Lane charity home, Transformation House " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1cfaca7a-370d-48ae-a40d-922076c4a09d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Smiths%20Lane%20by%20Mirvac_Transformation%20House_Master%20Bedroom.jpg?VersionId=xhmyOf_KgmIbhEVmahYqmx_xJb3A.oJn" />Inside the Smiths Lane charity home, Transformation House. Image supplied.&nbsp;

Located just a short walk from Clyde Grammar and Banjo Park - as well as the soon to be opened Smiths Lane Hub which features a community space, social enterprise cafe and Experience Centre - Transformation House forms part of the masterplanned community which over 3000 residents will call home once complete.&nbsp;

With 60 hectares dedicated to green space, including sporting facilities, local parks, walking tracks and bike trails, Smiths Lane is also set to feature a future town centre, with supermarkets, speciality stores, restaurants, government school, childcare and educational facilities.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=28168]

Offering open plan and flexible living spaces, Transformation House also includes a double car garage, premium Smeg appliances, solar panels, walk-in-wardrobes, a family bathroom and two ensuites, along with an alfresco resort-style backyard, complete with timber decking and a Plungie Studio pool. 

Mirvac wrap construction on Smiths Lane Transformation House

ASX-listed developer, Cedar Woods are working in response to market demand with their latest masterplanned community.&nbsp;

In response to increasing market demand for affordable townhome living, the group has launched its second townhome offering within Mason Quarter.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134843 project_image_fid=206200]

Located in the burgeoning suburb of Wollert, the new SOHO Living townhome offering will add eight three-bedroom townhomes to the 64-hectare masterplanned development&nbsp;

Following the recent sell-out sales success of Mason Quarter’s first SOHO Living&nbsp; collection, Cedar Woods is receiving similar interest from buyers keen to secure a low maintenance yet well-appointed and affordable home.&nbsp;

The group’s Development Director, James Bovell said it was evident that design led townhomes in masterplanned communities were becoming increasingly popular, with first-home buyers and downsizers in particular attracted to their affordability, convenience, and connectivity to the local community.

“With ever changing market conditions, we’re seeing homebuyers increasingly look for locations that offer more amenity,” said Bovell.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134843 project_image_fid=206203]

“Masterplanned communities, such as Mason Quarter, offer residents a lifestyle that is equipped with surrounding benefits, such as the nearby Wollert Primary School and cafes, restaurants, retail destinations and schools all located within close proximity.”

The release of the latest townhomes complements the most recent Greenfield Market Report by RPM Real Estate, which forecasts an increase in demand for townhomes in Australia due to their versatile layouts and&nbsp; affordable price points for a diverse range of homebuyers.

“Townhomes are particularly attractive to first-home buyers and young families, as they offer purchasers enough space as well as privacy required for adapting needs,” said Bovell.

“We’re seeing a rise of interest in the townhome product, not only in Mason Quarter but our community developments across Australia. The new SOHO Living townhomes at Mason Quarter answers this demand for Melbourne homebuyers, who are looking for elevated design and contemporary living.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134843 project_image_fid=206201]

The townhomes are set to feature open-plan layouts, spacious porches, private garages and kitchens with stone bench tops and European-inspired appliances, including an oven, cooktop, range hood and dishwasher.

Once complete, Mason Quarter is slated to accommodate over 800 dwellings, two schools, a community centre, a 7.9-hectare conservation reserve and over 30 distributed tree reserves with majestic river red gums.

The community is conveniently located within walking distance of the future Wollert town centre with a range of existing infrastructure and public amenity nearby including the Hume Freeway, Metropolitan Ring Road, hospitals, shopping centres and public transport.

The second release of SOHO Living townhomes in Mason Quarter are now selling, with prices starting from $534,900.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134843]

Located in the burgeoning suburb of Wollert, the new SOHO Living townhome offering will add eight three-bedroom townhomes to the 64-hectare masterplanned development 

Cedar Woods answer demand for townhome living with second SOHO Living release in Mason Quarter

The Lothian in North Melbourne, has won The Frederick Romberg Award for Residential Architecture &ndash; Multiple Housing.

Kennedy Nolan won the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) award this week for the project which was completed in May this year by Excelon Projects.

It had already won the 2021 Victorian Architecture Awards for multiple housing, along with being an entrant in the top 40 Think Brick Awards 2021.

Set on an island site, the Lothian consists of four-storey townhouses with roof gardens and two stacked two-storey apartments, one with a roof garden.&nbsp;

The design was inspired by the attractive red brick edifices from the golden age of manufacturing found in the former working class suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8257 project_image_fid=28387]

The judges noted The Lothian retains a sense of warehouse scale and dimensions, converting them into refined domestic use.&nbsp;

The exterior is concrete, brickwork, arched windows, oculus windows and playful tile work. The red pressed clay bricks came from Krause in Stawell.

The jury described this development as &ldquo;a robust, energy-efficient building that acts as a place of beauty and refuge for its inhabitants while offering an innovative alternative composition of a multi-residential building envelope&rdquo;.

Excelon Projects is a Melbourne-based property development company established in 2011 to create well-considered residential projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8257 project_image_fid=29556]

The 480 square metre site with two laneways and two street frontages replaced an office buildingat 102 Lothian Street.

Lothian has been described as a programmatic and formal hybrid in response to its island site.&nbsp;

The north-south orientation results in principal elevations to the east and west with deeply shaded fa&ccedil;ades to the west and the consideration of privacy to the east.&nbsp;

The southern dwellings are imagined as artist studios.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8257 project_image_fid=29552]

To the north, an apartment is suspended in the existing tree canopy, in a leafy eyrie with eccentric oriel windows.

There is a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment for sale through Belle Property agent Scott McElroy at $880,000.

It comes with interior design by artisans such as IN-TERIA, who designed the handmade timber door hardware, and the famous Cherry pendant light by DANIEL EMMA.

Slate flooring is featured throughout.

Lothian Street&#39;s location, being close to Errol Street in the heart of old North Melbourne, is marketed as the perfect urban village with a post office, supermarket, Town Hall - and the best of Melbourne&#39;s cafes and restaurants including Auction Rooms and Mork.

Plus the famous cake shop Beatrix just a 5-minute walk away.

Kelvin Taing, Director of Excelon said it had "been exciting to see this project come to life and is a testament to the vision of the architects.”

“The Lothian is a love project for Excelon.”

Set on an island site, the Lothian consists of four-storey townhouses with roof gardens and two stacked two-storey apartments, one with a roof garden. 



jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Resale opportunity at The Lothian in North Melbourne, the 2021 AIA award winning apartment block

The final three-level townhouses on Templestowe Lower&#39;s Manningham Road, has been listed for sale.

The townhomes at 234 Manningham Road are priced from&nbsp;$772,000.&nbsp;The&nbsp;three-bedroom, two-bathroom homes are&nbsp;well under the suburb median of&nbsp;$846,000, which is up 11 per cent in the last 12 months.

The townhomes will feature&nbsp;an open-plan&nbsp;layout, with a home office located on the ground level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108729 project_image_fid=179559]

There are SMEG kitchen appliances and Caesar stone benchtops used in both the bathroom and kitchen.

Located in the premium suburb of Templestowe Lower it is&nbsp;16km northeast of the Melbourne CBD.

It has the access to natural parklands at Ruffey lake park and the Yarra River&rsquo;s recreation, city-bound buses, and leading schools, while minutes from the Eastern Freeway and Westfield Doncaster.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108729 project_image_fid=179563]

It is situated&nbsp;within the Templestowe Primary School and Templestowe college school zones, a five-minute drive away.

10 minutes of walking sees residents at a&nbsp;Woolworths supermarket and the surrounding restaurants.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108729]

&nbsp;

Priced at $772,000, the two or three bedroom, two bathroom homes are well under the suburb median of $846,000, which is up 11 per cent in the last 12 months

jordan_55689

Templestowe Lower townhouses cheaper than the suburb median

A Mont Albert North townhouse topped Melbourne&#39;s weekend online results selling at $1,324,500.

The price guide had been $1,100,000 to $1,210,000 by its McGrath listing agents.

The 2/37 Boondara Rd town residence came with four bedrooms and three bathrooms.

There was a double auto garage.

Melbourne apartment vendors secured an 22 percent success rate at weekend auction given a high withdrawal rate.

According to CoreLogic, there was an $626,000 median price for its apartments/townhouses.

There were 196 results, with some 112 results yet to be advised.

Melbourne houses saw a 38 percent success rate.

Nationally units had a 45 percent preliminary success rate, with an $852,500 median price, while houses had a 58 percent success rate an a $1.14m median.

It was set in the Koonung Secondary College zone

Melbourne Townhouses

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Melbourne Townhouses

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News