National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

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The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

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Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

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Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

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Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

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Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

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Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

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One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

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There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

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A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

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"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

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The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

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The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

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Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

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While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

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That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

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The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

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The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

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What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

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After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

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Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

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Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

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Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

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ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

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For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

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Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

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From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

OSK Property

If you're in search of an apartment in Southbank, Melbourne Square is likely on your radar. The $2.8 billion master plan precinct by OSK Property Group is making waves, with its latest stage, Boulevard, redefining urban living. In this article, we'll take you through a virtual tour, providing insights into the design, amenities, and unique features that set Boulevard apart.

&lt;p&gt;&lt;iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ALHDNjP-Oxo?si=l28q5qJV1PLi6jm-" title="YouTube video player" width="560"&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

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Unparalleled Design by Cox Architecture: Boulevard stands tall at 73 levels, a geometrically intricate curved building designed by Cox Architecture. This design allows numerous apartments to enjoy breathtaking, uninterrupted views of Melbourne's CBD, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Port Philip Bay. The location within Melbourne Square ensures proximity to the Arts Precinct, Flinders Station, and the South Melbourne markets.

Exquisite Interiors by Carr: OSK Property enlisted Carr, one of Melbourne's most decorated design firms, to manage the interiors. From one-bedroom apartments to the expansive options, each residence boasts beautifully restrained and timeless interior architecture. Gallery residences feature integrated Bosch appliances, while the premium Domain Collection includes Gaggenau appliances, natural stone finishes, and Toto toilets in bathrooms.

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Unique Loft-Style Residences: Boulevard introduces a rarity in Melbourne's real estate - loft-style residences. Crafted in collaboration between Carr and Cox Architecture, these unique offerings add a distinctive touch to Melbourne Square.

Lifestyle Beyond Living: Boulevard isn't just a place to live; it's a lifestyle. Residents benefit from Melbourne Square's established precinct, featuring a supermarket, bottle shop, restaurant, cafe, childcare center, and a vast park. The health and wellness offerings in Boulevard include a gym, a 25-meter swimming pool, spa, zen garden, golf simulator, cinema room, and more.

Sky-High Luxuries: Occupying the 55th level, The Horizon dining rooms offer unbeatable views, while the co-working space and Sky Club on levels 55 and 56 provide exclusive amenities for premium residences. Luxurious lounges, cocktail bars, private dining rooms, and additional gyms elevate the living experience to new heights.

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Smart Technology and Sustainability: Boulevard incorporates smart technology throughout, enhancing the resident experience. Designed with sustainability in mind, it's one of Australia's first residential projects pursuing WELL Pre-Certification for healthy living. Optimum access to natural light, thermal comfort, and indoor air quality are key considerations.

OSK Property Group's Legacy: Founded in 1997 in Malaysia, OSK Property Group has garnered a string of awards for its developments in both Malaysia and Australia. Melbourne Square has already received accolades, including the Best Mixed-Use Development and Best High-Rise Architecture Awards at the Asia Pacific Property Awards.

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Conclusion: Boulevard at Melbourne Square isn't just a residence; it's a lifestyle choice. With its unmatched design, top-tier amenities, and a commitment to sustainability, it sets a new standard for luxury living in Southbank. If you're considering making Boulevard your home, Urban can help you connect with OSK Property Group.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107714]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214124]

Embark on a virtual journey through luxury with our exclusive video tour of Melbourne Square's Boulevard. Discover the $2.8 billion masterpiece by OSK Property Group, where design meets lifestyle in the heart of Southbank. From the geometrically intricate architecture by Cox Architecture to the timeless interiors crafted by Carr.

Staff Writer

Discover the Luxury Living Experience at Melbourne Square's BLVD: A Comprehensive Video Tour

It&rsquo;s been nearly two years of rolling lockdowns, but Melbourne is officially open for business. Not just to residing Melburnians, but to interstate travellers, office workers, and the rest of the world, all factors which contribute to experts&rsquo; belief that inner-city apartment prices are ripe for growth.

Buyers wanting to secure an apartment in the City of Melbourne LGA, which includes the CBD as well as popular surrounding areas of Southbank, Dockl​ands, Carlton and North Melbourne, <a href="https://www.sro.vic.gov.au/land-transfer-duty-concession-or-exemption-city-melbourne-residential-property-transactions">can save 50% in stamp duty</a> on new&nbsp;apartments&nbsp;worth up to $1 million.&nbsp;If the property has been on the market for more than 12 months, then stamp duty is waived completely.

But the expectation is prices will have jumped significantly by then. Despite the pitfalls of 2021, from lockdowns, lack of interstate and international travel, and the exodus of office workers from the CBD for the best part of nine months, the median apartment value in the City of Melbourne LGA is still up 7.5 per cent year to date, research from property data firm CoreLogic shows.

Scott Jessop, the sales and marketing director at OSK Property who is currently developing the $2.8 billion mixed-use precinct <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">Melbourne Square</a> in <a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a>, said there&rsquo;s been a major uptick in enquiry volumes since Melbourne&rsquo;s lockdown was lifted.

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&ldquo;Since mid-October we&rsquo;re trending up week on week,&rdquo; Jessop says, adding that there&rsquo;s been activity from across the board, from buyers walking in to display suites to those making appointments.

Jessop says he just dealt with a foreign purchaser who is buying for his daughter who is studying in Melbourne. &ldquo;I haven&rsquo;t seen one of those transactions in over 18 months&rdquo;, Jessop says, expecting that he will be seeing more as international students return.

&ldquo;The combination of the generous stamp duty concessions, the continued affordability gap between house prices and apartments, and the reactivation of the CBD, will no doubt see growth ahead.

&ldquo;A perfect storm is coming for the Melbourne apartments, it&rsquo;s just a matter of when.&rdquo;

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Jessop says as demand grows, developers are likely to reduce the incentives that they are currently offering buyers. Buyers of apartments at <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">Melbourne Square</a> can save up to $120,000 on an apartment with an average sale price of $850,000. The savings include the government stimulus and a range of free incentives such as furniture packages and design stylist consultations.

Dennis Wilson, the managing director of <a href="/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> who is currently selling <a href="/buildings/focus-melbourne-81-city-road-southbank">Focus</a>, the soon to be complete 600-apartment Southbank apartment tower, and the completed <a href="/buildings/melbourne-grand-560-lonsdale-street-melbourne">Melbourne Grand</a>, Lonsdale Street apartments, expects the City of Melbourne to bounce back strongly in 2022.&nbsp;

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&ldquo;The federal and state governments are working to open borders and increase business migrant intakes, stimulate the tourism industry, re-invigorate major events and welcome back international students. The City of Melbourne should be a beneficiary of this,&rdquo; Wilson says.

The general consensus is that buyers are coming back from the surrounding suburbs, having spent the last few years outside of the city.

&ldquo;As well as seeing buyers already living in the inner-city, we are seeing interest from people who are looking to move from the suburbs, wanting to be closer to their workplace as offices reopen, shops and all the conveniences that come with inner city living,&rdquo; Wilson added.

&ldquo;For many the inner city is a more affordable option than living in their existing suburbs.&rdquo;

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Elysa Anderson, General Manager of Residential Victoria at <a href="/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a>, said the Mirvac team is focused on accelerating their supply of high-quality apartments in Melbourne, as they anticipate a shortage of owner-occupier residences in premium locations in the future.

&ldquo;We anticipate Victoria&rsquo;s population growth and demand for apartments to continue to strengthen in line with the Victorian Government&rsquo;s Roadmap to Recovery and various state budget stimulus packages,&rdquo; Anderson said.

&ldquo;The strength of the established housing market and the opening up of international borders will continue to drive very strong demand for well-designed and quality constructed apartments,&rdquo; Anderson added.

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Mirvac has tweaked the design of Tower 9, in their master-planned Yarra&rsquo;s Edge precinct in the burgeoning Docklands&nbsp;area.

The ASX-listed developer saw a considerably stronger market for their projects in 2021 than in 2020, with <a href="/buildings/voyager-docklands-103-south-wharf-drive-docklands-vic-3008">Voyager</a>, the recently completed eighth tower in Yarra&rsquo;s Edge, seeing a 20 per cent increase in the first half of 2021 compared to the same period the year before.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3494 project_image_fid=167751]

Around 80 per cent of the buyers were owner-occupiers, but Anderson says they are seeing investors slowly creep back in.

&ldquo;Investors have begun to return to the market, primarily focused on master planned communities but demand is also gathering pace in the apartment markets.&quot;

For more information on stamp duty savings in the City of Melbourne,&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.sro.vic.gov.au/land-transfer-duty-concession-or-exemption-city-melbourne-residential-property-transactions&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1637718410495000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3WoR6xmIwVttUthAfW2SKq" href="https://www.sro.vic.gov.au/land-transfer-duty-concession-or-exemption-city-melbourne-residential-property-transactions" target="_blank">read more here</a>.

The suburbs that can save on stamp duty:

<a href="/new-apartments/kensington-vic-3031">Kensington</a>,&nbsp;<a href="/developments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">North</a><a href="/developments/north-melbourne-vic-3051"> Melbourne</a>,&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/parkville-vic-3052">Parkville</a>,&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/carlton-vic-3053">Carlton</a>,&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/east-melbourne-vic-3002">East Melbourne</a>,&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/south-wharf-vic-3006">South Wharf</a>,&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a>,&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands</a>,&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic?bedroom-prices2=1000000&amp;any-bedrooms=1&amp;bedrooms%5Bvalue%5D=1&amp;bedrooms%5Bvalue2%5D=5&amp;any-bathrooms=1&amp;bathrooms%5Bvalue%5D=1&amp;bathrooms%5Bvalue2%5D=3&amp;any-parking=1&amp;parking%5Bvalue%5D=1&amp;parking%5Bvalue2%5D=4">Melbourne</a>,&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/west-melbourne-vic-3003">West Melbourne</a>.

Parts of <a href="/developments/flemington-vic-3031">Flemington</a>, <a href="/developments/carlton-north-vic-3054">Carlton North</a>, <a href="/developments/port-melbourne-vic-3207">Port Melbourne</a>, and <a href="/new-apartments/south-yarra-vic-3141">South Yarra</a> are also eligible&nbsp;for stamp duty concessions.

Buyers wanting to secure a new apartment in the City of Melbourne can save 50% in stamp duty on properties under $1 million.


Why now is the right time to buy a Melbourne inner-city apartment: What the experts say

As more buildings go up in Australian cities, the amenities lists become more creative and more extensive. However, OSK Property&#39;s Melbourne Square continues to impress, with its grand opening showcasing an exceptional selection akin to a luxury resort.&nbsp;

Urban was invited to personally tour the development, where we got to see first-hand the quality and care that has gone into all aspects of design, right through to craftsmanship. What stands on site today is a development that will offer its residents a home sanctuary where fitness, relaxation, and well-being are easily achieved thanks to the suite of amenities just seconds from their home.&nbsp;

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" height="2000" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/be2103_melb_square-web_3k-052.jpg" width="3000" /></a>

OSK Property Sales &amp; Marketing Director, Scott Jessop, explains how exciting the launch is for the team who have seen the development take shape over the past four years.&nbsp;

&ldquo;It has been an incredibly exciting journey to see our vision for Melbourne Square come to life over the past four years. While last year had its challenges, it was immensely rewarding to see our parkland and Woolworths supermarket playing a supporting role for the public during a time of uncertainty. 

The amount of visitation they have both seen in a short timeframe is quite amazing. Melbourne Square aims to deliver an elevated lifestyle experience for residents while championing the concept of a two-minute neighbourhood. 

Further to this, we have been thrilled to watch how seamlessly the project has anchored itself in the broader Southbank community.&rdquo;

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" height="2000" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/be2103_melb_square-web_3k-018.jpg" width="3000" /></a>

The $2.8 billion mixed-use development has been designed by COX Architecture and includes an expansive new public park, a full-line supermarket and a childcare centre.

Civil works commenced in 2017, with Multiplex delivering a development that is an exact depiction of the luxurious marketing renders &ndash; setting the bar high for the delivery of the precinct over the coming years.&nbsp;

Residents of Melbourne Square will never tire of the amenities on offer &ndash; there are so many we didn&#39;t even have time to view them all on our tour, which is pretty impressive in itself.&nbsp;

Recently opened amenities include:

<ul>
	<li>An indoor pool with uninterrupted views spanning the Melbourne eastern skyline</li>
	<li>A sauna and yoga studio for ultimate relaxation</li>
	<li>Fully equipped professional gymnasium</li>
	<li>Private dining areas and kitchen facilities perfect for holding events</li>
	<li>Games areas, including Mahjong rooms, table tennis and billiards rooms</li>
	<li>A state-of-the-art golf simulator</li>
	<li>A music room perfect for practice or jam sessions</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=137897]

Olivia Round

Urban resort-style paradise: OSK Property and Multiplex celebrate Stage One completion of Melbourne Square with the grand opening of their exquisite amenity levels

Recently we were invited to view the latest Melbourne Square display home, as part of the Life &amp; Style Edition. The new displays feature 4 distinct design themes, Manhattan, Bondi, Paris and Soho which have been curated by the talented team at Coco Republic.

Check out our video tour:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-i-oTrEfCMQ" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>MELBOURNE SQUARE AT A GLANCE</h2>

Developer:&nbsp;OSK Property

Location: 93-119 Kavanagh Street, Southbank VIC 3006

Number of residences: 1054

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1333" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/melbourne_square_lounge_0.jpg" width="2000" />

Melbourne Square has been architecturally designed by Cox Architecture, with interiors by designer Sue Carr, creating intelligently crafted spaces which make the most of the spectacular city views on offer.

Kitchens feature marble block island benches, with Kohler tapware, offering a luxurious secondary dining space. State-of-the-art Miele appliances include 5-burner gas hobs and DynaCool refrigeration.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The display we're viewing is The Manhattan, which offers a sophisticated dark palette, while the Bondi has a coastal feel, Paris boasts timeless luxury and Soho showcases monochromatic industrial style.&nbsp;

All bathrooms include a semi-frameless shower, concealed cisterns, ample storage and modern tapware, with large mirrored cabinets above the dual vanities.&nbsp;

Each bedroom boasts a stunning view of the city via floor-to-ceiling glazing, with plenty of built-in wardrobe space and integrated heating and cooling. Master suites offer a unique panoramic city vista so you can go to sleep watching the sparkling Melbourne city lights, and with the flick of a switch, you can extend the automated block-out blinds. Master suites also include extra spacious walk-in wardrobes and bespoke study nooks, giving you the freedom to work from home.

For a limited time, buyers can secure a Life &amp; Style Edition package, which includes stunning Coco Republic furniture, integrated DARWIN by Delos wellness technology, Samsung white goods and a voucher for The Plant Society.&nbsp;

To learn more about Melbourne Square or to visit the display suite, request a call from an OSK Property sales consultant via Urban today.&nbsp;

Urban's tour of the Melbourne Square display suite

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Congratulations are in order for the <a href="/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a>, <a href="/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, <a href="/architects/carr-design">Carr</a>, T.L.C and Sinclair Brook teams for an impressive double win at the 2019/20 Asia Pacific Property Awards. <a href="/">Apartments.com.au</a> reported on OSK Property’s nominations for their <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">latest six-tower development</a> Melbourne Square <a href="/news/osk-property-s-melbourne-square-gains-double-nomination-for-prestigious-international-property-awards">back in March this year</a>, when the project was still in early stages of construction. The team were awarded best ‘Mixed-use Development’ and ‘Residential High-Rise Architecture’ at the ceremony held in Bangkok recently.

The $2.8 billion project was put under the scrutiny of 80 industry professionals, including members of the UK’s House of Lords – Lord Caithness, Lord Best, The Earl of Liverpool and Lord Thurso.

Previous winners of the prestigious awards include London’s iconic Kings Cross Gasworks, the Royal Academy of Music and Heathrow Airport.

<blockquote>
“This award places Melbourne Square among some of the world’s most significant projects that have redefined the bounds of architecture and reinvigorated city precincts. It is a rarity to be recognised for two awards - we are most proud of this achievement and hope that our future occupants share our excitement at these wins.”
</blockquote>

Tan Sri Ong Leong Huat, Chairman of OSK Property

Melbourne Square was selected due to the clever design approach to creating a truly integrated precinct, featuring public spaces available for community use, childcare facilities, hotel, residential, office and retail spaces.

<blockquote>
“Melbourne Square will not only deliver a beautiful addition to Melbourne’s skyline but provide transformative public space that residents and the surrounding community will be able to enjoy as part of the enhanced arts precinct.”
</blockquote>

Tan Sri Ong Leong Huat, Chairman of OSK Property

<div class="rtecenter">RELATED ARTICLES</div>

<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/osk-property-pushes-a-living-aspect-not-normally-associated-with-southbank">OSK Property pushes a living aspect not normally associated with Southbank</a></div>

<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/q-a-with-osk-propertys-ju-yan">Q &amp; A with OSK Property's Ju Yan</a></div>

<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/soil-turns-on-stage-1-of-melbourne-square-as-piling-nears-completion">Soil turns on Stage 1 of Melbourne Square as piling nears completion</a></div>

<h2>Melbourne Square’s current status at a glance:</h2>

<ul>
<li>The first stage (1,054 <a href="/new-apartments">off-the-plan</a> apartments) are 75% sold</li>
	<li>19 apartments worth a total $32 million have been combined into 9 ‘super-homes’ as buyers purchase multiple properties within the complex</li>
	<li>New ‘Couture Series’ apartments have been released and will include 3, 4 and 5-bedroom configurations on levels 55 through 68</li>
	<li>Luxury penthouses have been built on levels 67 and 68, with the option to combine them into a 1,200 square metre retreat for a cool $25 million</li>
	<li>Construction on both towers is underway</li>
	<li>
<a href="/builders/multiplex">Multiplex</a> has recently completed level 21 of the core, and level 15 of the slab, as well as extensive glazing on lower levels</li>
	<li>Melbourne Square’s public park is also under construction (due to open late 2019)</li>
</ul>
<h2>APARTMENT DESIGN RENDERS</h2>
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OSK Property’s double win for Melbourne Square at Asia Pacific Property Awards

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UPDATE MAY 2019: OSK Property won both awards! <a href="/news/osk-property-s-double-win-for-melbourne-square-at-asia-pacific-property-awards">Read more here</a>.

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">OSK Property’s six-tower development</a> is likely to draw attention to Southbank, having been nominated in two categories for the acclaimed 2019/20 International Property Awards.

Although the development is still very much a construction site, that hasn't stopped Melbourne Square from submitting for best 'Mixed-use Development’ and ‘Residential High-Rise Architecture’.

<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/melbournesquare1_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melbournesquare1_0.jpg?itok=3buCqjzO" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Square. Credit: OSK Property</figcaption></figure>Since the site is within an urban regeneration zone, OSK Property placed importance on creating a public-orientated precinct where residential property, childcare facilities, retail outlets and large outdoor spaces were accessible to all.

<blockquote>
“We have done everything that we can to create the best public realm in Melbourne within our development, and it’s right in the heart of Southbank.”

- Tan Sri Ong Leong Huat, Chairman of OSK Property
</blockquote>

Tan Sri Ong Leong Huat also mentioned that Cox Architecture was to be commended for creating buildings that will "enhance the beauty of Melbourne’s skyline".

The $2.8 billion development features a 3745m2 park, designed by renowned landscape architectural firm Taylor Cullity Lethlean (TCL). Noted as one of the largest architecturally significant green spaces in Southbank, the park highlights will include a European-inspired piazza, a cascading waterfall and an outdoor terrace. 

<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/melbournesquare2.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melbournesquare2.jpg?itok=921XHfvp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Square Park. Credit: OSK Property</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
"It will be an important destination, delivering benchmark sustainable urban design, and a place for people to live, work and play, with the park drawing people from across the city in. The brief was focused on creating an opportunity for residents of Melbourne Square but also local residents and the public in Southbank to engage with nature.” 

- Lisa Howard, TCL director
</blockquote>

Stage one of the <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">Melbourne Square</a> development will introduce the park, a new Woolworths supermarket, childcare and retail, as well as two luxury apartment towers and is due for staggered completion from late 2019. 

Future stages will include a Hilton branded hotel, a commercial office tower and a further two residential towers, with further details expected to be released in coming months.

Finalists of the International Property Awards will be announced in Bangkok this May and will be invited to compete for global recognition. Previous winners include the likes of London’s landmark Kings Cross Gasworks apartments, the Royal Academy of Music and Heathrow Airport.
</body></html>

OSK Property’s Melbourne Square gains double nomination for prestigious International Property Awards

<html><body>
Think Southbank and invariably images of skyscrapers...and high-rise apartment living come to mind.

Podium living is not necessarily on the agenda for much of the suburb, given less sophisticated designs of the past and the less than ideal ground conditions which necessitate car parking above ground level. So it is somewhat of a surprise that the developer behind Southbank's Melbourne Square development is championing the living credentials of its lower-set apartments.

It does of course help when Melbourne Square comes with its own 3,700 square metre park to which these apartments will front.

Developer OSK Property is making a pitch for families and downsizers by championing its overly large terrace-style apartments found across the lower levels of Melbourne Square. The large format apartments overlooking the development's park include sizeable outdoor areas and leafy north-facing outlooks; a selling point which OSK Property points out is unique for Southbank.

<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/image65_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Square's park is a development focal point"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image65_4.jpg?itok=uUdO5_wx" title="Melbourne Square's park is a development focal point" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Square's park is a development focal point</figcaption></figure>The terrace dwellings span up to 125 square metres in size and are set across levels two to seven. Over these levels, apartment views will be monopolised by a green outlook rather than the skyscrapers beyond; a unique selling point in the eyes of OSK Property.

Melbourne Square's park is designed by landscape architects Taylor Cullity Lethlean with Cox Architecture responsible for the project's overall appearance.

Cox Architecture Director Paul Curry said of the design: “Terrace apartments are extremely popular due to the families moving back into CBD-style locations and downsizers wanting to maintain that relationship with the outdoors that you usually only get in a house. With the rise in the wellness movement, more people are also prioritising being closer to nature, which these podium-based apartments achieve via their location but also through their own abundant outdoor areas that can be landscaped.”

Owing to the size of the development site, near on 20% of Melbourne Square will be considered public realm.

TCL managing director Perry Lethlean<a href="https://architectureau.com/articles/designs-for-melbourne-square-public-park-released/"> noted on ArchitectureAU</a> that: "The park [will be] part of a network of gardens inspired by Melbourne’s iconic Royal Botanic Gardens and qualities from other cities such as Paris, Berlin and Spain. It’s about creating opportunities for residents of Melbourne Square and other buildings in Southbank to engage with nature.”

Melbourne Square’s podium will include 6 one, 72 two and 13 three bedroom apartments.

<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/image66_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Square's construction progress during May. Image: Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="373" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image66_7.jpg?itok=YHRxg67v" title="Melbourne Square's construction progress during May. Image: Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Square's construction progress during May. Image: Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure>Two residential towers are in their construction infancy, and will be supported by a podium top garden on level eight which includes a pool with an infinity edge and private cabanas. Private dining rooms with kitchen facilities, a theatre, sun terrace, music room, table tennis room, gym, sauna, steam room, yoga studio and golf simulator form the balance of Melbourne Square's amenities.

From a public perspective, the development will see a full-line Woolworths supermarket, childcare centre and retail/dining options, in addition to the park.

OSK Property Chairman Mr Tan Sri Ong Leong Huat, said Melbourne Square's green seting: “We are very proud of these exceptional apartments that offer an indoor/outdoor lifestyle previously unattainable so close to the city. “We have sought to create the foundation of a rich community for Southbank with access to unprecedented amenity and a green gateway in addition to the nearby arts precinct, sporting precinct, Botanic Gardens, Crown entertainment centre and CBD, which are all a short stroll away.”

Multiplex will take the first phase of Melbourne Square to completion by late 2020.
</body></html>

silvermb

OSK Property pushes a living aspect not normally associated with Southbank

<html><body>
Urban.com.au was on hand late last week for the soil turning ceremony for the first stage of OSK Property's $2.8bn Melbourne Square project, which marked the official commencement of construction by head contractor Multiplex. 

Designed by Cox Architecture, Melbourne Square is <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">one of the largest development projects in Victoria</a>, and will feature six mixed-use towers of varying heights and programme, in addition to a new 3,700 sqm public park for Southbank, which will also be delivered as part of stage one.

Already at the time of writing, 95% of piling for stage one has been completed, with the tower structures becoming apparent in coming months.

<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/melbourne-square-park.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Square's 3,700 sqm public park will provide much needed open space for Southbank residents. Image : Floodslicer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melbourne-square-park.jpg?itok=Z6UUXUm8" title="Melbourne Square's 3,700 sqm public park will provide much needed open space for Southbank residents. Image : Floodslicer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Square's 3,700 sqm public park will provide much needed open space for Southbank residents. Image: Floodslicer</figcaption></figure>Over 7,000 tonnes of steel and 50,000 cubic metres of concrete will be used in the first stage of construction, with the workforce expected to peak at approximately 600 people. 

Stage one of Melbourne Square comprises two residential towers of 54 and 69-storeys accommodating 1,048 apartments and delivering essential amenity and services to Southbank residents.

This includes the delivery of a retail precinct incorporating shopping, dining and café facilities as well as Southbank’s first full-line supermarket, through a recently announced deal with Woolworths who will occupy 3,800 sqm over two levels.

The ambitious project will play a pivotal role in bringing much-needed community amenity to Southbank, with the entire city block revitalised to become a vibrant vertical village and deliver much-needed green open space and services to the precinct.

COX Architecture's design for stage one is characterised by fully glazed pleated towers highlighted by a dramatic shard element at level 54. The unique pleated facade provides a bay window type feel with the added effect of widening the external views and maximizing natural light.

<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/melb_square_shard.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The two towers which form stage one feature fully glazed pleated facades. Image : Floodslicer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melb_square_shard.jpg?itok=B6T2BiiB" title="The two towers which form stage one feature fully glazed pleated facades. Image : Floodslicer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The two towers which form stage one feature fully glazed pleated facades. Image : Floodslicer</figcaption></figure>Speaking about OSK Property's vision for the Melbourne Square project OSK Group's executive chairman Tan Sri Ong Leong Huat remarked that the intent was to create "a fully integrated iconic project" that provided a memorable entry experience for visitors coming from Melbourne airport - "a symbol, a landmark". 

Tan Sri added that very early on the development team worked closely with DELWP and City of Melbourne to create a vision for the site that met their expectations and adhered to planning requirements, and provided another landmark for Melbourne that "blended in with the city."

Melbourne Square will add to Southbank's growing list of green spaces joining the new expanded park at the former Boyd School, Sturt Street spine, Southbank Boulevard linear park and improvements to City Road.

Stage one of Melbourne is due for completion in October 2020. A hotel operator and tenant(s) for the commercial tower are being finalised with an announcement expected in the 2nd quarter of 2018.

<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/20180322_102940.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Piling nears completion as construction proper is set to get underway. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/20180322_102940.jpg?itok=SOYAByvD" title="Piling nears completion as construction proper is set to get underway. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Piling nears completion as construction proper is set to get underway.</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
We are excited to see Melbourne Square come to life. The project will breathe life into an area that is already a coveted location within walking distance of the CBD, Southbank arts precinct, Royal Botanic Gardens and the Crown entertainment precinct. We are also delighted to be able to do our part in providing much-needed amenity to the Southbank community.

- Tan Sri Ong Leong Huat, Executive Chairman of OSK Group
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
We’re pleased that we’ll soon be able to offer local residents the convenience of a supermarket that will include all the usual features our customers have come to expect. From fresh fruit and vegetables to a large range of grocery items at great prices, those living in the area will be able to pick up all their shopping essentials, without needing to travel too far.

- Brad Karge, Woolworths’ State Property Manager
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
We’re pleased to kick off the construction process on what is set to be one of Central Melbourne’s most exciting new developments. It will be a busy three years ahead to bring Melbourne Square to life and we’re looking forward to working closely with OSK Property in its delivery.

- Graham Cotton, Multiplex Victoria’s Regional Managing Director 
</blockquote>
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Laurence Dragomir

Soil turns on Stage 1 of Melbourne Square as piling nears completion

<html><body>
A new 3,800 square metre dual-level Woolworths is headed for Southbank.

Melbourne Square will host the Woolworths as part of a larger 6,000 square metre retail zone that will feature shopping, dining and cafe facilities in a European-inspired, piazza-style setting. As Southbank’s first full-line supermarket, it will also go some way to alleviating the needs of the hundreds of new residents that move into the high-density suburb each year.

Stage One of Melbourne Square will also see a new public park spanning 3,700 square metres created, satisfying developer OSK Property's bid to have Melbourne Square become the benchmark development for amenity and services on Southbank.

When fully completed Melbourne Square will include approximately 15,000 square metres of retail, services, amenity and open space across its ground/podium levels. 

<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/img_7319_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The site as of this week"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="400" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7319_0.jpg?itok=o5231Ixh" title="The site as of this week" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The site as of this week</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Southbank’s population is expected to exceed 50,000 by 2036, which is 174 per cent higher than the current population.

It is essential that the community is able to access basic everyday amenity so that the area’s expanding population can be adequately accommodated. We know Southbank residents have been waiting for a full-line supermarket in their local area and we are happy to be able to provide this much-needed amenity, along with other amenities for the community.

This is in line with our vision to create an integrated mixed-use lifestyle precinct for Melbourne Square residents and the Southbank community
<cite>Executive Chairman of Malaysian developer OSK Property, Tan Sri Ong Leong Huat</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We’re pleased that we’ll soon be able to offer local residents the convenience of a supermarket that will include all the usual features our customers have come to expect. From fresh fruit and vegetables to a large range of grocery items at great prices, those living in the area will be able to pick up all their shopping essentials, without needing to travel too far.
<cite>Woolworths’ State Property Manager Brad Karge</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/image240.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Phase One of Melbourne Square. Image: Planning &amp; Property Partners"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="793" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image240.jpg?itok=Iu3JKD79" title="Phase One of Melbourne Square. Image: Planning &amp; Property Partners" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Stage One of Melbourne Square. Image: Planning &amp; Property Partners</figcaption></figure>Builder Multiplex has an August 2020 scheduled completion date for Stage One of Melbourne Square; the new Woolworths will open at this point.

The retail component will sit below two residential towers of 54 levels and 69 levels respectively, which amount to 1,043 new residential apartments for Southbank. Multiplex have Stage One valued at $490 million.

Ultimately the Woolworths will cater for an altogether larger development with OSK Property holding a permit to create four additional towers. Another two residential towers are planned, with the taller reaching 73 levels; total apartment numbers across Melbourne Square are permitted at 2,160.

A commercial tower and hotel are also slated for the 5-acre, Cox Architecture-designed mixed-use development.
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Southbank's largest development gains some retail clout

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In light of Malaysia's OSK Property preparing to begin works on the massive Melbourne Square development on Southbank, Apartments.com.au took the opportunity to chat with the developer's Managing Director, Ju Yan.

Covering all things Melbourne Square and the firm's grander Australian intentions, the interview transpired as follows:

UM: What prompted OSK to enter Melbourne as the first international venture for the company?

JY: As we embarked on our overseas expansion, we studied various market opportunities in several countries, and concluded that Australia is the most attractive market for OSK to grow for the long term.

We decided on investing in Melbourne because of the strong fundamentals of the market. Melbourne is a world-class city that has a strong economy, well-planned urban infrastructure, a great education system, quality healthcare, as well as a rich cultural and sporting scene. It is really no wonder that Melbourne has been named the world’s most liveable city for seven years in a row.

As the population in Melbourne grows, we believe that there will be growing demand for more quality urban housing, and Melbourne Square is our response to that market demand.

We believe that there is strong demand for a high-quality product that has unique amenities in the heart of Melbourne.

UM: How will OSK attract owner occupiers to an area which has traditionally delivered stock that is more investment grade?

JY: We’ve taken a conscious view to design a precinct that caters to owner occupiers by including amenities and design for an enhanced lifestyle.

Melbourne Square’s master plan provides for four residential towers, one commercial office tower and a hotel, with an active street-level retail offering surrounding a beautiful urban park. In stage one of our development, we will be delivering a 3,700 square metre park for the community in Southbank.

Within the development we will have a full-line supermarket, a childcare centre, alongside a unique F&amp;B offerings. Due to the size of our development, we have also been able to deliver larger and a more comprehensive list of amenities, such as a large pool, multiple dining rooms, gazebos, a private theatre, a large gym, etc. There is also a premium indoor sky pool and sky gym at the 54th floor for premium unit owners.

Imagine a day in the life of a resident in Melbourne Square:

You can wake up in the morning, go to the gym for an early workout, then drop off your children at the childcare centre in the podium and walk to work in the CBD. On the way back in the evening, you can buy your groceries in the full-line supermarket in Melbourne Square, pick up your children from childcare, and then have a swim with them at our large pool.

After dinner, you put your kids to bed and have a night-cap while taking in the beautiful views at the sky lounge on the 54th floor. This is truly a unique lifestyle offering that Melbourne Square can deliver for our residents.

<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/oskh9386_melbourne-square_el02_level-54_amenity-area_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Level 54 amenities area"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="270" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/oskh9386_melbourne-square_el02_level-54_amenity-area_0.jpg?itok=J6kgZpkf" title="Level 54 amenities area" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Level 54 amenities area</figcaption></figure>UM: Can you please provide a general breakdown of the apartment configurations/sizes? Are they larger than the norm?

JY: We are offering a range of high quality apartment styles from one, two and three bedrooms as well as penthouses.  We have a generous number of two and three bedroom apartment offerings as we believe that Melbourne Square will rejuvenate Southbank and will transform how Southbank residents will live and play. 

As a reflection of our focus on owner-occupiers, we have a large proportion of two and three bedroom apartments on offer. Only 22% of our apartments are one bedroom units, while 78% are two and three bedroom units.

Our one bedroom apartments will range from around 50 to 55 square metres.

UM: Is OSK targeting a high-end operator for the hotel currently?

JY: We are currently looking at a number of hotel operators that will realise our vision for the site. So far there is a strong level of interest from a number of international hotel operators, and we are working on the most suitable partner to deliver the right hotel product for Melbourne Square.

It’s important that we find the right partner and we look forward to being able to share more information with you soon.

UM: Is Melbourne Square OSK's sole intended project for Melbourne? Given it will be in development for some years to come, will OSK consider other projects in Melbourne or Australia in the interim?

Melbourne Square is OSK Property’s first project in Australia. Given the scale of the project, we will need around 10 years to complete building Melbourne Square.

For the time being, we will be purely focused on delivering Melbourne Square. In the longer term, we plan to expand our presence in Australia over time.

UM: Would the use/mix of future towers be reconsidered, dependent upon market conditions? Is there a delivery timeline for future towers?

JY: The masterplan approval for Melbourne Square provides for 380,000 square meters of above-ground gross floor area. The exact allocation of this space is flexible, and therefore we have some degree of flexibility to adjust the product offering as the market situation changes, subject to the necessary approvals by the relevant government authorities.

For the time being, we are committed to delivering what is reflected in the original approved masterplan.

<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/image2_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Stage one of Melbourne Square"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_14.jpg?itok=Tt7nqxdJ" title="Stage one of Melbourne Square" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Stage one of Melbourne Square</figcaption></figure>UM: Is there an anticipated construction start date for stage one, or is that date dependent upon reaching a target sales mark? How have sales progressed thus far?

JY: Stage one has been approved and we are on track to start construction by the end of the year.

Interest from the VIP database has been very positive, and we expect a good response form the market when we officially launch the project.  We recommend people register their interest now to receive VIP updates ahead of our grand launch in October 2017.
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