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

The District

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Capital Alliance has appointed Icon Co to build its 17-storey The Docklands Residences, which will include a 200 room Marriott hotel - the first to be built in Australia in 20 years. Located within The District Docklands precinct, the $250 million mixed-use development has been designed by DKO Architecture, and will also include 100 oversized one to three-bedroom apartments in addition to Marriott Docklands.

The architects have conceived the development as two interlinked sculptural petal-shaped towers that will intersect with vertical plantings adding an element of nature while also providing privacy between apartments. The centrepiece of the development will be a rooftop infinity pool and serviced by an adjoining bar. At ground-level an additional bar, restaurant and laneway cafe will be open to guests, residents and visitors to the development.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/the_docklands_pool.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Docklands Marriott will boast a 28m infinity pool. Image: Capital Alliance"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="403" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_docklands_pool.jpg?itok=SOkCHT1v" title="The Docklands Marriott will boast a 28m infinity pool. Image: Capital Alliance" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Docklands Marriott will boast a 28m infinity pool. Image: Capital Alliance</figcaption></figure>The development will be built above the former Harbour Town shopping centre now known as The District Docklands - a retail, leisure and entertainment precinct on Waterfront Way. Hotel rooms and apartments will encompass views of the sunset in the west over the Bolte Bridge or views back towards the Melbourne skyline.

According to Capital Alliance, the Marriott Docklands represents an exciting landmark for the precinct and he was optimistic about what the project would offer future residents and guests.

Icon is the result of the recent merger of Icon Co and Cockram Australia to form one of Australia’s largest construction companies under parent company Kajima Corporation, with The Docklands Residences representing the company’s first major project delivered under the consolidated entity.

The Marriott Docklands joins WOODWORK - an 8-storey CLT office building of 8,000 sqm under construction within The District, with construction also progressing at The Market which will include a Woolworths supermarket, complimented by Dan Murphy’s and a large scale Asian grocer.

<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/the_district_construction.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Construction progress at The District. Images: Urban.com.au member redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="216" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_district_construction.jpg?itok=GUv4Yvxk" title="Construction progress at The District. Images: Urban.com.au member redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Construction progress at The District. Images: Apartments.com.au member redden</figcaption></figure>A new Entertainment and Dining Precinct recently opened featuring a HOYTS, Asian hawker-style restaurant 8Eight Street and micro-brewery Urban Alley Brewery plus entertainment by Archie Brothers Electric Circus. Icon will commence site establishment works on the Marriott Docklands next month with an expected completion date of mid-2020.

Early, last week it was also announced that MAB had received approval for its NewQuay West Master Plan. Look out for our Q&amp;A with MAB General Manager - Residential, David Allt-Graham.

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Icon Co has a strong reputation in delivering high quality projects and we are confident they will deliver on this landmark project for Docklands. It’s been a long time coming for this project, so we’re tremendously excited in moving forward to commencing construction shortly and delivering the Docklands Residences and the first Marriott to be built in Australia in 20 years.

- Mohan Du, Capital Alliance founder and Chief Executive
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
This is a significant and exciting project for Melbourne and Icon is thrilled to be playing a major part. In the past 18-months, hotels have made a real comeback in Melbourne, and the Marriot Docklands will be one of the first international luxury offerings to be completed in this wave - an accomplishment we will be extremely proud of.

- Evan Byrne, Icon Director
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
This marks another significant milestone in the continued evolution of the precinct. More importantly, it highlights the rapid growth and extensive development pipeline in the area, which reinforces our vision of creating a world class ‘urban village’ and underpins our long-term investment strategy in The District and the broader Docklands precinct.

- Michael Moss, AsheMorgan Principal and owner of The District Docklands
</blockquote>

 
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

Icon Co Appointed to build Docklands Marriott

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The Docklands development machine continues to roll on with a significant number of projects having either commenced or are due to commence this year. Today's article will predominantly focus on the northern precincts including District Docklands (formerly Waterfront City/Harbour Town), New Quay, and Digital Harbour.

<h2>Quest / Elm &amp; Stone, NewQuay</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/p7040436.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elm &amp; Stone has topped out. Image: Urban.com.au forum member redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/p7040436.jpg?itok=aCP5QiyD" title="Elm &amp; Stone has topped out. Image: Urban.com.au forum member redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elm &amp; Stone has topped out. Image: Apartments.com.au forum member redden</figcaption></figure>The cores of the dual tower development designed by DKO have now topped out, with the last remaining floor slabs still to be poured and work now underway on the installation of the facades and internal fitout.

The development features 221 Quest serviced apartments in addition to 142 dwellings and is due for completion in 2019.

<h2>Marriott / The Docklands Residences, NewQuay</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/dda736b7b456f421460665b0fb022015.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Docklands Residences. Image: FKD Studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/dda736b7b456f421460665b0fb022015.jpg?itok=qp8gyFZy" title="The Docklands Residences. Image: FKD Studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Docklands Residences. Image: FKD Studio</figcaption></figure>Capital Alliance and DKO Architecture's mixed-use development which will comprise 200 Marriott branded hotel suites is due to commence construction in the coming months following the appointment of a head contractor.

Read more in <a href="/news/capital-alliance-and-marriott-international-tie-the-knot-in-fishermand-bend">Monday's piece by Mark Baljak</a>.

<h2>District Docklands, Master Plan</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/the_distrcit_master_plan.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The District Docklands Master Plan. Original Image: AsheMorgan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="483" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_distrcit_master_plan.png?itok=bV6Hw6eq" title="The District Docklands Master Plan. Original Image: AsheMorgan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The District Docklands Master Plan. Original Image: AsheMorgan</figcaption></figure>Owner of The District Docklands, AsheMorgan has engaged NH Architecture to undertake Master Planning to facilitate the development of a 190,000sqm mixed-use precinct on the remaining undeveloped land within the former Waterfront City boundary offering employment, shopping and living space. 

This follows on from the first stage overhaul of the former Harbour Town centre which has now been completed and comprised the installation of new canopies, facades, paving and landscaping elements.

The next stage involves the provision of a 8,300sqm HOYTS cinema and entertainment complex, which also include Archie Brothers Electric Circus, 8Eight Street Asian hawker-style restaurant and Urban Alley Brewery along with other food and beverage offerings.

The $45m development is on track to be completed in September of this year.

Looking further ahead, future stages of the overall Master Plan which are being rolled out include a fresh food market within the re-purposed existing multi-storey car park and a Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) commercial building.

These are further outlined below;

<h2>Woodwork Building, The District Docklands</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/woodwork.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The Woodwork Building. Image: FKD Studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/woodwork.png?itok=W-EPJH00" title="The Woodwork Building. Image: FKD Studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Woodwork Building. Image: FKD Studio</figcaption></figure>A planning permit was recently issued for an 8,000sqm office building which will sit above the existing centre along Waterfront Way (soon-to-be Market Lane), valued at $56m.

Designed by NH Architecure, the building, to be known as Woodwork comprises a ground floor retail lobby with four large open plan office floors above, and 80% of the construction will consist of CLT, with the timber to be sourced from sustainable forests.

Woodwork will be the first CLT office building in Melbourne and is expected to be completed in 2020.

<h2>The Market, The District Docklands</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/the_market_district_docklands.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Market @ The District. Image: AsheMorgan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="370" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_market_district_docklands.jpg?itok=uxbKXTCC" title="The Market @ The District. Image: AsheMorgan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Market @ The District. Image: AsheMorgan</figcaption></figure>On Tuesday 15 May the District Docklands team "cracked the concrete" of the East Car Park to officially mark the beginning of construction on Docklands new food precinct, The Market. 

The internationally-inspired marketplace, will provide Docklands with a fresh food precinct that includes butchers, delis, bakers, coffee roasters and cafes in addition to major retail in the form of a Woolworths supermarket, Dan Murphy’s, a large-scale Asian Grocer and Priceline Pharmacy.

A Medical Centre, as well as health and beauty services, will round out the convenience offer, providing for surrounding residents and visitors with a one stop shop for their day to day needs.

The Market is officially slated to open in  July 2019.

<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/the_market_mapmap.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Map of The Market retailers. Image: AsheMorgan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="829" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_market_mapmap.jpg?itok=ix93mRKw" title="Map of The Market retailers. Image: AsheMorgan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Map of The Market retailers. Image: AsheMorgan</figcaption></figure><h2>218 Harbour Esplanade, Digital Harbour </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/jcb_harbour_esplanade.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="218 Harbour Esplanade. Image: Jackson Clements Burrows"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="759" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jcb_harbour_esplanade.jpg?itok=gr0XzFfP" title="218 Harbour Esplanade. Image: Jackson Clements Burrows" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>218 Harbour Esplanade. Image: Jackson Clements Burrows</figcaption></figure>The latest application to be submitted within the Docklands precinct is for 218 Harbour Esplanade. Designed by Jackson Clements Burrows the development will comprise 183 apartments across 21-storeys with 117 car spaces to be provided.

The apartment mix will include 6 x three bedroom apartments, 118 x two bedroom, and 55 one bedders in addition to SOHO style two-storey dwellings.

According to <a href="http://www.docklandsnews.com.au/editions/article/container-inspired-apartment-block_14314/">Docklands News</a>, the design was "inspired by a vision of containers stacked on a wharf. Wharf-type timbers will also be employed on the lower podium levels to complete the metaphor."

<h2>26-34 Digital Drive, Digital Harbour</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/digital_drive.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="26-34 Digital Drive. Images: Bates Smart"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="242" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/digital_drive.jpg?itok=NUGOt8dk" title="26-34 Digital Drive. Images: Bates Smart" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>26-34 Digital Drive. Images: Bates Smart</figcaption></figure>Architects Bates Smart have recently published images in their <a href="https://www.batessmart.com/journal/2018/humanising-the-office/">online Journal</a> of a new 22 level commercial office building for Cbus Property located adjacent to 1010 LaTrobe Street.

The brick-clad building draws on the texture and character of nearby heritage buildings, and includes an outdoor terrace 40m above ground marking a streetwall datum, while three-storey voids internally allow for more expansive views outwards from the office levels.

<h2>160 Harbour Esplanade, Stadium Precinct</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/1529913824079.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Development Victoria has purchased the Seven Digital Broadcast Centre. Image: Australian Financial Review"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1529913824079.jpg?itok=kV7iXOm_" title="Development Victoria has purchased the Seven Digital Broadcast Centre. Image: Australian Financial Review" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Development Victoria has purchased the Seven Digital Broadcast Centre. Image: Australian Financial Review</figcaption></figure>The home of the Seven Network's digital broadcasting studio was recently purchased from owner the NRMA for $100m 

How this strategic acquisition ties into the redevelopment of the soon-to-be renamed Marvel Stadium and Harbour Esplanade remains to be seen, but the price tag suggests it forms a crucial piece of the puzzle.

It could potentially provide the AFL with accommodation allowing its current headquarters to be redeveloped into a 7 star waterfront hotel, inline with concept plans released earlier this year.

According to the <a href="https://www.afr.com/real-estate/victorian-government-homes-in-on-sevens-docklands-hq-20180625-h11tqr">AFR</a>, a Development Victoria spokesperson has stated that the purchase would allow it to "develop long-term strategies to revitalise the Docklands Stadium and waterfront."
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