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

Toorak

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A Toorak home has been listed with $18 million expectations.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-toorak-121391382" target="_blank">Charleston, at 774 Orrong Road</a>, sits on close to 2000 square metres with tennis court and pool.
The five bedroom, five bathroom home on 1965 square metres was last sold at auction in 2007 by adman Hylton Mackley at $7.8 million, against a reserve of $6.5 million.
There has been a recently completed a $3.5 million renovation. '
Kay &amp; Burton’s Andrew Baines is marketing 774 Orrong Road for private sale. 
He sold it last time for then director of advertising firm Clemenger Communications, Hylton Mackley, and his wife, Eileen who had bought the property 20 years earlier for $1.425 million.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

The $18 million Toorak trophy home listing

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Torresdale Manor, the 1887 Toorak trophy home, is back on the market with $10 million plus expectations.
The mansion features five-bedrooms, four bathrooms, along with a lavish outdoor space with a picturesque pool.
Built in 1887, the refurbishment is one of the late designer Stuart Rattle’s renovation legacies. The property offers privacy down a pebbled driveway at the end of a cul de sac. 
Ross Savas, the Kay &amp; Burton listing agent suggests while it's been renovated and extended it is still in keeping within its era.
The home is owned by retired finance and banking expert Marc Mengler and his wife Marimar who are looking to downsize.
It last traded at $1.35 million in 2000 and was on the market last year where the price estimate was also $10 million plus.
The house has been up for sale recently on two prior campaigns through Kay &amp; Burton.
It was briefly put up to rent by Marshall White Real Estate in August before being listed for sale.
Toorak homes are currently showing a $3.27 million median having peaked at $3.3 million last year.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Historic 1880s Torresdale Manor, Toorak trophy home

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Melbourne architectural developer <a href="/developers/orchard-piper">Orchard Piper</a> is about to commence demolition on the site for their Washington Street project, which would see the creation of one of <a href="/new-apartments/toorak-vic-3142">Toorak’s</a> most luxurious apartment developments featuring a $15 million Penthouse <a href="/news/return-of-the-luxury-penthouse">covered last year</a> on Apartments.com.au.

<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_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Washington Street. Image courtesy Orchard Piper"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="278" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_street_-_r001_-_elevation_2000_0.jpg?itok=BpfFLsxY" title="Washington Street. Image courtesy Orchard Piper" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Washington Street. Image courtesy Orchard Piper</figcaption></figure>Washington Street presents as a unique apartment offering, a project that for Orchard Piper represents a commitment to contemporary design and sets a benchmark for collaboration on a global scale. Unlike the traditional property ‘developer’ model, design is very much at the forefront of Orchard Piper's projects with very aspect of the developments beginning and ending with meticulous design and exceptional attention to detail. Washington Street this commitment.

Washington Street consolidates three residential blocks into one site located at <a href="/buildings/washington-street-27-washington-street-toorak">27-31 Washington Street, Toorak</a>. Comprising six spaciously proportioned residences over three floors the project also features a penthouse that Orchard Piper believes "will sit comfortably amongst the best in Australia, if not the world."

With architecture by regular collaborator Stephen Jolson of <a href="/architects/jolson">Jolson Architecture</a> and seasonal landscaping by Eckersley Garden Architecture, Washington Street includes two ground floor 'Garden Residences' with expansive north facing gardens and three first floor residences, known as 'The Terraces', sitting comfortably within their green surrounds.

To crown the building, one 1,000sqm penthouse, conceived as a whole floor pavilion sunken into a garden surround, the ‘one of a kind’ penthouse will include a gymnasium, pool, a private garage with separate lobby with dedicated lift access opening onto the gallery hall, in addition to a 1,300 bottle wine room and bar. The Washington Street penthouse will feature expansive city views and comes with a price tag in excess of $15 million.

<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_-_r010_-_study_2000.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Washington Street rooftop. Image courtesy Orchard Piper."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140908_-_washington_-_r010_-_study_2000.jpg?itok=AYTOz1J9" title="Washington Street rooftop. Image courtesy Orchard Piper." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Washington Street rooftop. Image courtesy Orchard Piper.</figcaption></figure>Internally, Jolson has sought to create a sensory experience: Washington Street homes have been designed to allow maximum natural light to filter through into free-flowing, flexible spaces where attention to detail is paramount. The interiors draw on the rich collaborations with international artisans who have been commissioned to make one-of-a-kind fixtures and fittings for the building. Notably, New York based lighting designer Lindsey Adelmen was commissioned by Orchard Piper to design a custom fitting for the entry lobby, and eminent Venetian glass house Venini will be undertaking their first Australian collaboration, creating glass spheres that will identify the apartments.

Every material has been scrutinised for its aesthetic, functionality and contextual relationship, creating interiors that are simple, considered and lasting. Lindsey Adelmen’s organic and industrial forms will add a further graceful dimension to the project, while the bespoke glassware of Venini will further accentuate the residences' majestic features.

Based on their experience with clientele at Davis Avenue, where almost every buyer engaged their own interior designer, Orchard Piper have responded to this desire at Washington Street by engaging Jolson Interiors to curate custom furniture packages to suit every unique apartment layout in the building. The furniture packages are hand picked by Jolson Interiors from Melbourne’s best contemporary furniture suppliers including, Cult, Space, Hub &amp; Poliform.

Orchard Piper have also engaged the sound engineers of Bang and Olufsen to tailor AV packages for each residence which will also be equipped with state-of-the-art Rimadescio walk-in wardrobes

Architect, Stephen Jolson, has used architectural principals of perspective and proportion to create a "perfect sense of place". Washington Street is very much about luxury that is instinctively sensed upon arrival.

<blockquote>
Washington Street represents everything Orchard Piper stands for, a building of understated elegance with considered and thoughtful interiors, where luxury is provided in light, space and proportion. This project will present Toorak with an unrepeatable offering and a beautiful addition. Our projects are built to our own standards, as we would want them finished for ourselves to live in.
<cite>Luke McKie, Director, Orchard Piper</cite>
</blockquote>

Around the corner in Hawksburn, on a site located adjacent to Hawksburn Village, Orchard Piper's St John Lane project is progressing on site with completion penciled in for November this year. A clever, considered architectural solution on a very awkward site, the building has seen Orchard Piper once again engage Stephen Jolson to conceive a design that draws on the simplicity and inventiveness of Japanese architecture, with interlocking forms over three levels.

St Johns Lane unlocks a residential opportunity that captures views over Toorak towards the South Yarra and Melbourne skylines,limited to just four residences. The upper storey is recessed and spills with landscape tracery, creating a notion of a secluded urban retreat. The entire structure is configured to capture maximum light and views, while providing privacy within an inner-city environment and activating the laneway in tandem with Orchard Piper's upcoming project on Mathoura Road.

The entrance is a subtle metal portal with integrated address signage piercing the façade. Internal spaces slowly reveal themselves, using natural tones of oak and stone to transition from the laneway backdrop to private and spacious havens.

<h2>About Orchard Piper</h2>

A lifestyle brand for contemporary property development, Orchard Piper is a partnership of two Directors, Luke McKie and Rick Gronow. Both have a desire to deliver unparalleled contemporary homes of beauty and integrity to owner occupiers in Melbourne. Their starting point and philosophy when it comes to design and property is simple: would they and their friends or family live in the homes? On the back of a handful of projects Orchard Piper has quickly developed a reputation as one of the more architecturally minded developers in Melbourne, with an understanding that excellent outcomes come from collaborations with highly talented individuals.

To this end, Orchard Piper commit to working with leaders in Architecture, Design, Landscape and Construction, delivering projects of some of the highest design integrity and attention to detail you can find. Orchard Piper’s portfolio has quickly built to be valued in excess of $110 million and its attention is now focused on three residential developments: St Johns Lane, Washington Street and Mathoura Road, following completion of the Davis Avenue, <a href="/new-apartments/south-yarra-vic-3141">South Yarra</a> project.

<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/orchard_piper_mathoura_rd_external_reduced.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mathoura Road. Image courtesy Orchard Piper"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="357" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/orchard_piper_mathoura_rd_external_reduced.jpg?itok=txOgz1Tb" title="Mathoura Road. Image courtesy Orchard Piper" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mathoura Road. Image courtesy Orchard Piper</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Architectural craftsmanship is at the heart of every Orchard Piper project. Each property is developed through collaboration with design leaders, resulting in a portfolio of expressive, refined properties of enduring integrity.
<cite>Orchard Piper</cite>
</blockquote>

With a unique commitment to contemporary architectural craftsmanship, Orchard Piper properties are textured, refined and livable. Orchard Piper residential collections can be found in Melbourne’s most sought after and tightly held locales including Toorak, South Yarra with more to follow.

Orchard Piper differentiate themselves as developers and ‘design’ is the touchstone for every decision they make in the development process. Teaming up with Stephen Jolson they have developed a formula for success which sees them employ a typical 2-3 storey podium of apartments, topped with a recessed penthouse apartment. This strategy towards built form ensures a smooth town planning process as the developments adhere to strict town planning guidelines with relation to built form, adequate setbacks, privacy and overlooking of neighbouring properties.
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Laurence Dragomir

Orchard Piper in focus

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The most clicked property listing in Australia recently was an ultra-modern five-bedroom Toorak home.
Maybe it was all the Iris Cristal Bohemia chandeliers that attracted the property voyuers to the recently sold Dingle Partners listing.
The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-toorak-119155971" target="_blank">6 Benson Ave, Toorak</a> is built over four levels with white Marmo glass floors, red onyx features, and Sicis mosaic wall tiles.
There is a water window feature too at the house.
The 606 sq m block cost $2.8 million in 2013 when bought by interests associated with Anna Eydlish.
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Iris Cristal Bohemia chandeliers aplenty in most clicked Toorak home

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The penthouse apartment beside Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe's Toorak pad has been sold.
The <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/for-sale/98a-st-georges-road-toorak-vic-3142-2012011466" target="_blank">98A St Georges Road </a>apartment was sold by Deloitte executive. 
Daniel Radcliffe's pad on St Georges Road was taken off the market earlier this year.
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<img src="https://i1.au.reastatic.net/456x342/60fe4ab083266250daae83bd07fbe35a98ad4505307ac2a173239c3f69e528e8/main.jpg" alt="98A St Georges Road, Toorak" title="98A St Georges Road, Toorak" data-index="0">
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The elegant four-bedroom apartment was listed at $3.1 million through Melbourne Real Estate's Georgina Mellick and Tom Aylward.
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Daniel Radcliffe's Toorak neighbour sells

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Nina Kirby Aberdeen - from the Village Roadshow family - has emerged as the $12 million buyer of an imposing Toorak trophy home, Pin Oaks.
The Illawarra Crescent, Toorak home has a Georgian design, hidden from the street behind a screening hedge.
The home sits on a 2002 square metre block.
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<div class="image-frame"><img src="https://resources0.news.com.au/images/2014/06/19/1226960/383408-b978b73e-f787-11e3-ba3b-878da0800edb.jpg" alt="5 Illawarra Crescent, Toorak. Pool, tennis court, rose gardens and climbing plants are al" width="650" height="366"></div>
The Toorak home comes with pool, tennis court and rose gardens in Paul Bangay designed gardens
Its reception hall comes with parquetry floors and a void opening up to the roof of the second floor. 
Title Tattle recalls Marshall White offered it in early 2014 with Kay &amp; Delany then listing it in late 2014, with delayed settlement paperwork lodged just last month.
 
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po-LsXgBTHBmX

$12 million Toorak purchase by Kirby Roadshow family

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An understated contemporary Wood Marsh-designed house in Toorak sold recently for $6.4 million after being listed with $7 million hopes through Kay &amp; Burton's Gerald Delany.
Laurie Cox, the former Potter Warburg executive chairman, is upgrading to a $9.7 million South Yarra abode.
He was a director of the Australian Stock Exchange from its inception in 1987 and its chairman from 1989 to 1994.
<a href="https://kayburton.com.au/properties/view/1-douglas-street-toorak-3142-sale" target="_blank">1 Douglas Street, </a>a three bedroom house with studio, comes with a lift between its three floors, which include basement parking.
Randal Wood and Roger Marsh designed Douglas Street in 2004 for Cox who wanted a property that could accommodate guests, or carers, as he got older.
Title Tattle gleans Laurie Cox is off to a Marne Street pad in a nine apartment block designed by Allen Powell for developer, Lloyd Williams' Hudson Conway.
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$6.4 million paid for Laurie Cox's Wood Marsh-designed Toorak home

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The BMW i3 emission-free electric cars, included in the first five apartment sales through RT Edgar at One Irving Road, Toorak have been allocated.
The five buyers will have garages that will accommodate wiring for electric car chargers for their new car on completion of the prestige project with give-away gimmick.
The apartment development offers four levels of two, three and four-bedroom apartments, and spaces for one, two, or three cars, with adjacent store rooms.
<a href="https://www.oneirvingroad.com.au" target="_blank">One Irving Road</a> has city views, private gardens, balconies, dual lifts, keyless access systems and open gas fireplaces.
Prices for the apartments range from $1.55 million to $4.25 million in the contemporary four level building comprising 16 expansive single level apartments and two magnificent penthouses each with city skyline view, vista or leafy surrounds.
RT Edgar was making the offer in partnership with BMW Melbourne offering the first 5 purchasers a free BMW i3 including the 15 amp i Wall box charging station.
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<img src="https://assets.boxdice.com.au/rt_edgar/listings/40293/b47c8b91.jpg?&amp;fit=800x" width="800">
The BMW inclusion is to show the developer's commitment to sustainable urban design in the premium development of 18 seven-star energy-rated apartments being constructed by Dianne Gringlas.
"Winter and the mid-year school holidays is traditionally a quieter time of year; however the current market is continuing to benefit positively from high demand and short supply which is significantly influencing the results we are achieving for our vendors. 
"Those forces, combined with record low interest rates, has seen strong sales at 1 Irving Road Toorak with over 30% sold in less than three weeks, Warwick Anderson at RT Edgar said.
Jadig Holdings paid $4,475,000 in its two block site consolidation in early 2013. 
The project was initially refused, but approved on appeal for a construction of a part 4 storey and part 5 storey building containing 18 dwellings including 7 x 2 bedroom and 11 x 3 bedroom in a Residential 1 Zone over a common basement which provides 42 residential parking spaces.
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BMW i3 all parked in One Irving Road, Toorak sustainable apartment complex giveaway

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Jeff Provan's custom-built mid-1990s home at 119 Canterbury Road, Toorak - with striking rooftop light-filled half cylindrical studio - was passed in on the vendor’s bid of $2.75 million at auction last month.
It came with a $3.095 million post-auction asking price through Marcus Chiminello of Marshall White.
<img src="https://i1.au.reastatic.net/456x342/fc8fd89ed79087a8f0e9f5a0dc97c15909664f6ff983631ccf9900761e56480a/main.jpg" alt="119 Canterbury Road, Toorak" title="119 Canterbury Road, Toorak" data-index="0">
The three-bedroom, three-bathroom home was designed by vendor, property designer and developer Jeff Provan with a copper cylinder on the roof. The 199 square metre block cost $340,000 in 1995.
Jeff Provan, of Melbourne design and architecture company Neometro, set himself the task of creating a building that met all the elements of the state's then new Good Design Guide code for houses on small allotments.
He created what he modestly called a box with the ground floor dedicated to living areas, the second is for sleeping and the third is a study or studio. 
Provan began the process using Le Corbusier's "modular scale", developed by the Swiss 20th-century architect based on the proportions of a man.
Title Tattle recalls Provan's Japanese wife, Mariko wanted Victorian proportions in the house while he preferred the minimal Japanese aesthetic. 
In 2007 Provan estimated his house would cost about $1 million to replicate, and require a year of planning and a year for building.
Marketed as showcasing Neometro's trademark pre-eminent design, Marcus Chiminello said scrupulous attention to detail was evident throughout with a blend of stone, timber and natural renders. 
"A timeless rarity," he said.
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Jeff Provan Corbusier-inspired Toorak home remains for sale

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Just one bidder was evident when The Clocktower House in Toorak went to auction on the weekend through Warwick Anderson at RT Edgar.
It was passed in at $3.77 million, but sold at an undisclosed price soon after for what was said to be an "outstanding" offer.
With its bronze clock tower, the residence was originally the garage and chauffeur's residence of the Homeden estate. The Rolls Royce has long gone.
It was converted some 25 years ago.
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/4-lawrenny-court-toorak/Property-Details-buy-residential-8666570" target="_blank">The Clocktower House</a> building dates from the Nicholas Aspro family days. There was feedback during the marketing campaign that Yehudi Menuhin, who had married Nola Nicholas, had practiced his violin upstairs.
It is now a four bedroom home behind its blackwood and copperlight arched doorway following its renovation by John and Judith McKindley family at an estimated $22,000 cost following its 1979 purchase. 
It sits on a 740 square metre block at 4 Lawrenny Court. It last traded in 1985 at around $450,000.
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