The new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/yarraville-green-42-stephen-street-yarraville-vic-3013">Yarraville Green</a> development in Melbourne's inner west is showing that landscaping can be just as influential as architecture, with buyers responding strongly to the garden-first approach adopted from the outset by developer Excelon Projects and the project's design team.

Excelon appointed Six Degrees Architects and landscape architects SBLA to work collaboratively on the development, with a brief to create "a sustainable, design-led building with a focus on community."

That approach has resonated with buyers. According to Next Chapter Director Tom Hirini, who is leading the sales campaign, the landscaped communal garden has become one of the project's defining features, alongside its boutique scale and European-inspired cluster housing concept.

Local downsizers, right-sizers and established families already living in Yarraville and surrounding suburbs have accounted for the majority of purchasers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297740]

Yarraville Green will comprise 53 homes, including apartments and townhomes, arranged around the shared central garden to maximise connections to the landscaped open space. Parking has been moved underground, allowing the ground plane to be dedicated to greenery, pedestrian movement and communal spaces.

The landscape extends well beyond passive planting. Productive garden beds, a pergola, communal gathering spaces, garden sheds and a pet wash have all been integrated into the masterplan, creating spaces designed to encourage everyday interaction between residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297741]

The interiors continue Excelon's focus on craftsmanship, incorporating bespoke elements by Melbourne artisans including leadlight detailing by Adadaz, hand-turned timber hardware by Auburn Woodturning and blown-glass lighting by Ruth Allen.

Sustainability has also been embedded throughout the project, with Yarraville Green targeting an average 7-star NatHERS energy rating through passive design principles, rooftop solar servicing common areas and rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297735]

Construction continues to progress at Yarraville Green, with structural works well underway and framing works approaching completion under builder Balmain &amp; Co. The project remains on track for completion in mid-2027.

Apartments at Yarraville Green are currently priced from $625,000, while townhomes start from $1.4 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144913]

Joel Robinson

Garden-led design drives buyer demand at Yarraville Green

National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

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

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 41-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 41-storey tower, which has 229 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

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

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Preston

<html><body>
A contemporary inner-city Preston office suite has been leased  within one day of it becoming available.
The 525 High Street space is located 500 metres from Preston Train Station, Preston Market and an array of cafes and restaurants.
The ground floor office was leased to CVGT Pty Ltd, an employment services company on a three year lease plus options for $40,000 per annum, equating to a building rate of $239.52 per square metre for the 167 square metre space.
The fully partitioned office further features staff amenities including shower, air-conditioning throughout and secure under cover parking.
John Star of CVA had the listing.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Preston office suite leased within one day on the market

<html><body>
A Preston three bedroom unit has been sold by mortgagees for $513,000.
It was sold by Kannan Subramanian and Graham Love from Love &amp; Co.
The property had last traded for $412,000 in 2011.
Set at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-vic-preston-127010338" target="_blank"> 1/5 Oak Street</a>, Preston, the Victorian home comes with three bedrooms, formal living room and garage.
Northland's transport hub, shopping and schools including primary school and Islamic College are within short distance.
According to CoreLogic, the suburb's median unit price sits on $427,500.
</body></html>

Preston three bedroom unit sold by mortgagee

<html><body>
Some five bidders were in the contest for the Preston home of the retired Carlton star Andrew Walker.
The bidding for <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-preston-126884130" target="_blank">28 May Street</a> through Hocking Stuart agent Andrew Montalto opened at $1.3 million.
The hammer fell at $1.74 million, coming on the market at $1.56 million.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/12/4/walker2.jpg" alt="">
Walker, who played 202 games for the Blues, bought the California bungalow in 2011 and transformed it into a five-bedroom home.
Walker, wife Kylie and their three kids are understood to be moving back to Walker’s hometown of Echuca.
A week ago a large five-bedroom home at 20 Shakespeare Avenue in the Reservoir-abutting corner of the suburb passed in at auction for $1.915 million. It subsequently sold for $2.035 million, the first Preston home to break through the $2 million barrier, Domain reported.
</body></html>

firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Echuca-bound Andrew Walker sells Preston home

<html><body>
Former AFL Carlton player Andrew Walker and wife Kylie have listed their home in Melbourne’s Preston as he heads back to his home town Echuca, in northern Victoria. 
He will be the town’s player-coach next year in the Goulburn Valley Football League. 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-preston-126884130" target="_blank">The home has a $1.3 million to $1.4 million guide</a> through hockingstuart agents Andrew Montalto and Lillian Akkari, who have set a December 2 auction. 
The May Street home has five bedrooms, three bathrooms and a designer deck that overlooks the swimming pool on the 505 square metre parcel. 
It cost Walker $640,000 in 2011, the year he was Carlton’s top goalkicker. 
Walker retired in 2016 after 202 games over 12 years in blue.
This article article first appeared in The Weekend Australian. 
</body></html>

Former Carlton star Andrew Walker lists in Preston

<html><body>
A site adjacent to Melbourne's Preston Markets and train station has sold for $8 million through Savills.
The 1,761 square metre site at 30 Cramer Street, Preston, is zoned for Flexible Priority Development and currently used as commercial car parking. 
There is a planning permit for a Hayball designed project comprising 95 apartments over 9 levels.
According to Savills’ Clinton Baxter the property was extremely attractive to the development market due to the high local amenity, striking Hayball design, and protected natural light and views from the future project.
“Ultimately a major local developer managed to out-muscle very strong interest from other local and Asia-based developers," he said.
Mr Radisich said the transaction sets a new benchmark for Preston, with a land rate of $4,520/sqm and a rate per approved unit of $81,600/apartment.
 
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

$8 million Preston development site sale sets new record unit rate 

<html><body>
A Chinese BBQ restaurant will open up in a High Street building in Preston, following a deal negotiated by Fitzroys.
The two-level, 355 square metre 449 High Street building has a ground floor area of 280 square metres and first floor of 75 square metres.
Terence Yeh struck the terms of the deal with North China BBQ at $108,000 per annum plus outgoings and GST on behalf of a private owner.
Yeh said the property presented a very rare opportunity for a business to a gain a presence in a popular and tightly held area.
“Enquiry came from a range of operators who all recognised the scarcity of this type of offering, including banks, hospitality businesses and service retailers,” he said.
</body></html>

Chinese BBQ has a taste for Preston

<html><body>
The Jam Hut recording studio in Carlton has sold for $1.1 million, 40 percent more than the vendor's expectations.
It was a local buyer behind the Preston investment sale two weeks prior to auction.
The 460 sqm property at 569-571 High Street is leased to Jam Hut recording studio, an institution in the Melbourne music community.
It's called the Preston address home since 1978 and the lease runs until 2020.
The sale was secured by CBRE City Fringe and Metropolitan Investments’ Sandro Peluso, Josh Twelftree and Chris Game.
Chris said the strong sale result prior to auction was evidence of the demand for prominently positioned investments with development upside across Melbourne.
“The property drew significant interest from a strong contingent of investors and developers, given the site’s location within the priority development zone, and close proximity to the High Street retail precinct,” he explained. 
 
</body></html>

Jam Hut recording studio sold above expectations

<html><body>
Located at the juncture of Thornbury and Preston, and occupying the site address of 9 High Street from which the project derives its name, Nine High is an 8-storey development of 68 apartments by <a href="http://kincaidprojects.com.au/">Kincaid Projects</a> and <a href="http://optimusdevelopments.com.au/">Optimus Developments</a>.

Sitting on the crest of Thornbury Hill with views down High Street, Nine High is a custom designed residential development that seeks to create a sense of place by embracing the rapidly gentrifying Thornbury community. According to the development team the location as a destination is critical to ensuring the project's success in addition to providing a quality product.

Those familiar with the rapidly changing face of the area will be aware of the distinct lack of design character shown by the majority of recent apartment developments completed nearby; something which Kincaid Projects and Optimus Developments have sought to address.

Nine High is a collaboration between Kincaid's in-house designer Joel Martin with <a href="http://www.eadesandbergman.com/">Eades &amp; Bergman</a>'s Wendy Bergman casting her eye over the interior specifications and layouts. Best known as the designer for some of Melbourne's newest hip eateries such as Kong or Meaball &amp; Winebar, Wendy has sought to flood apartments with natural light via a series of atriums and lightwells which puncture the building's volume.

The project team envisions Nine High becoming a benchmark building for the area and an architectural statement with its refined angles expressed in contemporary materials such as off-form concrete, Modwood Soffits, Alucobond cladding and black and gold metallic screens. The building's facade is animated via these operable screens which gives the exterior a kinetic rather than static quality.

The introduction of vegetation to the facade is designed to bring with it a sense of colour and vibrancy and soften the structure while contributing to resident wellbeing.

<blockquote>
Our design vision for Nine High was to create apartments where people can feel connected and develop their own sense of place. We've worked creatively with proportions, angles and materials, filled it with natural light and vegetation.

We believe our use of lush greenery, attractive materials and an elegant colour palette will raise the bar in Thornbury.
<cite>Joel Martin, Designer, Kincaid Projects</cite>
</blockquote>

Designed to be both versatile and functional, Nine High's apartments feature open plan, free flowing living configurations, customised fittings, a feature double-sized pantry and extra large balconies for entertaining, plus garden areas an landscaping designed by Urban Edge. Additionally storage cages are located conveniently on the same floors as apartments rather than with the parking areas.

<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/nine_high_interior.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nine High Interior. © Kincaid Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="355" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nine_high_interior.jpg?itok=5Dpy9Qys" title="Nine High Interior. © Kincaid Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nine High Interior. Image courtesy Kincaid Projects</figcaption></figure>Kitchens are arranged in a u-configuration and feature dual purpose benchtops which also act as dining tables reducing the requirement for a separate dining table. The apartments also feature other artisenal detailing in the form of custom-made metal pocket shelving within the bathrooms, bento box-inspired vanity tops and wine rack storage in kitchens.

The 68 apartments consist of one, two and three bedroom options with prices starting at $299,000 for a one bedroom apartment to $450,000 for two bedrooms which translates to a rate of $7,500 per square metre. Two retail tenancies will be located at ground level taking advantage of the City of Darebin's streetscape improvement plans for High Street which sees the reduction in number of traffic lanes and provision of bicycle lanes in lieu.

<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/high_street_streetscape.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="High Street improvement works. Courtesy City of Darebin."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="408" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/high_street_streetscape.jpg?itok=gmoy_GJp" title="High Street improvement works. Courtesy City of Darebin." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>High Street improvement works. Courtesy City of Darebin.</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
We chose to develop Nine High in the heart of Thornbury-Preston as this is a vibrant part of Melbourne. With its proximity to the city, public transport and High Street's eclectic shops, this strip is full of enterprising young creatives that share our appreciation for this area.

We want to be a part of what's happening, and we're really excited by our vision for Nine High. It's not just another apartment building; it's a unique beautifully designed space that will be a joy to live in, and we're proud to put our names to it.
<cite>Kris Burt, Director Kincaid Projects</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Nine High is exactly the right match for us. A project that is not only tempting for the investor's eye, but more importantly a place we, ourselves, would also enjoy calling home. First of all, the location of the rapidly gentrifying Preston-Thornbury area is perfect. On my first site visit I was immediately amazed by the bustling, lively strip of High Street, full of little cafes and shops, just a stone's throw from Nine High.

Second, the building itself is outstanding, with an exterior that will attract the attention of any passer-by, and a beautiful interior design that will fulfill all expectations of even the most discerning buyers. Nine High is so much more than just a great project and we are extremely proud to be involved in its creation.
<cite>Andrew Karpati, CEO Optimus Developments</cite>
</blockquote>

The project has already been well received before its official launch. Onsite hoardings have generated a lot of interest from potential buyers with 60 inquiries being fielded and 10 apartments being reserved over a two day period.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/130284174" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="100%"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://vimeo.com/130284174">Nine High</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/user37228590">The Bowery Collective</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

Nine High sets a new design benchmark

<html><body>
The junction marking Thornbury and Preston is set to light up this evening, celebrating a significant development set to happen in the area. A joint partnership between Creative Suburbs and the Darebin City Council, the festival is aimed to light up the area and switch on the minds of residents and visitors alike.

<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/victorholder3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Light projection by Victor Holder at Rainbow Serpent Festival 2015."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/victorholder3.jpg?itok=Fcmck0f_" title="Light projection by Victor Holder at Rainbow Serpent Festival 2015." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Light projection by Victor Holder at Rainbow Serpent Festival 2015.</figcaption></figure>On Friday 26th and Saturday 27th June from 6-11pm, the Thornbury and Preston intersection will be curated and lit up by four artists across five locations. The Darebin Projection Festival is part of an initiative with the Darebin City Council to activate the Junction of Preston and Thornbury and celebrate with community the new development(s) and lifestyle opportunities that are set to happen in the area.

Hosted by Creative Suburbs, the event is set to change resident’s perceptions of the once industrial area. The online platform encourages people in local areas to brainstorm and communicate ideas to improve the community. These ideas are steered by Creative Suburbs in the necessary direction needed be taken to have the idea realized, such is the case with the projection festival.

One of the new developments in the area is <a href="http://ninehighapartments.com.au/">NINE HIGH</a>, a new residential building being developed by <a href="http://kincaidprojects.com.au/">Kincaid Projects</a> and <a href="http://optimusdevelopments.com.au/">Optimus Developments</a>. On the night, NINE HIGH will be hosting work from artist Victor Holder that will have a focus on inspiring environmental and social awareness through a practice that is grounded in ways that benefits the community. Originally from Venezuela, Victor has worked all over the world but has called Melbourne his home for the past 15 years.

<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/ninehigh_exteriorps.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nine High Exterior. © Kincaid Projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="453" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ninehigh_exteriorps.jpg?itok=nevuiPjW" title="Nine High Exterior. © Kincaid Projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nine High Exterior. © Kincaid Projects</figcaption></figure>The NINE HIGH building will have a projected light show on architectonic 3D drawing mix with geometric abstracts forms, animated motion graphic, magical and flowing visuals.

<blockquote>
We are extremely excited to be a part of the Projection Festival. The change and new vision for this area of Thornbury and Preston is fantastic and we appreciate how active the local community are in stimulating the local economy.
<cite>Kris Burt, Kincaid Director</cite>
</blockquote>

Over the two nights there will also be food trucks, a hot chocolate cart and a silent disco for attendees to enjoy. The first of its kind in the area, the Darebin Projection Festival is set to encourage attendees to have a light bulb moment about the exciting improvements that are set to come.

<h2>Darebin Projection Festival</h2>

<dl>
<dt>Dates:</dt>
	<dd>Friday 26th and Saturday 27th June, 2015</dd>
	<dt>Time:</dt>
	<dd>6pm-11pm</dd>
	<dt>Locations:</dt>
	<dd>Thornbury/Preston: 9 High Street, 84 High Street, 188 Plenty Road, 212 Plenty Road, 623 Plenty Road</dd>
</dl>
</body></html>

Thornbury and Preston light up for the Darebin Projection Festival

<html><body>
Plans are afoot that would see mixed-use towers of up to 28 levels included within the forthcoming <a href="/new-apartments/preston-vic-3072">Preston</a> Market redevelopment. City of Darebin are currently displaying the Incorporated Plan online which the controlling consortium hopes will be approved, thus enabling/accelerating the market's redevelopment.

<a href="/developers/salta-properties">Salta Properties</a> and project partner Medich Corporation have also requested a change to the Darebin Planning Scheme, with one variation requesting an increase in the maximum building height from 4-10 storeys to 28 storeys over the western part of the site. Should City of Darebin approve this, they will essentially endorse the delivery of multiple towers at potentially 100 metres in height.

<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/Image124.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Preston Market Developments Pty Ltd"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="394" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image124.jpg?itok=eyEtj-af" title="Image © Preston Market Developments Pty Ltd" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image © Preston Market Developments Pty Ltd</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Amendment to the 2007 Incorporated Document is required to respond to contemporary development trends. The primacy of the existing market is improved through a consolidated site location, unencumbered from latter development stages. The public realm is based upon clear connectivity outcomes which will be marked through vibrant public places. The proposed amendment will introduce a diversity of housing morphology including taller high rise apartments.
</blockquote>

Project lead <a href="/architects/nh-architecture">NH Architecture</a> have the intention of creating a highly permeable development with the pedestrian environment the focus of attention. "Internal connections are provided through the Market to reinforce the intricate pedestrian pattern, character and ambience of the traditional Market" according to the Incorporated Plan. A Station Square, Piazza and Forecourt are the key gathering points as planned, with a finer network of smaller scale arcades and lanes akin to those within <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne's CBD</a> feeding into these focal points.

The built form will see office, residential, leisure and entertainment uses incorporated generally over upper levels while mixed uses at ground level are to all street frontages and not internalised. Street frontages are expected to be three storeys, while taller buildings will incorporate podiums.

<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/Image126.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Preston Market Developments Pty Ltd"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="399" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image126.jpg?itok=_aJozNm3" title="Image © Preston Market Developments Pty Ltd" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image © Preston Market Developments Pty Ltd</figcaption></figure>A report prepared by Essential Economics earlier this month and delivered as part of the Incorporated Plan holds the following highlights:

<ul>
<li>Total project value of approximately $800 million.</li>
	<li>Construction costs estimated at approximately $550 million.</li>
	<li>Approximately 1,220 full-time equivalent (FTE) construction jobs created.</li>
	<li>10 year project delivery timeframe envisaged.</li>
	<li>Net increase in ongoing employment of 770 jobs relative to the existing on-site employment.</li>
	<li>The redevelopment will hold approximately 1,500 new dwellings.</li>
</ul>
When the redevelopment begins, Preston Market will continue to function. The first of four stages will see a new market built on the site's eastern flank while Mary Street will be augmented to become a new north-south link. Subsequent stages will see the creation of a piazza, Station Square and Centreway.

The Incorporated Plan is available for viewing at <a href="http://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/Page/Page.aspx?Page_Id=10723" target="_blank">City of Darebin's website</a>.
</body></html>

Preston

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Preston

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News