Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

&nbsp;

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Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

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Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

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While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

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The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

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Joel Robinson

Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

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Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

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A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

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“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

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The Walden pairs house-scale living with North Sydney connectivity

The ACT will become the first jurisdiction in Australia to abolish stamp duty for all first home buyers, with no income caps and no property price thresholds from 1 July.

The move, announced as part of the ACT Budget, completes a key election commitment from the Barr Government and removes what Chief Minister Andrew Barr described as one of the biggest barriers to entering the housing market. The reform forms part of the ACT's long-running transition away from transaction taxes and towards a broader-based property tax system.

"This budget marks a major milestone in our long-term tax reform program," Barr said, adding that the government had maintained a sustained focus on removing barriers to home ownership. He said stamp duty had long been one of the largest upfront hurdles facing buyers and that from July, "that barrier is gone" for first home buyers in the Territory.

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The changes come alongside a range of measures designed to encourage new housing supply, including support for the delivery of so-called "missing middle" housing such as terraces, townhouses and low-rise multi-unit developments.

The announcement has renewed debate around whether the ACT's approach could provide a blueprint for improving housing affordability nationally.

New research from OurTop10.com.au, conducted by Primara Research, suggests the Territory's decade-long reform agenda has produced outcomes unmatched elsewhere in Australia.

While stamp duty costs have increased by an average 67 per cent nationally over the past decade, the ACT has recorded growth of just 15 per cent, the lowest increase of any jurisdiction.

The Territory has also emerged as one of the strongest performers on housing delivery. Based on population-weighted housing targets, the ACT is sitting less than one per cent behind its target. Victoria is the next closest at seven per cent behind, while the national average sits 25 per cent below target. New South Wales is tracking 39 per cent behind.

The latest reform removes one of the final barriers facing first home buyers in Canberra.

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The average Australian home buyer currently pays $61,714 in stamp duty. In the ACT, that figure is $38,399 despite the Territory having the third-highest median house price in the country.

Until now, the ACT's first home buyer concession scheme only applied to purchases up to $1.02 million, around $51,000 below Canberra's median house price of $1.071 million. In practical terms, many first home buyers were unable to access the median-priced home without losing the concession.

From July, those restrictions disappear.

Every first home buyer in the ACT will pay no stamp duty, regardless of income or purchase price.

Canberra remains one of Australia's most expensive housing markets, with dwelling values increasing 82 per cent over the past decade. However, that growth ranks only 11th among Australia's 15 major housing markets, suggesting affordability pressures have been less severe than in many other parts of the country.

Simon Ma, CEO of OurTop10.com.au, said the latest reforms recognise that many first home buyers have simply outgrown thresholds set years ago.

"Many first home buyers aren't just looking for a way onto the ladder, they want a home their family can actually live in," Ma said.

"In a market where the median house price is over a million dollars, a concession scheme that cuts out at $1.02 million was never going to get them there.

"Removing the ceiling entirely means ACT first home buyers can now pursue the home they actually want, rather than limiting themselves to a price point designed for a very different market."

Whether other states follow remains to be seen. But at a time when most jurisdictions are struggling to improve affordability while also increasing housing supply, the ACT has quietly become the national test case for both.

15% stamp duty growth. Just 1% off the national housing target. Zero stamp duty for FHBs. Is the ACT the blueprint for the great Australian dream?

ACT abolishes stamp duty for first home buyers

A rooftop pool and spa overlooking the Brisbane CBD, private dining spaces, expansive landscaped gardens and a residents' lounge are set to crown <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/callista-on-park-west-end-49-mollison-street-west-end-qld-4101">Callista on Park</a>, the final residential building within Brisbane's West Village precinct.

The rooftop amenity collection has been designed as an extension of the lifestyle already established throughout West Village, providing residents with a series of indoor and outdoor spaces that capitalise on the building's elevated position above West End.

A swimming pool and heated spa form the centrepiece of the rooftop offering, surrounded by landscaped gardens developed through a collaboration between developer Sekisui House and ASPECT Studios. The design incorporates expansive lawn areas surrounded by English garden-inspired planting.

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Residents will also have access to two barbecue and outdoor dining areas positioned to take advantage of views across Brisbane's skyline, neighbouring Mollison Park, and the surrounding inner-city landscape.

For larger gatherings, the rooftop includes a private dining room centred around a substantial stone island bench, complete with a full kitchen and a 10-seat dining table set beneath four-metre-high ceilings. The space has been designed to overlook both the rooftop gardens and the Brisbane CBD skyline.

A separate residents' lounge provides an additional indoor retreat connected to the broader rooftop amenity offering, creating another space for residents to work, relax or entertain guests.

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The attention to detail extends beyond the rooftop.

Upon arrival, residents will enter through a lobby featuring a bespoke ceiling light installation developed in collaboration between Sekisui House and Alcorn Middleton Architecture. The arrival experience is complemented by private resident mailboxes and carefully considered interior finishes designed to reflect the premium positioning of the building.

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The amenity offering forms part of Callista on Park, the final residential release within the decade-long transformation of the former Peters Ice Cream Factory site into West Village, one of Brisbane's most established mixed-use communities.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a>, Callista represents the most premium residential offering within the masterplanned precinct.

Construction is now entering its final stages, with scaffolding beginning to come down and completion expected in the first quarter of 2027.

Prices for the three-bedroom plus MPR apartments start from just over $2.6 million.

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Callista will mark the final opportunity to purchase within West Village, where residents have direct access to more than 35 retail, dining, wellness and medical operators including Harris Farm Markets, Woolworths, Function Well and Goodlife Health Clubs, Metro Arts, and a growing collection of restaurants and cafés.

Located just 800 metres from the Brisbane CBD, the precinct also places residents within walking distance of South Bank, West End's dining scene, riverfront parklands and major public transport connections.

For Sekisui House, which has delivered more than two million homes globally, Callista serves as the concluding piece of the West Village masterplan, bringing together the precinct's heritage character, parkland setting and emphasis on walkability in a final collection of larger-format residences.

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Rooftop pool, private dining and skyline gardens to crown West Village's final apartment release, Callista on Park

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/wahroonga-nsw-2076">Wahroonga</a>’s enduring appeal has long been tied to its balance of bushland, established amenity, and access to some of Sydney’s most respected education and healthcare institutions.

Along Fox Valley Road, that combination is becoming increasingly sought after by buyers looking to remain connected to the Upper North Shore lifestyle while prioritising walkability, wellbeing, and convenience.

Developer Capital Corporation's initial vision of a 62-hectare site on Fox Valley Road was that they could create their own walkable community, bordered by&nbsp;more than 25 hectares of bushland and adjoining Coups Creek.

<img alt="Wahroonga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b84917a1-0d75-49b9-888c-ddf7ebfd6692" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/NEW2026_Wahroonga_Walkway.gif?VersionId=Gk3_xi5ssYfalmwuQQ5umQakddceC31j" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-residences-at-wahroonga-estate-169-fox-valley-road-wahroonga-nsw-2076">The Residences at Wahroonga Estate</a> draws directly on the area’s natural landscape, with walking trails and green corridors linking into sections of Lane Cove National Park. The surrounding network of bushwalks, cycling tracks, and reserves reinforces the suburb’s long-standing reputation as one of Sydney’s most nature-oriented residential pockets, while still maintaining close ties to village retail and transport infrastructure.

The address places residents within minutes of Wahroonga and Turramurra villages, where cafés, local grocers, boutiques, and everyday services support a highly localised lifestyle. Popular nearby venues including The Fox Café and Breeze Valley Café provide easy options for morning coffee or casual dining, while longstanding retailers such as IGA Wahroonga Fresh and Novella Fine Books continue to anchor the area’s village character.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Wahroonga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4a950f7-4f05-4370-b360-b106359788e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/2026_Wahroonga_Entry_Gates.gif?VersionId=7n5kh9ymu.azYEYDemJkPgiIAfSw44oj" />

Healthcare access remains one of the defining locational advantages of the estate. Sydney Adventist Hospital, known locally as The San, sits directly adjacent and is one of the largest and most respected private hospitals in New South Wales. The hospital precinct incorporates specialist medical services, radiology, physiotherapy, and outpatient care, contributing to growing buyer demand from downsizers and owner-occupiers seeking long-term convenience and peace of mind.

Research commissioned by Capital Corporation found that health and wellbeing considerations are increasingly influencing downsizing decisions, particularly among buyers wanting to remain within familiar neighbourhoods while accessing medical infrastructure more easily.

Education has also historically underpinned demand across Wahroonga and the broader Upper North Shore. The estate sits close to several of Sydney’s leading private and independent schools, including Knox Grammar, Abbotsleigh, Barker College, Pymble Ladies’ College, Ravenswood School for Girls, and Loreto Normanhurst. Co-educational options including Wahroonga Adventist School and Sydney Adventist School further strengthen the area’s appeal to established families looking for long-term schooling pathways within a tightly held catchment.

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Transport connectivity supports the suburb’s liveability without compromising its quieter residential character. Wahroonga and Turramurra train stations provide direct rail access into the Sydney CBD, while the nearby Pacific Highway and M1 motorway strengthen links across the North Shore and broader metropolitan area. At the same time, the heavily treed streetscape and low-density character continue to distinguish the precinct from more urbanised parts of Sydney.

The Residences at Wahroonga Estate forms the first stage of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/capital-corporation">Capital Corporation</a>’s broader masterplanned vision for the precinct, delivered alongside the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/group-gsa">GroupGSA</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/coco-republic-interior-design">Coco Republic</a>, the development integrates landscaped communal spaces including a pet-friendly Green Spine, resident lounge, BBQ pavilion, and direct bushland access, reinforcing the project’s focus on outdoor connection and community-based living.

Now under construction by Gold Star iCIRT-rated builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/dasco-australia">DASCO</a>, The Residences at Wahroonga Estate will deliver a collection of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments priced from $990,000, with completion anticipated in 2027.

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Capital Corporation to cater to Upper North Shore downsizers by creating walkable community at The Residences at Wahroonga Estate

SJB Architects

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

SJB are one of Australia&#39;s most sought-after architecture firms for anything from mutli-residential apartment developments to commercial towers and luxury home builds.

They&#39;ve got two studios, in Sydney as well as Melbourne, and have been the brains behind the likes of Crown&#39;s luxury Waterfall apartments in Sydney and Kings Domain in Southbank.

One of their most recent designed was the&nbsp;Abbotsford apartment development The Park House, developed by the renowned Salta Properties, with a major influence in the design being the building&#39;s proximity to the Yarra River.

Urban spoke to SJB&#39;s Michael Bialek, who headed up the design team for The Park House, to discuss how it was created.

What was the brief from Salta for The Park House, and then more specifically Riverbank? How did it need to differ from Riverbend?

Salta&rsquo;s brief for the The Park House project was to deliver a quality residential development as the final piece for the wider Yarra Gardens precinct.

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The project should provide significant improvements to the public realm through the provision of new visual and physical links from Victoria Street through to the Yarra River. Compromising over 500 apartments, the new buildings should respond positively to the landscaped character of the adjoining completed Green Square project and allow construction in stages towards the new proposed Walmer Plaza.

Riverbank addresses the &lsquo;urban edges&rsquo; of Victoria Street and Walmer Plaza, while Riverbend is less prominent &ndash; connected to the adjoining Green Square project and overlooking the bend in the Yarra River.

What were the most important features of the site/location which influenced your design?

The most important features of the site are the frontage to busy Victoria Street and the opportunity presented by the north-facing frontage to the Yarra River. 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.

<a href="/buildings/the-park-house-627-631-victoria-street-abbotsford"><img alt="" height="810" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/park_house_salta_plans_sjb.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Were there any other buildings&nbsp;you&#39;ve designed previously&nbsp;(or just seen) that influenced the design?

SJB was previously involved in the delivery of three residential projects fronting both Burnley Street and Victoria Street in the precinct. Each project has a distinctive aesthetic based on its orientation, typology and scale &ndash; townhouses fronting laneways, apartments along street frontages and common amenities surrounding landscaped courtyards.

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The buildings which are in close proximity to the retail complex Victoria Gardens, create a varied yet unified residential community which enjoys access to shopping facilities, public transport and riverfront recreation.

What were the biggest challenges of the design?

The challenges faced in the early design phase related mainly to the sensitive location of the site along the Yarra River.

Taller built forms were shaped so that the actual and apparent width of buildings were minimised when viewed from the river. These sculpted forms have been aligned generally to be perpendicular to the river corridor. Building separation, height and setback controls also influenced site planning and built form outcomes.

A two-tier river edge movement system was also incorporated into the master plan in order to maintain and enhance the &lsquo;natural&rsquo; river character at the lower level. A continuous bicycle connection is provided at this lower level while a more active &lsquo;urban&rsquo; character is created at the upper level with new pedestrian connections from the river to Shamrock, Walmer and Davison Streets.

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What interested you about the project?

The most interesting aspect of the project was the opportunity and challenge to provide significant improvements to the public realm and amenity for new occupants and the surrounding neighbourhood.

Unlocking this parcel of land formally occupied by the Melbourne Fire Brigade was a significant achievement by the project team, delivered through the provision of new public spaces and connections to the Yarra River.

What part of the design were you most proud/most interested in seeing when it&nbsp;was completed?

SJB is able to look back with pride at its role in the delivery of a series of residential projects in the precinct, which were successfully adopted by the marketplace over several years. The area has been transformed into a &lsquo;new neighbourhood&rsquo; with an improved public realm and new connections to the Yarra River.

In The Park House project, residential amenity is of high quality. Planning of apartments provide significant northerly outlook over the natural landscape of the river setting while common facilities are well located and generous. The aspirational planning principles for the site have been delivered while the residential character and amenity of the buildings are both innovative and responsive to this unique setting.

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How closely do you work with Carr Design when creating the apartments? 

SJB &amp; Carr Design worked collaboratively during the design phases of the project, with extensive briefing sessions determining the aspirations for both teams. The interior design of apartments and common areas was to respond to the architectural character of each building. Particular attention was paid to the extensive recreational facilities including swimming pools, lounges, playrooms and entry lobbies.

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Urban spoke to SJB's Michael Bialek, who headed up the design team for The Park House, to discuss how it was created.



How we designed Riverbank apartments in Abbotsford: Urban chats with SJB's Michael Bialek 

The property&nbsp;developer Land Real&nbsp;are offering $20,000 savings on all of their two and three bedroom apartments at their South Kingsville development, Newport Village.

The limited time offer will see prices for the two bedroom apartments drop from $575,000 to $555,000 and three beds from $900,000 to $880,000.

One bedroom apartments are priced from $435,000.

There are only 34 apartments in the SJB-designed&nbsp;Blackshaws Road development, which will feature a number of townhouses that are expected to be released this year.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5449 project_image_fid=161852]

SJB have designed the apartments so every apartment takes in views of Newport Lakes Reserve and Ducrow Reserve.

The building is crowned with a resident rooftop terrace, complete with barbecue facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5449 project_image_fid=161848]

The well regarded building firm Hamilton Marino has been appointed to construct&nbsp;the development. Site works have commenced and completion is slated for late 2022.

About the developer

With roots going back to the early 1980s Land Real is a Melbourne centric real estate developer with a proven track record, striving to deliver innovative developments focused on creating quality homes for people with cosmopolitan lifestyles.

Their most well known development was Kings Domain Apartments in Southbank, which they also had SJB Architects design and Hamilton Marino build.

There are only 34 apartments in the SJB-designed Blackshaws Road development, which will feature a number of townhouses


Land Real offering $20k incentives at South Kingsville apartment development Newport Village

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Stockland’s new townhome development, Haven, combines sustainable features with open spaces in Melbourne’s Altona North.

Situated in the city’s inner-west, the project boasts a collection of two, three and four-bedroom townhomes designed by the award-winning SJB Architects.

Each residence features expansive, open-plan interiors, a contemporary material palette and outdoor entertainment areas, including private back yards and shared green space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29947]

Built around a serene central park, the development continues Stockland’s strong history of producing sustainable developments.

Part of a network of pocket parks, the park and accompanying playgrounds provide space for residents and the broader community to get together, work out and enjoy time with their family and friends.

<a href="/buildings/haven-altona-north-278-288-blackshaws-road-altona-north-vic-3025"><img alt="" height="3332" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/haven-278-288-blackshaws-road-altona-north-6c77fa5c4631057caf61b4ebecff7583_0.jpg" width="5000"></a>

The development has been popular amongst first home buyers, who wish to take advantage of quality living spaces and city convenience.

Evolving from its rich, industrial heritage, Altona North has blossomed into a very attractive location for families.

The vibrant suburb is located just 11 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD and enjoys the numerous amenities of the Inner-West.

<a href="/buildings/haven-altona-north-278-288-blackshaws-road-altona-north-vic-3025"><img alt="" height="2500" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/haven-278-288-blackshaws-road-altona-north-016e13279ed304dbd19d493aa28e1291.jpg" width="5000"></a>

Residents can enjoy an active lifestyle at the nearby public pool, the badminton centre, the indoor climbing gym or the golf course nearby, while cycle paths, walkways and parks connect the community to neighbouring suburbs.

Two-bedroom townhomes within the development begin from just $605,000, while four-bedroom townhomes sell from $815,000.
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The development has been popular amongst first home buyers, who wish to take advantage of quality living spaces and city convenience

max.kwok_55688

Why Stockland's Altona North townhome development Haven is so popular among first home buyers

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Meriton is renowned for its attention to detail, innovative design and finishes of the highest standard. Every Meriton residence is built for a lifetime of comfort. The Retreat is no exception. Timeless design and functional layouts deliver both enduring beauty and a practical sense of home. Outlooks are spectacular.

<figure><a href="/buildings/the-retreat-celeste-9-13-carter-street-lidcombe"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the-retreat-11-carter-street-lidcombe-9fdeecae7f73ce198501e25b9bf588a9.jpg?itok=p1tyLnlJ" style="width: 580px; height: 242px;"></a></figure>The Retreat is Sydney’s most iconic resort-style master planned community centrally located in the corridor between Sydney CBD and Parramatta CBD, one of Australia’s fastest growing cities. A sculptural and significant green landmark next door to the rapidly evolving lifestyle hub of Sydney Olympic Park, a vibrant destination for cultural, entertainment, recreation and sporting events.

Meriton’s vision was to create two seamless, curved towers, rising 22 levels, which capture the spectacular panoramas.

<figure><a href="/buildings/the-retreat-celeste-9-13-carter-street-lidcombe"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the-retreat-11-carter-street-lidcombe-a232dbc7dd698a6aaaca781989d0a631_0.jpg?itok=coOdErNF" style="width: 580px; height: 242px;"></a></figure>Neutral palettes and textures bring a timeless warmth to the bedrooms, drawing inspiration from the elements of nature. Conceived as a peaceful sanctuary, generous walk-in or built-in robes and plush carpeted floors ensure your comfort is paramount.

From your luxury residence, stroll to your Sydney Olympic Park neighbourhood, one of the liveliest and fastest growing precincts in the city. This is Sydney’s premier destination for major national and international events and entertainment. Visitors flock here from all over the world to enjoy live events at its numerous world-class stadiums and showgrounds. 

<figure><a href="/buildings/the-retreat-celeste-9-13-carter-street-lidcombe"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the-retreat-11-carter-street-lidcombe-211482958c6def9cdade2c14970effaf.jpg?itok=CjV3FUwQ" style="width: 580px; height: 242px;"></a></figure>Start the day with a jog through Sydney Olympic Parklands or cycle the picturesque trails that run for kilometres around your home. The globally renowned precinct’s multiple leisure facilities such as its first-rate aquatic centre, tennis centre and adventure parks, offer something for all the family.

<figure><a href="/buildings/the-retreat-celeste-9-13-carter-street-lidcombe"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the-retreat-11-carter-street-lidcombe-9aa0fbc92ed614cfcdd70d6c6320250e.jpg?itok=ZUqkbDQN" style="width: 580px; height: 242px;"></a></figure>
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urban.com.au

Renowned for their attention to detail, Meriton delivers excellence in new apartment development

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The year's first large-scale permitted site to be offered for sale will see Dexus Property Group exit as the long-term holder of 32 Flinders Street.

Dexus has over recent years headed a planning push to have the site find a different purpose, eventually gaining approval for two residential buildings onsite that could yield hundreds of new apartments overlooking Birrarung Marr and surrounds. The prospective buyer will not only have the right to develop the property, but could also maintain the existing commercial asset. 

Agent CBRE City Sales have the task of moving on the property which currently holds 546 car spaces and generates a net income in excess of $2 million annually.

<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/image114_0_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A different perspective at a different height. Image: SJB Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="384" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image114_0_0.jpg?itok=3HUlERdS" title="A different perspective at a different height. Image: SJB Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A different perspective at a different height. Image: SJB Architects</figcaption></figure>The site is listed as holding approval for 47 levels to Flinders Street and a more modest 14 levels building to Flinders Lane. This is down from the original version that has sought a 212 metre outcome including 625 dwellings. The height of the SJB Architects-designed tower has fallen to 175 metres AHD so as not to cast a shadow within 15 metres of the north bank of the Yarra.

The development did gain support form planning officers at 191 metres AHD, and Dexus subsequently lodged an appeal with VCAT over the eventual height. With that effort failing, Dexus's apartment yield for the development would have likely fallen in excess of 20 percent since the project's initial visit to planning.

Alongside the apartment towers, the scheme also involves an extensive ground floor reconfiguration, enhancing pedestrian network connections and at one stage had intended to gift the private portion of Spark Lane to Melbourne City Council.

<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/image2dex.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new and improved Flinders Street frontage may eventuate. Image: Dexus"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="368" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2dex.jpg?itok=ww9zgK6H" title="A new and improved Flinders Street frontage may eventuate. Image: Dexus" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new and improved Flinders Street frontage may eventuate. Image: Dexus</figcaption></figure>Currently, the car park adds little to the Flinders Street urban realm. The prospect if it making way for a new and activated building along with the expansion of the adjoining Lindrum Hotel does raise the likelihood of the rejuvenation of the urban realm in this portion of the CBD.

Under the development application expectations, a rebirthed 32 Flinders Street would:

<ul>
<li>Providing a new pedestrian connection from Flinders Lane to Sargood Lane</li>
	<li>Providing new retail activation &amp; interfaces</li>
	<li>Consolidating vehicular access at Flinders Street, away from the laneways</li>
	<li>Allowing Spark Lane to be optimised by removing the existing 5 level car parking link bridge above</li>
	<li>Providing a new lobby address to Spark Lane by gifting MCC with private land</li>
	<li>Allowing for greater passive surveillance throughout the area</li>
</ul>
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silvermb

Dexus opts out of Flinders Street and opens the door to a new urban realm

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Based on the flow of planning applications into Oakleigh, the suburb was identified by Apartments.com.au as <a href="/news/pellicano-group-cements-oakleigh-as-an-upcoming-apartment-hotspot">an emerging apartment hot spot</a> at the turn of 2016.

Oakleigh's apartment-driven regeneration has now taken a step forward with the official launch of another major apartment project. Mount Waverley-based developer Pellicano has pulled the trigger on Alke, their latest residential project that will add 89 dwellings along Oakleigh's Atherton Road.

With an end value of $53 million, Alke is the result of a stint at planning which culminated with a win for Pellicano at VCAT.

Subsequent to the project's approval, Pellicano chose to drop the number of apartments within Alke from 115 to 89, in order to provide larger dwellings and better meet local demand stemming from Oakleigh and surrounding suburbs.

<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/image6alke.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Oakleigh's new edition - Alke."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6alke.jpg?itok=dPCmYhPe" title="Oakleigh's new edition - Alke." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Oakleigh's new edition - Alke.</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Oakleigh holds a great significance to Pellicano and we want to uphold our history by bringing a more premium product to the area, adding value to the urban context and providing long-term, quality homes for its inhabitants.

These generously sized and well-designed apartments provide a great opportunity for contemporary, community-focused living within an established neighbourhood. Due to the area’s rich history and strong community, we are seeing a lot of interest from local downsizers and local first home buyers.

Many second and third-generation Europeans, who want to stay in their established community and continue to enjoy the abundant amenity but without the hassle of looking after a large family home, are looking to move into these larger, well-appointed apartments. The local primary schools and close links to relatives also make it attractive for the young families looking for a home.
<cite>Nando Pellicano: Pellicano managing director</cite>
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Our interior arm created a scheme that offers residents the opportunity to express their own personality though the selection of furniture, artwork, and accessories.

The communal areas are light-filled and landscaped with vegetation, offering spaces for social interaction or quiet respite, and adding to the quality of life for Alke residents.
<cite>Tristan Wong: SJB director</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/image5alke.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alke's finer street level treatment"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="725" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5alke.jpg?itok=QHCrUUru" title="Alke's finer street level treatment" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alke's finer street level treatment</figcaption></figure><h2>The design</h2>

After various planning machinations, architecture firm SJB has settled Alke's design; two six level buildings set above a common podium level sweep away from one another, with a low-rise third building also part of the development.

Each building consists between 14-45 apartments, with the larger buildings bisected by a podium top communal garden space. Externally the project is finished in brick snap panels which speaks to Oakleigh's traditional housing finish, floor to ceiling glazing and perforated metal screens for shading and privacy.

Internally Pellicano have split the 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments into different categories; Garden Loft Residences, Terrace Homes and 3 bedroom Penthouse sized residences. Interior schemes carry timber floorboards, contrasting lines plus soft grey and white colour schemes with an overtone of industrial detailing.

The almost ubiquitous trendy cafe will also account for Alke's retail space.

<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/image7alke.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alke's communal terrace"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7alke.jpg?itok=N2_Xd7w6" title="Alke's communal terrace" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alke's communal terrace</figcaption></figure><h2>Oakleigh bulks up</h2>

Alke joins Oros as projects currently at sales within Oakleigh. 

Oros will eventually become a sprawling development accounting for a 9,605sqm site fronting Dandenong Road; its 348 apartments are joined by a serviced apartment contingent and in excess of 2,000sqm of retail space. Conversely Alke is more conservative in scale and closely cited to Oakleigh's retail and commercial heart, plus Oakleigh Station.

Combined they will add 400 plus apartments to the suburb which has only one considerable apartment project approaching construction completion, namely 8 Degrees at 83 Drummond Street which consists of 54 apartments.
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Alke adds another buyer option to the strengthening Oakleigh apartment market

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One of Melbourne's larger infill developments is progressing somewhat under the radar in Williamstown.

Mere kilometres from the CBD, Waterline Place within the bayside suburb is gathering momentum as developer AV Jennings pushes through with the delivery of near on 600 townhouses and apartments in total. Holding a nominal value of $450 million, Waterline Place marked the traditionally greenfield developer's push into Melbourne's apartment market.

Having acquired the sprawling site which was formerly the Port Phillip Woollen Mill and historic Oriental Hotel. AV Jennings now has Waterline Place in full development mode.

First residents were onsite last month within Rosny. The SJB Architects-designed apartment building of some 71 apartments was completed by builder LU Simon at the turn of July, with an adjoining townhouse aspect all bar complete.

According to AV Jennings' recent ASX release, Rosny achieved total presales for the 71 apartments of $42 million, with "the mix of predominantly 1 bedroom plus study and 2 bedroom apartments sold for between $355,000 and $1,200,000."

<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/image21_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Rosny apartments at the point of completion"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="247" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image21_14.jpg?itok=biAWZ_sf" title="Rosny apartments at the point of completion" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rosny apartments at the point of completion</figcaption></figure>With Rosny complete, AV Jennings will shift focus to <a href="/buildings/gem-25-windsor-terrace-williamstown">Gem apartments</a> at Waterline Place and further townhouses fronting Kanowna Street.

Gem shapes the precinct's largest development to date, incorporating 92 new apartments and penthouses. The work of design practice Elenberg Fraser, Gem spans 10 levels and includes 28 single, 36 dual and 28 three-bedroom apartments, with the largest spanning 132sqm.

The building garnered its name from the Gem paddle steamer that ferried people from Williamstown to Port Melbourne during the mid to late 1800's. 

In terms of construction, contractor Buildcorp Commercial has carried out early works for Gem.

<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/image22_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gem is the latest building at sales. Image: AV Jennings"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="298" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image22_8.jpg?itok=OpGkpR9K" title="Gem is the latest building at sales. Image: AV Jennings" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gem is the latest building at sales. Image: AV Jennings</figcaption></figure>In line with their work upon Waterline Place's masterplan vision, Elenberg Fraser is also responsible for Lot 8 which shapes as the next apartment building in waiting within the precinct. 

Incorporated are 62 apartments within the building which carries a NSA of 5,081sqm. In the project's current configuration, apartments are split between 8 single, 41 dual and 13 triple bedroom apartments, and are supplemented by 83 car parking spaces and 62 bicycle spaces.

From a design perspective, Elenberg Fraser has referenced nautical shapes and strong horizontality above the podium to create an undulating outcome.

A communal rooftop terrace is included in order to take full advantage of the unimpeded views directly east over Port Phillip Bay.

<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/image20_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lot 8 is currently at planning. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="301" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image20_10.jpg?itok=LEmQUnet" title="Lot 8 is currently at planning. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lot 8 is currently at planning. Planning image: Elenberg Fraser</figcaption></figure>Beyond Lot 8 above, 15 townhouses are also in the pipeline for Lot 4 which fronts Nelson Place. Adjoining the Titanic theatre at 1 Nelson Place, the townhouses span three levels and provide a lower interface to the immediate surrounds.

Furthermore, Hobsons Bay City Council has lots 5,6 and 7 at 3-39 Nelson Place as still at planning. Combined theses future buildings are slated for a further 200 dwellings.
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Williamstown's Waterline Place moves into full development mode

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The long-running bid to redevelop Abbotsford's historic St Crispin House has found a resolution, with Pace Development Group granted the right to deliver 133 apartments over 12 levels.

In conjunction with SJB Architects, Pace Development Group have refined the design for the development to a point where it was considered an acceptable outcome. Well before Pace assumed control of the site during 2015, St Crispin House was subject to development overtones, with an earlier application seeking a 17 storey high-rise outcome.

The newly approved envelope will see a mid-rise apartment building rising from behind the Art Deco-styled facade which will be restored. The site's history dates back to the early 1920's when it was utilised as a boot making factory.

<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/image45_6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pace of Abbotsford. Image: PACE Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="673" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_6.jpg?itok=dWf-cdSp" title="Pace of Abbotsford. Image: PACE Development Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pace of Abbotsford. Image: Pace Development Group</figcaption></figure>Pace of Abbotsford, as it will be known, is expected to begin construction later this year; sales of the one, two and three bedroom apartments are expected to begin during October, with construction earmarked for November. Completion is expected during mid-2019.

Within the associated media release, Pace's Planning and Design Manager Michael Holah made note of Johnston's Street gradual transformation, as an increased number of higher density projects take their place within Abbotsford.

Apartments.com.au's Project Database shows Pace of Abbotsford is joined by five additional projects along the Abbotsford stretch of Johnston Street which have yet to become reality. Combined there is scope to add approximately 250 apartments and 40 serviced apartments to the area which has traditionally been low-rise.

<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_6973.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pace of Collingwood under construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="414" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_6973.jpg?itok=8Gr5rcGk" title="Pace of Collingwood under construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pace of Collingwood under construction</figcaption></figure>Pace of Abbotsford is also another notch in the developer's push into City of Yarra; three of Pace's seven current projects within the municipality.

Nearly, Pace of Collingwood has commenced construction proper, with Pace's in-house construction team set to oversee proceedings. 79 apartments are to be delivered within the predominantly brick snap finished building, which accounts for a 1139sqm corner site on Welington Street and Langridge Street.

Diagonally opposite, Pace is also pursuing a development albeit with a commercial outcome. Last week Apartments.com.au highlighted the <a href="/news/spowers-adds-to-the-collingwood-development-blitz">slim-form, Spowers-designed commercial building</a> which if approved will mark Pace Development Group's first foray into purely commercial development.
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Pace of Abbotsford gains approval and eyes a 2017 construction start

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Buyers unsurprisingly are still showing a keen interest in <a href="/developments/collingwood-vic-3066">Collingwood's apartment market</a>, as demonstrated by Pace of Collingwood's strong sales.

Pace Development Group's latest project notched the enviable figure of accounting for 50% of the building's apartments during its first week at sales. This in turn has prompted Pace to commence construction on the project immediately, with an eye toward completion during the last quarter of 2017.

At 75 Wellington Street, Pace of Collingwood will include 77 apartments within the SJB Architects-designed 9 level edifice. As a developer/builder Pace will oversee construction of the project, which joins 808 Sydney Road and Pace of Northcote as fellow current builds under the Pace banner.

<blockquote>
It’s very rare to see construction of a property development of this scale commence so soon after the launch. It’s one of the great benefits of having an in-house construction team and means we can confidently assure our purchasers on delivery timeframes.
<cite>Daryl Wilkinson: Pace Sales Manager</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/pace_coll.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pace of Collingwood's rooftop terrace"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="286" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/pace_coll.jpg?itok=QT2e9yFS" title="Pace of Collingwood's rooftop terrace" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pace of Collingwood's rooftop terrace</figcaption></figure>The strong sales result for Pace of Collingwood bodes well for the suburb's newly released Holme Apartments and the forthcoming release of <a href="/buildings/88-cambridge-88-cambridge-street-collingwood">88 Cambridge</a>.

With a number of projects freshly completed and no sign of buyer intent waning plus a relative dearth of projects at sales, prospective Collingwood apartment purchasers will be limited in what they can secure.

As a point of reference, Apartments.com.au has in the past highlighted the surge in apartment sales and subsequent construction boom that has blanketed many parts of Collingwood. Since late 2014, well in excess of 1,000 apartments have been completed in the area.

As these projects have been completed, others have filled the void, but in doing so have fallen well short of the volume of apartments being offered relative to recent years.

So much so the fresh release of Holme Apartments for sale is the only new release that buyers can peruse in Collingwood. The imminent release of 88 Cambridge will add to available buyer stock, as the Centreland Property-backed project looks to add 93 apartments to the suburb.

<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_7.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="88 Cambridge is due to launch"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="345" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image68_7.jpg?itok=JynLrRvb" title="88 Cambridge is due to launch" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>88 Cambridge is due to launch</figcaption></figure>
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