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.

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"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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plus Architecture

Niña is the latest Chevron Island apartment development to hit the small Gold Coast island inland from Surfers Paradise.

It's the second development on the island by the Sydney-based Macquarie York, who are just a few apartments away from selling out their first Chevron Island project, Allure.

Niña, less than 200 metres from Allure at 8-10 Parnero Street, will home 73 apartments in a 22-level building designed by Plus Architecture.

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Plus, led locally&nbsp;by Danny Juric, cleverly designed Niña&nbsp;so&nbsp;every apartment can capture views&nbsp;of the ocean. They call Niña's design "coastal sophistication with barefoot luxury," with one of the main design drivers the timeless curves, which will stand the test of time.

The two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments with over 80 sqm of internal living space start from $700,000, with the three-bedroom apartments spanning over 116 sqm priced from $950,000.

Levels one to seven will have four apartments per floor, three-bedder&nbsp;at the front of the building, and two-bedders&nbsp;with their own media rooms located at the rear of the building. This is where Plus' clever design comes in. The two-beds will have balconies that extend on the side of the building, allowing for views of the ocean.

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From level eight, the building will have a four metre set-back. Levels eight to 15 will home four two-bedroom apartments per floor, before hitting level 16 where the large sub-penthouse style apartments kick in.

There will still be two two-bedders at the back, but spanning the width of the building will be a half-floor, three-bedroom apartment, with two balconies, one off the master suite which will have its own walk in wardrobe and ensuite, and one off the open plan kitchen, living and dining room. These apartments will also have a media room.

There are two two-level penthouses from level 21. Downstairs is one of the bedrooms, and the main living, kitchen and dining area. Upstairs is another two bedrooms, and another outdoor terrace with its own plunge pool.

On this level is also an&nbsp;open rooftop will be further amenity, including a wet edge, resort-style pool with day beds, a sunken firepit space with built in seating, and a barbecue terrace, and with seating.

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The town planner, Urban Planning Services,&nbsp;said Plus designed the building based on a local coastal vernacular, playing off the image of surrounding modern developments.

“Niña is beautiful, elegant and feminine, but with an undeniable strength and presence," Plus Architecture director&nbsp;Danny Juric said.

"From the very beginning, we set out to create a building that was truly individual and boldly stepped away from the traditional interpretations of what Gold Coast living embodied."

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108640]

Plus, led locally by Danny Juric, cleverly designed the project so every apartment can capture views of the ocean

Sales launch at Niña, the newest Chevron Island apartment development

Viv&eacute;re on Dorcas, a project by BEKL, offers an exclusive collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments at a luxury South Melbourne address.

The 36 upscale residences soar 20-storeys above one of Melbourne&rsquo;s most sought-after locations, South Melbourne, delivering a melting pot of caf&eacute;s, cultural offerings, gardens and boutiques.

Designed in collaboration between Plus Architect&rsquo;s director-architect Jessica Liew and interior designer Ivona Golubovic, Viv&eacute;re&rsquo;s stately sculptural fa&ccedil;ade is a true calling for new residents.

&ldquo;Each moment of this development, externally and internally, expresses an architectural confidence that always keeps the occupants&rsquo; enjoyment of the building and their new home in mind&rdquo;, Liew said.

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Plus Architecture notes that the fa&ccedil;ade&rsquo;s open spaces and recesses presented a creative opportunity to introduce an art installation that masterfully sits between two existing towers.

&ldquo;And the mirror-clad capsule between the three stacked segments contains hotel rooms of Voco South Melbourne and is designed to look like it&rsquo;s suspended in mid-air,&rdquo; Liew explains.

Distinguished by elegant curves and segments, the tower celebrates the urban landscape of its South Melbourne location in its fa&ccedil;ade.

With a subtle nod to historic Melbourne, the lower podium level is clad in bluestone which extends into the commercial lobby.

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Architectural solutions carry over into the interior design story with curated spaces and apartments and a neutral aesthetic that is interspersed with uniquely detailed elements.

Golubovic combines artful design with opulence, with bespoke kitchens featuring ample storage, V-Zug appliances, and a Verde Riviera Quartzite kitchen island.

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A thoughtfully-designed retreat, statement bathrooms include hidden storage, chrome faucets and finishes, full unglazed tiling in Verde and ambient lighting.

Mosaic tiling to walls and floors paired with a frameless shower adds immediate intimacy, while the square bench basin adds contrast to the streamlined walls of the room.

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Residences feature considered floorplans with open-plan living spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows and abundant light.

Apartments also present private balconies that offer an elevated living experience, with panoramic views of the streets, neighbouring buildings, and an expansive open sky.

BEKL managing director, Katherine Liu, admits she is thrilled to partner with Plus Architecture, having established a long-standing partnership following multiple collaborations to date.

&ldquo;We are excited to work with Plus Architecture in producing another innovative property for residents and guests of Melbourne to enjoy&rdquo;, Liu said.

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The luxury development also includes a well-equipped in-house gym, premium room services and a sociable restaurant and bar.

Construction is due to commence in the fourth quarter of 2022, with completion scheduled for January 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108979]

Designed in collaboration between Plus Architect’s director-architect Jessica Liew and interior designer Ivona Golubovic, Vivére’s stately sculptural façade is a true calling for new residents

max.kwok_55688

Inside Vivére on Dorcas: Behind the sculptural façade at the new South Melbourne apartment development

Rarely does South Melbourne&nbsp;see such a boutique, high end residential development.

But the Melbourne property developer BEKL&#39;s latest project,&nbsp;Viv&eacute;re on Dorcas, has&nbsp;just 36 apartments in the heart of the inner urban neighbourhood.

And the residences will secure prime views in the 20-level, being located above the 171-room Voco hotel, operated by IHG which will give residents extra amenity, including concierge services and on-demand housekeeping, as well as access to the hotel&#39;s lobby-level bar and restaurant, and well-appointed hotel gym.

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There will also be access to BEKL&#39;s recently launched co-working space, Curago, which will be located in the tower. Curago will also feature a photography studio and a meditation chamber.

The unique triple segment tower has been designed by Plus Architecture&nbsp;to define the three different zones of the tower.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108979 project_image_fid=181109]

Jessica Liew, Plus Director and architect, says the fa&ccedil;ade&rsquo;s open spaces and recesses are highly considered insertions that visually separate Voco South Melbourne and Viv&eacute;re Apartments from neighbouring buildings.

&quot;Viv&eacute;re residential apartments are housed within the top segment and look out to the bay, and the hotel rooms below look towards the gardens,&quot; Plus note.

&quot;Separation between the apartments and hotel rooms is expressed in the vertical and horizontal stacking within each segment, displaying an authentic articulation of construction methods.&quot;

There&#39;s a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, starting from $490,000 and rising to $2.35 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108979 project_image_fid=181109]

Projects by Buxton agents&nbsp;Heath Thompson and Lucia&nbsp;Guselnikov are handling the sales.

BEKL Managing Director Katherine Liu drew on her own experiences, having previously lived above a hotel, informing&nbsp;the seamless function and unique design of the residences and create a lifestyle that illuminates a new way of living.

&ldquo;I had previously lived in an apartment above the Westin and the experience was fantastic,&quot; Liu said.

&quot;I felt very safe and secure knowing there was always someone at the door or lobby to keep an eye on things.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108979 project_image_fid=180561]

&ldquo;Having access to housekeeping meant we could ask for on-demand home cleaning services, along with dry cleaning and more. The concierge team made living a breeze, from collecting parcels to providing suggestions for new happenings in Melbourne and it&rsquo;s these comforting details that we are excited to offer to residents.&rdquo;

Construction is expected to commence in Q4 2022, with completion slated for early 2025.

Viv&eacute;re on Dorcas will sit in close proximity to the Botanic Gardens and Melbourne&#39;s art precinct, as well as South Melbourne&#39;s variety of restaurants, cafes and museums.

BEKL Managing Director Katherine Liu drew on her own experiences, having previously lived above a hotel

BEKL launch luxury South Melbourne apartments, Vivére on Dorcas 

55 Hardiman Street is the latest development from Urban Inc in Melbourne&rsquo;s north-west, gaining development approval for five townhouses and a six-storey apartment building.

Comprising a total of 28 residential apartments in one, two and three-bedroom configurations, the apartments will include a carpark, bicycle spaces and a rooftop terrace.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25891 project_image_fid=58299]

Designed by Plus Architecture, each apartment has been designed for liveability, combining Kensington&rsquo;s industrial edge with contemporary comfort.

<blockquote>
&ldquo;This is where an industrial past meets a modern community &ndash; an urban village with pride, heart and soul&rdquo;, said Plus Architecture&rsquo;s Ian Briggs.
</blockquote>

Plus Architecture is an award-winning, integrated architecture and interior design practice, which prides itself on the ability to create projects that contribute positively to Australia&rsquo;s urban landscapes.

55 Hardiman is no different, with a simple-meets-sophisticated design philosophy that blends clean lines and fine textures with spacious rooms and plenty of storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25891 project_image_fid=58296]

&ldquo;Your home is a haven in the heart of the inner-city; each space is crafted to create a sanctuary with everything considered for a modern life&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.

The project is inspired by the industrial districts of New York City with the goal to create a place of character, the architects said.

<blockquote>
&ldquo;We wanted to capture the materiality of Kensington, from the industrial warehouses to the terrace houses. In that way the architecture is authentic, local and proud.&rdquo;
</blockquote>

Natural stone, integrated joinery and light-filled spaces set the scene, ready to receive your personal touch.

The design is restrained and raw, to offer a blank canvas for residents to make their new property their own.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25891 project_image_fid=58298]

One-bedroom apartments in the complex begin from just $455,000, while two-bedroom apartments start at $599,000.

55 Hardiman Street is the latest development from Urban Inc in Melbourne’s north-west, gaining development approval for five townhouses and a six-storey apartment building

The design inspiration behind Kensington’s 55 Hardiman Street development

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A collaboration between some of Australia's leading names in design – Plus Architecture, Mim Design and Jack Merlo – has seen the realisation of McLaren Developments and Pomeroy Pacific's latest residential project, Royal Ascot. Recently we caught up with Dug Pomeroy to learn more about the recently completed development, and some of its stand-out selling points. 

<figure><a href="/buildings/royal-ascot-residences-2-mascoma-street-ascot-vale"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="384" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2020-08-14_at_5.55.40_pm.png?itok=e4XKHYUb" width="580"></a></figure>Urban.com.au: Where did you draw inspiration for Royal Ascot from?

Dug Pomeroy: Inspired by the traditions of their milieu, these apartments are underscored by a playful, bold originality that while motivated by innovative design, are foremost utterly liveable. As Melbourne continues to evolve and move to the helm as a global lifestyle and culture leader, city fringe suburbs like Ascot Vale find their own communities, becoming microcosms of this gentrification. Therefore, as the city itself continues to blossom, so too does the urban fringe, witnessed in the unprecedented lifestyle hubs communities are now burgeoning.

<figure><a href="/buildings/royal-ascot-residences-2-mascoma-street-ascot-vale"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imgco-001_0.jpg?itok=yoX7r5cv" width="580"></a></figure>U: What is the price range of the apartments and are the floorplans flexible?

DP: Boutique 38 residence development, with limited remaining completed 2 bedrooms from $665,000. 3 bedroom from $926,250. 

<figure><a href="/buildings/royal-ascot-residences-2-mascoma-street-ascot-vale"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imgco-010_0.jpg?itok=JKKNGxFm" width="580"></a></figure>U: What were the top 5 features you decided had to be included in the development and why?

DP:

Sophisticated exterior architectural design, to complement the tailored Mim Design interiors. 

High-quality finishes, fixtures and fittings – including natural stone and Miele appliances.

Jack Merlo designed communal courtyard with integrated BBQ and gas fireplace – the perfect place to entertain guests. 

Elegant bedrooms with large integrated wardrobes and 100% wool carpets. 

Well thought and considered floor plans to maximise liveability. 

<figure><a href="/buildings/royal-ascot-residences-2-mascoma-street-ascot-vale"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imgco-020_0.jpg?itok=_YbPItRo" width="580"></a></figure>U: What do you think buyers love most about Royal Ascot?

DP: Boutique, high end living – delivered by some of the best names in luxury property including Plus Architecture, Mim Design &amp; Jack Merlo landscape design. 

<figure><a href="/buildings/royal-ascot-residences-2-mascoma-street-ascot-vale"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="410" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imgco-036_0.jpg?itok=CO4iX8zR" width="580"></a></figure>U: If you had to choose your favourite aspect of the building, what would it be?

DP: The communal courtyard. With integrated BBQ and cosy fireplace, in an elegant landscape surround – this is very much the place to enjoy an early evening glass of wine.

<figure><a href="/buildings/royal-ascot-residences-2-mascoma-street-ascot-vale"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="465" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2020-08-14_at_3.33.09_pm_0.png?itok=K81IbFg1" width="580"></a></figure>U: What makes your project stand out from other properties on the market?

DP: Quality. Design. Finish. This brand new boutique development will suit the very discerning owner-occupier. 

Inspired by the traditions of their milieu, these apartments are underscored by a playful, bold originality that while motivated by innovative design, are foremost utterly liveable. As Melbourne continues to evolve and move to the helm as a global lifestyle and culture leader, city fringe suburbs like Ascot Vale find their own communities, becoming microcosms of this gentrification. Therefore, as the city itself continues to blossom, so too does the urban fringe, witnessed in the unprecedented lifestyle hubs communities are now burgeoning.

Photography credit: Michael Gazzola
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Olivia Round

Melbourne apartment of the week: Royal Ascot

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Wuzhong International (Australia) is making its first foray into the Australian residential property market with Bowen &amp; Queens. Located at 2 Bowen Crescent, South Melbourne, the 19-storey residential development has been designed by Plus Architecture and comprises 214 apartments offering views over Albert Park Lake, Port Phillip Bay, the city and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Urban.com.au spoke to  Director of Wuzhong International (Aust) David Yihou Shen about the Bowen &amp; Queens development and its ambitions in the Australian market into the future.

<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/bq_inline_images.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bowen &amp; Queens exterior and interior. Images: Floodslicer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="240" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bq_inline_images.jpg?itok=n0NPuuCF" title="Bowen &amp; Queens exterior and interior. Images: Floodslicer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bowen &amp; Queens exterior and interior. Images: Floodslicer</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au: What prompted Wuzhong to choose Melbourne as the Australian city for its first foray into the Australian market? 

David Shen: Melbourne is well known globally as being the world’s most livable city and is therefore an attractive prospect for global developers. As a developer we think Melbourne is the place to be and expect the market will keep growing over the next decade or so as the population grows.

Bowen and Queens is our first apartment development in Melbourne, however we have done a boutique size project in Carrum Downs which consists of 23 lots land subdivisions and 21 townhouses.

U: And following on from that what was the appeal of South Melbourne?

DS: We love South Melbourne! We set up our Australian HQ at 1 Queens Road, Melbourne about 6 years ago; it is effectively 100 metres from our Bowen &amp; Queens project. South Melbourne is a dynamic and very liveable suburb; it has parks, markets, restaurants and cafes everywhere.

The location is arguably in the city but without the noise of the busy CBD. Our project is off St Kilda Road but away from all the traffic, and of course residents will get the amazing views to the bay, to the park and to the Albert Lake.

U: What was Wuzhong's vision for the Bowen &amp; Queens site and its brief to Plus Architecture?

DS: The location of Bowen &amp; Queens was carefully selected. The site has easy access to the city, beach, and suburbs. We chose this particular site because it is surrounded by parks and in a bigger context, it fits in with the natural elements of the nearby bay too.

We briefed Plus Architecture to enhance the healthy lifestyle that this site can offer. It’s designed for ease of living, and to encourage a healthy lifestyle with all the nearby parks. The Bowen &amp; Queens was crafted around the concept of nature – this is seen through the use of curves throughout that embrace the surrounding area.

U: There has been a lot of commentary recently around the state of the residential market in not just Melbourne but Australia as a whole. What are your thoughts on this and do you expect it to have an impact on sales in Bowen &amp; Queens?

DS: The market is slower than the last several years, this is a fact. The market is going soft due to tightening lending regulations. The demand is still there though thanks to the growing population. Melbourne still has very high population growth. While the sale rate will be lower than what we experienced in the previous years, I don’t think it will impact on the sale prices. Good stock is sought after and popular in every climate.

U: What buyer demographic do you expect Bowen &amp; Queens to appeal to?

DS: Local buyers and owner occupiers will be the main demographic we will be targeting. The finish of the building will be a high quality and local buyers who can attend the display suites will fully understand the quality and the craftmanship of the building.

U: Looking beyond Bowen &amp; Queens, what are Wuzhong's intentions for future projects in Melbourne and are you also looking at opportunities in other Australian cities?

DS: We have a full pipeline built up for the next 5 years already; not just in apartments but also in land subdivisions as well as commercial projects. Our focus is in Melbourne only as we think Melbourne market is a particularly exciting market to be in within Australia.
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Laurence Dragomir

Wuzhong's David Shen discusses Bowen and Queens

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International designer hotel owner operator, Ovolo, has been appointed as hotel manager for <a href="/developments?developer=Perri%20Projects">Perri Projects</a>' $50 million <a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne hotel</a>, expected to open in 2020. Located at 183-199 Moray Street, the project comprises 100 rooms spanning six floors based around Ovolo’s ethos of ‘effortless living'.

Founded by Girish Jhunjhnuwala in 2002, Ovolo Hotels has become one of Hong Kong’s largest independent owner, operator hospitality firms. The company says it keeps in touch with the modern traveller through award-winning interior designs, detail-driven comforts, focused all-inclusive service and cutting-edge en suite technology, all done in Ovolo Hotel’s signature style.

<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/170516_smh_v01_hero_final.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ovolo South Melbourne will open in 2020. Image: Perri Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="464" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/170516_smh_v01_hero_final.jpg?itok=8LAfI-8f" title="Ovolo South Melbourne will open in 2020. Image: Perri Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ovolo South Melbourne will open in 2020. Image: Perri Projects</figcaption></figure>Ovolo says the <a href="/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne</a> project represents a new phase of growth for the company, made possible through a shared vision with Perri Projects and is confident it will be well-received by the growing pool of higher-end established housing and major commercial office buildings emerging in South Melbourne.

According to Perri Projects, Ovolo’s international track-record for delivering innovative, design-led destination hotel concepts that empahasise lifestyle aligned with Perri Projects’ vision for the site. With a planning permit already in hand, Ovolo’s appointment paves the way for construction to commence in the second half of 2019.

Perri Projects has been keeping busy with a growing development pipeline of projects including a <a href="/new-apartments/23-29-victoria-street-melbourne">$150 million tower opposite the Carlton Gardens</a>, and its most significant, the West Melbourne Waterfront along the banks of the Maribyrnong River.

Following support from The City of Melbourne, Amendment C221 was considered and adopted by the Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne mid-year, allowing for the project to progress. To this end, Perri Projects has engaged Woods Bagot, NH Architecture and Oculus for this significant 'place making project' which boasts over 250 metres of frontage along the Maribyrnong River.

Perri Projects says Amendment C221 will ensure the 2.8-hectare West Melbourne Waterfront site is successfully rezoned to Mixed Use, paving the way for a "dynamic, master-planned urban renewal precinct to revitalise the area into a pre-eminent waterfront destination."

<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/40_wmw_render-16.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artisit's impression of West Melbourne Waterfront. Image: Perri Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="271" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/40_wmw_render-16.jpg?itok=W56U5ovB" title="Artisit's impression of West Melbourne Waterfront. Image: Perri Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artisit's impression of West Melbourne Waterfront. Image: Perri Projects</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
“We are delighted to partner with Ovolo to realise our original vision for this site as a mixed-use lifestyle precinct featuring destination bars and restaurants, as well as leisure, event and function facilities.

Ovolo hotels are internationally renowned for their high-end, high-energy designs that blend form and function to ensure each hotel delivers a unique experience for guests and visitors. Ovolo is well established and revered, yet agile and bold enough to challenge convention and break the mold on new sites, ensuring that each design complements and enhances the location of their hotels.”

- David Scalzo, Managing Director of Perri Projects
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“Ovolo is a proud owner and operator of hotels and this HMA will be the start of a new chapter in order to take our disruptive lifestyle designer hotel collection to the next level in Australia and internationally.

Ovolo is committed to ensuring our guests can expect the unexpected from us and like all our sites, Ovolo in South Melbourne will stand alone from a design perspective, but the experience will be unmistakeably Ovolo.

The underlying demographic of South Melbourne has been evolving steadily as creative industries in particular look to take advantage of the central location and raw industrial edge the suburb has to offer.

But while the suburb is on the rise with those in the know, local hospitality amenity has not kept pace with this change, and we believe Ovolo South Melbourne with its bars, restaurants and even a roof-top function and events space will be uniquely placed to provide a focal point for those local communities.”

- Dave Baswal, COO &amp; CFO of Ovolo Australia
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
“The Hotel Management Agreement with Perri Projects represents a natural evolution for our business as we continually look to expand our offering in new markets.

While we each bring our respective expertise in property development and hospitality management to this project, this partnership was forged through our mutual affinity for delivering truly unique projects and a shared vision for the South Melbourne site."

- Girish Jhunjhnuwala, Ovolo CEO and Founder
</blockquote>
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Perri Projects and Ovolo combine for South Melbourne hotel

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<a href="/news/dealcorp-gains-approval-for-gardiner-station-development">Urban.com.au recently highlighted the approval</a> of DealCorp's new $100 million project - Glenarm Square - which will transform the forecourt of the newly revamped Gardiner Station in Glen Iris into a thriving new community space featuring a diverse range of planting and tree canopies.

Today's piece focuses on the public realm aspects of the development, with the 2,000 sqm plaza supported by an activated ground plane of commercial businesses. Theses retail and commercial tenancies will occupy 1,000 sqm spread across two levels comprising a café, a deli/grocer, and a provedore. 

The new precinct will service the residents of the 120 apartments within the seven-storey residential building, and continues the growing trend of new developments based around train stations and rail environments. These new transit and community hubs assist in activating previously underutilised spaces and creating destinations along Melbourne's rail network. 

Upon completion in 2021, Glenarm Square will provide residents and visitors to Glen Iris with a new village square, with formal and informal seating dispersed throughout the precinct, creating spaces which encourage social interaction and congregation. The project has been designed by Plus Architecture and Hecker Gutherie, in combination with Urbis and DealCorp.

<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/gardinerstation_s020_ext_retaildusk_final.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The interface between the public realm and built form. Image: DealCorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="264" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gardinerstation_s020_ext_retaildusk_final.jpg?itok=m_bR-qgC" title="The interface between the public realm and built form. Image: DealCorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The interface between the public realm and built form. Image: DealCorp</figcaption></figure>Planning and design consultancy Urbis has been involved in the project for the past four years, working closely with the Level Crossing Removal Authority, John Holland, KBR and Grimshaw. Urbis provided planning, urban design and landscape architectural services throughout the design and delivery process.

Additionally, Urbis was responsible for assessing the uplift potential of surplus land created along the rail corridor via the provision of valuation and feasibility analysis. On Glenarm Square, Urbis sought to create a permeable civic space where residents and travellers feel safe in a thriving and engaging communal space.

According to DealCorp, the amenity and growth of Glen Iris was a significant consideration in the planning of the precinct. The Residences at Glenarm Square adopts a dual façade approach which relates and responds to adjacent streetscape conditions and materiality with vertical articulations referencing the shop fronts along Burke Road.

Residents within the residential building will have access to a gym, 15m indoor pool, communal lounge and business centre for residents, and a communal kitchen and dining area that has been created in collaboration with renowned Melbourne chef Shane Delia.

DealCorp are preparing to start construction on Glenarm Square in 2019.

<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/gardinerstation_s050_ext_glenarmsthero_final_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Residences at Glenarm Square. Image: DealCorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="526" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gardinerstation_s050_ext_glenarmsthero_final_0.jpg?itok=z7BfSOmc" title="The Residences at Glenarm Square. Image: DealCorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Residences at Glenarm Square. Image: DealCorp</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
We have designed Glenarm Square to bring the station to life, creating an exciting new destination and activating it from morning until night instead of confining the activity to peak travel times. Glen Iris is one of most in-demand suburbs in Melbourne’s inner east. Glenarm Square will regenerate and repurpose the currently unused land adjacent to Gardiner Station and create much-needed amenity for the community.

- David Kobritz, DealCorp Executive Chairman
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
The key was finding the balance. Creating active edges with visibility from Burke Road through to Glenarm Road, and defining boundaries which are also permeable and visually appealing to draw people into the centre of the square,” said Haack. We achieved this through our use of materials such as perforated screening and designing an elevated concourse that integrates with the station.

- Peter Haack, Director, Urbis 
</blockquote>
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Glenarm Square to transform Gardiner Station into a thriving community space

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While other developments abutting or proposed to rise above rail corridors have faltered, developer DealCorp is pushing ahead with plans for a residential development adjacent to the recently revamped Gardiner Train Station in Glen Iris, after securing planning approval.

The $100 million development to be known as The Residences at Glenarm Square, will comprise 120 apartments and 1,000 sqm of retail and commercial space across two-storeys along with a provedore, café, and deli/grocer, which DealCorp says will add to the local community. 

DealCorp has ensured its plans for the development adhere to the local planning scheme and integrates with the station and retail plaza, providing Glen Iris with a new community heart. The new infill development will be built on 2,700 sqm of re-purposed land opposite the new Gardiner Station forecourt, created as part of its recent multi-million-dollar upgrade.

According to DealCorp, the project which has been designed by Plus Architecture, will deliver a much-needed affordable apartments to an area where the median house price is currently over $2 million.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/gardinerstation_s050_ext_glenarmsthero_final.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Residences at Glenarm Square, will be built opposite Gardiner Station. Image: DealCorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="644" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gardinerstation_s050_ext_glenarmsthero_final.jpg?itok=GnK0KAIb" title="The Residences at Glenarm Square, will be built opposite Gardiner Station. Image: DealCorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Residences at Glenarm Square, will be built opposite Gardiner Station. Image: DealCorp</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Located in the heart of Melbourne’s leafy-green inner eastern suburbs, Glen Iris is incredibly sought after and infill development opportunities are rare. As developers it is critical we look not only to delivering apartment solutions, but vibrant retail, café and leisure amenity that help create new community connections.

That’s why this project, in this location, was so appealing to us – it was an opportunity to regenerate and re-activate one of Melbourne’s most in-demand inner eastern suburbs in a specific locale where community amenity is currently lacking. As a diversified property developer we assess all opportunities on their merit so when the chance arose to deliver a project of this nature in such a significant location, we jumped at it. This project represents an innovative, collaborative approach to infill development.

With their excellent locations and proximity to transport and other established amenity, this site is a prime example of urban regeneration in a location where traditional home prices are out of reach, so we are excited to explore the way this successful test case can be applied in a wider setting in the future

- David Kobritz, DealCorp executive chairman
</blockquote>

DealCorp will launch The Residences at Glenarm Square to the market in the coming weeks with the project set to include a mix of one, two and three-bedroom offerings, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie.

Meanwhile, South Yarra will also see the development of air above the rail corridor to the south of South Yarra Station, along Toorak Road. As mentioned in Apartments.com.au's <a href="/guides/weekly-podcast-episode-31-city-of-stonnington-mayor-cr-steve-stefanopoulos">podcast with Stonnington Mayor Steve Stefanopoulos</a>, Council has approved plans for a 3-storey mixed-use retail development at 162-164 Toorak Road, which will complete the streetscape.

Designed by Bruce Henderson and backed by Vicland Property Group the development will feature 2,500 sqm of retail and office space in addition to a 1,500 sqm public plaza and connection to the South Yarra Siding Reserve, which is being expanded and upgraded as part of the Melbourne Metro Tunnel.

<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/162-164_toorak_rd_aerial.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The approved development at 162-164 Toorak Road. Image: realestatesource.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="395" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/162-164_toorak_rd_aerial.jpg?itok=rnpuVf9X" title="The approved development at 162-164 Toorak Road. Image: realestatesource.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The approved development at 162-164 Toorak Road. Image: realestatesource.com.au</figcaption></figure>
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DealCorp gains approval for Gardiner Station development

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Last week, Mirvac achieved a significant milestone at its Tullamore development, with the topping out of the Phoenix. In keeping with topping out tradition, an evergreen tree will be placed on the roof symbolising growth and good fortune. 

Located at its master-planned Doncaster community on the former 47-hectare Eastern Golf Course, the five-storey boutique development is Mirvac's first within the Apartments of Tullamore precinct. Designed in collaboration with Plus Architecture, <a href="/buildings/phoenix-65-stables-circuit-doncaster?ref=srp_listview">Phoenix</a> will encompass views of the city skyline and homestead to the west and park views to the north.

<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/mirvac_apartments_of_tullamore_phoneix_topping_out_sept_2018.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Anne Jolic (Mirvac Development Director Residential Victoria) with Eve and Lee Mock (Phoenix purchasers)"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mirvac_apartments_of_tullamore_phoneix_topping_out_sept_2018.jpg?itok=W_JqYcNd" title="Anne Jolic (Mirvac Development Director Residential Victoria) with Eve and Lee Mock (Phoenix purchasers)" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Anne Jolic (Mirvac Development Director Residential Victoria) with Eve and Lee Mock (Phoenix purchasers)</figcaption></figure><a href="/buildings/phoenix-65-stables-circuit-doncaster?ref=srp_listview">Phoenix's</a> topping out also coincided with the opening of the third and largest of Tullamore's parkland - the Verdant Crescent Park. Spanning four hectares and featuring a double flying fox, dual slide tower, exercise stations, shared walking and cycling paths, and a dedicated barbecue and picnic area, the park is a joint undertaking with MDG Landscape Architects.

In addition to the network of parks and open spaces, residents within the precinct will have access to a $27 million Next Gen luxury health and lifestyle club. Due to open in 2020 the club will feature indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, restaurant dining and creche and private spa facilities. This will be supported by the proposed Stables Café, also set to open in 2020.

Upon completion in 2019, Phoenix will comprise 134 apartments situated within a parkland setting. According to Mirvac, the apartment development has been in high demand since launching last year, reflecting purchaser demand within Tullamore with more than 550 lots sold to date.

<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/mirv9550_tullamore_apartments_ea04_driveway.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of Phoenix. Image: Supplied "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="219" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mirv9550_tullamore_apartments_ea04_driveway.jpg?itok=HtAE9lB8" title="Artist's impression of Phoenix. Image: Supplied " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of Phoenix. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
A life at Apartments of Tullamore is very appealing to prospective residents who recognise the unique proposition offered by apartment living. They appreciate the convenience and ongoing value of a low maintenance home and they don’t want to compromise on design details or location.

Apartments of Tullamore’s contemporary residences feature quality, timeless designs and sophisticated finishes, matched with spacious, flexible floorplans and large balconies. The apartments also offer buyers a distinguished home address at Tullamore, in Melbourne’s leafy suburb of Doncaster.

- Elysa Anderson, General Manager of Residential for Mirvac Victoria
</blockquote>
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