Sydney developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/31-41-o-hara-street-marrickville-nsw-2204">Third.i</a>&nbsp;has announced a new transport-oriented development in one of Sydney Inner West’s most sought-after metropolitan locations, delivering much needed housing within steps of world-class public transport and vibrant village life.

Located at&nbsp;31-41 O’Hara St,&nbsp;Marrickville, the proposed mixed-use development will include around 300 apartments, with up to 17 per cent dedicated to affordable housing, reinforcing Third.i’s commitment to creating inclusive, well-connected communities that support a diverse mix of residents who keep Sydney’s neighbourhoods thriving.

Located just 100 metres from the new Metro station, the development places residents within minutes of the CBD while offering seamless access to the Inner West’s cafés, retail, and local services. Anchored within a thriving local centre, the project supports everyday living without reliance on cars, while also delivering new public open space for the local community, including a new park and landscaped green areas, alongside high-quality private resident amenities.

Florian Caillon, Head of Acquisitions for Third.i Group, said the project builds on the company’s ongoing work alongside the NSW Government to deliver housing and amenity alongside major transport infrastructure. Amenity includes an activated pedestrianise retail strip that connects Illawarra Road down to the pocket park, and health and wellness facilities.&nbsp;

“Delivering housing of this scale within an established village is a rare opportunity, and few companies have achieved residential outcomes of this size at a village centre," Caillon said.

"We are excited to set a new standard for urban living in the heart of Marrickville,” he said.&nbsp;

The inclusion of affordable housing has been welcomed by frontline workers.

“We are supportive of developments which will allow essential workers like nurses, midwives and carers, the opportunity to live in the communities they care for," said&nbsp;Michael Whaites, General Secretary of the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association..

“Many healthcare workers tell us they would like to live closer to where they work, but are being priced out of the market, forcing them to move further away.&nbsp;

“Dedicated apartments for essential workers will support recruitment and retention in local hospitals and aged care facilities, helping to strengthen our health system.”

The project has been declared State Significant Development (SSD) by the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA).

Joel Robinson

Third.i to deliver 300 apartments in Marrickville TOD precinct

A luxury half floor penthouse intended to be retained by Queensland developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/qm-properties">QM Properties</a> has hit the market as the final residence within <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/160-macquarie-160-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">160 Macquarie</a> apartment development, an exclusive enclave of just 33 premium apartments located on St Lucia’s riverfront.&nbsp;

The 14-storey building, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/st-lucia-qld-4067">St Lucia</a>’s first riverfront development to be completed in over a decade, smashed the suburb record in 2024 with a 12th storey, half-floor residence selling for $6.29 million, nearly $1.5 million higher than the previous highest sale of $4.8 million in 2020. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25721 project_image_fid=299769]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a> Residential Director, Andrew Roubicek sold three apartments within the recently completed development in 2025 and 2026 realising increases in value averaging 65 per cent compared to the original prices of the apartments sold off-the-plan.

Andrew said these sales underscored the unparalleled desirability of 160 Macquarie, located on the riverfront in one of Brisbane’s most sought after suburbs, to the local downsizer market. &nbsp;

“Most of the residents in 160 Macquarie are like-minded western suburbs people, downsizing from large homes and attracted to the design, size and expansive aspects across the river and northeast views towards the Brisbane city skyline," Roubicek said.

“Residents of 160 Macquarie also enjoy exclusive access to a rooftop sanctuary that features a range &nbsp;of lounge and dining areas with uninterrupted panoramic views. The state-of-the-art private pool, nestled beside the Brisbane River, further enhances the luxurious lifestyle on offer."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25721 project_image_fid=299764]

This demand for high quality, riverside residences has prompted QM Properties to release the final &nbsp;half floor penthouse, previously intended to be retained by the company, which has never been occupied. &nbsp;

The brand-new luxury 246 sqm sub-penthouse, designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>,&nbsp;has three bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a master with walk-in robe including make-up bench and ensuite with freestanding bath, open plan living and dining, built in bar and wine display, three side-by-side carparks, and an entertainers balcony with uninterrupted, never to be built out views of both the Brisbane CBD &amp; Mount Cootha.&nbsp;

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QM Properties have released the final half floor penthouse at 160 Macquarie, St Lucia’s first riverfront development in over a decade  

Final luxury penthouse released following 65% uplift in values at 160 Macquarie, St Lucia

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> may sit just south of Melbourne’s officially designated Bayside suburbs, but this small coastal pocket offers all the hallmarks of its neighbouring areas, at a considerably lower entry point to the property market.

Trains, beaches, dog parks and retail, the pillars of any Bayside lifestyle, are all thriving in Parkdale. It was these four factors, combined with a clear undersupply of new apartment developments, that drew boutique Bayside developer Lowe Living to the suburb around five years ago.

The group secured a site on Como Parade East, where it launched, and has now almost sold out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kallara-house-parkdale-by-lowe-living-129-137-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Kallara House</a>.

Now, Lowe Living has returned to Parkdale, this time with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elanora-place-parkdale-152-como-parade-west-parkdale-vic-3195">Elanora Place</a> on Como Parade West, just a few minutes’ walk from the water.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148731 project_image_fid=364174]

Designed by Jackson Clements Burrows, Elanora Place will comprise 40 two- and three-bedroom apartments.

While “large-scale” is a term often overused in project marketing, the residences at Elanora Place genuinely live up to the label. Entry-level two-bedroom apartments, priced from $1.15 million, span nearly 115 sqm. Larger two-bedroom configurations, including ground-floor residences with courtyards, exceed 150 sqm, while three-bedroom homes range from 180 sqm to more than 220 sqm. These are priced between $1.75 million and $1.815 million.

A select number of residences also feature EV charging stations within private two-car garages.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148731 project_image_fid=364176]

The design of Elanora—translated as “a home by the sea”—draws on Parkdale’s architectural legacy and bayside charm, with careful consideration given to scale, materiality and local character, according to Jackson Clements Burrows.

Resident amenity has been curated to foster a sense of community, with a rooftop terrace offering sweeping bay views, built-in barbecue areas, and tranquil garden retreats designed to bring neighbours together in a relaxed coastal setting.

Construction of the low-rise development is already underway, led by Lowe Living’s in-house arm, Lowe Construction, with completion anticipated in early 2027.

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Lowe Living continues Parkdale preference with Elanora Place apartments

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">BPG Developments</a>’ Palm Beach project Liérre has raced to 35 per cent sold within its first two months on the market, as the Queensland builder-developer prepares to start construction in the coming two months.&nbsp;

The momentum adds to a strong early response for the Jefferson Lane address, which recently secured development approval for the $165 million beachfront-adjacent scheme.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149551 project_image_fid=364569]

Planned for a 1,733 sqm amalgamated site on the beach side of Gold Coast Highway,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">Liérre</a> will deliver 58 apartments, three townhouses and eight penthouses, bringing a scaled residential offering to one of the Gold Coast’s most in-demand coastal suburbs. The project is one block back from the beach, a position that has helped shape both its design approach and buyer appeal.

BPG Developments Co-founder Nick Parr said the project reflects the next stage of Palm Beach’s evolution. “<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">Liérre</a> reflects the next phase in Palm Beach’s evolution as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after residential markets,” Parr said.&nbsp;

“Our vision was to deliver a project of enduring quality, one that responds to its beachfront location through thoughtful design and functionality.” He said BPG’s integrated builder-developer model gives the team greater control over quality, timelines and outcomes.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149551 project_image_fid=364572]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">Liérre</a> draws on Palm Beach’s coastal character through what the architect describes as a calm, finely detailed response to the shoreline setting. The palette leans into raw, earthy tones such as blush and rust, paired with travertine finishes, soft curves and organic forms.&nbsp;

Plus Studio Principal Chrisney Formosa said the building was “sculpted from the rhythm of the coast,” with a shell-inspired form and sand-hued facade intended to support Palm Beach’s emergence as a design-led beachfront neighbourhood.

Residents will also have access to a substantial wellness offering, including a gym, sauna, spa, outdoor shower, and an amenities deck with pool, cabanas, sunbeds and landscaping throughout.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149551 project_image_fid=364581]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a> has continued to attract attention from both developers and buyers as the southern Gold Coast tightens in supply.

MOTIV Founder Carly Cottam said the suburb was the fourth most searched on the Gold Coast for property, citing its community feel and proximity to beaches and dining. She said Lierre would appeal to buyers seeking a luxury address at a relatively attainable price point, particularly given the rarity of a site just one block back from the beach.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149551 project_image_fid=364576]

For BPG, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">Liérre</a> is also part of a broader period of growth. The approval followed another recent green light for the developer’s $250 million Newstead project, taking its pipeline to around $500 million across Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Co-founder Glen Williams said Palm Beach embodied the company’s focus on refined design, craftsmanship and long-term value over volume.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149551]

BPG’s Palm Beach project Liérre races to 35 per cent sold as construction commencement nears

Melbourne developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pdg-corporation">PDG</a>&nbsp;has commenced early works on its $1.5 billion One Queens Bridge development, reviving a Southbank site that has remained dormant for more than a decade.

Located on one of Melbourne’s most significant riverfront sites, the project, to be known as No.1 Queens Bridge, will deliver a 71-level mixed-use tower comprising 588 residences and a hotel, complemented by dining and wellness offerings overlooking the Yarra River.

Originally constructed in the mid-1800s, the Queens Bridge Hotel will form a central part of the development, with PDG embracing and elevating the historic pub as a key arrival point into the precinct. The landmark building will anchor a new hospitality and dining offering, including a rooftop bar, a grand atrium entry, and a proposed global luxury boutique hotel integrated into the podium levels.

Crafted by internationally renowned design studio <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX</a>, in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the project draws inspiration from its riverfront setting. The architecture explores the movement and fluidity of the Yarra River, expressed through a sculptural facade composed of six vertical pleats extending the full height of the 71-storey tower.

The pleated form creates a distinctive three-dimensional expression that captures and reflects Melbourne’s changing light throughout the day, adding a dynamic presence to the city skyline.

Residents will have access to more than 5,500 sqm of amenities across multiple levels, creating an “urban village in the sky” that redefines how people live across generations.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the project represents a major milestone for both the site and Melbourne’s next wave of city-shaping developments.

“This project marks the revival of one of Melbourne’s most prominent riverfront sites and the beginning of a new chapter for Southbank," Giuliano said.

"For more than 15 years, the site has remained dormant, and the recent commencement of demolition on site is a powerful signal of our confidence in Melbourne’s future and in PDG’s ability to deliver a project of this scale and quality."

Giuliano says&nbsp;No.1 Queens Bridge has been designed to deliver something truly exceptional for Melbourne, an address that brings together heritage, architecture, hospitality and residential living in a way the city hasn’t experienced for many years."

PDG purchased the 5,059 sqm site at 1–29 Queens Bridge Street in December 2024. Plans for No.1 Queens Bridge are currently before the Department of Transport and Planning, with sales due to launch in the coming months.

PDG kicks off early works on $1.5 billion Southbank tower No.1 Queens Bridge

Orchard Piper

The luxury apartment developer, Orchard Piper, has paid $67 million for the Mercedes Benz dealership in Toorak, with a view to create a new mixed-use precinct.

The sprawling 3,600 sqm&nbsp;site at 7-11A and&nbsp;17-19 Carters Avenue, in the heart of Toorak&#39;s retail and commercial precinct, will see&nbsp;$150 million worth of luxury apartments developed, as well as offices and shops, to revamp the village as a vibrant and modern-day high street.

It&#39;s been a three years process for Orchard Piper to secure&nbsp;the 10 individual titles. In addition to the recent purchase, Orchard Piper spent $28&nbsp;million on a 1,400 sqm holding on the corner of Toorak and Mathoura Road, taking their spending in the affluent Melbourne suburb to just under $100 million. The end value across the two projects is expected to be $550 million.

Primed as the last remaining site in Toorak Village, earmarked as a Key Development Site under the Stonnington Council&rsquo;s planning scheme, Orchard Piper is set to submit plans for the site&rsquo;s reformation as a $400 million mixed-use precinct featuring a &lsquo;super-premium&rsquo; residential offering with class leading lifestyle amenities, complemented by high-end retail and commercial suites for boutique family office style owner-occupiers.

Orchard Piper, led by Luke McKie and Rick Gronow, secured the sites from the Hagen family, who had pieced the landholding together since 1932.

&ldquo;Having a close and trusting relationship with the Hagen family allowed us to shape this deal to suit the vendors, they were interested in a high quality outcome for the site, given their longstanding ownership and history,&rdquo; Gronow says.

&ldquo;We have great respect and admiration for the long-standing partnership John Worrell and Karl Hagen shared. The Worrell family began piecing this land together in 1932, following World War I, which eventuated in this un-repeatable parcel on the doorstep of Toorak Village.&quot;

This latest acquisition made by Orchard Piper takes the developer&rsquo;s pipeline to more than $1.1 billion of addresses in Melbourne&rsquo;s most blue-chip locations.

Regarded as Melbourne&rsquo;s leading luxury developer in the residential sector, Orchard Piper&rsquo;s recent Stonnington project Huntingtower Road was last month awarded the National Winner of the Master Builders Associated for best Medium Density building over five dwellings.

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Designs for the revamping of the Mercedes Benz location are set to be unveiled in 2023, with construction to commence the following year in-line with Mercedes&rsquo; lease ending. Construction on the Mathoura and Toorak Road corner site is on track to commence early next year.

McKie says the architectural response to the 3,600 sqm site should reflect the significance of its location.

&quot;We&rsquo;ve been actively involved in the area for over thirteen years, having developed six previous projects within minutes of this site,&rdquo; McKie says.

&ldquo;It is now widely acknowledged that Toorak Village is coming into a new era. This combined with our two new sites and Stonnington Council&rsquo;s recent street art and furniture investment will ensure the Village lifts to new heights.&quot;

Orchard Piper, led by Luke McKie and Rick Gronow, secured the sites from the Hagen family, who had pieced the landholding together since 1932

Orchard Piper secure Toorak's Mercedes Benz dealership, plot mixed-use precinct

The Melbourne-based developer&nbsp;Orchard Piper has secured a rare development site fronting Fitzroy Gardens.

The 1,200 sqm site at 364-370 Albert Street, East Melbourne was an amalgamation of three adjoining park-front sites which had been held by the same family for over four decades.

A grand three storey Victorian townhouse will be restored and offered as a townhouse.&nbsp;There will be&nbsp;a further&nbsp;six residential levels comprising 14 apartments and two levels of private offices.

Each apartment will take in views of Melbourne&#39;s CBD or Fitzroy Gardens.

Orchard Piper&nbsp;have had their go-to architect Jolson Architects, who were behind the famous Pt Leo Estate down on the Mornington Peninsula, draw up the plans. It&#39;s the sixth collaboration&nbsp;between the two.

Orchard Piper director Luke McKie said the strategic site acquisition and planning permit represented a significant step forward for the brand, and the next phase of the Orchard Piper story.

&ldquo;We have been actively acquiring sites through COVID with a view to significantly bolstering our pipeline as we move into more substantial projects in Melbourne&rsquo;s best locations.&rdquo;

<img alt="" height="2401" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/orchard_directors.jpg" width="1600" /> 
Orchard Piper directors Luke McKie, left, and Rick Gronow, right. Image supplied 
 
&ldquo;This East Melbourne project has been designed in direct response to more than 13 years of market feedback from our local owner occupiers. Living spaces will be ample, with home offices and master suites just as you would expect in a detached house&rdquo; adds McKie.

&ldquo;This is our sixth project with our long term design partners, Jolson. The collective knowledge from this partnership places our projects in rare territory where historic feedback from our residents continues to shape our future offerings.&rdquo;

Orchard Piper co-founder and director Rick Gronow said they have&nbsp;continuous demand from their buyers and repeated enquiries for an Orchard Piper offering in East Melbourne.

&quot;This site is as good as it gets, and we are excited to be able to soon offer these properties to the market.&rdquo;

Orchard Piper is set to&nbsp;launch the project in the second half of 2021.

Each apartment will take in views of Melbourne's CBD or Fitzroy Gardens

Orchard Piper to build mixed-use development on Fitzroy Gardens

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For almost ten years, Melbourne-based Orchard Piper has been developing boutique projects targeted at a very niche owner-occupier market. Working exclusively with Jolson Architecture, their projects are generally comprised of around 10 residences, all with a gross realisation of around $40 million in tightly held inner-ring suburbs.

With the now sustained trend in the property market toward the owner occupier and drop off of international investors, Orchard Piper Director Luke McKie notes that, “if you are not willing to adapt to the demands of the owner occupier, you won’t be able to service this swing in the market."

Orchard Piper's most recent project - Huntingtower Road - is a boutique two-level project of just 10 apartment surrounded by gardens on a 2,000 square metre site on Huntingtower Road, tailored specifically for people considering a move from large homes in Melbourne’s inner eastern suburbs.

Located between High Street and Malvern Road, 35 Huntingtower Road sees Orchard Piper once again engage Melbourne Architect Stephen Jolson, alongside acclaimed horticulturist Myles Baldwin, to the design team to maximise and enhance the project's garden setting.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1729_orchard_piper_ext-hero.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Orchard Piper's Huntingtower Road Project sits within a garden designed by Myles Baldwin. Image : Gabriel Saunders"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1729_orchard_piper_ext-hero.jpg?itok=mgmsKI3m" title="Orchard Piper's Huntingtower Road Project sits within a garden designed by Myles Baldwin. Image : Gabriel Saunders" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Orchard Piper's Huntingtower Road Project sits within a garden designed by Myles Baldwin. Image : Gabriel Saunders</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
We entrusted this incredibly rare 2000-square metre site to our highly experienced and talented design team to deliver a project with integrity and substance. They created Huntingtower Road – a property far beyond anything Armadale has seen before in this section of the market.

- Luke McKie, Director, Orchard Piper
</blockquote>

Urban.com.au asked McKie for his thoughts on the shift in the market and how Orchard Piper might be best positioned to respond greater demand for service and customisation

Urban.com.au : Orchard Piper have always had a predisposition towards the higher end of the owner-occupier market and a development model which generally results in a speedy town planning process. What was the key driver behind these decisions?

Luke McKie : The two points you’ve raised are critically linked. When Owner Occupiers are your primary buyer, there’s little compassion for a drawn out planning process causing delays to a project.

Our clients typically want to sell their family home, plan their move and get on with their lives. One of our strengths is our ability to identify and acquire premium addresses that can be developed within the Council's objectives resulting in a much quicker planning outcome.

UM : Are you surprised that there are few other developers taking this approach? Or is it still a very niche market, particularly when considering the locations of previous Orchard Piper developments?

LM : It’s a very time consuming and inefficient process, but highly rewarding for us. The ability to engage with our clients, neighbours and Council regularly allows us to continually evolve and improve our product.

We have a very good understanding of our market and community expectations.

There is an ever growing number of developers in our market space, particularly following the slow down of the overseas / investor buyer. I’ll be curious to see how developers new to the owner-occupier space adjust to the demands of this sector, it’s certainly not straight-forward.

UM : What is an ideal development size for Orchard Piper in terms of number of dwellings and also scale?

LM : Historically between 5 and15 properties per project, but we really have no ideal. So long as our buildings and properties within have a strong sense of identity and clients can maintain the balance of privacy and ownership over the building, we are happy to proceed.

UM : Any observations re: the last 6 months and impact of new stamp duty regulations?

LM : Not directly on us, but in speaking with peers, the effect seems to be dramatic. Most developers I speak with, who were in the “stamp duty sensitive space” say that sales have slowed to a trickle or have stopped completely.

I’m sure there’s a lot of pain out there, but it can take time to filter through in an otherwise strong economy. It will start from financiers looking for loan paybacks, when projects get to that point.

UM : What are your expectations for the year ahead?

LM : A continued focus toward the underlying demand of the local buyer and the ongoing exposure of those with poor fundamentals. If your outlook and business model remain macro and disciplined these bumps will create opportunities in the year ahead.

UM : What are some of the fundamentals of Orchard Piper projects and responding to the demands of owner-occupiers? What does Orchard Piper do differently?

LM : The never ending loop of offering a product to market, listening to feedback and integrating that into your next project; this ensures we’re always in touch with our market. We always work as if we’re developing the property for someone in our own family.

Our design intuition, attention to detail, uncompromising standards and ability to source un-repeatable sites sets us apart. We also maintain a deep respect for our clients and our creative team.

We have a wonderful sense of pride and ownership in our project team which we feel is embodied in our projects and ultimately passed through to our clients in their new home. We are also open to change, which in the property development world, immediately sets us apart.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gabrielsaunders_orchardpiper_apt1-living-courtyard.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Apartments within Huntingtower all take advantage of a verdant garden aspect. Image : Gabriel Saunders"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="357" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gabrielsaunders_orchardpiper_apt1-living-courtyard.jpg?itok=XqrVlbKR" title="Apartments within Huntingtower all take advantage of a verdant garden aspect. Image : Gabriel Saunders" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Apartments within Huntingtower all take advantage of a verdant garden aspect. Image : Gabriel Saunders</figcaption></figure>
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Laurence Dragomir

Orchard Piper's Luke McKie discusses the shift to the owner-occupier market

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Apartments of this ilk are not a common occurrence across Melbourne.

Offered the opportunity to visit Orchard Piper's freshly completed penthouse atop their Washington Street development in Toorak, Apartments.com.au jumped at the chance to view what is now Melbourne's newest entrant in the ultra-luxury apartment living stakes. Apartments.com.au was guided through the development by Orchard Piper's Luke McKie, who along with Rick Gronow spearhead the development firm.

Whilst the other five dwellings that constitute Washington Street have been sold, the 1,000sqm penthouse has been held back by the development team with the expectation that the final product would effectively speak for itself.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image6wash.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Living area and outdoor terrace"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6wash.jpg?itok=0fB2Ydd3" title="Living area and outdoor terrace" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Living area and outdoor terrace</figcaption></figure>Washington Street's penthouse is split between 580sqm of internal living and 420sqm across multiple external terrace spaces. It may not have reached such ample proportions if not for Luke McKie moving into the existing property and befriending the neighbouring land owner.

Far from the stories of internationally-backed developers swooping on prime sites and developing almost immediately, Orchard Piper initially secured two adjoining properties and played a long game whereby a third adjoining site was eventually added to the development plot over the course of a year.

The then larger site encapsulating 27-31 Washington Street was taken to planning, reflecting Orchard Piper's penchant for high-end developments in blue-chip locations.

Enter Melbourne-based studio Jolson. Washington Street is the fourth collaboration between architect and developer.

It's a successful relationship that Luke McKie describes as being based on a gentlemen's agreement in that despite there being no format agreement, the two choose to utilise one another almost exclusively. This is the case as both parties have a near identical ethos to quality design and project delivery.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image4wash.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A bathroom like no other"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4wash.jpg?itok=k8nXf3O9" title="A bathroom like no other" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A bathroom like no other</figcaption></figure>Upon touring the finished penthouse it becomes apparent that the attention to detail is (and needs to be) astounding for a project of this nature. 

From computer generated programs that modelled a sole aspect of the dwelling countless times until the entire team found consensus, to the depth of research undertaken both domestically and overseas, or simply sitting in the shell pondering vistas and orientations, it is a process of analysing every aspect of the design and build to the enth degree.

Far away from the repetitive towers that dot the skyline, it's the immense attention to detail in this one penthouse that fosters a feeling of craftsmanship in the finished product which for all intensive purposes is an elevated home. Coupled with underlying themes such as space and proportion, security, natural light and amenity, Washington Street does deserve a ‘one of a kind’ status.

Having previously had experience with the likes of Mirvac and working on such projects as The Melburnian, Luke McKie explains that the detailing within the Washington Street penthouse simply has no peer. For the record, the penthouse is split into two wings by a central gallery hall, and includes a gymnasium, pool, sauna, exercise studio, private garage with separate lobby, dedicated lift access, a 1,300 bottle wine room and cigar bar.

Surrounded on all four sides by gardens, Washington Street's penthouse interior features travertine stone, timber floors, polished plaster walls and bronzed metal detailing. Eckersley Garden Architecture account for the landscape design whilst custom touches are added by New York's Lindsey Adelman Studio and Murano glass maker Venini.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image3wash.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Washington Street's penthouse pool with city views"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3wash.jpg?itok=u-Mp3AWW" title="Washington Street's penthouse pool with city views" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Washington Street's penthouse pool with city views</figcaption></figure>Luke McKie has flagged an existing Toorak resident as the likely buyer of Washington Street's penthouse. He believes the 1,000sqm penthouse will meet the expected sale price of $20 million, or $20,000 per square metre, which is not uncommon in Toorak.

Beyond successfully completing Washington Street, Orchard Piper's nous for high-end projects will shift to Armadale, where a 2,000sqm land plot at 35 Huntingtower Road is in their sights.

Simply dubbed Huntingtower, the project will consist of 10 Jolson-designed oversized residences across two levels. Two and three-bedroom dwellings are in the offing; internal areas ranging between 160 to 370sqm whilst private outdoor spaces peak at 215sqm. 

Once more Orchard Piper hopes to tap into buyers from suburbs immediately surrounding Armadale.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image1htto.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Huntingtower is Orchard Piper's next project"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="603" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1htto.jpg?itok=T_LyU75k" title="Huntingtower is Orchard Piper's next project" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Huntingtower is Orchard Piper's next project</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au utilised the images provided by Orchard Piper.
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silvermb

What it takes to deliver Melbourne's latest $20 million penthouse

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Melbourne architectural developer <a href="/developers/orchard-piper">Orchard Piper</a> is about to commence demolition on the site for their Washington Street project, which would see the creation of one of <a href="/new-apartments/toorak-vic-3142">Toorak’s</a> most luxurious apartment developments featuring a $15 million Penthouse <a href="/news/return-of-the-luxury-penthouse">covered last year</a> on Apartments.com.au.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_street_-_r001_-_elevation_2000_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Washington Street. Image courtesy Orchard Piper"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="278" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_street_-_r001_-_elevation_2000_0.jpg?itok=BpfFLsxY" title="Washington Street. Image courtesy Orchard Piper" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Washington Street. Image courtesy Orchard Piper</figcaption></figure>Washington Street presents as a unique apartment offering, a project that for Orchard Piper represents a commitment to contemporary design and sets a benchmark for collaboration on a global scale. Unlike the traditional property ‘developer’ model, design is very much at the forefront of Orchard Piper's projects with very aspect of the developments beginning and ending with meticulous design and exceptional attention to detail. Washington Street this commitment.

Washington Street consolidates three residential blocks into one site located at <a href="/buildings/washington-street-27-washington-street-toorak">27-31 Washington Street, Toorak</a>. Comprising six spaciously proportioned residences over three floors the project also features a penthouse that Orchard Piper believes "will sit comfortably amongst the best in Australia, if not the world."

With architecture by regular collaborator Stephen Jolson of <a href="/architects/jolson">Jolson Architecture</a> and seasonal landscaping by Eckersley Garden Architecture, Washington Street includes two ground floor 'Garden Residences' with expansive north facing gardens and three first floor residences, known as 'The Terraces', sitting comfortably within their green surrounds.

To crown the building, one 1,000sqm penthouse, conceived as a whole floor pavilion sunken into a garden surround, the ‘one of a kind’ penthouse will include a gymnasium, pool, a private garage with separate lobby with dedicated lift access opening onto the gallery hall, in addition to a 1,300 bottle wine room and bar. The Washington Street penthouse will feature expansive city views and comes with a price tag in excess of $15 million.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_-_r010_-_study_2000.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Washington Street rooftop. Image courtesy Orchard Piper."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_-_r010_-_study_2000.jpg?itok=AYTOz1J9" title="Washington Street rooftop. Image courtesy Orchard Piper." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Washington Street rooftop. Image courtesy Orchard Piper.</figcaption></figure>Internally, Jolson has sought to create a sensory experience: Washington Street homes have been designed to allow maximum natural light to filter through into free-flowing, flexible spaces where attention to detail is paramount. The interiors draw on the rich collaborations with international artisans who have been commissioned to make one-of-a-kind fixtures and fittings for the building. Notably, New York based lighting designer Lindsey Adelmen was commissioned by Orchard Piper to design a custom fitting for the entry lobby, and eminent Venetian glass house Venini will be undertaking their first Australian collaboration, creating glass spheres that will identify the apartments.

Every material has been scrutinised for its aesthetic, functionality and contextual relationship, creating interiors that are simple, considered and lasting. Lindsey Adelmen’s organic and industrial forms will add a further graceful dimension to the project, while the bespoke glassware of Venini will further accentuate the residences' majestic features.

Based on their experience with clientele at Davis Avenue, where almost every buyer engaged their own interior designer, Orchard Piper have responded to this desire at Washington Street by engaging Jolson Interiors to curate custom furniture packages to suit every unique apartment layout in the building. The furniture packages are hand picked by Jolson Interiors from Melbourne’s best contemporary furniture suppliers including, Cult, Space, Hub &amp; Poliform.

Orchard Piper have also engaged the sound engineers of Bang and Olufsen to tailor AV packages for each residence which will also be equipped with state-of-the-art Rimadescio walk-in wardrobes

Architect, Stephen Jolson, has used architectural principals of perspective and proportion to create a "perfect sense of place". Washington Street is very much about luxury that is instinctively sensed upon arrival.

<blockquote>
Washington Street represents everything Orchard Piper stands for, a building of understated elegance with considered and thoughtful interiors, where luxury is provided in light, space and proportion. This project will present Toorak with an unrepeatable offering and a beautiful addition. Our projects are built to our own standards, as we would want them finished for ourselves to live in.
<cite>Luke McKie, Director, Orchard Piper</cite>
</blockquote>

Around the corner in Hawksburn, on a site located adjacent to Hawksburn Village, Orchard Piper's St John Lane project is progressing on site with completion penciled in for November this year. A clever, considered architectural solution on a very awkward site, the building has seen Orchard Piper once again engage Stephen Jolson to conceive a design that draws on the simplicity and inventiveness of Japanese architecture, with interlocking forms over three levels.

St Johns Lane unlocks a residential opportunity that captures views over Toorak towards the South Yarra and Melbourne skylines,limited to just four residences. The upper storey is recessed and spills with landscape tracery, creating a notion of a secluded urban retreat. The entire structure is configured to capture maximum light and views, while providing privacy within an inner-city environment and activating the laneway in tandem with Orchard Piper's upcoming project on Mathoura Road.

The entrance is a subtle metal portal with integrated address signage piercing the façade. Internal spaces slowly reveal themselves, using natural tones of oak and stone to transition from the laneway backdrop to private and spacious havens.

<h2>About Orchard Piper</h2>

A lifestyle brand for contemporary property development, Orchard Piper is a partnership of two Directors, Luke McKie and Rick Gronow. Both have a desire to deliver unparalleled contemporary homes of beauty and integrity to owner occupiers in Melbourne. Their starting point and philosophy when it comes to design and property is simple: would they and their friends or family live in the homes? On the back of a handful of projects Orchard Piper has quickly developed a reputation as one of the more architecturally minded developers in Melbourne, with an understanding that excellent outcomes come from collaborations with highly talented individuals.

To this end, Orchard Piper commit to working with leaders in Architecture, Design, Landscape and Construction, delivering projects of some of the highest design integrity and attention to detail you can find. Orchard Piper’s portfolio has quickly built to be valued in excess of $110 million and its attention is now focused on three residential developments: St Johns Lane, Washington Street and Mathoura Road, following completion of the Davis Avenue, <a href="/new-apartments/south-yarra-vic-3141">South Yarra</a> project.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/orchard_piper_mathoura_rd_external_reduced.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mathoura Road. Image courtesy Orchard Piper"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="357" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/orchard_piper_mathoura_rd_external_reduced.jpg?itok=txOgz1Tb" title="Mathoura Road. Image courtesy Orchard Piper" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mathoura Road. Image courtesy Orchard Piper</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Architectural craftsmanship is at the heart of every Orchard Piper project. Each property is developed through collaboration with design leaders, resulting in a portfolio of expressive, refined properties of enduring integrity.
<cite>Orchard Piper</cite>
</blockquote>

With a unique commitment to contemporary architectural craftsmanship, Orchard Piper properties are textured, refined and livable. Orchard Piper residential collections can be found in Melbourne’s most sought after and tightly held locales including Toorak, South Yarra with more to follow.

Orchard Piper differentiate themselves as developers and ‘design’ is the touchstone for every decision they make in the development process. Teaming up with Stephen Jolson they have developed a formula for success which sees them employ a typical 2-3 storey podium of apartments, topped with a recessed penthouse apartment. This strategy towards built form ensures a smooth town planning process as the developments adhere to strict town planning guidelines with relation to built form, adequate setbacks, privacy and overlooking of neighbouring properties.
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Orchard Piper in focus

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Some pizazz has re-entered the top end of the Melbourne apartment market with a handful of penthouse offerings jostling to take centre stage. Far from the investor-driven stock of Melbourne's CBD towers, two current projects are showing their wares in the pedigree stakes.

Perhaps a sign of South Yarra's still exceptional pulling power, the two current projects are located within the locality maintaining differing but spectacular penthouses on offer for.

<h2>Washington Street</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_street_-_r001_-_elevation_2000.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Looking to set a new benchmark. Image courtesy Orchard Piper"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="278" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_street_-_r001_-_elevation_2000.jpg?itok=Sb8Skl-G" title="Looking to set a new benchmark. Image courtesy Orchard Piper" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Looking to set a new benchmark. Image courtesy Orchard Piper</figcaption></figure>Jolson Architecture have conceived a fresh project for developer Orchard Piper titled Washington Street. Six oversize dwellings will be located within the three level complex, including a 'super penthouse' expected to fetch in excess of $15 million. A breakdown of internal area size speaks toward the luxury status of Washington Street.

Dual ground floor residences range between 589sqm and 648sqm, including large external terrace/gardens in excess 200sqm. Three first floor abodes average 260sqm of internal living while the 'super penthouse' is precisely that: 570sqm of internal space complimented by a 372sqm external terrace. A total of 942sqm ranks Washington Street's penthouse as one of the largest penthouse apartments available in Melbourne.

<blockquote>
Luxury to us is about making the most of the intangibles, such as light, proportion and aspect, not just the combination of the most expensive items available. We achieve a greater outcome by focusing on creating value through relentless and obsessive design.

Saving money through value management is a fruitless task when compared to the benefit of a truly design led outcome. It’s very rare to find a site where you can completely take the brakes of your design team. Washington Street is a true expression of the collaborative talents we have employed on this project.
<cite>Luke McKie, Orchard Piper</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_-_r013_-_bed_20001.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An extended bedroom goes toward Washington Street's prowess. Image courtesy Orchard Piper"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_-_r013_-_bed_20001.jpg?itok=r9Mbngzy" title="An extended bedroom goes toward Washington Street's prowess. Image courtesy Orchard Piper" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An extended bedroom goes toward Washington Street's grandeur. Image courtesy Orchard Piper</figcaption></figure><h2>Yarra House</h2>

On a smaller land plot yet with height and never-to-be-built-out views to burn, the under construction Yarra House aims to bring dual penthouses to the South Yarra's Forrest Hill precinct. Designed by Scott Walker of Hassell Studio, the ‘North East Penthouse’ and ‘North West Penthouse’ together act as the crowning glory for the 26 level tower.

Refined stone benchtops, bespoke ensuites, fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling glazing, extensive walk-in robes, designated studies, kitchen walk-in pantries and entertaining space are included in the either three or four-bedroom residences, depending upon the buyers preference. At up to $3.995 million the penthouses represent a departure from the norm in Forrest Hill.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/yate8000_yarra_hp_v19_penthouse_01_to_view.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The best of Yarra House. Image courtesy Michael Yates &amp; Co"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/yate8000_yarra_hp_v19_penthouse_01_to_view.jpg?itok=I9jZVw5X" title="The best of Yarra House. Image courtesy Michael Yates &amp; Co" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The best of Yarra House. Image courtesy Michael Yates &amp; Co</figcaption></figure>Closer to the CBD a number of other prestige penthouse apartments and developments have appeared on the radar. Apartments.com.au highlighted what will likely be Melbourne's most exclusive development at <a href="/news/is-this-melbournes-most-exclusive-and-expensive-apartment-development">502 Albert Street, East Melbourne</a> with its massive sky homes, each of which could be considered a penthouse in its own right.

That a handful of luxury penthouses have been released to market loosely around the same time tends to suggest that the top end of the apartment market is still quite healthy with perceived underlying demand; the proof is in the penthouse (so to speak).
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