<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-5" data-turn="user" data-turn-id="e65dbe94-e3b6-47f7-b62a-9cbb30c9bf79" data-turn-id-container="e65dbe94-e3b6-47f7-b62a-9cbb30c9bf79" dir="auto">Time &amp; Place’s plans to transform the former David Jones factory building in Surry Hills into a mixed-use residential precinct have gone on exhibition through the NSW Government’s In-fill Affordable Housing pathway.</section>

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:f4d533b7-64a5-413d-86fd-5c99649c2b73-2" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:f4d533b7-64a5-413d-86fd-5c99649c2b73-2" dir="auto">
The Marlborough House proposal, lodged for the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marlborough-house-47-97-marlborough-street-surry-hills-nsw-2010">47-97 Marlborough Street</a> site, would see the adaptive reuse of the heritage-listed warehouse building alongside the construction of new residential additions and a separate apartment building on the northern portion of the site.

The proposal seeks approval for 172 apartments across three buildings, including 15 per cent affordable housing managed by a community housing provider for at least 15 years from occupation.

<img alt="Marlborough" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d1d3c2a-bf13-47d6-a335-7c01102cdee1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.29.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=cjMYrbR.BLUlWH4dar0RVDDo0bG.u2YT" />

Interior view from the Northern Building Penthouse overlooking the park

&nbsp;

The redevelopment is planned for the prominent 3,413 sqm site bounded by Marlborough Street, Goodlet Street and Lansdowne Street, directly opposite Eddie Ward Park and around 200 metres from the Surry Hills light rail stop.

Time &amp; Place acquired the former David Jones building in 2024, marking the first time the property had changed hands in around 50 years.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal centres around the adaptive reuse of the former David Jones factory, originally constructed between 1913 and 1935 in the Inter-War Chicagoesque architectural style.

Wardle noted in its Architectural Design Report that the building “occupies a significant place in the industrial and cultural history of Surry Hills” and at its peak was “the largest department store manufacturing facility in Australia, employing over 800 people and fuelling the growth of Sydney’s fashion and retail industries.”

The practice said the project positions itself “not as an isolated intervention, but as a contributor to the civic, social, and architectural grain of the precinct.”

The proposal would deliver 75 apartments within the retained southern heritage building, 59 apartments within the central addition, and a further 38 apartments within the new northern building fronting Lansdowne Street.

Planning documents show the scheme would comprise a mix of heritage apartments, new-build apartments, townhouses and penthouses.

<img alt="Marlborough" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="57758518-40a3-4b83-958c-d06e96a2cffa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.29.42%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VerlX9ST5xgBi8.1_YRsqdWTJeT6ygjs" />Interior View of the Heritage Building Apartment

The development would also include a ground-floor retail tenancy on the corner of Marlborough and Lansdowne streets, rooftop communal open space, a landscaped pedestrian link along the western edge of the site, and basement parking accessed from Lansdowne Street via a car stacker system.

&nbsp;

The scheme emerged from a competitive design process run by Urbis, with Wardle ultimately selected as the winning architect ahead of FJC Studio, TZG, Architectus and Wilkinson Eyre.

The Design Integrity Panel later described several aspects of the Wardle scheme as fundamental to the project, including “the stepped character of the new addition to the north of the site”, the landscaped western pedestrian link, and the “garden arrival” experience separating the original Marlborough House from the heritage addition.

Wardle’s design heavily references the site’s industrial and heritage history, while also responding to the surrounding Surry Hills streetscape.

The Architectural Design Report describes Surry Hills as “a finely grained neighbourhood with beautiful and expressive brickworks throughout the suburb,” with the proposal introducing a material palette intended to sit comfortably alongside the existing warehouse fabric and neighbouring terraces.

The report also outlines the project’s relationship with Eddie Ward Park and the broader landscape context of the area.

“Marlborough House occupies a site of deep cultural memory and the neighbouring Eddie Ward Park is of local ecological significance, where natural systems, topography, and stories have long shaped human experience,” Wardle noted in the report.

The architects said the proposal sought to “rebind built form to Country” through landscape, materiality and the adaptive reuse of the heritage structure.

<img alt="Marlborough House" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9ae3f2f9-c85f-477a-a6f8-b43f6cb97c41" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.29.53%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=B.qUCLqRvJOR.n9CvYcTpaknIX9LuqKZ" />

The project is also being progressed under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing provisions, allowing developments that include affordable housing to access additional height and floor space incentives.

Under the plans, 2,593 sqm of the project’s floor space would be dedicated to affordable housing, slightly exceeding the required 15 per cent threshold.

In its Design Excellence Strategy, Urbis said the project aimed to “sensitively adapt and enhance the heritage-listed building on site through alterations and additions that preserve its historical significance” while delivering “high-quality market and infill affordable housing development in Surry Hills.”

Time &amp; Place has been one of the most active developers nationally in the last 12 to 24 months. Late last year they completed&nbsp;The Queensbridge in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a>, a mixed-use tower with 353 apartments and a hotel. They are currently selling Park Modern, 246 apartments near the famous Botanic Gardens in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/south-melbourne-vic-3205">South Melbourne</a>, and have future projects, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-wilmot-173-burke-road-28-hope-street-glen-iris-vic-3146">The Wilmot</a>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>, the redevelopment of the Northcote Plaza, and another tower in South Melbourne.

The developer broke into Sydney just a few years ago with Two Tides in Manly. They have another project nearby, which is at the ultra-luxury end of the market on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/shoreline-manly-beach-89-90-north-steyne-manly">North Steyne</a>, fronting the beach.

It is also continuing to work through the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-time-place-settles-on-design-for-the-chimes-potts-point-redevelopment">redevelopment of The Chimes building</a> on Macleay Street in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/potts-point-nsw-2011">Potts Point</a>, as well as a project on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/time-place-to-take-on-mosman-apartment-market">Mosman's Redan Street</a>.
</section>

Joel Robinson

First look: Time & Place unveils Marlborough House redevelopment designs for former David Jones warehouse in Surry Hills

The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

The Block

<html><body>
The Block celebrity couple Elyse Knowles and Josh Barker have secured a tenant for their newly acquired South Melbourne investment property.
The couple paid $1.42 million for the home (pictured above), however elected not to renovate before seeking a $690 a week tenant.
The home has two bedrooms, one bathroom and a courtyard.
There's no doubt the couple will renovate when they get a break from their busy lives in the public eye.
Elyse is a model with Myer.
They won The Block Elsternwick last year when comedian <a href="/news/comedian-dave-hughes-buys-the-block-elsternwick-winner-from-josh-and-elyse">Dave Hughes spent $3 million on their reno. </a>
Josh and Elyse purchase came after they spent $1.35 million in the neighbouring Albert Park late last year. 
They moved in to the 1880s home and Josh painted everything white.
They appear to be set to renovate imminently.
Their purchase came after they scored $1.63 million for another renovation job, this one in Coburg.
They had paid $600,000 in 2014.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

The Block's Josh and Elyse spend $1.42 million on South Melbourne investment cottage

<html><body>
Viewers will be able to interact with the most recent season of The Block New Zealand in a new way.
The season seven finale of the channel Three show, which is set to air later this month, will allow for live bidding and streaming via the show’s digital auction partner, Gavl.
The houses are to be auctioned on September 30 at the Grand Millennium in Auckland at 7pm. Real estate agency Ray White has put the homes on the market with the listings for 21, 23, 25 and 27 Frances Bryers Rd going live this week.
Pre-registered and authenticated bidders on Gavl will be able to access the livestreaming and live bidding functionality.
During the auction, Gavl representatives will be present in the auction room to announce the bids of the remote Gavl bidders. 
Co-founder of Gavl, Joel Smith, claims that on average the platform attracts 47% more viewers than traditional auctions.
“We’re thrilled that Gavl will play a role in the final stage of The Block NZ Live Auction, with the show continuing to achieve strong success among viewers,” Smith said.
“There are many benefits Gavl provide sellers at auction – including our livestreaming technology, which has just a one-second latency, and an unlimited buying pool on the day through our remote live bidding functionality. 
“Traditionally, the only way to participate in a real estate auction is to physically attend the auction or via phone, but Gavl will give New Zealanders and even overseas buyers the opportunity to watch and bid from wherever they are.”
<ul type="disc">
<li>Amy and Stu – 27 Frances Bryers Road, Hobsonville (pictured above)<a id="m_-7381544828136228593LPlnk174502" href="http://bit.ly/gavl_amystu" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://bit.ly/gavl_amystu&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1536289365735000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGROZ3yBFh-3RWbsJjEmE2mIBlYJQ"> </a></li>
</ul>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/6/23%20frances%20bryers%20rd.jpg" alt="">
<ul type="disc">
<li>Ben and Tom – 23 Frances Bryers Road, Hobsonville (pictured above)</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/6/21%20frances%20bryers%20rd%20.jpg" alt="">
<ul type="disc">
<li>Claire and Agni – 21 Frances Bryers Road, Hobsonville (pictured above)<a id="m_-7381544828136228593LPlnk118985" href="http://bit.ly/gavl_claireagni" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://bit.ly/gavl_claireagni&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1536289365735000&amp;usg=AFQjCNF5BPw1BbX3KNZPq7bmQFuGbf70jw"> </a></li>
</ul>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/6/25%20frances%20bryers%20rd.jpg" alt="">
<ul type="disc">
<li>Chloe and Em – 25 Frances Bryers Road, Hobsonville (pictured above)</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

The Block New Zealand brings in live online bidding for finale auctions 

<html><body>
This season's series of The Block is coming to the end, as the renovated apartments in St Kilda's Gatwick Hotel are listed for sale.
Each of the apartments are tipped to fetch over $2 million.
Melbourne locals and professional netball players Bianca and Carla are the bookies favourites, just ahead of South Australian husband and wife duo Kerrie and Spence.
The final will be aired live on September 22. Below are the renovated apartments from each contestant.
<h3><a href="https://www.domain.com.au/1-34-fitzroy-street-st-kilda-vic-3182-2014552025" target="_blank">1/34 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda</a></h3>
Team: Kerrie and Spence
<div>
<div><img src="https://www.smh.com.au/content/dam/images/h/1/3/x/q/j/image.imgtype.articleLeadwide.620x349.png/1534212581030.png" alt="Heated towel rails are a must for luxurious bathrooms." title="" width="100%"></div>
<div> </div>
</div>
Kerrie and Spence’s refined style have ensured this apartment has a “sophisticated and timeless interior.”
The couple from South Australia’s apartment features a guest room with reading nook and library, a bedroom with floor to ceiling bookshelves and a main bathroom with “striking black cabinetry,” according to the listing.
Hockingstuart Albert Park agents Stephanie Evans and Emily Adams are marketing the property.
<h3><a href="https://www.domain.com.au/2-34-fitzroy-street-st-kilda-vic-3182-2014552033" target="_blank">2/34 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda</a></h3>
Team: Courtney and Hans
<div>
<div><img src="https://www.smh.com.au/content/dam/images/h/1/3/x/q/n/image.imgtype.articleLeadwide.620x349.png/1534212470715.png" alt="The dropped ceiling and recessed LED lighting creates a high-end feel in Hans and Courtney's bathroom." title="" width="100%"></div>
<div> </div>
</div>
The winners of the first room reveal – Western Australian couple Courtney and Hans’ flawless finishes add to the elegance.
The main bathroom’s terrazzo floors are a favourite of The Block 2018 host Scott Cam. 
Wilson Port Phillips agents Jesse Raeburn and Graeme Wilson are marketing the apartment.
<h3><a href="https://www.domain.com.au/3-34-fitzroy-street-st-kilda-vic-3182-2014552048" target="_blank">3/34 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda</a></h3>
Team: Hayden and Sara
<div>
<div><img src="https://www.smh.com.au/content/dam/images/h/1/3/x/q/p/image.imgtype.articleLeadwide.620x349.png/1534212265257.png" alt="Hiding the loo or keeping it separate makes a bathroom feel more luxurious" title="" width="100%"></div>
<div> </div>
<div>
Dubbed The Block‘s most controversial couple, Hayden and Sara’s sub-penthouse apartment features one of the most expensive bathrooms with an expensive brass bath.
At 250 square metres, the apartment is as big as a home.
The apartment is being marketed by Michael Townsend and Josh Stirling at McGrath St Kilda.
</div>
</div>
<h3><a href="https://www.domain.com.au/4-34-fitzroy-street-st-kilda-vic-3182-2014552052" target="_blank">4/34 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda</a></h3>
Team: Norm and Jess
<img src="https://www.smh.com.au/content/dam/images/h/1/3/x/q/l/image.imgtype.articleLeadwide.620x349.png/1534212381488.png" alt="The tub took centre stage in every bathroom on The Block" title="" width="100%">
Put together by Queensland couple Norm and Jess, the luxe guest bedroom features a bed with a velvet bed head. The main bathroom includes a two-metre tall maple tree as well as a stone-looking bath.
Hockingstuart St Kilda agents Sam Inan and Julian Cannata said any visitor would love the welcoming feel and comfort factor in their guest bedroom.
<h3><a href="https://www.domain.com.au/5-34-fitzroy-street-st-kilda-vic-3182-2014552057" target="_blank">5/34 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda</a></h3>
Team: Bianca and Carla
<div>
<div>
<div><img src="https://www.smh.com.au/content/dam/images/h/1/3/x/q/k/image.imgtype.articleLeadwide.620x349.png/1535080505023.png" alt="Bianca and Carla's massive marble slab impressed the judges this week." title="" width="100%"></div>
</div>
</div>
Former professional netballers Bianca and Carla have luxury in their penthouse apartment.
The main bathroom boasts a silver galaxy dolomite stone feature wall.
Bianca and Carla’s master bedroom ensuite also features his and hers vanities.
Michael Papwroth and Peter Kakos at The Agency Melbourne have the listing.
</body></html>

The Block Gatwick St Kilda apartments hit the market at $2 million plus

<html><body>
The Block Elsternwick home designed Sticks and Wombat has been listed for sale, with a loss or maybe breakeven being tipped.
The five-bedroom, four-bathroom Elsternwick property is set to go under the hammer on<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-elsternwick-129120878" target="_blank"> September 16</a> with $2.65 to $2.75 million price guidance.
The 46B Regent Street last sold for $2.65 million, plus $145,000 stamp duty and other costs.
Larrikins, Mark “Sticks” Croker and Clint “Wombat” Price were fourth place getters last October on the televised auction taking home a profit of $130,000.
Built with an extensive use of reclaimed timber, the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-elsternwick-126568418" target="_blank">five bedroom home</a> was initially marketed as coming with a 'James Bond' hidden wine cabinet and a private landscaped garden with heated Container pool.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/10/23/Wombat2.jpg" alt="">
The New South Wales representatives won the hallway week and the front facade and garden week competitions during the series last October.
Noel Jones Doncaster agents Daniel D'Assisi and David Fileccia sold the listing but have missed out on its relisting reportedly going to Michael Paproth at The Agency who advised recent comparables were:
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<table>
<colgroup>
<col>
<col>
<col>
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
1 19 Murray St ELSTERNWICK 3185
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
$2,785,000
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
30/03/2018
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
2 27 Hamilton St BRIGHTON 3186
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
$2,750,000
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
17/04/2018
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
3 373 Kooyong Rd ELSTERNWICK 3185
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
$2,650,000
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
25/03/2018
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
 
</body></html>

Loss expected as The Block Elsternwick home Sticks and Wombat designed relisted for sale

<html><body>
The last winners of the Block series, model Elyse Knowles and her boyfriend Josh Barker, are taking their time on their latest renovation project.
They have spent $1.35 million on an 1880s Albert Park terrace (pictured above) - but have yet to lodge any development application on the home that had previously sold in 1978 for $34,000.
It is on the same block as where the 2014 series took place.
The couple were clear winners of last year's series in Elsternwick when selling the 1920s farmhouse for $3.07 million to the Melbourne comedian Dave Hughes. Winning them $547,000, it was the highest price ever seen on The Block since its 2003 inception at Bondi Beach.
Their own interrupted Coburg Californian bungalow transformation secured a windfall $1.63 million sale after paying $600,000 in 2014.
It was advertised as "the home of a master craftsman and an interior designer".
But Elyse's fashion modelling career is taking off as she makes her runway debut for Myer on August 23 in Sydney alongside Jennifer Hawkins and other Myer faces such as Rachael Finch, Kris Smith and former AFL player Josh Gibson.
This article first appeared in The Sunday Telegraph
</body></html>

Block winners Josh and Elyse spend $1.35 million in Albert Park

<html><body>
The Block judge Neale Whitaker has possibly finally found a buyer for his Alexandria apartment.
It went under offer last week.
But that's no guarantee these days given valuer caution amid declining prices and lenders getting tougher too in the wake of increased regulatory surveillance and the instinctive caution arising out of the royal commission. 
Whitaker always expected to sell with a loss on the bolthole.
Whitaker paid $1,705,000 in 2016 but the apartment went to its mid-May auction with a guide of around $1.65 million.
After the auction was pulled it was then $1.6 million, and its latest guide had it as seeking offers over $1.55 million. 
The apartment, which is the best decorated in the complex, sits in an SJB-designed warehouse style block.
The 135 space comprises three bedrooms.
BresicWhitney agents Ivan Bresic and Melinda Antella have the offering.
Whitaker and partner David Novak-Piper have bought on <a href="/news/the-block-judge-neale-whitaker-buys-south-coast-retreat">the NSW south coast</a>.
It is in the Shoalhaven hamlet Bundewallah, set 4 kilometres from Berry.
They have bought a four-bedroom 1930s homestead for $1,837,500 which was on the market for just three weeks.
It had a $1.9 million asking price.
It last sold at $815,000 in 2014.
It is a renovated four bedroom, two bathroom country home marketed as where original features are combined with all modern conveniences.
There is a double garage with studio and workshop space.
The property comes with farm shed, stock yard, 2.5 acres plus horse paddock, with room for a pool.
There is a wide north facing verandah with district views on the cul-de-sac holding.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph.
</body></html>

firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Neale Whitaker's Alexandria apartment goes under offer

<html><body>
The contestant for the forthcoming 14th series of The Block have been revealed.
The five couples from across the country will be tasked with renovating St Kilda's iconic Gatwick Hotel.
The opening promo has been pitched to focus on its St Kilda beach proximity, not its Fitzroy Street grunge
The successful applicants have been hankering to tell the world of their selection through their social media platforms and local media outlets.
The local renovators are best friends, champion netballers Bianca Chatfield and Carla Dziwoki.
Bianca posted a picture to Instagram of the pair on the steps of the Gatwick Hotel.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/6/27/block1.jpg" alt="">
There's a hint in the post they may not be the most experienced.
Along with the picture, Chatfield commented "anyone know how to build an apartment???"
Chatfield was a Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Dziwoki previously played for the Melbourne Vixens.
They'll no doubt be looking to replicate the success of last year's Melbourne-based couple Josh and Elyse, who won the show when their Elsternwick house renovation <a href="/news/comedian-dave-hughes-buys-the-block-elsternwick-winner-from-josh-and-elyse">sold to comedian Dave Hughes for over $3 million.</a>
The contestants snap shots:
NSW - Sara and Hayden
Sara and Hayden, newly wed parents, hail from the Shire and are set to bring their Bondi style and love of the beach to the show. 
QLD - Norm and Jess
Norm and Jess represent Queensland in this year's series. The couple will be hoping to utilise Norm's experience as a builder and maintenance man. Jess is the co-host of 91.9 Sea FM's breakfast show BarRat and Jess alongside Adam Barratt.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/6/27/jess-eva1.jpg" alt="">
Norm has lent his hand to some renovations in their Maroochydore home.
Jess made Norm <a href="/news/norm-joins-instagram-in-block-2018-countdown-with-jess-eva">get Instagram before the show began.  </a>
SA - Kerrie and Spence
Kerrie and Spence are the oldest contestants of this years show at 49 and 47 and have recently moved to Barossa Valley wine country. They have recent renovation experience 
WA - Hans and Courtney
Hans and Courtney are the WA represnetatives from Perth. They will no doubt be exercising their love of travel in the choice of design. Courtney is a flight attendant. 
The Block‘s executive producer Julian Cress says this year a record 45,000 couples applied to be on the show – doubling the number who applied last year.
 
 
</body></html>

jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

The Block 2018 contestants revealed

<html><body>
Radio presenter Jess Eva and her soon to be husband Norm are the couple representing Queensland in this years season of The Block.
The 14th series will see five couples from across the country renovate St Kilda's former Gatwick Hotel.
Norm, who has experience in building and maintenance in the Alexandra Headland region, has been peer pressured by Jess to get Instagram.
He <a href="https://www.instagram.com/norms_insta/" target="_blank">introduced himself on the social media platform</a> alongside a picture of all of The Block 2018 couples.
"Gday I’m Norm - Me Mrs told me to get one of these accounts cos never had Instagram in me life, so probably going to have to get some help," the 41 year old said.
"Am on the Block this year ... who would’ve thought someone like me on The Block. If it can happen to me it can bloody well happen to anyone. Have a good one."
It looks like Norm might be taking the lead on the decisions due to his experience in building. He runs Jarrod Hogan Building.
He's tidied up the family home too.
Recently Jess posted a picture on Instagram of their back yard swimming pool in their Maroochydore home, with a comment suggesting Norm 'finished the deck.'
The couple have been based at their Maroochydore home since they paid $620,000 in 2016 when they were upgrading in the suburb.
Jess is the breakfast host at 91.9 Sea FM and presents alongside Adam Barratt on their show BarRat and Jess.
The couple have two young children.
Click here to <a href="/news/the-block-2018-contestants-revealed">check out the rest of the teams</a> competing on the hit Channel Nine renovation show.
Photo credit Channel Nine.
 
 
<div class="w_ad w_unruly">
<div id="ad-block-8865093727-3" class="w_unruly ad-block ad-custom unruly_insert_native_ad_here" data-ad-size="4x4" data-ad-tar="pos=1" data-google-query-id="CMPprp7g8NsCFQuylgods5sEXw">
<div id="google_ads_iframe_/5129/ndm.tcm/entertainment//confidential_7__container__"> </div>
<div class="unruly_in_article_placement" data-unruly-ad-type="horizontal">
<div class="unruly_ia_bottombar">
<div class="unruly_ia_progressbar"> </div>
<img class="unruly_ia_volume" src="https://video.unrulymedia.com/native/images/unmiss-sound-button-muted-e74d67a0c85c3548f07d7564782a269c.svg">
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Scott Cam and Shelley Craft are back on board to co-host, while judges Neale Whitaker, Shaynna Blaze and Darren Palmer have also returned.
</body></html>

Norm joins Instagram in Block 2018 countdown with Jess Eva

<html><body>
The Block stars Kyal and Kara Demmrich, who have just welcomed their second child, are seeking tenants for their Central Coast renovation project.
After paying $580,000 four years ago, the couple undertook small scale renovation on the old fibro cottage at Bateau Bay.
There were no structural changes, just a modern facelift.
After ripping out the old tired carpets, there's rustic timber flooring throughout the home that sits on a 640 sqm parcel a stones throw from the beach.
They are again seeking $460 a week through Ray White Bateau Bay agent Kristen Burkett after the last tenant departed
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bateau+bay-413845155" target="_blank">Bateau Bay home</a> (above and below) was leased at $395 a week before their renovation.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/6/27/bat2.jpg" alt="">
The couple are based nearby in a four bedroom home at Toowoon Bay.
Late last year they offloaded their Long Jetty renovation that they had been documenting room by room on their joint Instagram account.
They pocketed $1.59 million, over double the $710,000 they paid just 11 months earlier.
The Central Coast property market is on fire, with house price growth over the past year pegged at over 12 percent.
They announced the birth of their child on the social media platform last month.
Their daughter, Vada Jane, was born on Kara's birthday.
<div class="Article-Content-Main">
"Wow! She is here, born at 2:58am this morning, 30th May on Kara’s Birthday," the couple shared on their joint Instagram account, along with the first photos of their newborn.
They had their first child, son Ziya, in 2016.
The couple appeared on The Block: Fans v Faves in 2014 before becoming full-time renovators.
They now have their own segment on Channel Ten's The Living Room.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
 
<div class="unruly_in_article_placement" data-unruly-ad-type="horizontal">
<div class="unruly_ia_furniture"> </div>
</div>
</div>
 
</body></html>

The Block's Demmrich couple seek tenants at Bateau Bay

<html><body>
The Block has opened a pop up store opposite the St Kilda location for series 14 at 79 Fitzroy Street.
The shop opened with a party, attended by a host of ex-contestants, including Elyse (below, last year’s winner).
The Fitzroy Street premises will eventually be the Pride Centre where the council have spent $13 million to buy the former Monroe’s Restaurant site with plans to turn it, and the carpark next door, into the Pride Centre, based on San Francisco’s LGBT Community Centre.
The premises previously sold in 1978 at $365,000.
<img src="https://www.theblockshop.com.au/images/blog/The_Blockshop-184.jpg" alt="">
The Block Shop operators are Emma Garland and Sarah Armstrong, the partner of the television show producer, Julian Cress.
The shop launch was filmed as part of this year’s show.
The space had been a restaurant with a disco ball hanging from the ceiling.
The Block Shop Pop Up will service the contestants working across the road at The Gatwick.
It’s also open to the general public.
Having the shop open opposite The Gatwick is helping to regenerate a once tired and run-down stretch of street.
“Lots of neighbours come in, and they are in shock,” the store manager says. “They say, ‘We are so happy you’re around.’
“Hopefully we can give the street a bit of life back - they’ve asked us to stick around for as long as we can, which is nice.”
It’s been set up to service this year’s contestants, providing them with stylish homeware and interior options during filming.
The contestants are under no obligations to use anything in our shop.
Sharing the Block Shop space is Nood Co, the concrete homewares company set up by ex-contestant Matt Di Costa (of ‘Matt and Kim’ fame, The Block Sky High).
His gorgeous concrete sinks were featured in Ronnie and Georgia’s perfect-score guest bathroom last year.
</body></html>

The Block

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The Block

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News