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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salta Properties

While the rolling lockdowns were keeping Melburnian&#39;s at home, it was a requirement that all amenity inside apartment developments be treated in the same way as the rest of the hard-hit commercial industry.

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But that&#39;s now a thing of the past, and apartment dwellers are once again taking advantage of the shared, communal spaces.

None more so than those at Riverbank, the newly completed development in Abbotsford by Salta Properties.&nbsp;

Set on the banks of the Yarra River, Riverbank is a collection of one and two-bedroom apartments, with interiors&nbsp;by Carr Design Group.

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The sustainable 6+ energy rated building features a number of amenities, including a swimming pool and gym, cinema, an extensive lounge space, kids playroom, bike workshop and even a vaunted golf simulation room. There&#39;s also two EV car charging stations for resident use.

Upon entering Riverbank, residents will be captivated by the earthy transitional and communal spaces that connect with the riverfront setting.

Architects&nbsp;SJB&nbsp;created a generous public realm around Riverbank, incorporating plazas, active retail frontages, and pedestrian/bicycle paths.

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Unrivalled building amenity has been provided to ensure occupants will be able to create a sense of lifestyle and community within Riverbank.

Clean and simple in design, the &lsquo;Splash&rsquo; swimming pool was purposefully&nbsp;designed to overlook&nbsp;the Yarra River below, while keeping residents privacy with an abundance of tree canopies.

One of the most impressive inclusions on the extensive amenity list is The Clubhouse, the residents&#39; lounge featuring plush velvets and wood panelling. A dark veneer formed bookcase wall creates a spine to the lounge area, sitting as not only a feature in the room but also doubling as a library.

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Another feature of Riverbank is the &lsquo;Movie House&rsquo; cinema, where residents will be able to experience VIP treatment with the in-house private screen.

Situated overlooking the Yarra River, the gym and sauna will almost make you feel like you&rsquo;re exercising outside, without leaving the comfort of your own home, fitted out with the best in exercise and fitness equipment.

The children&rsquo;s play and creative area features work benches, colouring areas, and arts and crafts, all in the safety confines of the precinct.

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&lsquo;Spokes&rsquo; bike workshop is available for cycling enthusiasts to fine tune, store and maintain their favourite two-wheeled accessory, while golfers can head to &lsquo;The Swing&rsquo; golf simulation room to fine-tune their skills before hitting the fairway.

Comprising 530 apartments in two buildings adjacent to the Yarra River in Abbotsford, The Park House is the final piece in the wider Yarra Gardens Precinct. Embracing its enviable position and river bank frontage, the building is elevated on piloti&#39;s, which gives residents&nbsp;views through the site of the unique natural landscape along the river.&nbsp;

Just three kilometres from the CBD, the tower forms have been arranged and sculpted to allow views to the river from the majority of the apartments, unlocking the parcel of land formerly occupied by the Melbourne Fire Brigade.

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When we spoke to SJB earlier, they noted the importance of north-facing frontage to the Yarra River.

&ldquo;These differing conditions resulted in building forms that have been shaped to respond to their location on the site and precinct planning that ensures a high quality public realm with enhanced amenity and connection to the Yarra River,&rdquo; they said.

These shared spaces open up to the surrounding landscape, with internal lounges spilling out onto alfresco terraces, leading down to the river, encapsulating a sense of space and connection to nature.

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The sustainable 6+ energy rated building features a number of amenities, including a swimming pool and gym, cinema, an extensive lounge space, kids playroom, bike workshop and even a vaunted golf simulation room.



alisonwarters@gmail.com

The onsite amenity keeping residents entertained at Riverbank, Abbotsford apartments

The importance of interior designers creating the spaces and details within apartments has never been more important to residential developers.

Salta Properties,&nbsp;one of Australia&#39;s largest privately owned companies, called in the very best for their residential development The Park House in Melbourne&#39;s Abbotsford.

Carr, led by the design guru Sue Carr, handled the interiors at The Park House, the Victoria Street development made up of&nbsp;two buildings, Riverbank and Riverbend. They are named after their location, a stones throw from the Yarra River and bordering the popular Main Yarra Trail.

Urban recently spoke with the interior design guru Sue Carr, discussing all of the design elements of Riverbank.

JR: What was the brief from Salta for the interiors of the apartments?

SC: With every new project, we always begin by asking &ndash; what is the demographic of the purchaser? What is the lifestyle shift? Where is the location?

At Carr, we passionately believe that good architecture and design can enrich lives and make a difference to those that use and engage with it.

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Every project is unique, so we take into consideration the client, brief, place, cost plan and timing. All these factors combine to produce a response that has at its core, a powerful concept and a logical outcome. We call this the &lsquo;Big Idea&rsquo;, which remains with the project from end-to-end and guides the outcome.

With The Park House development, we looked at the location and the natural environment for inspiration. This was the &lsquo;Big Idea&rsquo;.

Surrounded by some of Melbourne&rsquo;s most animated and exciting precincts, the development sits on the banks of the Yarra Bend parklands, in a green belt framed by massive plane and gum trees.

One of the great aspects of this site is its proximity to the river and the bike paths that run along it. There is a spine that allows you to ride, run, row, or walk without seeing a major road. We love this idea of coming home after a long day at work and feeling like you have stepped away from the city and into the country. You can access stillness and natural beauty without having to abandon the excitement of a cosmopolitan urban lifestyle.

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In response, we wanted each home to be a private sanctuary. We wanted to create a warm and welcoming environment with textures and earthy tones.

For the design, we opted for a unified palette, where we used few materials as possible. This direction links all the individual spaces, creating a coherent overall offering achieved via subtle repetition of form, materiality, and texture.

The brief was not just to design beautiful apartments, but also address the vast amenities. The aim was to allow neighbouring residents to interact with one another, getting the most from the building in terms of comfort, entertainment and occupant wellbeing.

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JR: How early in the design phase do you and the architects collaborate? And why is earlier the better?

SC: The building fa&ccedil;ade reflects the ripples of the Yarra River. Although we did not literally carry this theme into the interiors like the architects, we responded to the site&rsquo;s natural surroundings with our own interpretation. Our materials, colours and textures respond to the immediate site context and its makeup.

JR: What really stands out for you about the design? What is your favourite feature?

SC: There is an understanding in our practice of the significance of detail in design. There are considered subtleties in The Park House that will unfold and come to be appreciated over time.

We really wanted the interiors &ndash; both public and private &ndash; to encourage people to slow down, to consider the spaces, and enjoy the transition from the street, bike path or car park, into their home. We wanted them to enjoy the process of switching off at the end of the day and engaging with their surroundings.

To achieve this, we created integrated lighting throughout each of the apartments and through the public walkways. It is subtle and soft.

In each apartment, we also designed a custom light that floats above the kitchen island bench. This provides a sculptural element to the interior while also projecting a soft, interesting light. The routed timber veneer in the joinery, adds another level of texture.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29856 project_image_fid=89769]

Exaggerated proportions in the kitchen splashback highlight the scale of porcelain and create a grand sense of scale. Metal detailing to joinery in the kitchen and bathroom adds a refined aesthetic. Recessed LED lighting showcases the feature porcelain in the bathroom and kitchen

Our intention was to create a space that had a true sense of home but also a memorable atmosphere. We want the residents to feel the connection with the landscape beyond, with the building and their apartment becoming a welcoming sanctuary for them to take in all this development has to offer.

JR: What part did you play in the design of the amenity? And what design principles were important in the shared spaces?

SC: The Park House has vast amenity. It offers spaces both inside and out for all purposes &ndash; relaxation, work, entertainment, solitude &ndash; and for all demographics. There is a children&rsquo;s area, a private lounge, a bar, a home theatre, a golf simulator, a pool, a spa &ndash; the list goes on and on.

While working with Salta, we were strongly informed by ideas about public and private space, and how these new emerging types of urban spaces are full of design possibilities.

For us, it was important that all these spaces seamlessly flow into one another. Many of the transitional spaces are dark and atmospheric, which ensures that as residents move into the light and open spaces, the sense of awe is enhanced by contrast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29856 project_image_fid=89782]

Animating the larger functional spaces is natural light, invited into the building as the sun moves across from the east to the west. These ever-changing light effects and connection to landscape combine to form remarkable spaces that lie somewhere between art, sculpture, and architecture. Larger format glazing frames the view beyond, maximising outlook.&nbsp;

Part of the beauty of this development is the way it negotiates opposites. There is an intentional contrast between light and dark material palette. Certain areas open to the surrounding landscape, with internal lounges spilling out onto alfresco terracing, leading down to the river. This encapsulates a luxurious sense of home, inviting the residents to settle into these more private but public amenity spaces. The amenities are the key to a truly unique lifestyle on the banks of the Yarra River.

On the flipside, darker spaces, such as the library and meeting rooms, employ a darker, masculine palette. These interiors are richly layered and create a warmth.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=4136]

"Our intention was to create a space that had a true sense of home but also a memorable atmosphere," Carr said.

Inside the Carr Design interiors of Riverbank apartments in Abbotsford: Urban chats with Sue Carr

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The Victorian Government has come out in support of the Build-to-Rent (BTR) model in an effort to improve access, choice and quality for tenants while also providing greater rental tenancy lengths. The Build-to-Rent model involves building properties to rent instead of selling them to individual buyers with the aim of can providing high quality and well maintained rental stock to renters.

The BTR announcement follows hot on the heels of the Government’s recent changes to the Residential Tenancies Act which seeks to ensure renting becomes "fairer for Victorians". The model has been established for quite some time overseas but is very much an emerging sector in Australia.

The development industry has identified some barriers to the delivery of BTR. In response the Government will facilitate planning assessment, establish an industry working group, financially support BTR in community housing, clarify taxation arrangements, and lobby the federal government to make it easier to realise BTR in Australia.

Mlbourne-based developer Grocon recently obtained approval for Victoria's first BTR development - a 60-storey apartment building at 260 City Rd, Southbank designed by Bates Smart. This revised scheme replaces a previous approval for a 62-storey residential development first designed by Hayball for Apex Vic, before being sold to Altus Developments who engaged Moull Murray architects to revised conceive a revised scheme known as Monarch Tower. 

<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/grocon_city_rd.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Grocon has received approval for a 60-storey purpose built tower. Image: Grocon"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="728" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/grocon_city_rd.png?itok=tpHeggUe" title="Grocon has received approval for a 60-storey purpose built tower. Image: Grocon" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Grocon has received approval for a 60-storey purpose built tower. Image: Grocon</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Grocon is pleased to announce it has secured planning approval for Australia’s first purpose designed and developed Build to Rent in Southbank Melbourne which will include 400 apartments over 60 levels.  Grocon is proud to have collaborated with Bates Smart, the Department of Environment, Water, Land and Planning (DEWLP) and City of Melbourne for this exciting project.

- Grocon
</blockquote>

With the support of the Victorian Government, Salta might finally progress plans for its development site at 695-699 LaTrobe Street on the Docklands waterfront. Having already secured InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) to operate a five-star Indigo-branded hotel of 170 rooms, the balance of the development will comprise 260 BTR apartments.

To be known as Hotel Indigo Melbourne Docklands the curved tower has been designed by Fender Katsalidis to reflect its harbourside location, with completion forecast for 2020.

According to the Victorian Government, a host of other development applications will be assessed via a fast tracked approval process. 

<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/695-latrobe-indigo.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Salta's Docklands project will include 260 BTR apartments. Images: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="246" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/695-latrobe-indigo.jpg?itok=FO1mL8LE" title="Salta's Docklands project will include 260 BTR apartments. Images: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Salta's Docklands project will include 260 BTR apartments. Images: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Encouraging BTR will increase the supply of new, large-scale housing for longer-term renting. It can grow our stock of affordable and social housing, expanding housing choices for Victorians.” “Victoria is leading the way in supporting Build-to-Rent. We’ll keep listening for new ideas through our new industry working group.

- Tim Pallas, Treasurer
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
New ideas often take a while to navigate the planning system. These actions will ensure that BTR can prosper and increase the stock of rental housing to meet the current record demand.

- Richard Wynne, Minister for Planning
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The Victorian Government’s support for build to rent is best in class and a welcome first step in creating a sector that will deliver high quality rental accommodation and provide greater security of tenure for Victorians. We congratulate the Government on its willingness to work with industry to address these challenges.

- Cressida Wall, Executive Director, Property Council Victorian of Australia
</blockquote>

 
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Laurence Dragomir

Victorian Government paves the way for Build to Rent

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Two firms with a history of development within the Monash National Employment and Innovation Cluster (MNEC) are angling for bigger projects.

Both Salta Properties and Cedar Woods are pushing plans which are larger than their previous respective developments within Monash. Salta is all but assured of the right to build a substantial office complex as an extension of its Nexus Corporate precinct whilst Cedar Woods is pushing for hundreds of new dwellings within its Jackson Green development.

At either end of the MNEC, both intended developments speak to the increasing scale of development expectations in the area. These expectations would only be enhanced by the State Government's proposed Melbourne orbital rail proposal which has two stations in the heart of MNEC.

<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/image70_11.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image: Gray Puksand"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="287" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image70_11.jpg?itok=QGVFLamR" title="Image: Gray Puksand" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image: Gray Puksand</figcaption></figure>Salta last week received backing for its proposed office complex at 633-647 Springvale Road, after nabbing the corner site for a reported $11 million during 2015.

Adjacent to Salta's existing Nexus Corporate precinct and spanning 2.4 hectares, the first phase of the Springvale Road development site found favour with Monash City Council and encompasses 21,226 square metres of net leasable area. That space is configured over two separate buildings with Gray Puksand undertaking the design.

Existing campus-style buildings within Nexus Corporate have traditionally been smaller in stature to date; the freshly completed Nexus 10 building holds in excess of 6,000 square metres of net leasable area. 

The upsizing of expectations for 633-647 Springvale Road also includes a very substantial 785 basement vehicle spaces, end of trip facilities and provision for 197 bicycle bays.

Two additional future buildings are slated for the balance of 633-647 Springvale Road, whilst Salta also has an eye toward delivering a high-rise hotel at <a href="/news/salta-pursues-mulgraves-first-hotel">12 Nexus Court</a> which sits within the initial Nexus Corporate precinct.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/image74_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cedar Woods' latest alongside Gardenia Apartments progress during late August. Image: DKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="205" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image74_2.jpg?itok=xH7zTD8G" title="Cedar Woods' latest alongside Gardenia Apartments progress during late August. Image: DKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Cedar Woods' latest alongside Gardenia Apartments progress during late August. Image: DKO Architecture</figcaption></figure>Cedar Woods too is after more within their Jackson Green estate in Clayton South.

Midway between Westall and Huntingdale stations, the residential development has to date seen townhouse and small scale apartment stages built onsite. The gradual upswing in development size now sees the DKO Architecture-designed Gardenia Apartments under construction; it includes 74 dwellings over six levels.

Cedar Woods are now seeking approval for two additional residential buildings housing a combined 165 apartments. Also designed by DKO Architecture, the taller of the duo reaches 9 levels.

The intended apartment split for the project at planning which is sited over 1408-1418 Centre Road sees 20 single, 131 double and 12 triple bedroom apartments.

<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_6168.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A small section of the M-City site"><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_6168.jpg?itok=Ah9uT4MP" title="A small section of the M-City site" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A small section of the M-City site</figcaption></figure>Whilst the above duo seek bigger development outcomes they are minuscule relative to the largest current development within the MNEC, which also happens to be the largest mixed-use development being delivered outside of Melbourne's CBD. Clayton's M-City is now at full construction with Multiplex overseeing works for the $1 billion project over a 35,000 square metre site.

Backed by Saraceno Group and Schiavello Group, M-City includes 643 apartments and serviced apartments, a 4.5 star Mantra hotel, up to 60 specialty retail spaces, 17,330 square metres of office space and 1,905 car parks supporting a projected population of about 4,000 residents, workers and shoppers.
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silvermb

Salta and Cedar Woods upsize their Monash intentions

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<h2>Heidelberg Heights</h2>

Banyule City Council are advertising a recent planning application that looks to bring additional high density living to Heidelberg Heights. Adjacent to Caydon's high-rise Ivanhoe Apartments, the prospective seven level apartment block is designed by MAP Architecture.

The $11 million proposal is described as an "excellent opportunity to realise State and Local Planning Policy intent for the intensification of land within the Heidleberg Activity Centre." It would add further to the area's growing impetus as an apartment hub, as was <a href="/news/heidelberg-the-quiet-achiever-apartment-market-ticks-over-once-more">highlighted by Urban recently</a>.

455 Upper Heidelberg Road includes 29 apartments split between six 1 bedroom, sixteen 2 bedroom and seven 3 bedroom options for developer Venture Lane Pty Ltd.

<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/image63_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="455 Upper Heidelberg Road. Planning image: MAP Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="342" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image63_6.jpg?itok=aQYMZFIs" title="455 Upper Heidelberg Road. Planning image: MAP Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>455 Upper Heidelberg Road. Planning image: MAP Architecture</figcaption></figure><h2>Doncaster East</h2>

A 2015 proposal to add 42 further dwellings to Doncaster East is approaching a final planning outcome.

Manningham City Council planners have recommended the approval of an apartment and townhouse development across 15-21 Andersons Creek Road; the site is currently home to Ichiban Japanese Restaurant. Reaching six levels at its highest point, the application which is valued at $12 million is split equally between 21 apartments and 21 townhouses.

2BScene Design's scheme garnered 33 objections, although a report tabled before Council concludes that "the proposal complies with the relevant planning policies in the Manningham Planning Scheme and should be supported."

<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/image64_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="15-21 Andersons Creek Road Doncaster East. Planning image: 2BScene Design"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="281" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image64_6.jpg?itok=X6wOh1fO" title="15-21 Andersons Creek Road Doncaster East. Planning image: 2BScene Design" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>15-21 Andersons Creek Road Doncaster East. Planning image: 2BScene Design</figcaption></figure><h2>South Yarra</h2>

Forrest Hill Precinct within South Yarra is set to gain another higher density development with plans lodged for a mixed-use building at 17 Yarra Street.

The $15 million build would account for a relatively small site that abuts the 25 level Yarra House, with a swag of other similar sized residential towers in the immediate area. Office space and apartments figure within the application; limited commercial development has taken place within the precinct thus far, with residential the overwhelmingly favoured outcome.

Wando Development Co has been listed as the entity behind the development.

<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/image66_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="17 Yarra Street. Image: Google"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="354" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image66_8.jpg?itok=4QsDepCP" title="17 Yarra Street. Image: Google" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>17 Yarra Street. Image: Google</figcaption></figure><h2>Richmond</h2>

Salta Properties has made a move on its latest project, lodging plans for a sizeable office development on Church Street. The $90 million development includes three buildings ranging between four and fourteen storeys, in addition to retail, cafe and a child care centre spaces.

459-467 Church Street hit City of Yarra's planning desk earlier this month.

Fairfax last week <a href="http://v">reported</a> that the intended development includes 23,500 square metres of office space which stretches east of Church Street to incorporate a second frontage at 20-26 Brighton Street. The bulk of the site is divided between an open air car park and a group of low-rise buildings.

<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/image68_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="459-467 Church Street. Image: Salta Properties"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image68_10.jpg?itok=0xe39NKU" title="459-467 Church Street. Image: Salta Properties" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>459-467 Church Street. Image: Salta Properties</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne planning and development news in brief

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Monash City Council has provided Salta's latest pursuit within their Nexus Corporate mixed-use precinct a Notice of Decision to Grant a Planning Permit, with final approval little more than a formality. Last month Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/salta-pursues-mulgraves-first-hotel">outlined</a> the mixed-use proposal at 12 Nexus Court, which now stands to become Mulgrave's tallest building.

Indicative renders suggest that Tribe Hotel Group may have earmarked Salta Properties' intended Mulgrave mixed-use development as their second Melbourne port of call.

<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/image92_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="12 Nexus Court in full. Planning image: Gray Puksand / Technē"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="684" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image92_3.jpg?itok=68C163kW" title="12 Nexus Court in full. Planning image: Gray Puksand / Technē" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>12 Nexus Court in full. Planning image: Gray Puksand / Technē</figcaption></figure>139 residential hotel rooms are expected within the 'pod' aspect of the building designed jointly between Gray Puksand and Technē.

The application documents presented for approval sees the building sporting Tribe signage on the distinctive bronze hotel component, although no agreement between either developer or hotel operator has been publicly announced.

<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/image93_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="12 Nexus Court rendered in place alongside the Monash. Planning image: Gray Puksand / Technē"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="371" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image93_5.jpg?itok=_Z5_pknh" title="12 Nexus Court rendered in place alongside the Monash. Planning image: Gray Puksand / Technē" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>12 Nexus Court rendered in place alongside the Monash. Planning image: Gray Puksand / Technē</figcaption></figure>What isn't in doubt is Tribe Hotel Group nominating Collingwood as their first Melbourne location.

Earlier this year the relatively new yet bullish hotel operator entered into a joint partnership with Salta Properties and Victor Smorgon Group, with an eye toward <a href="https://www.traveldailynews.asia/tribe-hotel-group-acquires-property-site-from-peregrine-pro">developing 60 Langridge Street</a>. Fellow developer Peregrine Projects divested itself of the 1,056 square metre Collingwood site late last year, which formed part of a larger land holding.

Colliers agent Guy Wells said the following of the Tribe Collingwood project:

<blockquote>
Given the surrounding lifestyle amenity of Smith and Gertrude Streets and the ongoing office development in the area, with over 30,000m2 of office to be developed in the short to medium term, Collingwood has been sought after by numerous hotel developers and operators.

A Tribe hotel will work seamlessly with the growing corporate and existing leisure market in the Collingwood area.
</blockquote>

The Collingwood, and potentially Mulgrave Tribe Hotel locations follow on from the operator's first Australian property in Perth which opened during June last year, and includes 126 hotel rooms across 7 levels. Tribe Hotel Group's expansion plans have reportedly seen the operator acquire sites in Hobart and Adelaide as well.

<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/a20170817121120.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="60 Langridge Street has been hived off a larger development site. Image: CRE"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/a20170817121120.jpg?itok=k-V_d00X" title="60 Langridge Street has been hived off a larger development site. Image: CRE" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>60 Langridge Street has been hived off a larger development site. Image: CRE</figcaption></figure>
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Nexus Court's hotel receives the nod

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During July, Apartments.com.au reported on City of Melbourne's <a href="/news/com-moves-to-provide-clearance-for-63-exhibitions-lofty-ambitions">positive response</a> to Salta Properties' bid to have a skyscraper approved at 63 Exhibition Street.

Last week a permit for the mixed-use, Bates Smart-designed tower was granted by the Minister for Planning, concluding a lengthy three-year stint at planning for the application. During City of Melbourne's assessment of the project, the project was to rise 203m and hold an expected development cost of $255 million.

City of Melbourne planners, in turn, requested it be reduced to 183 metres in order to prevent overshadowing of Birrarung Marr; it is unknown if the approved version has been reduced to adhere to City of Melbourne's wishes.

<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/imagebsmart.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bates Smart's take on 63 Exhibition Street's ground plane"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="456" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imagebsmart.jpg?itok=O6HYFri6" title="Bates Smart's take on 63 Exhibition Street's ground plane" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bates Smart's take on 63 Exhibition Street's ground plane</figcaption></figure>Regardless of the tower's final height, it can now replace the incumbent ASF House with both apartments and a hotel component.

63 Exhibition Street's approval marks off another of the diminishing number of projects which were assessed under the previous government, prior to the Minister for Planning's sweeping inner-city planning reforms. Earlier this month fellow CBD high-rise 478-488 Elizabeth Street also <a href="/news/elizabeth-street-wins-approval-clarendon-street-goes-back-to-the-drawing-board">won approval</a>, although at the hand of VCAT.

The positive planning result for the above two skyscrapers leaves only a handful of applications to be assessed under the previous planning regime; two such projects are 100 Franklin Street and 441-451 Elizabeth Street.

<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/image5jag.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="ASF House's days appear to be numbered. Image: Jagonal"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5jag.jpg?itok=Rrj2so4P" title="ASF House's days appear to be numbered. Image: Jagonal" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>ASF House's days appear to be numbered. Image: Jagonal</figcaption></figure>63 Exhibition Street joins the developer's approved tower at 699 La Trobe Street. The latter will be among Melbourne's first build-to-rent developments and is expected to include 260 apartments and a five-star hotel.
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Salta takes Exhibition Street to the bank

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After more than a decade of development activity within the Victoria Gardens precinct, Salta Properties is poised to launch their latest residential project within the precinct that will account for the bulk of the former MFB training college site.

Park House will add a further 539 apartments into the priority development zone which Salta has all but made its own. Fronting Victoria Street, Walmer Street and the Yarra River, Park House is also one of the final development sites in play along the Yarra River in the precinct.

The Victorian Government is in the process of introducing tighter planning controls for the Yarra River, with the aim of better managing development along its banks.

Completed during 2003, Victoria Gardens Shopping Centre has acted as a catalyst for the precinct, with Salta Properties subsequent development activity focused on mid-rise residential and commercial projects. Situated on a portion of the former MFB training college site which spans 17,000sqm, Park House also continues the long-standing association between developer and design practice SJB Architects in the area. 

<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/image5ph.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victoria Street perspective of the new development. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="431" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5ph.jpg?itok=i-93FEtm" title="Victoria Street perspective of the new development. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victoria Street perspective of the new development.</figcaption></figure>Similar to the adjoining Green Square development, Park House's footprint has been arranged around a large internal garden with adjoining communal facilities in tow.

Park House will see a mass of amenities folded into the project, including a home theatre, golf simulator, bike workshop, children's playroom and library. These are in addition to traditional features such as a gym, pool and lounge.

Likely owing to its proximity to the Yarra, Park House also sees a higher degree of landscaping and active frontages than adjacent projects. Walmer Street will be remodelled into a piazza of sorts while Park House's frontage to the Yarra River will be broken by terraced greenery.

<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/image7ph.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Amenities on show within Park House"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="555" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7ph.jpg?itok=3mwuPsoT" title="Amenities on show within Park House" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Amenities on show within Park House</figcaption></figure>The arrival of Park House follows on from the recent completion of Salta's A Place To Live with 61 apartments included. The developer's previous projects within the precinct include 400 apartments and 96 serviced apartments within Green Square and a further 355 apartments within RAPTL.

Salta has also built 35,000 square metres of commercial space at Victoria Gardens.

The recent VCAT approval of 649 Victoria Street adds to Salta's forthcoming projects within the precinct, as do a number of development sites east of Victoria Garden

Salta Is also placed to further deliver additional higher density living to a site south of Victoria Gardens. Dubbed Burnley Terrace, concept designs show an outcome as high as 20 levels for the site. Eventually Salta can expect to develop in excess of 2,000 apartments in the precinct.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/untitled-3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Previous Salta projects along Burnley street. Image: Salta Properties"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="306" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/untitled-3.jpg?itok=hRhIq3Bd" title="Previous Salta projects along Burnley street. Image: Salta Properties" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Previous Salta projects along Burnley street. Image: Salta Properties</figcaption></figure>
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