Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<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/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

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

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

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

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

Riverlee

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Spurred on by the freshly complete $600 million Melbourne Wholesale Fruit and Vegetable Market development, Epping which is 22 kilometres due north of Melbourne's CBD is in the infancy of a push toward higher density living. Designated as an Activity Centre during March, Epping is now expected to host an increased number of larger mixed-use projects.

With a number of principally residential projects gaining approval of late, the momentum toward a higher density Epping has increased with the news that Melbourne-based property development and investment group Riverlee has purchased 215 Cooper Street, Epping in an off‐market deal valued at $14 million.

Riverlee will be joined by diversified Malaysian outfit Batu Kawan Berhad (BKB) in developing the 46‐hectare former quarry and landfill site; Epping being the Ipoh-based group’s first real estate venture in Australia.

<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/215_cooper_st_epping_aerial_context_lr-2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial perspective of Epping. Image courtesy Riverlee"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="220" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/215_cooper_st_epping_aerial_context_lr-2.jpg?itok=gtP-UDCI" title="Aerial perspective of Epping. Image courtesy Riverlee" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial perspective of Epping. Image courtesy Riverlee</figcaption></figure>After laying idle for 17 years, 215 Cooper Street will become a master‐planned mixed‐use precinct that compliments other major uses within the Activity Centre, including the Northern Hospital, Epping Plaza and adjoining commercial precincts. Differing housing typologies have been slated for the site, with an element of high-density apartment living expected.

<blockquote>
We are working closely with the City of Whittlesea and other key stakeholders in the area, and have been overwhelmed by the support and encouragement to see something delivered on the site.

We consider this an exciting opportunity to bring life to a site that has been inactive for nearly two decades, and deliver something great for the local community.
<cite>Kevin Lee, Riverlee Deputy Managing Director</cite>
</blockquote>

News of Riverlee and BKB's Epping joint purchase follows hot on the heels of the announcement that Pacific Group will pursue an expansion of their Pacific Epping Shopping Centre. Buchan Group will design the expansion, which will include a new 112-room hotel built with an overall gross floor area of approximately 9,950sqm.

Located on the corner of High Street and Cooper Street, Pacific Group is on the search for a national or international operator, with CBRE Hotels tasked with the job of securing an operator.

<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/image12_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="719 High Street, Epping. Image courtesy Pelligra Holdings"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="297" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image12_2.jpg?itok=xLpdd05n" title="719 High Street, Epping. Image courtesy Pelligra Holdings" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>719 High Street, Epping. Image courtesy Pelligra Holdings</figcaption></figure>Epping as a newly designated Activity Centre also has a number of higher-density apartments developments which have been approved, with the largest currently shown as <a href="/new-apartments/empire-epping-719-high-street-epping">719 High Street</a> within the Apartments.com.au Project Database. Pelligra Holdings is the developer of the mixed-use project which would see a 12 level building delivered, including 94 apartments within the Elevli Plus design.

Other approved residential projects in the area include <a href="/new-apartments/alto-epping-790-high-street-epping">790 High Street</a> and the 92-apartment 67 Rufus Street.
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silvermb

Epping shapes as a high density haven

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Recently Apartments.com.au was invited to inspect the display suite for <a href="http://www.palmerstreetjaques.com.au">Palmer St</a>, the third and final stage of Riverside Group's Jaques development in Richmond. Located just three kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, the site was was once occupied by the renowned Jaques factory.

Founded in 1885 by Edward Jaques who along with his family fled Revolutionary France, his company produced rock crushers for quarries, a specialty in which Jaques would become world leaders with their Palmer Street Plant in Richmond. Jaques machines are still an integral part of the mining and quarry industries with Melbourne’s City Loop employing Jaques burrowing machines to dig its tunnels.

The Richmond plant was eventually sold in 1997 when the company relocated to Clayton South, and it's the site's rich industrial heritage that served as the context for the design of Jaques development.

Designed by Fender Katsalidis as per earlier stages, Palmer St features 56 boutique apartments across a 6-storey wedge-shaped building. A signature café/restaurant of approximately 200sqm will be located on the ground floor at the pointed edge of its wedge-shaped base, while a gym on level one for exclusive use by Palmer St residents will add further to the overall activity created by the development.

The building's exterior is contemporary in design, providing a contrasting counterpoint to the red brick built form of the former factory. It aims to achieve a "lightness of presence" primarily through its articulated glazed façade and tapered footprint.

Although contemporary in nature, Palmer St has been designed to partner with the more industrial referenced Stages 1 and 2, through the application of robust copper panels, white polished pre-cast frame, metal features and copper framing. These have been used in a restrained way to enrich the building and compliment the red brick of the remnants of the factory facades.

<blockquote>
We wanted to create beautiful architecture without alienating the neighbourhood. We’ve worked hard to make Palmer St something the community will love. We wanted to create architecture that while referencing the heritage of the site, is also primarily very contemporary.
<cite>Karl Fender, FKA</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/jacques_stage_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Stage 2 currently under construction. © Riverside Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="324" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jacques_stage_2.jpg?itok=Be1xJo5s" title="Stage 2 currently under construction. © Riverside Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Stage 2 currently under construction. © Riverside Group</figcaption></figure>The currently under construction Stage 2 features a mix of 229 apartments spread across two buildings; the 10-storey 5 Tonne Apartments, and the 6-storey Iron Works Building. This followed hot off the heels of the success of Stage 1's 126 apartments and townhouses, completed in 2013.

The success of the project is largely attributed to the building’s floor plans which have been designed to appeal to locals that expect and appreciate quality, with 80% of the 300 sales in the Jaques development to date being local buyers the majority of which hail from within a 5-7km radius. Further to this 75% of all purchases have been made by owner-occupiers.

<blockquote>
Richmond is emerging as a top market for empty nesters and downsizers who require luxurious, quality larger format apartments when they sell the family home and want to move closer to the city.

We have limited the number of apartments per floor in order to create larger residences that will meet the needs of owner occupiers. The premium level of finish aims to appeal to buyers who don’t want to compromise – whether they are upgrading their life and home, or downsizing from the family home.
<cite>Kristine Lee, Riverside Group sales and marketing director</cite>
</blockquote>

Apartment layouts feature bedrooms separated by living areas for improved privacy and to provide a lifestyle more akin to a home than an apartment. A linen press, coat cupboard, imported Italian double wardrobes and walk-in-robes provide extensive storage, which the design team has noted as being a valuable selling point.

Flexibility of use has also been provided for in some apartments, where a room accessed by a sliding door can be sectioned off for a bedroom or opened to further enlarge generous living areas. A number of studies have been designed as big enough to fit a single bed in, aimed at empty nesters as an extra option when the grandchildren come to stay.

<blockquote>
The inspiration came from thinking about how people really live in apartments. We wanted it to feel chic but casual, stylish yet understated. The application of colour blocking has been used in the kitchens and bathrooms and gives the interiors some edge. It is the fundamental blend of beauty and functionality, which makes for easy living.
<cite>Samantha Eades, interior designer</cite>
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/internal_living.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Apartment interior. © Riverside Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="292" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/internal_living.jpg?itok=gDy2WaFP" title="Apartment interior. © Riverside Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Apartment interior. © Riverside Group</figcaption></figure>Palmer St is expected to begin construction in July of this year with completion scheduled to coincide with Stage 2 in August 2016.

An assortment of photos of the completed first stage and the under construction Stage 2 can be viewed below.
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Laurence Dragomir

Palmer St - The final stage of Jaques Richmond

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Apartments.com.au was recently afforded the opportunity to tour 108 Flinders Street; completed during the latter part of 2014 and fully inhabited, the tour provided an opportunity to see how the new architectural landmark interacts with its surrounds. <a href="http://www.riverlee.com.au/">Riverlee</a> sales and marketing director Kristine Lee was on hand to explain the rationale behind many of the small nuances that combine to deliver the impressive building.

Separate facades address both Flinders Street and ACDC Lane, aiming to reflect the highly different context of each frontage. The Flinders Street edifice is a response to the surrounding urbanity with the facade's stainless steel elements reflecting the tram and rail lines which it faces according to project architect Fender Katsalidis.

Conversely the northern facade employs a broader colour palette and style which is designed to echo its immediate surrounds; the scruffy and grafittied yet highly popular ACDC Lane and Duckboard Place.

<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/image007.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="As captured from Flinders Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="857" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image007.jpg?itok=Cp0xPAcr" title="As captured from Flinders Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>As captured from Flinders Street. Image: Dean Bradley</figcaption></figure><h2>Quality and amenity</h2>

It's 108 Flinders Street's internal common areas which provides the wow factor for the inhabitants of its 190 apartments. Elements of the original building have been retained and are prevalent throughout the main lobby while a bronze sculptural piece created by Pasquale Marinelli in 1968 has been positioned as an eye-catching lobby feature.

Easily the most opulent of any residential project toured by Apartments.com.au is 108 Flinders Street's vehicle entry. A porte cochere entry featuring blue stone, copper, stainless steel and marble frames the area. Connecting the car park level, lobby and communal courtyard is a transparent water feature which draws light into the space and in essence provides design continuity to all communal 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/img_4133.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An almost surreal sight peering upward in the internal courtyard"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4133.jpg?itok=_UmNlkxc" title="An almost surreal sight peering upward in the internal courtyard" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An almost surreal sight peering upward in the internal courtyard</figcaption></figure>Dubbed the Garden of Eden, 108 Flinders Street's internal courtyard is a focal point that provides all internal facing apartments with a spectacular feature. Emerystudio delivered the impressive internal wall mural with Fender Katsalidis and Tract Landscape Architects jointly devising the open air courtyard. The surreal garden mural, waterpond skylight to the level below and an upside-down tree sculpture suspended mid air via a network of cables define the space.

Described as an urban retreat for 108 Flinders Street's residents, the courtyard is amazing and particularly so when the myriad of lights illuminate the space during the evening. Internal courtyard aside, communal facilities also include a private gym and residents lounge which provides space for entertaining large groups. In addition the level 12 rooftop terrace and barbecue area provides residents with panoramic views encompassing the MCG, South Yarra, Federation Square, Southbank and much of the CBD.

<h2>Addressing ACDC Lane</h2>

<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/image008.png" rel="gallery-all" title="ACDC Lane aspect"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="875" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image008.png?itok=8JmmXeGB" title="ACDC Lane aspect" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>ACDC Lane aspect. Image: Dean Bradley</figcaption></figure>How 108 Flinders Street addressed the adjoining ACDC Lane was key do delivering a successful project. The significant music, food and cultural hub at the rear of 108 Flinders Street required a novel way of maintaining privacy and noise mitigation to the immediate apartments, while also delivering an outcome which fits with the unique character of ACDC Lane.

Emerystudio was commissioned to provide artistic flair by way of an art wall, which in turn provides privacy to lower apartments located at the rear of 108 Flinders Street. Individually operated, the art screen can be maneuvered and thus acts as a constantly activated large scale art piece.

<blockquote>
It is designed to respond to the grainy richness of ACDC Lane and, with the inclusion of a new restaurant, enhance the culture of the precinct. Our practice enjoys, wherever possible, to create an architecture that contributes to the richness of our city through the thoughtful integration of art into the building fabric, often working in close collaboration with Melbourne artists.

108 Flinders is a sculpture in its own right, which embraces the diverse fabric of our city through its precinctual responses.
<cite>Karl Fender, Fender Katsalidis Architects </cite>
</blockquote>

Slotting in at ground level is <a href="http://pastuso.com.au/">Pastuso</a>, a Peruvian inspired restaurant which has seamlessly fitted into its surrounds.

<h2>Apartment internals</h2>

The building-high courtyard/atrium assists in allowing maximum light into apartment interiors while all external windows are double glazed for minimal solar penetration and noise reduction.

Apartments feature fixtures and finishes such as marble accents around doorframes, custom joinery and timber panelling. Kitchens carry Miele appliances, stone bench tops and mirrored splashbacks, while bathrooms are fitted with Apaiser basins, floor-to-ceiling tiles and Grohe tapware; finishes expected in a quality apartment project such as 108 Flinders Street.

Apartments.com.au also visited one of three penthouses which carry top flight finishes such as reconstituted stone bench tops, timber floors, Gaggenau kitchen appliances, integrated Liebher fridge and wine fridge plus Gessi Italian tapware. A feature unique to the penthouses are light wells located between the main bedroom and living spaces which double as a private garden area while motorised louvered windows fronting Flinders Street allow for the sight and sounds of the city to penetrate at the residents whim.

All in all 108 Flinders Street is a highly commendable apartment building and a worthy of its exceptional location.

<h2>108 Flinders Street delivery team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Riverlee.</li>
	<li>Architect: Fender Katsalidis.</li>
	<li>Builder: Merkon Constructions.</li>
	<li>Landscape: Tract Landscape Architects.</li>
	<li>Engineer: Aurecon.</li>
	<li>​Structural: Winward Group.</li>
</ul>
Select images above and below is the work of local photographer Dean Bradley, with a smattering of our own images included.
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