A Moroccan-bathhouse residential tower has been unveiled for Budds Beach, with Australian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/homecorp">Homecorp</a> announcing plans for a $260 million resort-style project in one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held waterfront precincts.

A development application has been submitted to the Gold Coast City Council for a 27-storey tower at 8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue, Surfers Paradise, marking one of the few new large-scale residential projects proposed for the precinct in more than a decade.

The project will comprise 156 two- and three-bedroom residences, anchored by a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired wellness sanctuary featuring private treatment rooms, a traditional Nordic sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools and a curated juice bar. There will also be a resort-style rooftop precinct, complete with a heated infinity pool and spa, a residents’ lounge with a private kitchen and bar, a contemporary fitness centre with a yoga and Pilates studio, and outdoor BBQ areas with entertaining lounges.

<img alt="8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue, Surfers Paradise" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="997f8dbb-4ed1-47e4-8780-d12a3d5cd0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_3.png?VersionId=IsDJXxE8.HG92i4dnbmmPQi.fVXjME7I" />

"At Homecorp, we are driven by the pursuit of better - challenging expectations, thinking bigger and shaping communities that leave a lasting legacy," said Ron Bakir, CEO and Founder of Homecorp.

"This project draws on our experience and expertise to take what the market has been craving to the next level - a home that nurtures wellness, calms the mind and lifts the everyday stresses away. A home is more than a place you live, it’s where you rest, reset and find balance."

&nbsp;

Bakir says what sets the location&nbsp;apart is its rare, tightly held nature within one of the Gold Coast’s most vibrant lifestyle and entertainment precincts, yet quietly tucked away in a peaceful, beachside enclave.

"Budds Beach has remained exceptionally limited in supply over the past decade and this site presented an unmatched opportunity to deliver something truly special to both Surfers Paradise and the Gold Coast.”

Conveniently connected to major roads and the G:link, residents will enjoy easy access to Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads, while still being just minutes from the city’s most iconic beaches and the Broadwater’s ‘golden mile’.

The 2130 sqm site acquisition adds to Homecorp’s growing Gold Coast multi-storey portfolio on the Gold Coast, following the success of Eve Residences in Labrador upon its completion in November 2024. In 2025, Eve earned multiple national accolades and went on to win ‘Best Oceanview Condo Development’ in the Asia Pacific region at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final, outperforming entries from more than 13 prestigious international markets.

The company also commenced construction last year on the highly anticipated $250 million second stage of Cienna Varsity Ridge, set to deliver 289 residences by 2027 in the heart of Varsity Lakes, and launched the $210 million Florence Residences along Surfers Paradise’s Monte Carlo Avenue to the market, with construction kicking off last month.

"The property market is constantly evolving, particularly here on the Gold Coast, which continues to outperform national trends thanks to its unmatched lifestyle, natural beauty and growing infrastructure, especially ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympics. We are proud to be adding more homes to the skyline, creating spaces that are not only designed for liveability but also nurture wellness within. They are homes that are built to last a lifetime and beyond," concluded Mr Bakir.

The project is set to launch to the market later this year.

Joel Robinson

Homecorp lodges plans for $260 million Moroccan bathhouse-inspired tower in Budds Beach

What began as a leap of faith in the 1970s has evolved into one of the Gold Co​ast's most enduring development success stories. Raptis, now led by second-generation developer Evan Raptis, continues to shape the region's skyline four decades after patriarch Jim Raptis first ventured north from Sy​dney.

Jim Raptis began developing in Sy​dney in his 20s under the guidance of a seasoned mentor. After several successful joint ventures, he sensed untapped potential on the Gold Coast and made the bold decision to relocate. That instinct proved prescient, the Raptis family has contributed thousands of apartments to what was once purely a tourist destination and is now recognised as Australia's lifestyle capital.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=361818]

With decades of experience navigating the complex Gold Coast development landscape, Raptis maintains fully vertical integration, from site acquisition and construction through to marketing and sales strategies. This comprehensive approach has allowed the company to weather multiple market cycles and emerge well-positioned for the region's continued growth.

"We've seen the region change drastically over the last two decades, with that change accelerating in the last five years," says Evan Raptis. "The Gold Coast is becoming unrecognisable. There are some exciting projects happening up and down the coast. The Spit is being talked about as Australia's version of Monaco, with billions in development underway."

Unlike the volatile pre-GFC years that rocked the Gold Coast market, Raptis believes the region has matured considerably. "Demand remains strong, but the market is now settled and stable."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=361823]

While the company recently completed Pearl Main Beach, an 84-apartment development just 53 steps from the sand, Broadbeach has truly been home for the Raptis family.

"There's nothing Broadbeach doesn't have," Raptis says. "There's always a new café or restaurant coming into the neighbourhood, and the redevelopment of the Niecon Plaza, bringing nearly 5,500 square metres of retail, dining and office space, will only elevate Broadbeach even further."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=357483]

The suburb has reached what Raptis describes as a "settled phase" of its evolution, with owner-occupiers and repeat visitors increasingly shaping demand rather than traditional investors.

The company's latest Broadbeach project, Sterling, is now constructed to level 22 and scheduled for handover in June 2026. With approximately 70 per cent of apartments already sold ahead of completion, the development has attracted a distinct buyer profile.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=361821]

"We're seeing significant interest from lock-up-and-leave buyers and downsizers," Raptis explains. "Some use the apartments over Easter or Christmas, while others come down from Brisbane on weekends. They aren't your typical 'investors' who will put the apartments up for permanent rental."

Sterling offers prospective buyers a rare advantage: fully completed display apartments showcasing several two- and three-bedroom configurations, something few off-the-plan developments can provide.

With another Broadbeach project in the pipeline, Raptis emphasises that the next chapter is about maintaining standards rather than pursuing growth at any cost.

"We've been building for over four decades, and our track record matters. Our focus remains the same: deliver what we build, stay close to the details, and delivering a finished product that hopefully exceeds our clients' expectations."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=101620]

It’s all in the family: Four decades later, Raptis continues to shape the Gold Coast skyline

JWLand has completed the final residential stage of its Lyneham precinct, Northbourne Village, with De Burgh now welcoming residents who have begun settling into their new homes.

A selection of the 350 studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments remains available within the two-building <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/de-burgh-at-northbourne-village-40-de-burgh-street-lyneham-act-2602">De Burgh</a>, which occupies a prominent position along Northbourne Avenue.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=359152]

The apartments at De Burgh have been configured to prioritise natural light, privacy, and usable outdoor space, with ground-floor homes featuring private courtyards and upper-level apartments opening to generous balconies. Double-glazed windows are standard across the development, supporting acoustic comfort and improved energy performance.

Kitchens are fitted with Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, while all residences include ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning integrated with app-based controls, allowing residents to manage lighting and climate remotely. These inclusions reflect a broader focus on durability, efficiency, and everyday functionality rather than short-term finishes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=356280]

Shared amenity is delivered through a resident gym, rooftop garden, lounge spaces, parcel lockers, and landscaped communal areas that connect De Burgh to the wider Northbourne Village environment.

Nick Babic, Marketing Project Manager at JWLand, said the completion of De Burgh gives buyers a level of certainty that off-the-plan purchases cannot always provide.

“There’s no need to wait or play guessing games. You can come and see the spaces firsthand, and genuinely picture yourself living there today. That includes not only the apartments, but the amenities as well. It’s easy to imagine enjoying a coffee in the central courtyard or spending time with other residents in the lounge.”

The completed status of the project aligns with strong buyer demand for finished stock, particularly among first home buyers, young professionals, and downsizers seeking certainty around timing and cost.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=356282]

With pricing ranging from $463,000 to $1.588 million, much of the offering sits within reach of buyers looking to enter the Inner North apartment market.

De Burgh’s location underpins its buyer appeal, positioned approximately 600 metres from the light rail and three kilometres from Canberra’s CBD, with direct access to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/lyneham-act-2602">Lyneham</a> wetlands, Sullivan’s Creek parkland, and the established hospitality and retail precincts of Lyneham and Dickson.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139989]

Canberra's newest apartment building: JWLand completes De Burgh at Northbourne Village

One of Victoria’s largest private developers, Central Equity, has commenced construction on Palmera, its $1 billion luxury residential development at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast, appointing Tier 1 builder Multiplex to deliver the project.

The fast-track to construction is being undertaken ahead of Central Equity officially launching the project to market.

The company says the move reflects its confidence in both the calibre of its offering and the Gold Coast’s long-term fundamentals, underpinned by one of Australia’s strongest growing economies, continued population growth and sustained infrastructure investment.

A diversifying employment base across health, education, professional services and tourism has helped insulate the local economy from volatility, while limited new supply in established coastal locations continues to support demand from owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking long-term lifestyle value.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera</a> is being constructed in the prestigious Northcliffe residential neighbourhood on an expansive 3,239 sqm site. It is located at 18 Garfield Terrace near the Northcliffe Surf Life Saving Club and the patrolled Northcliffe surf beach, situated between Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361249]

Offering a mix of spacious three-bedroom apartments over 52 levels, Palmera is designed to deliver a full suite of premium residences to buyers looking for the ultimate coastal lifestyle that the Gold Coast has to offer.

The project’s premium apartments will deliver northern views across the Surfers Paradise beachfront and extending all the way around to Burleigh Heads and beyond.

Palmera will be crowned by its top four levels, being a limited collection of penthouses and skyhomes that further elevate the residential offering through generous proportions and uninterrupted panoramic views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361246]

The appointment of Multiplex as the builder represents a major milestone for Palmera and cements Central Equity’s commitment to the Gold Coast after delivering more than 85 residential projects over the past four decades. It will be the 20th project collaboration between Central Equity and Multiplex.

“The commencement of construction at Palmera marks a major milestone for the project, with Tier 1 builder Multiplex appointed to deliver the development in the highly sought-after Northcliffe residential precinct on the Gold Coast,” said Central Equity Executive Director Karl Kutner.

“Our commitment to commence immediate construction is in line with our resounding confidence in the Gold Coast over the long term. The city has evolved and proven to be one of Australia’s most dynamic and resilient property markets in recent years.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361250]

Multiplex, one of Australia’s largest builders, has been shaping skylines and delivering iconic projects around the world since 1962. In that time, the Tier 1 global contractor has delivered projects with a combined value of more than US$130 billion.

“Having worked with Multiplex on many previous developments, we are pleased to be extending our relationship further with Palmera,” Kutner added.

“Multiplex brings an unparalleled depth of experience to ensure that Palmera fulfils the vision we have laid out for this strategic location and is delivered to the highest standards,” he said.

Multiplex Regional Managing Director Michael Sinclair said Multiplex was delighted to be aligning with Central Equity yet again.

“Central Equity is creating a stunning new addition to the Gold Coast skyline, and we look forward to bringing their vision to life with a world-class construction team and program. We are proud to be working alongside Central Equity on our 20th project together.”

Palmera has been designed by Marchese Partners, with interiors by DBI.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361247]

Residents will have private access to extensive, state-of-the-art amenities, featuring two large pools including a generously scaled, family-friendly pool with safe shallow zones, and a 25-metre lap pool facing the western side, ensuring maximum sunlight all day.

Also available exclusively to residents is a sauna, magnesium pool, yoga studio, expansive gym, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ and dining areas. Residents will also be welcomed by concierge and luxurious entry foyer.

Located on Garfield Terrace in Northcliffe, Palmera enjoys a prime coastal position just moments from the patrolled Northcliffe beach and the G:link light rail, providing effortless connectivity along the Gold Coast’s beachfront suburbs, linking the Gold Coast University Hospital in the north with Nobby beach and Burleigh Heads to the south once the extension completes later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Central Equity unveils Palmera on Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise

The idea of a low-maintenance forever home located close to the city were the two driving factors behind a recent purchaser’s journey at Murcia, the under-construction East Brisbane apartment development by Sarazin.

Last year, Lois and her husband purchased a two-bedroom plus multi-purpose room (MPR) apartment in the new building, which is being constructed by Hutchinson Builders and is on track for completion in late-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=341638]

The couple’s number one priority was to remain within easy commuting distance of the city for work. Murcia is positioned alongside the new Cross River Rail, with Woolloongabba Station just 300 metres from the front door.

They are currently living in their Annerley unit, which they have owned for several years, after recently moving out of their inner-city apartment, located on the very same street as Murcia.

“We had watched the development for a long time, and when construction activity began, that’s when we felt confident to buy,” Lois said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=356540]

The timing also made sense. By moving back into their Annerley unit, they are able to save money ahead of settlement, while looking forward to returning closer to the city once Murcia is complete.

“We see Murcia as a forever home, as opposed to an investment, or something we need to appreciate massively in value and move on from in a few years,” Lois said.

“We secured an apartment large enough to grow a family, so we’re expecting to call Murcia home for a very long time.”

The couple plan to grow their family, but without the added maintenance demands of owning a standalone house further from the city. Working with Sarazin and architect HAL, they were able to slightly tweak the floorplan, converting the two-bedroom plus MPR layout into a functional three-bedroom apartment.

An added bonus was the recently revised communal space plans, which now incorporate a dedicated working-from-home area, complete with work pods, and shared desks.

“It means the third bedroom doesn’t have to become a part-time office and part-time bedroom,” Lois said, adding that residents have the benefit of working from home without actually being inside their apartment.

The rooftop wellness amenity was another standout compared to living in an established complex or a house. A signature feature of Sarazin developments, the rooftop will include a full gym, hot and cold plunge pools, a steam room and sauna, and a hotel-style pool with cabanas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=214682]

Buyer journeys can vary significantly, from purchasing in the established market to buying new, or choosing between houses and apartments. Lois said they knew immediately that buying off the plan was right for them.

“We wanted something new, with less maintenance, and we weren’t quite ready to make the full financial leap straight away. The timing and deposit structure gave us the flexibility we needed.”

Designed by HAL Architects and inspired by the Spanish city of Murcia, the development takes a Mediterranean-influenced approach to architecture and landscaping, with a strong emphasis on shared spaces.

“The design feels considered, the amenities support how we actually live, and the location keeps us connected to the city without feeling right in the middle of it.”

Murcia is Sarazin’s second development in the area, following the completion of Silk One just up the road in 2022. They have several more projects coming to market in Woolloongabba ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135094]

Close to the city, built for the future: Inside a growing family’s move to Murcia in East Brisbane

Victoria Square

<html><body>
Developer Growland has appointed LU Simon to build stage one of its mixed-use residential <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">project Victoria Square</a>, with construction now underway on the first two towers, reinforcing the continued demand for Footscray. 

The $600 million project comprises six residential towers of 937 apartments, in addition to over 5,500 sqm of commercial, retail and hospitality space on Hopkins Street.  The first phase of Victoria Square is expected to be completed by late 2020 and has achieved sales of 90%. <a href="/news/victoria-squares-next-phase-adds-to-footscrays-development-pipeline">Stage three, titled VS03, has just launched to market and will include a boutique collection of just 86 apartments.</a>

Growland says it’s not surprising Footscray has become a hotspot, particularly for young buyers, with research from District Data indicating that the area is in the early ‘hotspot’ phase, providing buyers an opportunity to take advantage of excellent value for money.

<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/victoria_square_-_facade_hero_shot_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The first stage of Victoria Square has commenced construction. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="883" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/victoria_square_-_facade_hero_shot_1.jpg?itok=aIAiSK8i" title="The first stage of Victoria Square has commenced construction. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The first stage of Victoria Square has commenced construction. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>According to Growland, the company is proud to be partnering with LU Simon, a builder that it says shares its vision for the project and commitment to the well-being of the residents.LU Simon has had a presence in the Melbourne for over 60 years, across a broad portfolio of projects including eight residential projects across Australia currently at construction.

Victoria Square is just one of a growing number of residential sites commencing in Footscray, with the suburb now one of Melbourne’s most sought-after inner-suburbs for young homebuyers. <a href="https://www.districtdata.com.au/">District Data</a> indicates the proportion of residents aged 20-39 has increased by a substantial seven per cent between 2006 and 2016. These buyers are driving demand for housing and a subsequent shift in the local built environment, with approximately 282 dwellings currently under construction in the area.

The appeal of Footscray as a suburb to buy apartments in is also reflected in it being amongst <a href="/news/urbans-top-5-for-october-most-viewed-suburbs">the 5 most viewed suburbs on Urban.com.au during October</a>, in fourth place. 

<h2>Footscray's development pipeline</h2>

<iframe frameborder="0" height="420px" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/footscray-vic?embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Footscray is an ideal location for young families, working professionals and first and second home buyers. In addition to being just 4km from Melbourne’s CBD, it is a thriving education and employment hub in its own right, which is driving the shift in demographics to younger buyers that want to be close to the action.

The multicultural community offers an impressive variety of hospitality options and a friendly and vibrant atmosphere. It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to play a role in the area’s rejuvenation and to create a communal space where locals can enjoy top-quality restaurants and retail outlets.

- Bruce Chan, Growland Chairman
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Victoria Square is more than a residential project, it’s a large-scale lifestyle precinct that will help shape the fabric of the Footscray area and bring value to the local community. Given the level of design quality and the scale of the development, it is integral that the builder we partner with has a proven track record of delivering similar projects on time, and to budget.

Commencing construction at Victoria Square is an important milestone that we are proud to share with our purchasers and future residents.

- Ronald Chan, Growland CEO
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
The median unit price in Footscray is $405,000, which is unheard of for a suburb that is within 5km of the CBD; Flemington, Hawthorn and Windsor are all a similar distance and significantly more expensive. Combine that with a fantastic public transport network, proximity to education and employment and a buzzing café culture, and I have no doubt we will continue to see an increase in demand for apartments in the area.

- Daniel Slomoi, District Data managing director
</blockquote>
</body></html>

Laurence Dragomir

LU Simon commences construction on Growland's Victoria Square

<html><body>
Designs for the next phase of Growland Group's six tower <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">Victoria Square residential development</a> in Footscray have been released. <a href="/news/fender-katsalidis-appointed-for-victoria-squares-next-phase">As reported</a> on Apartments.com.au back in May, Fender Katsalidis were tasked with the design of the twin tower project, located within the Joseph Road precinct bound by Hopkins Street, the Maribyrnong River and the railway line.

The Joseph Road Precinct represents 15 hectares of developable land which has been identified as a Priority Development Zone in the Council’s Structure Plan for Footscray.

<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/grow10087_vic_sq_stage_2_e01_hero.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The first of two tower, VS03 was launched this month. Image: Growland Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/grow10087_vic_sq_stage_2_e01_hero.jpg?itok=t9xReUwg" title="The first of two tower, VS03 was launched this month. Image: Growland Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The first of two towers, VS03 was launched this month. Image: Growland Group</figcaption></figure>In launching stage three which will be known as VS03, Growland claims it has responded to buyer demand and a maturing apartment market. VS03 will feature a product mix and floor plans geared towards owner occupiers, who account for 80 per cent of the sales to date. 76 per cent of the apartments within stage three comprise two-bedroom, two-bathrooms, while all 86 apartments will feature floor plans larger than Melbourne’s average and have at least one car space, one storage cage and a private balcony ranging from eight to 13 sqm.

Fender Katsalidis have designed twin curvilinear towers which draw on Victoria Square's riverside location along the Maribyrnong River, with full height windows maximising panoramic views over the river, the CBD and the bay beyond. VS04 will be released at a later date, with the first two stages achieving 90% sales success.

<blockquote>
We wanted to create a building that offered flexibility for buyers, many of whom are looking to purchase a home that will suit them as they shift through various stages of life. Each apartment has been designed specifically for owner occupiers, taking into account their wants and needs and how we can optimise their living experience.

- James Pearce, Director, Fender Katsalidis
</blockquote>

<iframe frameborder="0" height="420" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/footscray-vic?embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

 

With construction expected to commence in late 2019, VS03 will add to Footscray's development pipeline of <a href="/developments/footscray-vic-3011">45 projects currently being tracked on the Urban.com.au database</a>. It's fair to say Footscray is now well on its way to realising its potential as an Activity Centre with support from both local and state government, and private investment.

 

One of the largest projects within the Joseph Road precinct will be 2 Neilson Place. Designed by Architecton for FJP Pty Ltd the development will comprise 4 towers, 577 apartments over 26-storeys along with 572 car spaces and retail tenancies on a corner site of 6,264 sqm with frontages to Maryibyrnong Street and Neilson Place. 

Projects currently under construction within Footscray include multi-tower developments at <a href="/buildings/riverina-22-hopkins-street-footscray">Riverina</a> and 2 Hopkins Street, and the largest development within Footscray, <a href="/buildings/live-city-124-188-ballarat-road-footscray">LiveCity</a>. Occupying a massive 33,393 sqm site, the first stage will account for 208 apartments on the western portion of the site. LU Simon is at the helm of the stage one build of 15-storeys, with future stages varying in heights between eight and 18-storeys. 

<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/footscray_development_projects_oct.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Key projects across Footscray include Neilson Place, Riverina and LiveCity"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/footscray_development_projects_oct.jpg?itok=QDeEg5FM" title="Key projects across Footscray include Neilson Place, Riverina and LiveCity" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Key projects across Footscray include Neilson Place, Riverina and LiveCity</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

Victoria Square's next phase adds to Footscray's development pipeline 

<html><body>
Developer Growland has recently appointed Fender Katsalidis (FK) to design phase two of its six-tower, mixed-use residential project, Victoria Square in Footscray. 

Fender Katsalidis will design a total of four towers for the project across two stages of the Hopkins Street development with the first two towers being delivered as part of stage two sited above the commercial podium.

Together, the $88m second stage will add a further 146 apartments to the rapidly evolving Footscray Activity Centre, on top of the 454 apartments within the two towers of Stage one of Victoria Square.

FK will work closely with Growland and the project team to ensure the next phase reflects the existing design for stage one, which was created by Kavellaris Urban Design.

<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/victoria_square_skygarden.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Stage One of Victoria Square's sky garden. Image: Growland"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/victoria_square_skygarden.jpg?itok=GlZPCk0d" title="Stage One of Victoria Square's sky garden. Image: Growland" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Stage One of Victoria Square's sky garden. Image: Growland</figcaption></figure>According to Growland, Fender Katsalidis was appointed "due to the firm’s synonymous values and creative vision" and that the appointment reflected the developer’s confidence "in Melbourne’s apartment market into 2018 and beyond."

Growland has revealed the apartment towers will feature a greater proportion of larger apartments than the first phase of Victoria Square; a direct response to the significant number of local owner-occupiers that have shown interest in the project. The prominence of two and three-bedroom apartments will appeal to a broad cross-section of buyers, according to FK. 
In addition to the residential towers, Victoria Square will offer 5,720 sqm of commercial space across the whole project, an activated public laneway with retail and hospitality offerings and amenities including a gym, pool, spa, private dining rooms, library and Australia’s first aerial running track.

Construction is due to commence in June 2018 and Stage One of Victoria Square is expected to be complete by the second half of 2020. Phase two will be launched in the second half of 2018.

<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/victoria_square_laneway.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victoria Square's laneway will be activated with retail and hospitality tenancies. Image: Growland"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/victoria_square_laneway.jpg?itok=NXV1Ea7Y" title="Victoria Square's laneway will be activated with retail and hospitality tenancies. Image: Growland" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victoria Square's laneway will be activated with retail and hospitality tenancies. Image: Growland</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
Victoria Square’s first two buildings, comprising 420 apartments, are already 80% sold with local demand exceeding our projections.

Melbourne’s apartment market has matured to a point where buyers embrace apartment living as long as the product is of a high architectural quality both inside and out and is anchored by a strong vision for the future.

We want to meet the market and then push it that little bit further, which is why we have decided to appoint Fender Katsalidis to design the next phase of the project,

Growland is happy to be collaborating with a team that is just as committed as we are to delivering homes that people are proud to live in and will last a lifetime.

Fender Katsalidis understands our residents and appreciates the significant opportunity we have to shape the Footscray community through this built environment.

- Ronald Chan, Growland CEO
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
It is important to us that these apartments remain flexible and can be used by a variety of households – whether it be two people sharing and renting, a family with children or a couple wanting a spare bedroom.

We have exceeded all industry standards to ensure ample living rooms and an abundance of natural light to align with the requirements of the astute owner-occupier at Victoria Square.

Phase one has a distinctive shape to it so we’ve investigated how we could complement this design feature while giving the two new buildings a character of their own.

We considered the site itself and its location – historically Footscray functioned as small village along the curving banks of the Maribyrnong River where goods would come in from the boats and then be sent across to the city.

There is a strong historical connection with the river and with the area’s focus on maintaining a tight-knit community – we wanted the building to reflect that.

We used the shape of the river to create a curved ribbon pattern across the glass façade of the buildings created through a raised spandrel and solid balcony panels. We have given the building an identity that’s based on its locality and history.

- James Pearce, FK Director
</blockquote>
</body></html>

Fender Katsalidis appointed for Victoria Square's next phase

<html><body>
Standing dormant for years, Kinnears Footscray has finally begun its transformation into a mixed-use precinct.

Builder LU Simon has initiated works on Stage One of the project, which will be known as <a href="/buildings/live-city-124-188-ballarat-road-footscray">L.I.V.E. City</a>. Beating out other contractors such as Hutchinson and Hamilton Marino, LU Simon is tasked with delivering 208 apartments across 14 levels at the western most section of the massive 33,393 square metre site which is addressed 124-188 Ballarat Road.

Demolition works are in progress elsewhere across the site, gradually removing the structure that formerly housed the rope manufacturer. Architecture firm Elenberg Fraser are working on the master-planned precinct for developer R&amp;F Property Australia. 

Although a display suite onsite is ready, no public release of apartments has taken place as yet.

<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/image281.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Works across the Kinnears site with XO Projects' take on the development"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="492" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image281.jpg?itok=BV_aStlz" title="Works across the Kinnears site with XO Projects' take on the development" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Works across the Kinnears site with an early masterplanned image for the site</figcaption></figure>Meanwhile works across <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">Growland's Victoria Square</a> site have begun following a January approval to amended plans for the development.

Six buildings consisting of 900 plus apartments, offices and extensive retail space can proceed. The $600 million project now has excavators onsite preparing for a construction start.

Amendments to the Kavellaris Urban Design scheme included bumping apartment numbers up to 931, increasing commercial floor space to 6,012 square metres and boosting parking spaces within the development to 1075. <a href="https://urban.melbourne/planning/2017/10/10/growland-pushes-footscrays-victoria-square-new-heights">Building heights were also marginally increased</a>, with the tallest to stand at 25 storeys.

Stage One of Victoria Square includes the delivery of 161 single bedroom, 265 dual bedroom and 28 triple bedroom apartments across two towers.

<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/image27_5_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The amended and approved Victoria Square. Image: KUD"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image27_5_0.jpg?itok=pVUNNQPH" title="The amended and approved Victoria Square. Image: KUD" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The amended and approved Victoria Square. Image: KUD</figcaption></figure>With earthworks in progress, construction proper on Stage One of Victoria Square is slated to begin mid this year, with a completion target of 2020.

Either side of Victoria Square, construction is also in motion for two fellow Joseph Road Precinct projects. Blue Earth Group have initiated construction across 2 Hopkins Street, whilst Stage One of Riverina Footscray has recently topped out.

It will temporarily hold the title as Footscray's tallest residential tower until Victoria Square's first stage is completed. Future stages of Riverina will see two 31 level apartment towers also delivered.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_7067.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Riverina Footscray construction progress"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="355" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_7067.jpg?itok=hE1vkpNG" title="Riverina Footscray construction progress" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Riverina Footscray construction progress</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

silvermb

Kinnears and Victoria Square add to Footscray's construction upswing

<html><body>
Affordability is the buzz word, and has been for some time in regards to Melbourne's property scene. It's quite hard to escape the plethora of articles on the pressing issue at the moment, and understandably so.

One such article in this week's AFR goes in depth on the <a href="http://www.afr.com/opinion/columnists/melbourne-holds-the-answer-to-the-housing-crisis-20170403-gvd0wv">housing affordability issue</a>, touching upon both the detached housing and apartment sector, and the differences between the two from a local perspective. In this malaise of unaffordability, one developer has taken steps to position their pending development as a genuine opportunity to secure an inner-city apartment at an affordable price.

Growland's first stage within Footscray's Victoria Square development will see 61sqm one-bedroom plus study apartments priced at $298,000. Any buyer actively looking to enter the market will be aware that the apartment size versus price outcome at Victoria Square is skewed in favour of the buyer.

In a recent media release, Growland's CEO Ronald Chan addressed the affordability quandary:

<blockquote>
The key to addressing Melbourne’s affordability lies in high rises like Victoria Square – strong, modern communities are created through high density living. It is vital that the next generation has access to quality homes, with considered, long lasting architecture, but at a price that is achievable in relation to today’s median household incomes.

Young people also need to be able to live at a reasonable distance to where they work. Melbourne’s employment precinct has traditionally been concentrated to the CBD, meaning the inner ring suburbs are incredibly important to Melbourne’s future growth.
</blockquote>

CoreLogic's median price for a one bedroom Melbourne apartment is $330,000, whilst REIV has the median Melbourne apartment price above $585,000 for the December 2016 Quarter.

With the first stage including 240 one, two and three bedroom apartments, its unclear how many single bedroom apartments are priced at $298,000. Nonetheless it will be an appealing price for a certain segment of the buyer market and an attractive hook in order to encourage buyer interest within Victoria Square.

<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/image14_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="An apartment within Victoria Square"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image14_10.jpg?itok=o4zrbHHi" title="An apartment within Victoria Square"></a>

<figcaption>An apartment within Victoria Square</figcaption></figure>Previously dubbed Joseph Place, Victoria Square has been extensively covered by Apartments.com.au in the past.

As one of Joseph Road Precinct's power development blocks covering 13,179sqm, Growland hold approval for 939 apartments across 6 separate buildings. Stage 1 of  Victoria Square will rise 23 levels and maintain a wave-like exterior.

In addition to the 240 apartments, Stage 1's street level activation will be considerable. A retail laneway will slice through the distinctive podium, featuring 3,000sqm of retail and hosptiality space which will be built in conjunction with the first tower.

Above, the stand out communal facility is Australia’s first and only Olympic-sized aerial outdoor track. Also in tow is a residents’ pool, gym, and cinema whilst a 3,000sqm podium skypark will provide the project with a generous slab of open space.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/jp-01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victoria Square's first stage"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="773" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jp-01.jpg?itok=K6tDvi2T" title="Victoria Square's first stage" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victoria Square's first stage</figcaption></figure>
</body></html>

Victoria Square

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Victoria Square

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News