<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/jwland-development">JWLand</a>’s De Burgh, the final residential release within the Northbourne Village precinct in Lyneham, is nearing completion just as the Federal Government’s Home Guarantee Scheme prepares for its most significant expansion to date.&nbsp;

From October 2025, the scheme will allow first home buyers to enter the market with just a five per cent deposit and no lenders mortgage insurance (LMI), removing some of the most common barriers to ownership.

With <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/de-burgh-at-northbourne-village-40-de-burgh-street-lyneham-act-2602">De Burgh</a> on track for residents to move in by late spring 2025, the timing creates a strong opportunity for first home buyers seeking brand-new apartments in Canberra’s sought-after Inner North.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212888]

The project delivers 350 residences across two buildings, with layouts ranging from compact studios through to one, two, and three-bedroom apartments.

JWLand has tailored the development for long-term liveability, integrating natural light, privacy and outdoor space into each home. Ground-floor residences feature private courtyards, while upper levels benefit from generous balconies.

Kitchens are fitted with Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, and all apartments include ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning with smartphone app control for lighting and climate.&nbsp;

Shared resident facilities include a rooftop garden, gym, lounge and parcel lockers, alongside landscaped green space within the precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=267376]

For buyers, the expanded Home Guarantee Scheme removes income caps and introduces unlimited places, making it more accessible than ever. With most De Burgh apartments priced under $1 million, they fall well within the updated eligibility thresholds.

The policy changes provide first home buyers with greater certainty and a smoother path to finance. Combined with the quality and location of De Burgh, the expanded scheme is expected to draw a new wave of buyers to Canberra’s Inner North.

Residents will benefit from the project’s central setting, just 600 metres from the light rail and three kilometres from Canberra’s CBD. The precinct is bordered by the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/lyneham-act-2602">Lyneham</a> wetlands and sits within easy reach of cafes, restaurants, schools and the ANU.

With completion scheduled for late 2025, De Burgh is set to be among the first major apartment projects to meet the expanded scheme head-on, offering first-time buyers a realistic pathway to ownership in one of Canberra’s most connected neighbourhoods.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139989]

Joel Robinson

JWLand’s De Burgh aligns with expanded Homebuyer Scheme, opening doors for first home buyers in Canberra’s Inner North

A subtropical pair of residential towers are in planning for a key South Brisbane site neighbouring the iconic Expo ’88 Skyneedle, with new documents revealing a vertically layered vision designed to respond to the precinct’s evolving high-density character.

The proposal has been lodged by&nbsp;Darveniza Group, which is also is behind the 400-apartment Station Quarter precinct in Alderley.

Darveniza Group, led by Jane Darveniza, the Brisbane-based investor and Queensland rich-lister and widow of the late property magnate Bojan Darveniza, is seeking approval for a mixed-use project encompassing 204 apartments, ground-level retail, food and drink tenancies, and office space across two architecturally integrated towers at 37–39 Manning Street.

Occupying an 1,822 sqm site, the proposed towers would rise above a sculptural podium base, with a recessed landscaped centre, rooftop communal areas, and a total of 220 car parks and 256 bicycle bays. The apartment mix spans one- to five-bedroom dwellings, with a design emphasis on generous balconies, cross-ventilation, and climate-responsive materials.

<img alt="First look: Twin towers proposed for Manning Street site beside Skyneedle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="42c1f501-2afd-440b-af49-67c257123ea7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Manning%20podium.png?VersionId=KFlksfWzmDRD.VIYxd_1q3VAel.nN3TH" />

“The development is conceived as two slender twin buildings that meet at a lushly landscaped central recess,” the Finegrain design report states. “The façade is highly articulated with the plan form stepping back and forth to reduce visual bulk and maximise internal occupants’ access to natural light and air”.

A hallmark of the proposal is its integration of greenery, both visually and functionally. Around 77 per cent of the site’s green plot ratio is delivered through vertical planting spines, a green podium wall, and rooftop amenity. Ground-level deep planting and landscaped communal zones aim to create a shaded, walkable interface along Manning Street.

“The stepped plan form introduces variation in balcony setbacks and enclosed apartment areas, enriching both the façade expression and the resident experience,” the design team notes. “At ground and podium levels, this stepping also enhances permeability, maximising pedestrian view lines to the neighbouring Skyneedle and reinforcing a strong sense of local identity”.

<img alt="First look: Twin towers proposed for Manning Street site beside Skyneedle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3f26dfc-6b93-465c-9ffb-0a2530372a23" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Manning%20site.png?VersionId=JflvKdqDxcaHTFbb9HL5TwoiRgeQ2LqA" />

The site directly adjoins the heritage-listed Skyneedle at 35 Manning Street, an enduring legacy of World Expo ’88. The accompanying heritage impact report by Pendergast Architects contends that the proposal has been carefully conceived to protect the cultural significance and landmark visibility of the structure.

“The design provides setbacks, tower separation and podium articulation to maintain the visibility and landmark role of the adjoining Skyneedle,” the report states. “The significance of the Skyneedle lies principally in its landmark visibility and cultural symbolism, rather than in detailed fabric or architectural setting”.

The proposal sits within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct, under Brisbane’s TLPI 02/2023, where revised planning controls support high-density, mixed-use development integrated with subtropical design and increased public realm contributions.

Finegrain’s design reflects this intent, drawing cues from the site's adjacency to Musgrave Park, the subtropical landscape of South Brisbane, and cultural landmarks such as QPAC and South Bank.

Twin green towers proposed for Manning Street, South Brisbane site beside Skyneedle

A first-of-its-kind culinary precinct is coming to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a>, inspired by global street-food flavours and best-in-class restaurants and entertainment.

Deicorp’s emerging mid-city precinct, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/melrose-central-melrose-park-33-hope-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Central</a>, will become the go-to precinct within the wider Melrose Park community, and at its heart, a first-of-its-kind culinary precinct that brings the buzz of Asia’s most iconic food streets to life.

Spanning more than 4,700 sqm, Melrose Central street food precinct is inspired by the energy and vibrant flavours of street-food neighbourhoods from Hong Kong and Tokyo to Seoul and Singapore.

This new destination will be over three times the size of existing offerings like Burwood Chinatown or Westfield Chatswood’s Hawker Lane, positioning Melrose Central as a must-visit dining hub for all of Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=289878]

Designed by Anthony Ho of Basalt Studio, this street food concept blurs the lines between culinary theatre, art, and entertainment, offering an immersive experience. Neon-lit laneways thread between open kitchens and live grill stations, while murals, interactive displays, and light installations will bring the precinct to life, trading until late, a first for the area.

“We’ve imagined our street food concept as a graduated evolution of everything people love about Burwood Chinatown, East Village and Regent Place, elevated by the immersive artistry creating a city-style dining offer,” said Bilinda Turner, Head of Retail at Deicorp.

“By curating the very best tenants from across Australia, we’re creating a fit-for-purpose town centre for 2025 and beyond. It’s something that people truly haven’t seen before."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=352610]

Melrose Central is far more than a food precinct. Spanning 30,000 sqm across four levels, the shopping centre will be home to approximately 100 retailers, providing a total lifestyle offering from morning until late evening.

Fresh food offerings span a brand new Coles Supermarket, Local Grocer, Korean Supermarket, Bakery and boutique fresh food, as well as a Dan Murphy's, while health needs are covered from a pharmacy, medical centre and allied health. Fitness and wellbeing take centre stage from a dedicated wellbeing hub that includes pilates, recovery, Infrared saunas and a gym, to name a few.

Variety stores will feature throughout, as well as personal care offerings from nail salons to hairdressers, as well as a dedicated early-learning centre on level 1.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=289888]

Situated above the retail precinct will be 495 Turner Studio-designed apartments that open onto 6,000 sqm of lush podium gardens and rooftop terraces.

Located just six kilometres east of Parramatta’s CBD and 15km from Sydney CBD, Melrose Central forms the retail and lifestyle heart of Melrose Park, an urban-renewal precinct that is set to deliver more than 11,000 homes, 22,000 new residents, and 50,000 sqm of park and open space.

A dedicated stop on Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 will arrive at the precinct’s Hope Street entrance, and the forthcoming Parramatta Gateway Bridge will link directly to Sydney Olympic Park and Wentworth Point.&nbsp;

Supported by a 10-minute drive, this growing catchment of 200,000 people, which is projected to grow to 279,000 by 2026, and an average household income above the Greater Sydney average, Melrose Central embodies Deicorp’s vision for transport-oriented, community-focused placemaking.&nbsp;

Melrose Central street food precinct and the wider Melrose Central retail town centre are both slated to open in mid-2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134220]

Melrose Central: First-of-its-kind culinary precinct coming to Sydney’s West

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> has unveiled the fifth and final stage of its $1 billion Norwest community, The Orchards.

The final stage, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/zeste-at-the-orchards-norwest-104-fairway-drive-norwest-nsw-2153">Zeste</a>, will deliver 209 apartments across two distinctive buildings, Essence and Eden. The 135 apartments in Essence will be the first to be released to the market, which will bring to an end the decade-long vision to create a&nbsp;neighbourhood defined by design excellence, sustainability, and community engagement.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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David Lee, Sales Manager at Sekisui House Australia said, Zeste's oversized living spaces and diverse apartment mix, which includes the introduction of&nbsp;Breezeway Sky Homes for the first time, deliver a unique lifestyle offering.

Early purchasers will benefit from exclusive VIP pricing as well as the choice of one premium upgrade, which Lee says is a "thank you" for their commitment to the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=351876]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, Zeste embodies Sekisui House’s global design philosophy of creating harmony between people, homes and nature. Principal Ben Pomroy explained that Zeste is about living within the landscape.

“With two large courtyards, the lagoon pool precinct for the wider community and a central courtyard with pavilion exclusively for Zeste residents, the architecture frames an experience of living in a park," Pomroy said.

“Over 50 per cent of the site is landscaped, ensuring a deep connection to nature at every stage of daily life. The buildings are designed as a collection of smaller, finer-grain forms, with over 85% of apartments enjoying dual aspects.

“The focus on natural ventilation, generous layouts and communal interaction creates a residential environment that is both sustainable and socially connected.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=351886]

Natalie Shalala, a member of Rothelowman’s interiors team said they reimagined the former site’s Orchard homestead with a contemporary twist. &nbsp;

“The design draws on the nostalgia of the past orchard – timber floors, the warmth of a fireplace, the rituals of the homestead and reinvents them for modern apartment living,"&nbsp;Shalala said.

“We have created two tonal palettes, one with pale honey undertones and another with a soft blush inspired by nectar. A highlight feature is the cathedral glass light box, a bespoke design element that re-interprets the classic lantern. It is both beautiful and functional, tying kitchen and bathroom spaces together in a way that feels entirely unique."

Shalala said the&nbsp;day-to-day liveability has been carefully considered, with abundant storage solutions, butler’s pantries, bike storage and joinery designed to simplify routines and enhance comfort.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=352090]

Apartments in Zeste start from $715,000 for one-bedrooms and extend through to expansive three-bedroom Sky Homes priced from $2.25 million. Floorplans range from 59 sqm to 144sqm.

The mix in Essence comprises 41 one-bedroom, seven one-bedroom + Max space, 39 two-bedroom, 40 two-bedroom Breezeway Sky Homes (24 of which include additional Max spaces), and eight three-bedroom residences.&nbsp;

Max spaces are integrated into select residences, offering a flexible room that can be tailored to individual needs, ideal as a home office, children’s play area, or additional storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=351881]

Zeste continues Sekisui House Australia’s partnership with Altogether Group, providing sustainable water, power and data services to residents. Passive design strategies include cross-ventilation, deep landscaping and water features that encourage evaporative cooling, aligning with The Orchards long-term environmental goals.&nbsp;

Construction is set to commence on the Zeste buildings in early 2026, with completion anticipated in late 2027 to early 2028.&nbsp;

More than 850 apartments have been sold across the masterplan, contributing to The Orchards community of 1,300 apartments when complete.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150510]

Sekisui House Australia launches Zeste, the final stage of its $1 billion Norwest masterplan

A significant addition to the Bella Vista Station Precinct is in the pipeline, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/landen-property">Landen</a> formally lodging a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/40-memorial-avenue-bella-vista-40-memorial-avenue-nsw-2153">new apartment community on Memorial Avenue</a>.

Positioned beside the Elizabeth Macarthur Creek corridor, the project is among the first major transit-oriented residential proposals within the Metro precinct.

The masterplan, designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/turner-studio">Turner Architects</a>,&nbsp;outlines a four-stage delivery, comprising four buildings between four and fifteen storeys, and includes a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a limited selection of four-bedroom penthouses and terraces.

The project places a strong emphasis on housing diversity and liveability, with apartment sizes ranging from 50 to 180 sqm. The first stage will deliver 213 dwellings, followed by 231 in the second stage. Construction is expected to commence in 2026, pending approvals.

<img alt="Bella Vista Apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb3d84b1-d2df-4e26-915a-31b27faf9b1a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/View02_01-scaled.jpg?VersionId=Gb0AUtZ3VXsLxrqUaw_AwT_vcBwQ_FJu" />

As the first transit-oriented development (TOD) in the precinct, Landen’s Bella Vista community has been designed to align closely with the surrounding Metro infrastructure. The proposal integrates new pedestrian and cycling paths, a new bridge over Elizabeth Macarthur Creek, and direct access to Bella Vista Metro Station.

Lush communal amenities are also central to the design. 'The Grove' and the 'Garden Link' will create landscaped community areas that reflect the area's agricultural heritage and provide direct access to the creekside.&nbsp;

The ‘Garden Patio’ is conceived as a multi-use indoor-outdoor facility offering a gym, study nooks, and communal lounge spaces.&nbsp;Rooftop terraces across the buildings will offer views to the Blue Mountains and Parramatta skyline.

<img alt="Bella Vista Apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="778da409-d5cf-4e7d-9ba9-0c36990bf0b4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/landen-bella-property-image.jpg?VersionId=ukPpmVcHF71xRc7U3MUT5rtGwOsntMMz" />

Landen’s Head of Property, Shane Harding, said the proposal highlights the developer’s precinct-scale ambition.

“As the first TOD proposal in Bella Vista, it highlights Landen’s ability to pioneer precinct-scale projects, integrate housing with infrastructure, and deliver outcomes that align with government priorities,” Harding told the Daily Telegraph.

The project arrives at a time of rapid growth in Western Sydney, with Bella Vista alone forecast to more than double in population by 2046. The development’s location, between the Bella Vista and Kellyville Metro stations, positions it as a connected lifestyle hub for families, professionals and downsizers seeking access to transport, schools, and employment centres.

Pending approval, the development is slated for completion in 2028.

Landen plans 444-apartment community in Bella Vista Metro zone

Piccolo Developments

Boutique Melbourne property developer Piccolo has spent around $35 million on an apartment development site in <a href="/developments/kew-vic-3101">affluent Kew</a>.

The 8,475 sqm site at 18 Barry Street, on the corner of A'Beckett Street, will offer view lines across Yarra Bend Park and Studley Park, as well as the <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne CBD skyline</a>.

Piccolo Managing Director Michael Piccolo said from the very beginning, they saw the AAA-rated site as a perfect fit.

"Its location, surrounded by the serenity of leafy streets and impressive vistas, combined with its scale, liveability, and character, ticks&nbsp;all the boxes for us," Piccolo says.

"This unique opportunity is a rare gem in the current market, where properties of such calibre are extremely scarce."&nbsp;

While designs are currently being drawn up by Woods Bagot, in yet another partnership between the two, the project, A Piccolo House - Barry Street, Kew, is expected to be worth around $180 million.

The newly acquired site is currently occupied by a former Residential Aged Care Facility (RACF), comprising a combination of single and two-story buildings.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77ba6615-144d-4186-a23e-c25cd1373a69" href="/new-apartments/piccolo-house-barry-st-kew-barry-street-kew-18-barry-street-kew"><img alt="Piccolo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77ba6615-144d-4186-a23e-c25cd1373a69" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-08-14%20at%2010.41.33%20am.png?VersionId=Ys2gpCoTiIKYRZYXANxTmUt7rauWhtxT" /></a>

"At Piccolo, we are driven by the desire to create homes that come with the promise of longevity and also enhance the lives of our residents, and the surrounding community with timeless developments," Piccolo added.

"In addition to finding the right partners, the ability to find the perfect site for every Piccolo home is an important part of achieving this goal. A building should be about more than just the residents who occupy it – if it’s loved by the community, it will remain for generations."

Piccolo will also bring in fellow long-term partner Hecker Guthrie to transform the site into a connected community.

"We are excited to join hands once more with Woods Bagot to bring to life our vision for this exceptional development site. Their innovative approach to design, combined with our commitment to excellence, will once more result in remarkable living spaces that offer both luxury and functionality."

This site acquisition follows Piccolo’s sales success with 385 Gore Street, Fitzroy which is currently under construction after selling&nbsp;70% of the residences in less than 5 months.

Colliers Director for Development sites Hamish Burgess, who handled the transaction with colleagues Ian Sanders and Justin Hazell, said development propositions of this stature within one of Melbourne's most coveted residential locations are rarely offered to the market.

"Its corner location, potential for stunning view lines, proximity to Kew Junction shopping village, and unique scale provides the perfect foundation for a market-defining project.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Piccolo Managing Director Michael Piccolo said from the very beginning, they saw the AAA-rated site as a perfect fit

Piccolo buys $35 million Kew site for next development

Boutique property developer Piccolo has kicked off construction at their innovative Fitzroy apartment development, A Piccolo House – Gore Street.

The family-owned company has sold 70 per cent of the 49 apartments at 385 Gore Street since kicking off the campaign five months ago.

<div>The development is made up of 26 two-bedroom residences ranging from $1.5 million to $2.1 million, and 23 three-bedroom residences ranging from $2.5 million to $7 million.</div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div>Piccolo reunited with their long-term partners, architecture practice Woods Bagot and interior designer Hecker Guthrie, to create A Piccolo House - Gore Street, Fitzroy, which is complete with honest materials and timeless finishes that take cues from Fitzroy’s historic Victorian architecture.&nbsp;</div>

Piccolo Managing Director Michael Piccolo said the site at 385 Gore Street was impossible to overlook, knowing the large 1874 sqm&nbsp;block would accommodate a collection of generously sized homes catering to those wishing to downsize and live nearer the city without compromising on space.

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=134287 project_image_fid=211715]

The design was born from the local architecture on Gore Street. 
 
Woods Bagot Principal Peter Miglis says the project is&nbsp;surrounded by quite an eclectic combination of spaces – industrial buildings, Victorian terrace homes, local cafes and restaurants and stunning tree-lined streets

<div>“Within this&nbsp;particular pocket of Fitzroy, the traditional converses with the contemporary, and we see&nbsp;A Piccolo House - Gore Street, Fitzroy&nbsp;as an amalgamation of both elements.”&nbsp; 
&nbsp;</div>

<div>The build will mirror the rhythm and proportions of the neighbouring heritage architecture. The lower levels will be crafted from a combination of slimline masonry brick and pigmented red oxide concrete, while the upper levels will be setback in a natural concrete frame.</div>

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<div>A north-south laneway splits the building into two volumes and provides a secondary connection to Gore Street. A lobby enveloped on all sides by a secluded secret garden, arriving at the building will mimic the experience of stepping into the private garden or courtyard.&nbsp;</div>

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<div>[smartcode_project:default project_id=134287 project_image_fid=211713]</div>

Stacey Van Harn, Director at Hecker Guthrie said throughout the design process they leant towards honest materiality, selecting&nbsp;organic, high-quality&nbsp;materials that&nbsp;are practical, durable and develop a beautiful natural patina as they age.

“By incorporating the earthy natural tones of highly tactile materials, we can capture the gritty nature of Fitzroy whilst bringing an element of refinement and finesse that befits a luxury home.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div>The kitchens will feature top-of-the-range appliances from Gaggenau and Whispair and a butler’s pantry. The main living areas will include a study nook to accommodate working from home, and in the master ensuite will feature a bathroom with a deep shower and large undermount bathtub.</div>

Residents will also have access to a communal dining room, guest suite, and workshop space, which they will be able to book through the building’s lifestyle concierge service.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134287]

The family-owned company has sold 70 per cent of the 49 apartments at 385 Gore Street since kicking off the campaign five months ago

Piccolo kick off construction at A Piccolo House, Gore Street in Fitzroy following strong sales

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An iconic heritage building on the corner of Argyle and Fitzroy streets, once home to a boot-maker, is due for a major upgrade, as renowned developer <a href="/news/piccolo-gets-busy-in-fitzroy">Piccolo</a> gets the green light to commence construction. The boutique residence will feature 34 apartments and commercial spaces, and has been designed in collaboration with Hecker Guthrie and <a href="/architects/jackson-clements-burrows-architects">Jackson Clements Burrows</a>.

Urban.com.au asked director Michael Piccolo for a bit of background on ‘<a href="/new-apartments/fitzroy-house-71-75-argyle-street-fitzroy">Fitzroy House</a>’, the third build in <a href="/developers/piccolo">Piccolo's</a> 'House' series following the success of ‘<a href="/buildings/elwood-house-2-pine-avenue-elwood">Elwood House</a>’ and ‘Garden House’.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/305891685" width="640"></iframe>

Urban.com.au: Given Fitzroy House’s unique heritage as a 19th Century boot maker shop, how has the development been designed to preserve the historic character of the property? What was the inspiration behind the design? 

Michael Piccolo: The heritage element of this building was fundamental to how we approached the design. We wanted to retain the iconic façade, including the striking arched windows and bluestone sills and the faded paint signage. Knowing the heritage building would remain as ground floor commercial space, we then looked at how to incorporate the new residences in a way that was sensitive to the façade and the local streetscape. This inspired the idea of the ethereal lantern-like structure that sits above and set back from the heritage element so as not to overshadow it. The interiors and materials used are also reminiscent of <a href="/new-apartments/fitzroy-vic-3065">Fitzroy’s</a> history with gritty, tinted elements that speak to the tenacity of this environment.

U: Have there been any obstacles to reach the approval stage of this project? 

MP: No, local council were very supportive of our proposal and we’re happy to be working with them to ensure the end result adds vibrancy and character to the local surrounds.

U: What fuelled your decision to appoint a builder ahead of the residential pre-sales? 

MP: I think in today’s market buyers want to have confidence in the development they’re buying into and they want to know as much information as possible. We always aim to approach things from the purchaser’s point of view, and if I were buying into a project I would want to know who the whole project team is before I buy. By appointing a builder upfront, we can give our buyers confidence that not only will the construction definitely be moving ahead, but they can know who will be working on it from the start and can have peace of mind knowing they’ve made an informed decision.

U: Are there any design or structural themes which connect all three projects (Fitzroy House, Elwood House and Garden House)? 

MP: All three projects are distinct in their design and character, which reflect their local environment. The connecting theme across all our projects is the attention to detail that we implement and our consideration for how we can improve the lives of our residents. For that reason all the projects have several things in common including private outdoor areas for each apartment, expansive living spaces and bedrooms and homes that have access to abundant natural light.

U: What’s in the pipeline for future projects? Can we expect to see a fourth “House” in years to come? 

MP: Absolutely, we will keep building these houses for many years to come. We have an excellent team of collaborators and industry partners that we work with consistently, and together we continue to learn from each project and evolve, so each house is better than the last. Good things take time and in order to create these houses successfully you need to find the right location, so when we do there will be another house on the horizon.

Want to find out more about Piccolo Developments? Read our previous interview with Michael Piccolo where we discuss Elwood House <a href="/news/michael-piccolo-on-the-design-virtues-of-elwood-house">here</a>.
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Olivia Round

Renowned developer Michael Piccolo discusses exciting new project 'Fitzroy House'

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Adept at creating high-end residential projects, Piccolo Developments are chasing another for their portfolio by way of the redevelopment of a historic building at 71-75 Argyle Street, Fitzroy.

On the intersection of Fitzroy and Argyle Streets, Piccolo has submitted plans for the late 19th century brick factory and adjoining at-grade car park. The developer's hope is a 7 storey residential building created by Jackson Clements Burrows that would effectively wrap around the existing building.

In order to gain the nod from Yarra City Council, the application is required to adequately interact with the onsite brick building whose facade is "considered to be 'Individually Significant', meaning it is aesthetically, historically, scientifically, and/or socially significant at the local level and contributory or complementary to the South Fitzroy Precinct."

<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/image26_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="71 - 75 Argyle Street, Fitzroy. Planning image: JCB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="336" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image26_7.jpg?itok=-v3D-upL" title="71 - 75 Argyle Street, Fitzroy. Planning image: JCB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>71 - 75 Argyle Street, Fitzroy. Planning image: JCB Architects</figcaption></figure>The 1,038sqm site is slated for 41 dwellings including 12 x 3BR apartments, 59 car spaces, 57 bicycle spaces and a 129sqm restaurant at ground level.

Also called for is the "Demolition of parts of the existing factory building including the circa 1930s-40s addition, parts of the original north and east walls and the roof." The Victorian factory facades to Argyle and Fitzroy Streets will be maintained, as will be the front corner returns to the side wall, the chimney and the painted signage along the east elevation.

<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.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elwood House is approaching completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7319.jpg?itok=m5i9S6i-" title="Elwood House is approaching completion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elwood House is approaching completion</figcaption></figure>Piccolo's Fitzroy pursuit joins an additional three residential projects in the works for the Carlton-based outfit.

Wood Marsh's spasmodic forays into higher density designs have resulted in 228-230 Dorcas Street. Piccolo describes the South Melbourne project as a "Landmark project designed by Wood Marsh incorporating luxury residential apartments and premium retail space."

Jackson Clements Burrows have a hand in the developer's remaining two projects. Construction is nearing completion on Elwood House; a bespoke residential project within Elwood Village that includes 31 apartments.

Also on the cards is 341-347 Queensberry Street North Melbourne, although a change to the application has been noted by City of Melbourne after initial plans called for a 13 storey building.
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silvermb

Piccolo gets busy in Fitzroy

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Melbourne developer Piccolo's latest boutique apartment project, the aptly titled Elwood House, looks to build on the previous success of their Garden House in Carlton. Located at 2 Pine Avenue on the corner with Ormond Road, the 4-storey development will feature 31 luxury apartments and ground level retail to Ormond Road. Underpinning the intended quality of the development are apartment sizes, with two bedroom dwellings beginning at approximately 100sqm in size and beyond the $1 million barrier.

The display suite is highly impressive in itself - a shame that it will eventually be demolished to make way for the building - but it gives an excellent indication of what residents can expect. Interiors feature bespoke custom joinery and one colour palette - neutral - with a consistent tile finish to living areas, kitchens and bathrooms that also extends to the outdoor balconies. Carpets will be limited to bedrooms only.

<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/elwood_house_living_areas.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elwood House typical open plan living area. © Piccolo"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="252" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/elwood_house_living_areas.jpg?itok=RPU1yyAF" title="Elwood House typical open plan living area. © Piccolo" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An Elwood House typical open plan living area. Image courtesy Piccolo Developments</figcaption></figure>Company founder Michael Piccolo described it best when he said, the project was all about "bringing the band back together" with the development team that delivered Garden House; Piccolo, Woods Bagot and Hecker Guthrie conspiring once more. This came about largely as a result of timing with Nick Karalis of Woods Bagot returning from an overseas sojourn just as Piccolo had settled on the site.

The building's exterior is best described as rich and textured, employing a variety of robust materials not unlike The Garden House, such as off form weathered concrete panels and hand-made Pedersen bricks from Denmark. The selected materials will extend the life of the building’s exterior and ensure little maintenance is required on the part of the residents.

Greenery is draped over balconies for a natural softer counterpoint to the harder surfaces of the facade. This common language and aesthetic reinforces the concept of Elwood House as the sister building to Garden House, and unlike traditional roofs which are typically constructed of metal sheeting on multi-unit developments, Elwood House will have a concrete roof for improved water proofing.

<blockquote>
The façade of Elwood House will be brick, concrete, metal and glass, without a painted surface, which will increase its longevity. The only thing you’ll need to do is clean the windows! Every apartment facing Pine Avenue and Ormond Road will have a planter terrace that will receive rainwater collected from rainwater tanks stored in the basement. A circular reticulation system will pump the water through the development and water all of the planters.
<cite>Michael Piccolo</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/elwood_house_close_up.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Composition of materials which make up the facade. © Piccolo"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="252" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/elwood_house_close_up.jpg?itok=7eiI3U3u" title="Composition of materials which make up the facade. © Piccolo" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Composition of materials which make up the facade. Image courtesy Piccolo Developments</figcaption></figure>The project features a number of built-in initiatives that will ensure future residents are able to move with, and embrace technology as it evolves, while also affording the building a 6-star green star rating. When founder Michael Piccolo test-drove a Tesla electric car recently, he began wondering just how soon electric vehicles will be embraced by Australians.

<blockquote>
When I drove the Tesla last year I thought, these are definitely coming to Australia. I believe that in 10 years, we will all be driving electric cars. This lead to the question, what can we do to prepare for that?
<cite>Michael Piccolo</cite>
</blockquote>

Consequently every car park in Elwood House's basement features its own 30-amp power point, which is designed to accommodate an electric vehicle. Each socket is connected back to the apartment's power metre to ensure that individuals are billed according to their electricity use. Requiring capital outlay from the developer's perspective, the move is considered a necessary step towards future-proofing the building for residents.

Further trends being incorporated into Elwood House include:

<ul>
<li>Rooftop solar panels that contribute electricity to supplement residents’ gas hot water systems</li>
	<li>Vast double-glazed windows to allow natural light in as well as provide thermal and acoustic insulation</li>
	<li>Study desks built into cabinets, with a laptop shelf and power point with two electric sockets and a built-in USB charger (these are also installed in each of the bedrooms and the USB chargers are 2.1 amps – suitable for tablets)</li>
	<li>Installation of infrastructure for optic fibre – all conduits are in place waiting for cables to be run in</li>
	<li>Set up of NBN box, ready for its arrival in Elwood</li>
</ul>
<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/elwood_house_courtyard.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Common courtyard. © Piccolo"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="561" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/elwood_house_courtyard.jpg?itok=TSPZIX_V" title="Common courtyard. © Piccolo" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Common courtyard. Image courtesy Piccolo Developments</figcaption></figure>Michael Piccolo believes potential buyers will be drawn to the location due to its proximity to the beach while also being attracted to Elwood Village and the sense of community within the area. The quality of finishes and size of apartments is targeted largely towards the owner-occupier market. Asked of the potential for another 'House' project, Michael replied only if both the site and timing are right.

Elwood House is scheduled for construction commencement during July 2015 with completion expected by the end of 2016.
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