Enfield may be home to fewer than 3,000 residents, but its prime location between Strathfield and Burwood has cemented its status as one of the Inner West’s hidden gems.

The suburb offers a village-style lifestyle with an abundance of cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops, staples of Inner West living.

At the last census, there were only around 300 apartments in the suburb. Fewer than a handful of new apartment developments have been delivered in recent years, but none are as well positioned as The Carlyle, just a three-minute walk to Henley Park, arguably one of the best parks in the area.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carlyle-enfield-164-liverpool-rd-enfield-nsw-2136">The Carlyle</a> will comprise 32 one- and two-bedroom apartments, a mix rarely seen in the new development market across Sydney.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/ray-white-projects-western-sydney">Ray White Projects WS</a>&nbsp;is fielding enquiry from several buyer types.

"First home buyers are realising this is the best time to get into the market," says Mark Bernberg, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/ray-white-projects-western-sydney">Ray White Projects WS</a>&nbsp;Managing Director.

"There are now several government incentives assisting first home buyers to get onto the property ladder. The recent announcement to waive lender's mortgage insurance for those with low deposits puts tens of thousands back in their pockets. Pair that with stamp duty savings in the new apartment space, and there has never been a better time to be a first home buyer in the off the plan apartment market."

Bernberg has also seen a re-emergence of investors, attracted to the low supply of apartments in Enfield and the suburb's lifestyle, while also being on the fringe of Burwood, which is set to undergo a huge transformation with its recent rezoning around the new metro station.

"That will bring a wealth of new retail and amenity to the area, which tends to drive prices higher," Bernberg says.

"Rents are at record highs, and with interest rates coming down from the highs earlier this year, investment apartments are starting to stack up again financially."

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The Carlyle apartments will sit above doorstep amenity, with a two-level retail podium incorporated into the striking building. The retail component will include a new ground-floor café facing Carlyle Street.

Two-bedroom apartments range from 67 sqm to 83 sqm internally, with some of the larger residences on the top level featuring expansive wraparound balconies. These layouts are designed to enhance seamless indoor-outdoor living, maximising natural light and views.

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The Carlyle's proximity to Henley Park is one of its biggest drawcards. The 13-hectare park includes multiple sports fields, two fenced playgrounds designed for various age groups, and Enfield Aquatic Centre, complete with Olympic-sized swimming pool.

The Carlyle is on track to welcome residents in early 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6667]

Joel Robinson

The Carlyle in Enfield launches to undersupplied Inner West market

A new Metro stop, a thriving café scene, and proximity to village-style retail have cemented St Leonards as one of the Lower North Shore’s most sought-after suburbs for new development.

Among those seizing the opportunity is Sekisui House Australia, which has chosen this prized pocket, in the St Leonards South precinct, for its first-ever inner-city apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/waterstone-st-leonards-24-berry-road-st-leonards-nsw-2065">Waterstone</a>.

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Set for completion in the summer of 2027, Waterstone comprises 207 apartments across five buildings, designed to look south back to the&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;CBD.&nbsp;The new project offers residents the rare balance of connected urban living and tranquil green surrounds.

Just moments from home lies Smoothey Park, a blend of natural bushland and manicured parkland. It forms part of the Wollstonecraft cluster of reserves, including Gore Cove, Badangi Reserve, and Berry Island, all offering peaceful escapes on the Harbour’s edge.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KCD5mtyKBjc?si=DcC6Koxg6shdDFzq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

When it comes to lifestyle, St Leonards and its neighbouring suburbs, Crows Nest, Waverton, Greenwich, and Wollstonecraft, deliver an endless array of cafés, restaurants, and boutique retailers. Nearby Mall 88, only 650 metres from Waterstone, adds convenience with over 30 specialty stores.

Connectivity is another major drawcard. The new Crows Nest Metro Station is just one kilometre away, while St Leonards Train Station is a short seven-minute walk. For a more scenic commute, the Greenwich Point Wharf ferry reaches Circular Quay in under 30 minutes.

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For peace of mind, Royal North Shore Hospital, one of Sydney’s most prominent medical hubs, sits just 650 metres away, making Waterstone ideal for healthcare professionals or residents seeking easy access to world-class medical facilities.

Perfectly positioned on the fringe of vibrant activity yet embraced by parkland serenity, Waterstone offers the best of both worlds in Sydney’s evolving Lower North Shore.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134191]

Urban Editorial

Nature and connection define life at Waterstone in emerging St Leonards South precinct

A new collection of residences is now available at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sol-by-walker-maroochydore-first-avenue-maroochydore-qld-4558">SOL by Walker</a>, the residential development that continues to take shape within the Maroochydore City Centre.

The second release introduces 137 apartments to the market, adding to the growing community in what is set to become one of South East Queensland’s most significant urban renewal precincts. The new offering includes a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a limited number of terraces and penthouses designed to suit a range of lifestyle needs.

“SOL represents the beginning of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/maroochydore-qld-4558">Maroochydore</a>’s exciting next chapter, redefining expectations around life in this beautiful coastal city,” David Gallant, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/walker-corporation">Walker Corporation</a>, said.

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Located on South Sea Islander Way, SOL forms part of the broader vision to deliver a connected and vibrant city heart for the Sunshine Coast. Construction is already underway on the first 19-storey tower, with completion targeted for early 2028. The development is being delivered by Walker in collaboration with Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral.

SOL’s second stage continues the project’s focus on high-quality apartment living, with access to a suite of resident-only amenities including a rooftop sky terrace, wellness retreat, co-working lounge, gym and landscaped garden spaces.

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> combine timeless design with natural materials, generous layouts and panoramic outlooks to the ocean, hinterland and river.&nbsp;

“SOL by Walker establishes a new standard in apartment quality, seamlessly integrating superior craftsmanship with unmatched design,” Danny Juric, Director at Plus Studio, said

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=346899]

Apartments feature open-plan layouts with high ceilings and expansive glazing to enhance natural light and ventilation.&nbsp;

A warm, neutral palette ties together stone benchtops, brushed platinum accents, and sandstone-toned carpet, while large sliding doors connect living areas to generous outdoor spaces.&nbsp;

Kitchens are fitted with integrated Miele appliances, refined cabinetry and thoughtful storage, while bathrooms offer double vanities and oversized showers to balance function and comfort.

As part of the Sunshine Coast’s new CBD, residents will be within walking distance of local retail, dining and green space, with transport connections set to expand as the precinct grows. Once complete, Maroochydore City Centre is expected to deliver thousands of new homes as part of the region’s long-term housing strategy.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147777]

Second release at SOL by Walker expands residential offering in Maroochydore City Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a> has marked the topping out of Prince &amp; Parade in Brunswick, celebrating the completion of the building’s highest point and a major step forward for one of the developer’s landmark Melbourne communities.

The milestone forms part of Mirvac’s strong construction momentum across Victoria, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/prince-parade-by-mirvac-brunswick-701-park-street-brunswick-vic-3056">Prince &amp; Parade</a> and The Albertine both recently reaching structural completion. Together, the two projects will deliver 265 new apartments, contributing to much-needed housing supply in Melbourne’s inner suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4802 project_image_fid=3627]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a>, Prince &amp; Parade continues a long-standing partnership that has delivered The Melburnian (2002) and The Eastbourne (2019).

The new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick</a> address comprises a mix of one to four-bedroom residences complemented by extensive amenity, including a residents’ lounge, shared dining room and kitchen, library, yoga room, gym, and rooftop terrace, with landscaping by Jack Merlo and a concierge service.

Construction is rapidly transforming the site, with significant milestones achieved across two buildings, supported by 73 slab pours and six fully constructed building cores. Completion is expected in 2026.

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Mirvac’s General Manager, Residential Development Victoria, Elysa Anderson said Prince &amp; Parade has been strongly received by buyers seeking quality design and trusted delivery.

“These communities have been well received, attracting strong interest from downsizers and professionals who value high-quality design, premium locations and the confidence of buying with Mirvac,” Anderson said.

Prince &amp; Parade has also achieved a record-breaking apartment sale in Brunswick, underscoring its design quality and market appeal.

“We’re incredibly proud to see Prince &amp; Parade set a new benchmark for Brunswick. This <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/exclusive-mirvac-breaks-brunswick-record-with-prince-parade-sale">record-breaking sale</a> is a testament to Mirvac’s design excellence, quality craftsmanship, and our strong reputation for delivering high-quality residential communities across the country,” Anderson said.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4802]

Prince & Parade tops out in Brunswick as Mirvac marks dual Melbourne milestones

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a> has celebrated the topping out of The Albertine, marking the completion of the 14-storey structure on the edge of Melbourne’s CBD and signalling strong progress across the developer’s Victorian pipeline.

The milestone forms part of Mirvac’s $7.4 billion Victorian development portfolio, which includes both residential and mixed-use projects such as Prince &amp; Parade in Brunswick, which also reached its highest point recently, and Trielle at Yarra’s Edge, scheduled to top out in early 2026

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138659 project_image_fid=294831]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004">The Albertine</a> offers one to four-bedroom residences complemented by exclusive resident-only amenity, including The Circadian Club, a wellness centre with an indoor pool and spa, gym, yoga and Pilates studio, and sauna, as well as The Elysian Room, a private dining space on level 10 with sweeping views across Melbourne.

Since construction began in August last year, up to 240 workers have been on site daily, pouring 7,000 cubic metres of concrete across 72 pours and installing more than 1,000 tonnes of steel reinforcement to bring the project to this landmark moment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138659 project_image_fid=4353]

Mirvac’s CEO, Development – Residential and Commercial Mixed Use, Stuart Penklis said the achievement highlights Mirvac’s design quality and sustained delivery across Melbourne.

“We are proud to be delivering The Albertine and Prince &amp; Parade, two projects that embody Mirvac’s design excellence, commitment to quality, and focus on creating homes that connect people to their communities," Penklis said.

"With cranes rising high across Melbourne, Mirvac’s residential pipeline is moving strongly, and these milestones are a testament to that momentum."

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Penklis added that Mirvac’s growing portfolio demonstrates its commitment to providing diverse housing options across Victoria.

“We have recently opened our third build-to-rent community in Melbourne, LIV Albert at Brunswick, our fifth nationally, which together with our master-planned communities ensures that we are providing a full spectrum of housing options to Victorians.

Completion of The Albertine is expected in 2026.

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The Albertine reaches its highest point on Melbourne’s city fringe

Riverlee

The largest private construction project to begin in Melbourne since the beginning of the pandemic has officially commenced as construction begins on Riverlee&rsquo;s Seafarers mixed-use hotel and apartment development.

This exciting milestone was marked with a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, attended by Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Sally Capp.

Icon Construction was appointed as the builder on the $500 million development in January.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173914]

&ldquo;The groundbreaking ceremony is an exciting milestone for the development and we&rsquo;re looking forward to bringing this world-class destination to life&rdquo;, Icon Construction CEO Evan Byrne said.

Situated between the CBD and Docklands, Seafarers will comprise 120 luxury hotel-branded residences atop 277 guest rooms, as part of Australia&rsquo;s first 1 Hotel &amp; Homes.

Riverlee&#39;s Development Director David Lee said the&nbsp;family is proud to have reached this stage following a 10-year journey of developing our vision that truly brings together the surrounding urban fabric and steers Northbank into an exciting direction.

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Colliers also noted the project had the highest level of enquiry over the Christmas and New Year period, and have secured&nbsp;$30 million in sales and reservations&nbsp;since October.

Limited two and three-bedroom residences remain at the development, which has been designed by Fender Katsalidis Architects.

With the retention of the heritage-listed Goods Shed No.5, Seafarers will also encompass Melbourne&rsquo;s newest 3,500 sqm public park, Seafarers Rest to provide open space to users, residents and visitors of the Northbank precinct.

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&ldquo;We welcome this significant development in our city,&quot; Lord Mayor Sally Capp added.

&quot;The Seafarers project complements City of Melbourne&rsquo;s game-changing transformation project Greenline, which will revitalise and renew Northbank.&quot;

Construction at Seafarers and Seafarers Rest is slated for completion in mid-2024.

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Situated between the CBD and Docklands, Seafarers will comprise 120 luxury hotel-branded residences atop 277 guest rooms, as part of Australia’s first 1 Hotel & Homes. 

max.kwok_55688

Construction commences at Riverlee’s $550 million Seafarers development at the emerging Northbank precinct

Privately owned property group, Riverlee, has appointed Icon Construction to deliver the $500 million Seafarers development featuring residential, hotel and hospitality, in what is set to be the largest private construction project in Melbourne since the pandemic.

The 18-storey development comprises 123 luxury hotel-branded residences and 277 guest rooms as part of Australia&rsquo;s first 1 Hotel &amp; Homes from SH Hotels &amp; Resorts.

Revitalising the historic Goods Shed No.5, Seafarers is a flagship project within the Northbank precinct, located between the CBD and Docklands.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173912]

The project&rsquo;s multi-sector impact extends beyond construction and shows post-pandemic confidence in the residential, tourism and recreation markets.

The Seafarers build is valued at a nominal $275 million and is forecast to provide a total of 1,023 full-time equivalent construction-related jobs, with approximately 680 jobs generated upon completion.

The builder appointment of Icon comes as Seafarers records $20 million in sales and reservations since lockdown ended in Victoria last October.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173921]

Riverlee&rsquo;s development director, David Lee, says that the partnership with Icon marks a significant milestone for the next wave of Northbank as a destination in Melbourne.

&ldquo;Icon shares our vision for the precinct &ndash; for it to be a high-quality, sustainable and an outstanding place to live and visit.

He also made note of the positive uptake in sales since restrictions lifted in Victoria, showing the confidence in the owner-occupier apartment market and the shift to new lifestyle opportunities in a post-pandemic landscape.

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&ldquo;Construction of many residential projects in the city have been put on hold because of low sales during the pandemic, but we are proud to be progressing and are confident in our offering of a unique and differentiated residential product.&rdquo;

Construction at Seafarers will commence in early 2022 with completion slated for 2024.

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The Seafarers build is valued at a nominal $275 million and is forecast to provide a total of 1,023 full-time equivalent construction-related jobs, with approximately 680 jobs generated upon completion.



alisonwarters@gmail.com

Riverlee appoints Icon Construction to deliver $500 million Seafarers development

Not often comes an opportunity where hotel&nbsp;and residential spaces find&nbsp;their way into one project, but one of the biggest trends sweeping the country is the mixed of both,&nbsp;catering to a new type of discerning buyer.

Development director at Riverlee, David Lee, noted growing interest for hotel residences in the Australian property market.

&ldquo;The hotel residence lifestyle has gained a lot of traction in places like New York and Asia, but there is a need for this type of home in Australia&rdquo;, Lee said.

&quot;There are various residential buildings out there with features such&nbsp;as a concierge service but hotel-branded residences, particularly those with an international focus, take it to another level,&rdquo; he added.

These mixed-use developments have become a new sector mainstay in Australia, according to Cromwell Property Group, with developers increasingly combining commercial, hotel, leisure and residential.

Urban takes a look at six of Australia&rsquo;s best mixed-use apartment and hotel developments available on the market.

1. Castle Residences, Sydney 
Developer: United Development Sydney

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Castle Residences is a new masterful collaboration between United Development Sydney and architects Candelapas Associates and Stud​ioAria.

Situated on Castlereagh Street, a luxurious collection of 131 residences in one, two and three-bedroom configurations are on offer in an elegant new residential tower that soars above the historic Porter House.

The heritage charms of Porter House add to the luxurious feel of the 122-room MGallery boutique hotel, which extends their five-star amenities to apartment residents.

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The hotel will service the residences with room service, catering, housekeeping, laundry, and maintenance, which can be accessed via a personalised mobile application.

Residents will also have full access to the hotel&rsquo;s facilities including the restaurants, bars, gym, pool, and business centre, along with 24-hour security, concierge, and valet parking.

2. Seafarers, Docklands 
Developer: Riverlee

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Incorporating a 280-room hotel, Docklands&rsquo; latest development, Seafarers, will feature Melbourne&rsquo;s first international hotel-branded residences, 1 Hotel &amp; Homes.

Sitting above Australia&rsquo;s first 1 Hotel, a world leading eco-luxury hotel brand, the Fender Katsalidis-designed apartments boast a limited collection of 123 riverfront residences.

The two and three-bedroom, light-filled residences offer sweeping views of Yarra River and the new Seafarers Rest Park, as well as unique five-star hotel services.

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These include a botanical care and maintenance services, pet care and walking, in-home room services and chef-catered dinners.

The project will transform the city&rsquo;s last remaining Yarra River frontage into a new visionary waterfront precinct, with a rooftop barbeque, library and lounge exclusively available to residents.

3. Viv&eacute;re on Dorcas, South Melbourne 
Developer: BEKL

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108979 project_image_fid=181117]

Located in an elusive pocket of South Melbourne, Viv&eacute;re boasts a new collection of 36 upscale residences delivered by BEKL, Amazon Property Group&rsquo;s Australian operation.

The project soars above the Voco Hotel, which is operated and managed by internationally renowned IHG.

Designed by Plus Architecture, the 20-storey development offers one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with a sculptural fa&ccedil;ade inspired by Melbourne&rsquo;s Botanic Gardens and Port Phillip Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108979 project_image_fid=181109]

According to director-architect Jessica Liew, the recesses presented a creative opportunity to introduce an art installation, while the capsule between the stacked elements contains the hotel rooms of Voco.

Viv&eacute;re offers residents premium room services, and a range of recreational amenities, including a gym, sociable restaurant and bar.

4. Ocean, Surfers Paradise 
Developer: Meriton

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7974 project_image_fid=185035]

Rising 76 floors against the Gold Coast skyline, Ocean is the latest mixed-use development in Surfers Paradise that will feature both luxury residential and hotel suites under the Meriton Suites brand.

Set to become the third tallest tower on the Gold Coast, Ocean will be home to an impressive 404 apartments starting from level 33, offering views that tower over neighbouring buildings.

Designed by SJB Architects, the development offers residents world-class facilities including an exclusive sky pool and gym on level 33.

Located on a prime beachfront site, it will also include a vibrant retail precinct, caf&eacute;s and a purpose-built restaurant, and a beach club podium on the fifth floor.

5. Ryrie Home, Geelong 
Developer: Franz&eacute; Developments

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88244]

Situated on Ryrie S​treet, Franz&eacute; Developments&rsquo; new Geelong d​evelopment will deliver a landmark Holiday Inn tower, 16 luxury apartments at Ryrie Residences, and a separate 11-storey tower, Ryrie Home.

Designed by Arch​itectus, Ryrie Home boasts an authoritative and restrained grid fa&ccedil;ade, pedestrian laneways, commercial retail, and F&amp;B spaces, as well as hotel and residential lobbies.

The collaboration with IHG Hotels &amp; Resorts will see the Geelong Quarter become a gateway to the region and delivering the largest new hotel in the region in almost 20 years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88244]

Ryr​ie Home will feature a collection of 109 one, two and three-bedroom apartments that benefit from room service, gym and pool facilities, dining, housekeeping and a business centre.

It will also feature a number of retail tenancies located on the ground level facing both Ryr​ie Street and Fenwick Street.

6. M-City, Clayton 
Developer: Schiavello

[smartcode_project:default project_id=528 project_image_fid=46022]

Designed by Buchan Group, M-City boasts spacious new residential offers in one, two and three-bedroom configurations, as well as resort-style facilities and an international hotel.

Emblazoned with a distinctive bronze fa&ccedil;ade, M-City&rsquo;s own International Hotel is set to become a new local landmark, providing understated yet luxurious accommodation for visitors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=528 project_image_fid=46027]

Developed by Schiavello, the development is situated in the lively Clayton and provides residents with a range of function venues that offer entertaining and corporate spaces, such as meeting rooms, a ballroom, and a hotel bar.

Each apartment contains floor-to-ceiling glazing, spacious, private balconies, and luxury resort-style facilities, including a heated pool, landscaped gardens, and barbeque zones.

Mixed-use developments have become a new sector mainstay in Australia, according to Cromwell Property Group.

Australia's best mixed-use apartment and hotel developments on the market

The Melbourne developer Riverlee has seen an interesting buyer demographic emerge at its&nbsp;luxury mixed-use Docklands development, Seafarers.

Entrepreneurs and executives have swarmed the Fender Katsalidis-designed development, which incorporates a 280 room 1 Hotel, as well as 123 apartments, which together have been dubbed 1 Hotel and Homes.

Around 70 per cent of buyers so far have been business owners or those in C-suite and executive positions.

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They&#39;ve been drawn to Seafarers, with the under construction development giving buyers the ability to customise their apartments, including adding home office spaces.

They&#39;ve also been keen on the unique inclusion of the hotel support staff, who they can lean on for tasks similar to personal assistants.

David Lee, development director at Riverlee, says they are catering to those that are accustomed to or seeking an international way of living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=161089]

&ldquo;The hotel residence lifestyle has gained a lot of traction in places like New York and Asia, but there is a need for this type of home in Australia.

&quot;There are various residential buildings out there with features such&nbsp;as a concierge service but hotel-branded residences, particularly those with an international focus, take it to another level,&rdquo; Lee added.

&ldquo;Business owners and executives are a key target market at Seafarers with its connectivity to the city and the airport as well as the lifestyle on offer.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=73042]

&quot;Looking at hotel-branded residences globally, they hold their value extremely well, showing that their enduring appeal is also a savvy investment.&rdquo;

Residents will be able to use&nbsp;the hotel amenity, including the swimming pool, gym, sauna and spa, housekeeping and personal shopping, in home room service and wellness treatments, and 24-hour concierge services.

Residents will also have access to exclusive resident only amenities, including a rooftop BBQ and garden overlooking the Yarra River, bookable private dining rooms, and library and lounge areas.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=27728]

Around 70 per cent of buyers so far have been business owners or those in C-suite and executive positions

Entrepreneurs and executives favour hotel lifestyle as Seafarers, Docklands sales surge

Riverlee&rsquo;s highly-anticipated Melbourne development, Seafarers, is a collection of 123 one, two and three-bedroom riverfront residences.

Designed by Fender Katsalidis, each apartment boasts luxury touches, abundant light and sweeping Yarra River and park views.

Seafarers will feature 1 Hotel &amp; Homes, above Australia&rsquo;s first 1 Hotel. These residences will become Melbourne&rsquo;s first international hotel-branded residences.

Through 1 Hotel &amp; Homes, Seafarers residents will enjoy unlimited access to five-star hotel amenities including pool, gym, housekeeping, room service, pet care and catered dinners.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=73046]

Celebrating the site&rsquo;s maritime past, Fender Katsalidis centre their design on the restoration and re-use of the heritage-listed Goods Shed No. 5 and its distinctive travelling crane.

Forming the ground floor of the 1 Hotel, the repurposed goods shed will open onto the wharf, enlivening the riverfront.

&ldquo;The Seafarers precinct will breathe new life into this forgotten stretch of the Yarra&rdquo;, the developers said.

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Inspired by Melbourne&rsquo;s unique caf&eacute;, bar and dining cultures, the project will deliver world-class hospitality to residents and Melburnians.

To the shed&rsquo;s immediate east is Melbourne&rsquo;s newest, waterfront parkland, Seafarers Rest.

The landscaped haven will boast 3,500sqm of riverfront parkland, with mature trees, lush plantings and green space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=97029]

Seafarers is set to become a tourist destination, with vibrant eateries and great sites on offer in the surrounding Docklands area.

Crown Melbourne, Ponyfish Island and the Capital City Trail are all within walking distance of the luxury dwelling.

Art lovers will also be able to close by the street art that characterises the Melbourne streetscape, as well as the National Gallery of Victoria.

<blockquote>
&ldquo;[Seafarers] will reveal itself as Melbourne&rsquo;s most diverse, most fascinating and most easily explored neighbourhood&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.
</blockquote>

Families will also enjoy being in close proximity to leading schools and universities, as well as within two kilometres of the Melbourne CBD.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=27728]

“The Seafarers precinct will breathe new life into this forgotten stretch of the Yarra”, the developers said

Find out the top reasons why buying in Melbourne's Docklands precinct could be a smart move

The Docklands development Seafarers will be immediately recognised with its unique and striking facade when it is completed in 2024.

The $500 million development by the Melbourne-based developer Riverlee on the banks of the Yarra River is part of the rejuvenation of the Northbank precinct at the end of Flinders Street.

The global architecture firm Fender Katsalidis were tasked with reimagining the&nbsp;heritage-protected Goods Shed 5, preserving&nbsp;the only intact remnants from the days before containerisation.

Recently Urban caught up with Nicky Drobis,&nbsp;director at Fender Katsalidis, to discuss the development and how the design came to fruition.

JR: What was the brief for Seafarers from Riverlee?

ND: The brief was to design Melbourne&rsquo;s most dynamic mixed-use precinct, which restored and celebrated the site&rsquo;s heritage as the heart of the development.

It was also to create a development that connected to the Yarra River and the natural environment, resulting in plans for the new park at Seafarers Rest.

The goal was to achieve true diversity within the building with entertainment, health and wellbeing, as well as luxury hotel accommodation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=73048]

JR: What interested you in the project? 
 
ND: Beyond the brief itself, and the opportunities it afforded to create a new community within Melbourne, the most interesting part of the project would be the actual building. This is an important part of the revitalisation of the broader Northbank section of the Yarra River, which is undergoing a metamorphosis. The resulting building and community will soon make Seafarers a destination in its own right.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=73049]

JR: What were the key priorities?

ND: The careful retention and restoration of the heritage-listed Goods Shed No. 5 and the Malcolm Moore Electric Crane were key to celebrating Melbourne and the Yarra River&rsquo;s industrial heritage.

We also prioritised the view opportunities across the site, not only to the river, but back towards the CBD and Docklands areas.

Looking at it holistically, we focused on an environmentally sustainable design that incorporated key initiatives for a development of this scale.

Finally, we wanted to create enchanting and intriguing journeys through unique building experiences for hotel visitors and residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=161091]

JR: Was the string of amenities high on the priority list?

ND: A focus on health and wellbeing was fundamental in the design process of the building. We have designed numerous wellness spaces which directly engage with the natural environment and incorporate living green, in addition to the landscaped terrace spaces.

A selection of private amenities includes a library and lounge, dining rooms, spa and sauna spaces and a rooftop garden.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=97028]

JR: What was the biggest challenge in conceiving the design? 
 
ND: As much as a mixed-use development can be a challenge, this adds increased complexity, requiring a higher level of design thinking and execution.

The numerous challenges of design and construction start with the heritage shed, then work through those associated with the different uses.

In a planning sense, you have a cantilevered element of the building laid on top of the heritage shed, as well as the addition of a basement, while multiple uses are split horizontally throughout the building.

JR: Was it difficult to combine the residential apartment element with the hotel space?

ND: There are great synergies afforded by residents being able to utilise all the food and beverage offerings provided by the hotel. However, we&rsquo;ve worked carefully to create independent spaces for residents to provide them with a sense of exclusivity and privacy within the building. This way we can offer residents their own exclusive spaces, while allowing them to use every bit of the hotel.

JR: Had you done this on a previous project? 

ND: Yes. A lot of our work has involved precinctual design and mixed-use buildings, with all the complexities and opportunities that come with each. Seafarers is not dissimilar, albeit in a singular building.

One example we have currently in construction is Merdeka118, which upon completion will become the second tallest skyscraper in the world.⁠⁠ Its incredibly complex infrastructure and mix of uses includes a shopping centre, commercial floorplates and luxury hotel accommodation, each atop one another.

JR: Where did you draw inspiration from for the building?

ND: The components of the building&rsquo;s form are derived from their uses and are defined as such externally. Most visibly, the heritage shed is retained, restored and celebrated at the base of the tower with the next seven levels being hotel accommodation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=97032]

Above that, reading quite distinctly, we have the apartment levels with a highly articulated floorplan edge, which enables the fa&ccedil;ade glazing to reflect light in a way that is reminiscent of the movement of water.

JR: How did you collaborate with Carr Design to make sure the interiors of the apartments were in keeping with the rest of the building?

ND: The Carr team worked very carefully to design interiors that are both elegant and luxurious.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=73043]

The overriding idea in the design the of the apartments was to maximise the view opportunities for residents. There is a rigour to the planning which is experienced as you move through the plan, creating a seamless experience. The apartments are also very generously sized with finely considered details and a warm, classic palette of materials.

JR: What part of the design are you most proud of/what are you most looking forward to seeing? 
 
ND: We are eagerly looking forward to how the building will function, fostering a vibrant series of uses for residents, guests and visitors. We are proud of how it celebrates an important part of Melbourne&rsquo;s heritage in its retention of the shed, and thus its distinctive reflection of uses as a former industrial site.

This also has us looking forward to seeing the building as a sculptural built form to the precinct along the river frontage and a marker for the wider precinct.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=27728]

Fender Katsalidis were tasked with reimagining the heritage-protected Goods Shed 5, preserving the only intact remnants from the days before containerisation



The Design Details: Fender Katsalidis Architects discuss Riverlee's mixed-use Docklands development Seafarers

Residents at Seafarers, a new luxury Northbank development, get access to substantial&nbsp;luxury amenities&nbsp;thanks to a collaboration with&nbsp;1 Hotel that form Melbourne&#39;s first-ever hotel-branded residences.

Located on the final piece of Melbourne&#39;s original waterfront,&nbsp;Seafarers will integrate luxury residences and&nbsp;luxury hotel amenities, management and services. Everything from valet parking and concierge, to personal shopping and pantry stocking.

There will be a dedicated team of over 140 staff, with the aim of developer Riverlee to create a home life of pure, effortless simplicity.

David Lee, development director at Riverlee, says Seafarers, being Melbourne&rsquo;s first international hotel-branded residences, is&nbsp;a&nbsp;completely&nbsp;new level of quality, lifestyle and convenience.

&quot;Imagine the comfort, control and permanence of your own home, complemented by the dedicated staff, elite amenities and immaculately maintained surrounds of a world-class, five-star hotel,&quot; Lee told Urban.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173916]

&quot;There is truly nothing like Seafarers in the market at the moment with&nbsp;the service and amenity offering the first of its kind in Melbourne.&quot;

Lee says that, beyond quality, product and amenity, people are seeking a higher level of convenience that is linked with their home.

&quot;The demand for convenience is only increasing and will continue to&nbsp;be of great importance well&nbsp;after the pandemic,&quot; Lee added.

&quot;Seafarers offers this lifestyle,&nbsp;with 140 support staff from 1 Hotel available to truly offer ease of living. The services include valet parking, concierge, personal shopping, pantry stocking, pet care and botanical care in addition to business services for those working from home.&quot;

Lee says, prior to enquiry, not many buyers really understood the hotel-branded residence concept until they had the chance to see and hear it from the team.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173927]

He says however once&nbsp;they understood it, it was seen as really&nbsp;one of the things that sets Seafarers apart.

&quot;A large portion of our buyers are executives and business owners who live notoriously busy lives. The services and amenities have been curated by Riverlee and 1 Hotel to cater to every need to give people time to spend on the things they love.

&quot;Other buyers include frequent travellers, young families and downsizers who also seek a seamless life with everything at their fingertips.

&quot;It&rsquo;s also perfect for those who like to entertain with private dining rooms available, as well as relaxation with our pool, spa and wellness facilities. We absolutely expect our purchasers to be making the most of the amenity and services available to them.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173942]

Designed by Fender Katsalidis, the Melbourne fringe project in Northbank also features a library, dining and lounge space, as well as&nbsp;the lush surrounds of its&nbsp;elevated outdoor garden, Riverview Terrace.

Architecture and interior design firm Carr Design created the apartments to maximise external views, space and natural light, with interiors including reflective surfaces, natural and concealed doors.

Boasting uniquely large floorplans, Seafarers&rsquo; residences are situated on levels nine to 18 of the building, which is an inspired reimagining of the heritage-protected Goods Shed 5.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173915]

Not only does it deliver five-star hotel amenities, but it also boasts&nbsp;convenient access&nbsp;to a number of nearby restaurants, caf&eacute;s, markets and some of the best educational facilities and universities in Melbourne.

The development is expected to reach completion in 2024.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=97028]

Below features a full list of the 1 Hotel &amp; Homes owners&#39; privileges available at Seafarers:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>24-hour concierge, mail collection and access control</li>
	<li>Valet parking and bellman services</li>
	<li>On-demand maintenance</li>
	<li>Eco-conscious housekeeping and linen services</li>
	<li>Personal shopping and delivery services</li>
	<li>Babysitting</li>
	<li>In-home pet services</li>
	<li>Botanical care</li>
	<li>Local organic grocery shopping</li>
	<li>Private catering private chef</li>
	<li>In-room dining</li>
	<li>Residential signing privileges and direct billing services at signature restaurant and hotel bars</li>
	<li>Business services, including a fully-equipped business centre</li>
	<li>A curated selection of spa treatments</li>
	<li>Indoor heated pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steamroom</li>
	<li>Personal trainer and full-service fitness centre</li>
	<li>Priority status for hotel reservations across 1 Hotels, globally&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=27728]

"There is truly nothing like Seafarers in the market at the moment with the service and amenity offering the first of its kind in Melbourne."

What extra luxuries Seafarers residents get as part of 1 Hotel partnership

Queer visibility in the workplace remains just as necessary as it was ten years ago to normalise LGBTQI+ leaders as corporate role models that young people can look up to.&nbsp;

Only 21 per cent of LGBTQI+ leaders are &lsquo;out&rsquo; to the whole of their organisation, according to global data from <a href="https://www.accenture.com/us-en/blogs/accenture-research/the-surprising-reasons-most-lgbt-people-are-not-out-at-work" target="_blank">Accenture Research</a>.

But visible &lsquo;out and proud&rsquo; leaders provide a path for others to follow, with over 70 per cent of queer professionals claiming that these role models help&nbsp;them to thrive.&nbsp;

Broader conversations about equality and representation have been a catalyst for more inclusive practices in the workplace. However, the property industry is indeed lagging behind.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Unless LGBTQI+ people see people like them having successful careers in property and construction they&rsquo;ll look elsewhere,&rdquo; said Lendlease special projects executive Aaron Spicer.

Urban sits down with four change-makers transforming the face of the property industry to discuss the importance of queer visibility, the targets currently in place and what&rsquo;s next for the property industry. 
&nbsp;

<h2>Who are they?</h2>

<hr />
&nbsp;

<figure class="align-right "><img alt="" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/untitled_design.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" srcset="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/untitled_design.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=970&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/untitled_design.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=970&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/untitled_design.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=970&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/untitled_design.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=1218&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/untitled_design.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=1218&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/untitled_design.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=1218&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" />
<figcaption>Michael Vavakis</figcaption>
</figure>

Michael Vavakis, Chief Operating Officer &ndash; Europe, Lendlease: Michael has worked in Human Resources roles for over 25 years at Hewlett-Packard and Lendlease. Formerly the Lendlease Australia CPO, Michael played pivotal roles in implementing initiatives to build a true culture of inclusiveness, where diverse employees are not only represented but truly engaged and integrated into their workplace. These include the Property Male Champions of Change collaboration.

&nbsp;

<hr />
&nbsp;

<figure class="align-left "><img alt="" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/3_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" srcset="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/3_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=970&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/3_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=970&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/3_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=970&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/3_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=1218&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/3_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=1218&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/3_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=1218&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" />
<figcaption>Meg Patten</figcaption>
</figure>

Meg Patten, Marketing Manager, Riverlee | Co-Founder, Queers in Property: Current Chairperson and Co-Founder of Queers in Property, an independent network connecting LGBTIQ+ people in the property industry, Meg has sought to foster safe spaces and empower the community. They also sit on the Property Council of Australia&rsquo;s diversity and inclusion committee.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<hr />
&nbsp;

<figure class="align-right "><img alt="" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" srcset="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=970&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=970&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=970&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=1218&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=1218&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=1218&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" />
<figcaption>Aaron Spicer</figcaption>
</figure>

Aaron Spicer, Special Projects Executive, Lendlease: Aaron has been very involved in progressing LGBTQ+ inclusion at Lendlease and more broadly in the property sector over the last few years. Aaron is the present Chair of the Lendlease Pride Network, where he has driven numerous strategies that helped the company to be recognised in the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Awards. Lendlease was named a Platinum Employer at the 2020 Australian LGBTQ Inclusion Awards.

&nbsp;

<hr />
&nbsp;

<figure class="align-left "><img alt="" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" srcset="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=970&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=970&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=970&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=1218&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=1218&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1_copy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=1218&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" />
<figcaption>Marcus Skeggs</figcaption>
</figure>

Marcus Skeggs, Account Manager, DisplaySweet | Board Member, Queers in Property: Marcus is a committee member on the Diversity and Inclusion Committee for the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) NSW, and is the Chair of their subcommittee for diversity, inclusion, and leadership. Marcus also sits on the Queers in Property board, alongside Meg.

&nbsp;

<hr />
&nbsp;

<h2>Why visibility makes all the difference</h2>

Young queer people want to know they can be themselves at work and that being LGBTQI+ will not hold back their careers.

According to a <a href="https://offers.indeed.com/AU_en_081820_DIReport_CON-EBOOK_CM" target="_blank">2020 report by Indeed</a>, 61 per cent of LGBTQI+ Australian workers say they either some or all of the time feel the need to hide their sexual orientation at work.

For over half of all LGBTQI+ employees to hide this part of their identity points to an underlying fear of stigmatisation &ndash; that perhaps there is a price to pay for being openly queer. Many workers hold a&nbsp;<a href="https://everfi.com/blog/workplace-training/lgbt-workplace-issues-hide-their-identity/" target="_blank">persistent feeling of being unwelcome</a>, while others remain &#39;closeted&#39; due to&nbsp;<a href="https://theconversation.com/coming-out-at-work-is-not-a-one-off-event-101118" target="_blank">legitimate career risks</a>, including fewer job opportunities and fears of discrimination.

This is why visibility plays such an important role in breaking down these fears and stigmas, allowing employees to feel more comfortable to bring their whole self to their workplace.&nbsp;

<img alt="" height="3648" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/shutterstock_1177679803.jpg" width="5472" />

As for Riverlee&rsquo;s marketing manager Meg Patten, seeing others gave them the courage to be an &ldquo;out and proud, non-binary lesbian in the workplace.&rdquo;

&ldquo;Visibility has the power to inspire and cultivate change within the property industry which is known to be male-dominated and heteronormative&rdquo;, they said.&nbsp;

<blockquote>
&ldquo;There is nothing more empowering than seeing another LGBTQI+ person letting their individuality shine.&rdquo;
</blockquote>

DisplaySweet&rsquo;s Marcus Skeggs echoed this sentiment, &ldquo;Visibility equals empowerment,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;

Feeling hopeful that the industry has moved beyond &ldquo;having a conversation&rdquo;, Skeggs has started to see real change and action, including support for Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras from development groups by gong rainbow for the festival,&nbsp;and diversity and inclusion training for workplaces.&nbsp;

&ldquo;I would like to see this happen more often and workplaces start to celebrate significant days for the LGBTQIA+ community, like Wear it Purple Day for example where we celebrate our rainbow youth.&rdquo;&nbsp;

&ldquo;It&rsquo;s important we keep the momentum going&rdquo;, he concluded.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728]

With industry initiatives like Pride in Diversity, <a href="http://www.interbuild.online" target="_blank">InterBuild</a> and <a href="https://queersinproperty.com.au/" target="_blank">Queers in Property</a>, it is likely we will continue seeing this push for action.

Executives who embrace these initiatives can become more successful leaders and boost the empathy, efficiency, and productivity of their organisations. 
&nbsp;

<h2>The blue-collar identity gap</h2>

While &ldquo;good progress&rdquo; is being made in corporate office roles, more work needs to be done on site-based roles, Spicer said.

Within the construction industry, homophobia was more present than on average, reported <a href="https://www.pwc.com.au/publications/pdf/pwc-workplace-inclusion-report-sep17.pdf" target="_blank">PwC&rsquo;s GLEE team</a>.

<blockquote>
75 per cent of respondents indicated&nbsp;they had observed homophobia, compared to 56 per cent in other sectors.&nbsp;
</blockquote>

&ldquo;The initial focus has been on corporate [and] white-collar environments and much more needs to be done here, but we also need to consider regional, site and blue-collar workforces.&rdquo;&nbsp;

&ldquo;Given the subcontract nature of those environments we can only create truly inclusive workplaces if the industry works together to achieve a base level of expectations and behaviours&rdquo;, he added.

However, Patten, despite co-founding Queers in Property, still feels like they are always learning about how to tackle this issue. It&rsquo;s all a learning curve.&nbsp;

&ldquo;People don&rsquo;t generally understand what they can&rsquo;t see which reinforces how important visibility is&rdquo;, they noted.&nbsp;

Executives and diversity and inclusion teams can follow Patten&rsquo;s lead in adapting initiatives to be &ldquo;as inclusive as possible.&rdquo;

The young change-maker immerses themselves in the community and listens to stories to help drive the change the industry needs.

Chief operating officer at Lendlease, Michael Vavakis adds: &ldquo;Conversation, role models, product design, calling out positive and negative behaviours [&hellip;] is really what creates an inclusive environment and each of these things needs to be relentlessly pursued.&rdquo;

Lendlease is similarly working to increase its focus on inclusion, partnering with UNSW to research the barriers to LGBTQI+ inclusion on construction sites.&nbsp;

&ldquo;We look forward to sharing the results of that research and recommendations for the industry to address later in the year&rdquo;, Spicer said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h2>Building inclusivity into communities&nbsp;</h2>

According to Vavakis, it is not only employees that developers and industry associations should be helping, but homeowners too.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Outside of all the activities we are doing to create inclusive workplaces, I believe that this point about designing and creating and building with inclusivity in mind is a unique proposition that has only begun to be explored in the property industry.&rdquo;

<blockquote>
&ldquo;[This] is something unique that the property industry can contribute. That is how do we design, create and build places that reflect the importance of inclusiveness and the sometimes uniqueness of the LGBTQI+ community&rdquo;, he said.&nbsp;
</blockquote>

Patten echoed: &ldquo;We have so much influence on the built environment, we need to understand how we can create LGBTQI+ friendly spaces for people as well.&rdquo;

Although it&rsquo;s unlikely we&rsquo;ll be seeing queer design hitting residential projects in the mainstream anytime soon, dialogue about inclusiveness and community-making should continue across the property industry.&nbsp;

&quot;Diversity is more than a box ticking exercise, it&#39;s about creating meaningful change to ensure the homes that we&#39;re building meet the needs of the communities we serve&quot;, said Apartments.com.au CEO Mike Bird.

For Spicer, this might include discussions on&nbsp;the &ldquo;bigger picture,&rdquo; such as &ldquo;are the placemaking needs of our community different and how are they likely to evolve.&rdquo;

&ldquo;Inclusiveness does need more of a conversation across the property industry and [I] think it is starting to happen.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29358]

Urban sits down with four change-makers transforming the face of the property industry to discuss the importance of queer visibility

LGBTQI+ Leader Series: Four change-makers transforming the face of property

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The Melbourne developer Riverlee have commenced construction at their $2 billion New Epping community in Melbourne's north.

Stage one, which was fast-tracked under the Victorian Government’s Building Victoria Recovery Taskforce, will include a mix of 151 social and affordable homes to be operated by the homelessness services provider Haven; Home, Safe, as well as the $133 million Northern Private Hospital, to be operated by Ramsay Health Care.

They will make up part of the 51 hectare New Epping, a redevelopment of the former Epping Quarry, which Riverlee bought in 2015, around 15 years after the quarry ceased its operations.

There is slated to be over 2,500 townhouses and apartments as part of the development, as well as a new health and commercial office precinct.

The stage one residences are estimated to be completed by May 2022.

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It will take between 10 to 15 years to complete the whole urban renewal project which will drive $4.7 billion in economic benefit to Victoria.

Minister for Housing and Minister for Planning Richard Wynne was in attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony around 20 kilometres north of Melbourne.

Riverlee development director David Lee says the groundbreaking milestone is significant for the community in Melbourne’s north, positioning Epping as the centre of activity in the region, following collaboration with the City of Whittlesea, state government and project partners to achieve the works. 

“Together with our project partners, local council and the state government, we are excited to be commencing Stage 1 at New Epping –a project that will play a huge role in meeting the healthcare and housing demands of this growing area," Lee says.

"The diverse mix of housing, health and commercial uses will create a vibrant culture and community with a focus on wellness and sustainability. 

“Our vision for New Epping will take urban regeneration to a new level and bring an inner-city offering to the suburbs. The site no doubt has its challenges and we thank the state government for recognising the needs of this region by fast-tracking the work under the Building Victoria Recovery Taskforce,” he says. 

"Riverlee carefully selected its project partners to ensure that New Epping would be a leader in healthcare and support services for residents, with Ramsay Health Care the largest private hospital operator in Australia and Haven; Home Safe known for its integrated approach to housing and services.

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Haven; Home Safe chair, Damien Tangey says that the Stage 1 residences area truly collaborative partnership project which will increase the supply of safe, secure, social and affordable housing in Melbourne's north.

“The Stage 1 residences area sound investment in the community and demonstrates how the private and community housing sector can work with government to deliver quality forms of housing in terms of architectural design, environmental outcomes, and internal space planning,” he says

In addition to the Stage 1 residences and the new Northern Private Hospital, the works include key supporting infrastructure including the development of the 11ha central green spine that will connect all components within New Epping.

Riverlee are developing the luxury mixed-use hotel and apartment project Seafarers in Melbourne's Docklands.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728] 
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It will take between 10 to 15 years to complete the whole urban renewal project which will drive $4.7 billion in economic benefit to Victoria.

Construction begins at Riverlee's $2 billion New Epping community 

Seafarers offers a boutique collection of 123 sublimely crafted one, two and three-bedroom residences.

Delivered by Riverlee, the development heralds a new era in luxury inner-city living in Melbourne&rsquo;s Yarra River.

Urban takes a look at seven things you need to know about buying a home at the Seafarers development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728]

1. Rich, unique history

Paying homage to the site&rsquo;s unique industrial past, Seafarer&rsquo;s celebrates the enthralling history of the Yarra River and the Port of Melbourne.

Centred on the inspired reimagining of the heritage-protected Goods Shed 5, the project promises to preserve the only intact remnants from the days before containerisation.

This involves extensive public works including the refurbishment of the wharf and restoration of the Malcolm Moore electric crane, under the stewardship of Riverlee. 
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2. Integrated residence and hotel

Partnering with Australia&rsquo;s first 1 Hotel, Seafarers offers an integration of residences and hotel that provides residents with exclusive access to the hotel&rsquo;s luxury amenities, management and services.

Resident privileges include eco-conscious housekeeping and linen services, personal shopping services, babysitting, private catering and a 24-hour concierge. 
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3. Architectural design

<a href="/new-apartments/seafarers-docklands-731-flinders-street-docklands"><img alt="" height="1200" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/seafarers-731-flinders-street-docklands-3846244afd3c9eecdbaf384e9856ede4.jpg" width="1600" /></a>

Designed by Fender Katsalidis, the striking building&rsquo;s geometric fa&ccedil;ade is inspired by the movement and reflections present in the Yarra River, as well as the project&rsquo;s industrial history.

&ldquo;The site&rsquo;s heritage components are what make it so special,&rdquo; said Fender Katsalidis&rsquo; Karl Fender. &ldquo;We wanted to represent them respectfully but in a new light.&rdquo;

The project&rsquo;s tripartite layering and rectilinear forms create a striking urban presence. 
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4. Expansive residences

<a href="/new-apartments/seafarers-docklands-731-flinders-street-docklands"><img alt="" height="2100" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/seafarers-731-flinders-street-docklands-bd91db8f1683a90f935eab10cb48fd13.jpg" width="5000" /></a>

Boasting uniquely large floorplans, Seafarers&rsquo; residences are situated on levels nine to 18 of the building.

The interiors, designed by award-winning CARR, maximise natural light, external views and space, with natural stones, reflective surfaces and concealed doors.

Other features include integrated joinery, open-plan layouts and quality finishes. 
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5. World-class amenities

<a href="/new-apartments/seafarers-docklands-731-flinders-street-docklands"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/seafarers-731-flinders-street-docklands-6c3d56e26cf81934aaa9b0a21a959050.jpg" width="1920" /></a>

Seafarers provides countless amenities to its residents within an indoor heated pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, full-service fitness centre and spa.

To complement the convenience of hotel luxuries, a further suite of amenities is reserved for the private enjoyment of residents, including dining rooms, lounge, library and the lush surrounds of Seafarers&rsquo; elevated outdoor garden, Riverview Terrace.

Providing the ultimate walking neighbourhood, the precinct will also benefit from 3,500sqm of new riverfront parkland at Seafarers Rest. 
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6. Snaidero kitchen

<a href="/new-apartments/seafarers-docklands-731-flinders-street-docklands"><img alt="" height="3000" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/seafarers-731-flinders-street-docklands-906dabad6771ae17e75be7a39b3a18d2.jpg" width="5000" /></a>

Heralding a new era of luxury living, each kitchen within the complex will feature porcelain fronted joinery designed and crafted by the luxury Italian kitchen designer, Snaidero.

Purpose-built as the &lsquo;heart of the home&rsquo;, each kitchen will utilise low emission panels, water-based lacquers and energy-efficient technologies, with the option to integrate a PITT Cooking burner system into the countertop. 
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7. Riverfront setting

Situated on 220-metres of uninterrupted riverfront, residents benefit from sweeping views from the Yarra to Port Phillip Bay at Docklands&rsquo; Seafarers.

Set amongst Melbourne&rsquo;s most diverse neighbourhood, Seafarers boasts close access to the waterside caf&eacute;s, restaurants and bars at South Wharf Promenade, as well as the laneways, arcades and grand boulevards of the nearby Melbourne CBD.

Prices at Seafarers begin from $825,000 for a one-bedroom apartment and from $2.46 million for a three-bedroom apartment.

The development is expected to reach completion in late 2023.

Delivered by Riverlee, the development heralds a new era in luxury inner-city living at Melbourne’s Yarra River

Riverlee

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