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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

South Yarra

<html><body>
The Minister for Public Transport, Jacinta Allan, has announced that South Yarra station will not receive extra underground platforms as part of the Melbourne Metro Rail (MMR) project owing to costs ranging from $700 million up to $970 million under differing scenarios.

The media release distributed on Friday morning cites a cost-benefit ratio of between 0.20 and 0.33 and thus deems the overall outcome as being "very poor". A ratio of less than 1 means net public benefits are lower than the amount paid to build the infrastructure.

The MMR tunnel is to run from South Kensington through Arden, Parkville, the CBD, Domain interchange and join the existing Caulfield group of lines to the south of South Yarra station and one option for an expanded South Yarra station was to locate the underground platforms 200 metres away which attracted a price tag of $700 million.

The Minister's media release further states that in the above scenario 100 properties would need to be removed in order for the station to be built.

Under another scenario, building underground platforms closer to the existing station, the price tag rises to just shy of a billion dollars and would have required the removal of 82 homes and half of the Jam Factory.

<h2>Comment</h2>

So there we have it: a price on expanding South Yarra station from 6 platforms to 8. In the most ideal scenario of locating the new platforms closer to the existing station it would cost upwards of $1 billion. Fair game, I wouldn't want to argue that price is justified either.

The focus on how passengers are going to change between lines now shifts further down the line to Caulfield, a station which hasn't rated much mention in discussion around the MMR project or the level-crossing removal program for the Dandenong line.

Assuming the current stopping pattern for all Pakenham / Cranbourne line trains will remain in place once the MMR project is complete - that is Malvern, Armadale, Toorak and Hawksburn won't see Pakenham/Cranbourne trains stop there - the focus for transfers with the Frankston line centres on Caulfield station.

The first concern for Caulfield, given it's future prominence being enhanced with the completion of the MMR project, is how well the station's ramps comply with accessible public transport standards. If memory serves correctly Caulfield has been highlighted as a concern for accessibility compliance in the past. Likewise the pedestrian subway located underneath the tracks immediately to the west of the station platforms has a train speed restriction.

Furthermore as anyone who frequently uses the Pakenham / Cranbourne Line will be aware of, as trains pull into and out of Caulfield station, the convoluted track layout which forms a complex junction between the Dandenong and Frankston corridors to the east of the station, coupled with curved platforms and an ageing pedestrian subway mandate that trains slow down at a greater distance from the station than what would otherwise be necessary if the rail infrastructure was streamlined.

All in all, despite the disappointment that South Yarra station will not be a full interchange between lines, the costs cited are a significant benchmark and are likely to be used in the years to come if and when new rail lines are proposed across dense inner city areas where roads are narrow and property acquisition requirements go through the roof.

In today's piece by Adam Carey in <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/new-underground-station-for-south-yarra-ruled-out-in-rail-tunnel-plans-20150514-gh1swk">The Age</a>, he notes that the 5 new stations are to be built with capacity increases in mind; each station will have 230 plus metre platforms which could fit 9 car trains in future (Melbourne trains currently run in 6 car configurations) and this is reported to be the primary reason why building two new platforms at South Yarra is uneconomical.

The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few in this case and after seeing the South Yarra station numbers it's time this was put to bed.

Expansion of our rail network - like the Clifton Hill-Fishermans Bend tunnel from the 2013 PTV heavy rail plan - is going to be prohibitively expensive if Government insists on total system inter-operability; not to mention we'd fail to take full advantage of the innovation that has been proven in cities around the world when it comes to building new transit lines.

Media release in full:

<iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="undefined" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_92661" scrolling="no" src="https://www.scribd.com/embeds/265377068/content?start_page=1&amp;view_mode=scroll&amp;show_recommendations=true" width="100%"></iframe>

Lead image credit: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Yarra_railway_station">Wikipedia</a>.
</body></html>

Alastair Taylor

Comment: South Yarra platforms for Melbourne Metro Rail ruled out

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Malaysian-based Mitraland Group has flagged its intention to enter the Melbourne apartment sector with plans currently on display with City of Stonnington for a 20 level residential tower within South Yarra's Forrest Hill Precinct. Lodged with council during December 2014, the Fender Katsalidis-designed tower is nominated to have an end value of approximately $50 million.

Long earmarked unsuccessfully for development and surrounded by larger forthcoming towers such as <a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra">661 Chapel Street</a> and LK Property's <a href="/buildings/capitol-grand-241-toorak-road-south-yarra">Capitol Grand</a>, Mitraland are no doubt hoping the current planning application will find a favourable outcome in due course.

<h2>649 Chapel Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image7_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 649 Chapel Street. Image courtesy FK Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="960" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_3.jpg?itok=uj6_M5oz" title="Artist's impression of 649 Chapel Street. Image courtesy FK Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 649 Chapel Street. Image courtesy FK Architects</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Current use: two storey commercial/retail building over a roughly 500sqm site</li>
	<li>Proposed: 20 level residential development at 61 metres in height</li>
	<li>72 apartments: all with two bedrooms</li>
	<li>71sqm retail outlet at ground level</li>
	<li>44 car parking and 21 bicycle spaces located within three basement levels</li>
	<li>GFA: 8,794sqm</li>
	<li>​Communal rooftop space: dining/BBQ area and open-air roof garden</li>
</ul>
The site in question has been to VCAT in recent years, unsuccessfully, with the then proponent trying to gain approval for a 17 level residential building holding 82 apartments. Urbis state within the current planning application that any proposal put forward for the site:

<blockquote>
Must demonstrate design excellence that will result in an outstanding building for the precinct. It is also imperative that any new proposal responds positively to the previous VCAT determinations
<cite>Urbis, 649 Chapel Street Planning Submission</cite>
</blockquote>

Issues VCAT raised for the site during the previous proposal's hearing include that the northern facade be well articulated given the adjoining and substantially lower Quest apartment complex is unlikely to be redeveloped, and that there be a clear differentiation between podium and tower. The latter point was further articulated at the time where VCAT stated they don't necessarily consider a setback pivotal, rather that there be a visible difference in treatment between lower and upper levels.

Project architect Fender Katsalidis have employed metal fins over lower levels with a red ochre-like finish to provide contrast.

<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/image18_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A previously unsuccessful proposal for 649 Chapel Street"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image18_2.jpg?itok=lYyd-8N7" title="A previously unsuccessful proposal for 649 Chapel Street" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The previously unsuccessful proposal for 649 Chapel Street</figcaption></figure>Generally the exterior is dominated by precast walls to the north and south with an embossed pattern and applied colour designed to break its bulk. The northern facade has a considerable light court running the height of the tower included within the floorplan, accounting for roughly 42sqm of a typical floor's area.

Separated by the light court and the abutting lift, habitable areas within the proposal are essentially split into east and west wings. A generic plan covers levels 5-18, where each wing consists of two apartments with four per floor the norm. While all the apartments carry two bedrooms, the average internal area per apartment is approximately 75sqm with 66sqm and 83sqm the extremities.

<blockquote>
Within its context, the proposed building contributes significantly through a well-designed and dynamic piece of architecture. Its form is sleek and slender, while being both sensitive and striking. A suited mix of glass and concrete fold into one another, and an otherwise continuous form is interjected by central voids and light courts that allow light to filter through the centre of the building.

The slender vertical tower element provides a distinct separation between podium and tower forms through varied materials and visible recesses.
<cite>Urbis, 649 Chapel Street Planning Submission</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/16ban_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="16 Quartz as per the Mitraland website"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="232" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/16ban_01.jpg?itok=YPfAoeFb" title="16 Quartz as per the Mitraland website" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>16 Quartz development as per the Mitraland website</figcaption></figure>Incorporated during February 2014, Mitraland Australia is the Australian affiliate of Petaling Jaya-based Mitraland Group. Formed during 1998, Mitraland Group has completed a host of medium and high-density residential projects predominantly in and around Kuala Lumpur.

Mitraland Australia is the latest Malaysian developer to enter the local market, following in the footsteps of well established players such as SP Setia and Mammoth Empire. Another Malaysian developer soon to make an impression upon Melbourne is PJ Development Holdings which holds a 20,000sqm land parcel at 93-119 Kavanagh Street, Southbank. Speculation is that a tower of up to 300 metres is in the offing for the site, in a development value at approximately $1 billion.

<h2>649 Chapel Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Urban Context Report: Fender Katsalidis Architects</li>
	<li>Architectural plans: Fender Katsalidis Architects</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>Sustainable Management Plan: Ark Resources</li>
	<li>Traffic Engineering: Cardno</li>
	<li>​Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design</li>
</ul>
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silvermb

Malaysia's Mitraland looks to enter the Melbourne apartment market

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Foreshadowed in an <a href="/news/plus-architecture-begins-2015-with-a-bang">article earlier this year</a> highlighting the exploits of Plus Architecture, one of the firm's most recent schemes has landed with City of Stonnington during early March and is now on public display. Currently a nondescript dual level commercial complex somewhat out of place as opposed to its nineteenth and early twentieth century neighbours, 402-416 Chapel Street is designed to be a 12 level mixed-use development holding prime position on the sought-after retail and entertainment strip.

Holding 75 metres of frontage to Chapel Street and bound by Simmons Street, Bray Street and Grey Street, the island site is one of only two large-scale plots capable of accommodating a significant development along Chapel Street; the other cited within planning documents as the Jam Factory. Subject to a preferred height limit of 19 metres, 402-416 Chapel Street weighs in at double Stonnington's preference, yet the non mandatory height guideline provides scope for a larger structure onsite.

<h2>402-416 Chapel Street application summary</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image83.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hero perspective of the proposed development. Image courtesy Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="365" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image83.jpg?itok=fEYf64pG" title="Hero perspective of the proposed development. Image courtesy Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hero perspective of the proposed development. Image courtesy Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>Existing use: two-storey commercial building</li>
	<li>Site area: 3,306sqm</li>
	<li>Proposed 12 level mixed-use building at 39.9m</li>
	<li>99 residential dwellings: 39*1BR, 57*2BR, 3*3BR</li>
	<li>157 room residential hotel</li>
	<li>1,016sqm of retail (shop) floor space &amp; 719sqm of restaurant space</li>
	<li>820sqm of commercial office space</li>
	<li>Gym, lounges, pool deck and breakfast bar included</li>
	<li>Provision of 248 car parking spaces and 108 bicycle spaces over three basement levels</li>
</ul>
<h2>Big on Chapel</h2>

<iframe frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m0!3m2!1sen!2sau!4v1427196546133!6m8!1m7!1scxwQtG3p5deCfx4bq_Mung!2m2!1d-37.845209!2d144.994469!3f95.42771499686802!4f3.57326196813041!5f0.4000000000000002" style="border:0" width="600"></iframe>

As can be seen above the Chapel Plaza complex onsite contains very little architectural merit and as such lends itself to replacement. Chapel Plaza is included within a general heritage overlay covering the wider Chapel Street Precinct, but the site itself has no heritage value.

Consequently the attached heritage assessment focuses on the development's place within a larger Chapel Street context, which is summarised below:

<blockquote>
The proposal will remove an ungraded late-twentieth century building of no architectural, aesthetic or historic value to the HO126 Chapel Street Precinct. On this basis, the removal of this building is acceptable from a heritage perspective.

The proposal is consistent with Council heritage policy to enhance places of cultural significance. It is also consistent with policy that new works should not adversely affect heritage places. The mixed-use development is designed in accordance with strategies and objectives of the ‘Chapel Vision’ and ‘Chapel re-Vision’ structure plans, by maintaining this street’s role as a premier commercial and entertainment district in Melbourne, but balanced with retaining the street’s established heritage character.
<cite>Peter Andrew Barrett, architectural conservation consultant</cite>
</blockquote>

This assertion on building scale and impact upon surrounding areas is further backed by the following statement:

<blockquote>
The built form controls, as worded, are ‘preferred’ and are not mandatory controls. The proposal is considered capable of satisfying the design objectives and built form outcomes prescribed by the Design and Development Overlay without meeting all of its prescriptive controls.

The development has been designed in distinct components with a composition that is complex and varied. This includes a base podium, which is addressed to Chapel Street. A mid-rise element to six storeys and a high-rise tower that through orientation and recessing provides the appearance of two separate structures.
<cite>SJB Planning, 402-416 Chapel Street planning report</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Street level beat</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image87.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Chapel Street frontage. Image courtesy Plus Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="361" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image87.jpg?itok=NGs5vjG0" title="Chapel Street frontage. Image courtesy Plus Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Chapel Street frontage. Image courtesy Plus Architecture</figcaption></figure>Considering the sizeable girth and height of 402-416 Chapel Street, Plus Architecture have sought to refine the considerable street frontage via a number of differing means. A balance between consistency and variation in finishes has been sought at street level, while the podium itself seeks to be consistent with its surrounds at between 3-4 levels in height.

Differing materials, arrangements and elements are present over lower levels, although all are within a modular theme which is referred multiple times within the development documents. This is essentially a reference to the site's heritage surrounds where the majority of structures are quite uniform in size and composition.

Vertical highlights are evident within these modular or 'squared' podium sections as seen above, breaking up the lower levels and providing articulation. This is further bolstered by a vertical green wall which will visually separate the bulk components of the building.

The Simmons and Chapel intersection is subject to a feature design element which differs from the remainder of the podium. Behind the timber cladding and angled screens are retail, restaurant and commercial office space over four levels. Due to its leading edge position and proximity to a the heritage pub opposite, the distinctive, softened podium feature has been employed.

<h2>402-416 Chapel Street development team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Chapel Plaza Pty Ltd / Spotlight Property Group</li>
	<li>Development and Project Manager: Blueprint Group Australia</li>
	<li>Architectural plans: Plus Architecture</li>
	<li>Urban Context and Design Response: SJB Urban</li>
	<li>Heritage Assessment prepared: Peter Andrew Barrett</li>
	<li>Waste Management Plan: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Sustainability Management Plan: Waterman AHW (Vic) Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Landscape plans: Aspect Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>A Traffic and Transport Assessment: Cardno.</li>
</ul>
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Big on Chapel: 402-416 Chapel Street planning application

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Little Projects' Central South Yarra development located at 3 Yarra Street has achieved a major construction milestone: topping out.

On Wednesday the 11th of February, Little Projects held a traditional construction event to mark the milestone with an olive tree hoisted up to the rooftop where it spent three days; the placement of a tree when a building tops out is to symbolise growth and bring luck to a development.

Michael Fox, Managing Director of Little Projects said "today we celebrated the completion of the 30 level structure of Central South Yarra, which caps off another successful milestone for our landmark new development. The top level will transform over the coming months into an incredible world-class residents' rooftop retreat".

<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/centralsy_michaelfox_rooftop_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Little Projects Managing Director Michael Fox on the rooftop of Central South Yarra."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="375" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/centralsy_michaelfox_rooftop_2.jpg?itok=GuzBPDb9" title="Little Projects Managing Director Michael Fox on the rooftop of Central South Yarra." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Little Projects Managing Director Michael Fox on the rooftop of Central South Yarra.</figcaption></figure>After the successful completion of ILK South Yarra at 227 Toorak Road, Central South Yarra sold out in mid-2014 and Fox attributed much of Central South Yarra's success to its "exceptional inner city location, uninterrupted city views, world-class amenity and high degree of connectivity".

Central South Yarra is rounded out with 357 apartments, superb access to public transport and all the amenity that South Yarra is known for right at the front door. RotheLowman were responsible for exterior design with interiors by Plus Architecture and construction carried out by Hickory Group.

Little Projects tells Apartments.com.au overall completion and commencement of settlement in Central South Yarra is due mid 2015.

<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/centralst_top_render.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Central South Yarra's upper tiers. Image: supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/centralst_top_render.jpg?itok=_UmLyKfV" title="Central South Yarra's upper tiers. Image: supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Central South Yarra's upper tiers. Image: supplied</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au has also learned that the next development by Little Projects to begin construction will be Belle Box Hill. With final checks and balances currently underway, Hacer group have been appointed as builder and construction is expected to start within 1-2 months.

The lead image was taken from a camera on the rooftop of ILK and you can view more on <a href="http://centralsouthyarra.com.au/construction">Central South Yarra's website</a>.
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Central South Yarra tops out

South Yarra is experiencing an apartment construction boom at the moment with no less than thirteen major apartment developments sprouting skyward. Comfortably surpassing the established might of Southbank, South Yarra is second only to Melbourne&#39;s CBD in terms of the number of major projects under construction.

Combined, these thirteen projects are according to the Apartments.com.au Project Database delivering 1,784 new dwellings to South Yarra, with an assumption that this would equate to approximately 3,500 additional postcode 3141 residents.

<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_5330.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The epicentre that is Forrest Hill"><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_5330.jpg?itok=Hi6lYAVY" title="The epicentre that is Forrest Hill" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>The epicentre that is Forrest Hill, as seen from Claremont Street</figcaption>
</figure>

At the core of South Yarra&#39;s apartment success is Forrest Hill; the once low-rise industrial and commercial pocket was earmarked as an urban renewal precinct during 2005. While a steady trickle of projects have seen tower cranes populating the precinct ever since, it&#39;s only a decade later in the early stages of 2015 where Forrest Hill&#39;s full might is on display.

Seven of the current crop are located within Forrest Hill precinct, including <a href="/buildings/lucia-chiara-4-daly-street-south-yarra">Lucia/Chiara</a> and <a href="/buildings/central-south-yarra-3-yarra-street-south-yarra">Central South Yarra</a> who between them account for 782 of the overall 1,784 apartments under construction. The image above capturing Forrest Hill&#39;s Claremont Street holds <a href="/buildings/prime-tower-47-claremont-street-south-yarra">Prime Tower</a>, <a href="/buildings/claremont-manor-7-claremont-street-south-yarra">Claremont Manor</a>, <a href="/buildings/district-apartment-hotels-10-claremont-street-south-yarra">Alto</a> and <a href="/buildings/ella-2-claremont-street-south-yarra">Ella</a>; all at varying stages of construction and cumulatively contributing a further 668 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_5344.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Central South Yarra rising above it all"><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_5344.jpg?itok=2nrVnope" title="Central South Yarra rising above it all" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Central South Yarra rising above it all</figcaption>
</figure>

<a href="/buildings/yarra-house-18-yarra-street-south-yarra">Yarra House</a> also finds itself in Forrest Hill precinct, with the remaining projects under construction spread throughout the suburb. Projects west of Chapel Street include <a href="/buildings/six-murphy-6-murphy-street-south-yarra">6 Murphy Street</a>, <a href="/buildings/eight-murphy-8-murphy-street-south-yarra">8 Murphy Street</a>, The Hill Apartments and <a href="/buildings/her-majestys-apartments-52-davis-avenue-south-yarra">Her Majesty&#39;s Apartments</a>. <a href="/buildings/gisele-300-toorak-road-south-yarra">Gisele</a> and <a href="/buildings/pure-apartments-42-wilson-street-south-yarra">Pure Apartments</a> find themselves to the east of Chapel Street with the latter located in the emerging Garden/Wilson Street area.

While the current level of construction is robust in South Yarra, the next wave of projects heading toward construction in the near to medium term is impressive in itself. Of those apartment projects at registrations or sales, the list is headlined by LK Property&#39;s <a href="/buildings/capitol-grand-241-toorak-road-south-yarra">Capitol Grand</a> which at 193 metres in height would be South Yarra&#39;s signature built form.

Others included at registrations or sales are <a href="/buildings/wil-co-34-wilson-street-south-yarra">Wil&amp;Co</a>, <a href="/buildings/ralston-22-toorak-road-south-yarra">Ralston</a>, <a href="/buildings/essence-35-wilson-street-south-yarra">Essence</a> and The Elfin. Also watch out for <a href="/buildings/661-chapel-street-661-chapel-street-south-yarra">661 Chapel Street</a> progressing in the not too distant future.

<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/image19_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Capitol Grand, 661 Chapel, Wil&amp;Co. Images courtesy Bates Smart, BDLC, McLaren"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="283" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_0.jpg?itok=NfMaG6ly" title="Capitol Grand, 661 Chapel, Wil&amp;Co. Images courtesy Bates Smart, BDLC, McLaren" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Capitol Grand, 661 Chapel, Wil&amp;Co. Images courtesy Bates Smart, BDLC, McLaren</figcaption>
</figure>

With many projects still to be added, the current overall list of 28 apartment projects within South Yarra can be found on the Apartments.com.au <a href="/developments">Project Database</a>.

South Yarra in full b(l)oom

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Think of Melbourne's surge in residential towers over the preceding 18 months and one firm immediately springs to mind. Elenberg Fraser have nabbed the lion's share of large-scale apartment designs in and around the CBD of late and have become synonymous with tall towers.

In a refreshing move the integrated design and architecture practice has delivered a bespoke project on behalf of developer Sterling Global located on Toorak Road, South Yarra which highlights the subtle design nuances employed by the firm in respecting the heritage and parkland settings which define the site. Far from the 1000-apartment projects Elenberg Fraser are currently overseeing, Ralston South Yarra speaks a different architectural language to many of their other ongoing projects.

Apartments.com.au recently spoke with Elenberg Fraser's Project Leader and Senior Architectural Technician Nick Bruford as to why Ralston holds its own.

<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/ralston_ext.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ralston's subdued exterior"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="362" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ralston_ext.jpg?itok=KECvtA-c" title="Ralston's subdued exterior" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ralston's subdued exterior</figcaption></figure>The obvious distinction between Elenberg Fraser's CBD projects and Ralston is location and scale. While the CBD towers are each set to house many hundreds of people upon completion, Ralston is a six level development fronting Toorak Road in the heart of an established low-rise precinct.

With a new developer and architect superseding previously endorsed plans for the site, both parties set out to deliver a project sympathetic to its surrounds while also representative of prospective buyers wishes. Typical undulating glazed facades have been replaced by stone and plaster wash finish panels in order to provide a level of rhythm and context. The facade is most prominent at street level, providing a level of privacy to ground level dwellings, and slowly opens up over upper levels allowing for panoramic CBD views.

In addition to providing scale the vertical panels also compliment the retained historic streetscape fronting Toorak Road. Melding original structures with new forms is a method that has been shied away from in recent Elenberg Fraser CBD designs; perhaps more a reflection of developers wishes than anything else. Regardless the revised plans for Ralston were received warmly by City of Stonnington.

<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/ralston_pent.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A penthouse resplendid with fireplace and expansive views"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="310" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ralston_pent.jpg?itok=8kTL8Ciu" title="A penthouse resplendid with fireplace and expansive views" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A penthouse resplendent with fireplace and expansive views</figcaption></figure>Nick Bruford explains the project has been a chance to explore different design qualities and opportunities, giving rise to an increased amount of detail throughout the development. Rather than statement exteriors and ample communal facilities typical of much taller projects in the CBD which are designed to attract volume buyers, Ralston delivers a understated yet refined development aimed toward the owner-occupier in what has traditionally been a sought after location.

Internally too Ralston features a variety of living options ranging from tri-level townhouses fronting Caroline Park through to two and three bedroom apartments ranging in size from 110sqm to 160sqm with large balconies in tow. Two penthouses crown the development and occupy the top two levels.

According to Nick hundreds of interior finish combinations were considered before the design team settled upon the chosen configurations which are evidenced within the complete display suite onsite. Chevroned wood floors and bathroom wall tiles are a standout and are ably supported by brass fittings, Combi ovens, composite marble splash backs and stone bench-tops in the kitchen. Sculptural lighting by Melbourne-based industrial designer Christopher Boots also point toward the heightened level of consideration given toward internal finishes.

<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/image1ralston.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Display suite finishes"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="270" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image1ralston.jpg?itok=ZqY9Kb__" title="Display suite finishes" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Display suite finishes</figcaption></figure>This 'departure from the norm' for Elenberg Fraser has produced results with 65% of apartments within the development sold after three weeks. Construction is set to commence on the Ralston in the new year and Apartments.com.au hopes to tour the completed complex in due course.
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Ralston South Yarra brings out Elenberg Fraser's subtle side

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Some pizazz has re-entered the top end of the Melbourne apartment market with a handful of penthouse offerings jostling to take centre stage. Far from the investor-driven stock of Melbourne's CBD towers, two current projects are showing their wares in the pedigree stakes.

Perhaps a sign of South Yarra's still exceptional pulling power, the two current projects are located within the locality maintaining differing but spectacular penthouses on offer for.

<h2>Washington Street</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_street_-_r001_-_elevation_2000.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Looking to set a new benchmark. Image courtesy Orchard Piper"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="278" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_street_-_r001_-_elevation_2000.jpg?itok=Sb8Skl-G" title="Looking to set a new benchmark. Image courtesy Orchard Piper" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Looking to set a new benchmark. Image courtesy Orchard Piper</figcaption></figure>Jolson Architecture have conceived a fresh project for developer Orchard Piper titled Washington Street. Six oversize dwellings will be located within the three level complex, including a 'super penthouse' expected to fetch in excess of $15 million. A breakdown of internal area size speaks toward the luxury status of Washington Street.

Dual ground floor residences range between 589sqm and 648sqm, including large external terrace/gardens in excess 200sqm. Three first floor abodes average 260sqm of internal living while the 'super penthouse' is precisely that: 570sqm of internal space complimented by a 372sqm external terrace. A total of 942sqm ranks Washington Street's penthouse as one of the largest penthouse apartments available in Melbourne.

<blockquote>
Luxury to us is about making the most of the intangibles, such as light, proportion and aspect, not just the combination of the most expensive items available. We achieve a greater outcome by focusing on creating value through relentless and obsessive design.

Saving money through value management is a fruitless task when compared to the benefit of a truly design led outcome. It’s very rare to find a site where you can completely take the brakes of your design team. Washington Street is a true expression of the collaborative talents we have employed on this project.
<cite>Luke McKie, Orchard Piper</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/140908_-_washington_-_r013_-_bed_20001.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An extended bedroom goes toward Washington Street's prowess. Image courtesy Orchard Piper"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_-_r013_-_bed_20001.jpg?itok=r9Mbngzy" title="An extended bedroom goes toward Washington Street's prowess. Image courtesy Orchard Piper" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>An extended bedroom goes toward Washington Street's grandeur. Image courtesy Orchard Piper</figcaption></figure><h2>Yarra House</h2>

On a smaller land plot yet with height and never-to-be-built-out views to burn, the under construction Yarra House aims to bring dual penthouses to the South Yarra's Forrest Hill precinct. Designed by Scott Walker of Hassell Studio, the ‘North East Penthouse’ and ‘North West Penthouse’ together act as the crowning glory for the 26 level tower.

Refined stone benchtops, bespoke ensuites, fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling glazing, extensive walk-in robes, designated studies, kitchen walk-in pantries and entertaining space are included in the either three or four-bedroom residences, depending upon the buyers preference. At up to $3.995 million the penthouses represent a departure from the norm in Forrest Hill.

<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/yate8000_yarra_hp_v19_penthouse_01_to_view.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The best of Yarra House. Image courtesy Michael Yates &amp; Co"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/yate8000_yarra_hp_v19_penthouse_01_to_view.jpg?itok=I9jZVw5X" title="The best of Yarra House. Image courtesy Michael Yates &amp; Co" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The best of Yarra House. Image courtesy Michael Yates &amp; Co</figcaption></figure>Closer to the CBD a number of other prestige penthouse apartments and developments have appeared on the radar. Apartments.com.au highlighted what will likely be Melbourne's most exclusive development at <a href="/news/is-this-melbournes-most-exclusive-and-expensive-apartment-development">502 Albert Street, East Melbourne</a> with its massive sky homes, each of which could be considered a penthouse in its own right.

That a handful of luxury penthouses have been released to market loosely around the same time tends to suggest that the top end of the apartment market is still quite healthy with perceived underlying demand; the proof is in the penthouse (so to speak).
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Return of the luxury penthouse

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Covered briefly <a href="/news/190-metre-tower-sought-for-south-yarra">earlier in the week</a>, Apartments.com.au today takes an in depth look at the latest and greatest proposal for The Capitol in South Yarra. Acquired by former Dodo founder Larry Kestelman's LK Property Group it becomes the seventh incarnation in a long list of development proposals for the 5,600sqm former Capitol Bakeries site on the corner of Toorak Road and Chapel 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/image88.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Fluid building form. © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="700" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image88.jpg?itok=Yc5dKsol" title="Fluid building form. © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Fluid building form. © Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>Located within the rapidly evolving Forrest Hill precinct the project has been designed as a gateway development and an iconic landmark for the area, with an increase in height from 41-storeys to 58-storeys. As a result a subsequent refinement was undertaken resulting in more fluid forms articulated as a series of flowing horizontal ribbons across both masses before becoming more solid with an almost gill-like expression running up the face of the tallest tower.

<h2>Summary of changes</h2>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 100%;">
<thead><tr>
<th>Aspect</th>
			<th>VCAT 2013</th>
			<th>Current</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Height</td>
			<td>41-storeys 133m</td>
			<td>58-storeys 190m, 208m to tip of spire</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dwellings</td>
			<td>483</td>
			<td>660</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Parking</td>
			<td>553 car spaces</td>
			<td>630 basement car spaces 222 bicycle spaces</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Retail</td>
			<td>3,539sqm</td>
			<td>4,530sqm of retail across two levels</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>Changes to Toorak Road Tower</h2>

<blockquote>
There is an opportunity to bring the energy and curves created in the retail experience to the facade/balcony expression of the Toorak Road building.
<cite>Project Architect - Bates Smart</cite>
</blockquote>

A series of changes have occurred since the previously endorsed VCAT scheme:

<ul>
<li>The removal of the return in plan with the intention to improve views and increase the separation between the two towers.</li>
	<li>An increase of the floorplate width of 1.5m while still maintaining a 20m separation from the Chapel Street tower.</li>
	<li>A reduction in the amount of balcony area to the Toorak Road frontage</li>
	<li>A relocation of the core</li>
	<li>Standardisation of all one bedroom apartments which can also be configured as a one bed + study</li>
</ul>
<h2>Changes to Chapel Street</h2>

The tower now presents as three ellipses not unlike Bates Smart's <a href="/new-apartments/one-queensbridge-street-1-23-queensbridge-street-southbank">Queensbridge Tower</a> proposal but with a tapering in mass as the tower rises, becoming increasingly slender towards its summit. This results in a more dynamic skyline silhouette than the previous scheme which presented as a uniform mass. One of the key changes is the reduction of the building mass at street level with an aim towards greatly improving the pedestrian experience.

<blockquote>
We investigated an architectural language that creates a more distinctive sculptural object that celebrates the beauty of form and geometry. A form that might allow gradual slimming of the tower to create a unique landmark that has authenticity and identity. It would be an iconic contemporary destination in South Yarra. We tested the form of the tower to create a softer, more crafted quality which is in keeping with the new retail concept.
<cite>Bates Smart </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/floor_comparisons.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Floor plate comparison. © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/floor_comparisons.png?itok=JgseLLIB" title="Floor plate comparison. © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Floor plate comparison. © Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><h2>Retail podium</h2>

Major design changes have also been made to the retail podiums since the approved VCAT scheme, with a new retail brief being implemented encouraging pedestrians through the site by way of curved retail frontages. These design strategies are as follows:

<ul>
<li>The relocation of all car parking to below ground</li>
	<li>An increase in retail areas and circulation which takes advantage of level changes</li>
	<li>Decreased podium down to two-levels, providing a more human scale to the street</li>
	<li>Rooftop garden and amenities level</li>
	<li>The removal of the central retail component to open up the development to the street</li>
	<li>The introduction of more retail to Toorak Road to reflect its prominence</li>
	<li>The resolution of tower geometries and interface with amenities and retail</li>
	<li>A target NLA of 4,600sqm (over two floors)</li>
</ul>
According to the planning application the retail has been peeled back to allow the street to extend into the heart of the retail podium with a welcoming entry to Chapel 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/old_podium.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Podium of VCAT Scheme. © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="264" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/old_podium.png?itok=YTGFKeTW" title="Podium of VCAT Scheme. © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Retail podium elevation of VCAT Scheme. © Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><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/new_podium.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Revised retail podium. © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="262" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/new_podium.png?itok=FdkfKG40" title="Revised retail podium. © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Revised retail podium elevation. © Bates Smart</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

Just how high is considered too high? At 193m to LMR The Capitol development would easily surpass Royal Domain Towers on St Kilda road as the tallest high-rise outside of the Melbourne CBD/Southbank and provide a visual landmark and focal point to the South Yarra skyline. It would also set a precedent for more towers of similar height and scale particularly if it can be argued that South Yarra as part of the Plan Melbourne blueprint must facilitate the expected influx of residents to Melbourne via concentrated high-rise development.

Height in particular shouldn't be the core reason for a development's refusal unless it comes at the detriment to the amenity of the street and pedestrian particularly along busy retail strips such as Toorak Road and Chapel Streets. The planning report indicates that "sunlight penetration to footpaths and public open spaces is maintained as per the approved scheme, with cut-outs at the podium level (Level 1) ensuring solar access through to the retail levels below." 

I don't believe I'm alone in suggesting that this could prove to be a game changer for the way activity centres such as South Yarra develop and Apartments.com.au will no doubt be keeping a close eye on the planning process.

A slideshow of earlier schemes is included below.

<h2>Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: LK Property Group</li>
	<li>Architect: Bates Smart</li>
	<li>Planning Consultant: Ratio Consultants</li>
	<li>Traffic Consultant: Traffix</li>
	<li>ESD Consultant: Norman Disney &amp; Young</li>
	<li>Wind Consultant: MEL Consult</li>
	<li>Waste Consultant: Leigh Design</li>
</ul>
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Laurence Dragomir

The Capitol of South Yarra

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Mid last year Nicholas Harrison wrote a piece titled "<a href="/news/sixth-time-lucky-at-the-fun-factory">Sixth time lucky at the Fun Factory</a>" which highlighted the many attempts to realise a large-scale tower on what is South Yarra's premier development site. Spanning as far back as 1989, developers have sought to make good a string of predominantly residential schemes designed for the site, but to no avail.

The most recent attempt found itself at VCAT during 2013, and ultimately gained approval at 134 metres in height. Beyond that point 241-257 Toorak Road &amp; 625 Chapel Street (as it's officially referred to) has since fallen under the control of rapidly expanding Melbourne-based developer <a href="http://lkproperty.com.au/">LK Property Group</a>.

<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/image67.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Render of The Capitol South Yarra. Images © Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="584" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image67.jpg?itok=6YOUHq6s" title="Render of The Capitol South Yarra. Images © Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Render of The Capitol South Yarra. Images © Bates Smart.</figcaption></figure>In keeping with the site's history and current development trends, a new planning application has been submitted seeking to increase the height and apartment yield for the project. Still under the moniker of The Capitol which surfaced during the failed sales campaign commenced during 2011, the new scheme before City of Stonnington seeks a 190 metre residential tower holding 660 apartments in a higher density format.

Project architect Bates Smart has essentially refined their previously endorsed design, creating a slimmer, taller tower while also reconfiguring the ground floor plane to allow greater circulation. The ground floor figure eight layout will heed 4,530sqm or retail space, adding to the already heavy retail offerings nearby.

While it may tower above all others in South Yarra, the below render shows that The Capitol wouldn't be completely out of place in what is a constantly evolving skyline. Given that the previous 41 storey development of 483 dwellings fell foul of City of Stonnington, it seems likely that VCAT or Ministerial intervention may well determine the fate of the current 190 metre proposal.

<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/image69.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Capitol above an otherwise expanding South Yarra skyline. Image courtesy Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="276" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image69.jpg?itok=vCvCNTTD" title="The Capitol above an otherwise expanding South Yarra skyline. Image courtesy Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Capitol above an otherwise expanding South Yarra skyline. Image courtesy Bates Smart.</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au has now <a href="/news/the-capitol-of-south-yarra">dissected The Capitol's planning application at length</a>, highlighting the magnitude of the proposed development that may well permanently reshape South Yarra.
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190 metre tower sought for South Yarra

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Art gallery owner Rob Gould’s South Yarra home <a href="/news/art-dealer-rob-goulds-south-yarra-home-offering-polar-bear-not-included">had been listed for sale</a> with $5.5 million plus hopes, before it was passed in at weekend auction on a $4.8 million vendor bid. It now comes with a $5,295,000 asking price.
Renovated by architect John Wardle, the four-bedroom early 1900s Park Street semi was <a href="https://www.23parkstreet-southyarra.com/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">listed by Marshall White agent Marcus Chiminello</a>.
It's all on a modest 379 square metre block behind its ordinary classic Victorian facade.
The gallery owner’s art collection features works including the Scott Redford sculpture 'My Beautiful New Polar Bear' in its courtyard.
The prominent art dealer received media attention in 2012 when his former partner, Sotheby’s Australia chairman Geoffrey Smith, took legal action in an attempt to secure a share of assets after their 14-year relationship came to an end. 
<div id="gallery">
<div class="img-wrapper">
<div class="premGallery">Gould is downsizing and has not ruled out a move to Sydney, where he owns an apartment.</div>
</div>
</div>
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