National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

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The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

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Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

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Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

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Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

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Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

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Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

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One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

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There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

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"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

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The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

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The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

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Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

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.

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"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.

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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."

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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.

<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/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

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."

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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]

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

Brighton apartments

Kervale has completed ESSENCE Brighton, the first of its two&nbsp;<a href="/developments/brighton-vic-3186">Brighton apartment developments</a>&nbsp;currently in market.

Kervale, who are currently also developing Mode de Vie in Brighton, has taken the wraps off the two-building project on Black Street. Each building, designed by Bruce Henderson Architecture &amp; Interiors, homes 11 apartments.

The final four apartments have just been released to the market, part of ESSENCE's Lux Living Collection. The three-bedroom, north-facing units are priced from $2.4 million.

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Kervale is on its way to delivering another exceptional Brighton project, with construction on track at their newest Brighton residence, Mode de Vie. Promising to be a highly sought-after development, offering a stunning fusion of Parisian sophistication and contemporary Australian design.&nbsp;

The Luxe Living Collection within ESSENCE are priced from $2.4 million and are all three-bedroom, north-facing apartments.&nbsp;

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Each room features a clean, neutral palette within, while adding modern touches with natural stone and VZUG and Liebeherr appliances.

The expansive resident amenities and facilities include a wine cellar, a lounge area, a private dining room, a state-of-the-art gym with a yoga space, as well as integrated dog and car care facilities, inclusive of EV charging stations.

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Bruce Henderson Architects Managing Director &amp; Corporate Director, Graham Morrison, said the amenities on offer are reminiscent of a 6-star hotel.&nbsp;

“The idea behind the design was to be able to provide people with large homes a downsizing option, but still have the facilities they’re used to,"&nbsp;Morrison says.

"The types of amenities on offer are luxuries often reserved for larger homes, meaning purchasers can downsize without compromising their lifestyle, rather they can elevate it.&nbsp;

“The project is not just a vision anymore, it has beautifully transitioned from render to reality, with each meticulously planned and executed design element infused into the final product - a true testament to all the collaborators involved in bringing ESSENCE to life."

Kervale Director Rob Moolman said completing ESSENCE was a proud milestone.

"A true reflection of the harmonious collaboration with Kervale, Bruce Henderson Architects &amp; Interiors, and Markscon Construction. Together, we've created a remarkable space that will stand the test of time,” Moolman said.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112893]

The final four apartments have just been released to the market, part of ESSENCE's Lux Living Collection

Staff Writer

Kervale complete Brighton apartment development ESSENCE Brighton

Joint venture partners Thomas Constructions and QB Constructions have completed their boutique Brighton apartment development, 32 Black Street.

The builder developers have put the finishing touches on the three-level building designed by Architecture Works. It has just six two-bedroom apartments and two penthouses.

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Off the plan buyers have moved into the project, which is just five minutes from the Middle Brighton train station. Only two apartments remain for sale. The two-bedroom penthouse priced from $2.25 million.

Each apartment in 32 Black Street was designed with a spacious open-plan living area with a gas fireplace, a fully-equipped kitchen featuring top of the range Miele appliances, a study room, and expansive balconies looking back to the Melbourne skyline.

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The location of 32 Black Street is undoubtedly one of its most appealing features, offering residents easy access to attractions and amenities. Residents can conveniently shop and dine in the upscale shops and restaurants along the nearby Church Street or visit Brighton Baths, Brighton Yacht Club, and the very popular Brighton Dog Beach.

Noorden Property selling agent David Lamond said the project suited those wanting to downsize in the area without needing considerable amount of space.

"A lot of the apartment product in Brighton is geared toward three bedrooms, but some downsizers don't need that amount of space. It might just be their lock up and leave, city bolthole."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108268]

Off the plan buyers have moved into the project, which is just five minutes from the Middle Brighton train station.

mikah.m@urban.com.au

Buyers move into Brighton apartment development 32 Black Street

Willow, the recently completed <a href="/developments/brighton-vic-3186">Brighton apartment development</a> by <a href="/developers/samuel-property">Samuel Property</a>, has garnered attention for its exceptional landscaping, showcasing a biophilic design that prioritises the health and well-being of its residents.

The landscape architecture practice responsible for Willow's design, Acre, drew inspiration from nature to create a harmonious and elemental approach, resulting in a sensory delight at every turn.

With careful research and innovative thinking, the project team aimed to establish a connection between residents and the living world, complementing the architectural design and enhancing the overall project outcome.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27554 project_image_fid=214579]

The success of biophilic design at <a href="/buildings/willow-brighton-74-78-well-street-brighton">Willow</a> lies in its ability to create a sanctuary that truly feels like home. The design seamlessly integrates with Melbourne's distinct seasons, providing an environment that welcomes and embraces the changes throughout the year.

The award-winning team said it's a landscape designer's role to help complement the architect and improve the overall outcome for the project and its residents by creating a connection to the living world. At <a href="/buildings/willow-brighton-74-78-well-street-brighton">Willow</a>, this was certainly achieved.

“We understand the benefits that having a connection to nature has on human well-being," Acre Creative Director, Brett Robinson, said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27554 project_image_fid=214529]

"With this in mind, it is our role to connect residents with their natural sanctuaries – spaces for them to come home to, unwind and relax."

On approach to the development, the landscaped foreground guides residents on a journey, even before stepping foot inside. The strategic placement of large windows establishes a strong visual connection to nature, framing the lush green terrace and allowing natural light to flood the interiors.

Completed in February 2023, <a href="/buildings/willow-brighton-74-78-well-street-brighton">Willow</a> comprises a collection of only 14 residences nestled along a tranquil, tree-lined side street, moments away from the beach and the vibrant Church Street.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=27554]

Acre drew inspiration from nature to create a harmonious and elemental approach, resulting in a sensory delight at every turn

alisonwarters@gmail.com

How Acre turned Willow Brighton into a biophilic haven 

CBG Architects has been at the forefront of innovative design for over four decades, having been founded by&nbsp;Luch Crema and Con Bahramis, both distinguished graduates in Architecture from the University of Melbourne.

In 1997, the firm joined forces with award-winning designer Pietro Giordano to form CBG Architects, further solidifying their position as industry leaders.

Their most recent designs were for Circa Property Group's Live <a href="/developments/brighton-vic-3186">Brighton</a>, on the edge of renowned Church Street strip.

The Bryson Avenue development&nbsp;presents a thoughtful and reflective design that pays homage to the neighbourhood's rich botanical and architectural heritage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21860 project_image_fid=37860]

The building's form is skilfully softened by subtle curves and textural renders, which wrap around the facade in structural bands. These bands give rise to generous, cantilevered balconies that offer both privacy and a seamless connection to the outdoors.

The upper levels feature bladed details that enhance privacy while adding a touch of character to the overall design. With a maximum of three residences per floor, the building's distinctive style combines open, light-filled spaces with a visually striking exterior, exuding presence, texture, and solidity.

The interiors of Live have been curated by the renowned designers at Mim Design. The ground-floor layout of the expansive two and three-bedroom residences showcases a blend of natural light, soft lines, and warm textures. Sumptuous curves and textured plasterwork reinforce the soothing ambiance, guiding the eye towards banks of northern glass and garden spaces beyond, coupled with high ceilings and wide-board Oak flooring.

The kitchen, a central hub for cooking, dining, and socialising, reflects a clear sense of purpose and original design. Mim Design's concept elevates the kitchen to the realm of finely crafted furniture. Subtle rolled edges and contrasting geometric forms, paired with a restrained tonal palette, create a dynamic space. Swirling marble details and sophisticated metal finishes bring the kitchen to life, while soft shades of grey joinery, stone surfaces, and brushed metal splashbacks open up the space, integrating it with the living areas.

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Premium appliances from Wolf, Asko, and Liebherr are integrated within the cabinetry, while a concealed butler's pantry adds a touch of practicality. The island bench, with its stone base and cantilevered stone top, enhances functionality and provides additional seating and dining space.

The open apartment plans at Live are designed to be personalised and welcoming. Full-height glass sliders create a seamless relationship between the indoors and the outdoors, allowing sunlight to wash over the interiors.&nbsp;

A feature fireplace with honed marble and patinated brass surrounds anchors the space, inviting guests to linger. The joinery, designed as bespoke furniture, combines function and aesthetics seamlessly. Floor-to-ceiling glass cabinetry with metal shelves and marble interiors adds a touch of elegance, while a sliding timber panel conceals the television, adding to the overall sense of design.&nbsp;

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To cater to the refined tastes of residents, most apartments at Live come with a private wine room. Designed as a natural extension of the living area, the integrated spaces offer a thoughtful alternative to traditional cellars. The wine rooms feature backlit walls of wine enclosed in double glazed glass, complete with temperature and humidity control.

The interiors seamlessly transition to expansive balconies that overlook the lush green canopies of Brighton, with views of Melbourne's city skyline. Set into the building form, these balconies offer a protected and private space, becoming an open-air extension of the living zone. Walls of glazing can be peeled back to dissolve the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, providing a welcoming space for dining, entertaining, and enjoying the sun, regardless of the season.

A central lift and staircase connect each home to the basement level, which includes secure parking for two cars, private lockable storage, and bicycle bays.

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The Bryson Avenue development presents a thoughtful and reflective design that pays homage to the neighbourhood's rich botanical and architectural heritage

How CBG Architects and Mim Design teamed up at Live Brighton apartments

In the upscale neighbourhood of Brighton, a new residential project is capturing attention and redefining the meaning of luxury living.

Fifty Two Black, a collaboration by renowned designers Nicholas Day, Jack Merlo, Gregory Tuck, and Meg Sharpe, introduces a distinctive design that combines elegance, exclusivity, and a private elevated lifestyle.

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With only five residences, Fifty Two Black offers house-like proportions, furnished in partnership with Ralph Lauren Home. As the first project in Australia to be entirely furnished with Ralph Lauren Home pieces, the development introduces a new class of elegance and exclusivity to Brighton.

Each is defined by one of three distinct design inspirations, crafted by Meg Sharpe, with Californian Romantic, Desert Equestrian, and Deco Moderne concepts, featuring&nbsp;three bedrooms, two living areas, and a generous terrace.

Upon entering the homes at Fifty Two Black, soaring ceilings of up to 3.3 meters and European anodized bronze windows create a grand sense of space and light, coupled with warm timber floors arranged in a chevron pattern.

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The apartments expansive living areas also feature a stone fireplace, as well as a feature chandelier and handcrafted finishes.&nbsp;

The European kitchens include a butler's pantry, with hand selected marble adorning the benchtops and splashbacks,&nbsp;while pendant lights by Ralph Lauren Home illuminate the classic white joinery.

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Fifty Two Black is the first project in Australia to be entirely furnished with Ralph Lauren Home pieces

The design behind Brighton's Fifty Two Black apartments

Melbourne-based developer Primeland is planning to create a $120 million luxury apartment and townhouse project on the site of Brighton's former Savoy Hotel.

The developer has ambitious plans to transform the 3400 sqm site into a mix of two and three bedroom apartments with unobstructed views across the bay from all three levels, private rooftop gardens for the penthouses, and a separate collection of luxury townhouses to the rear of the site.

Set to cater to the high-net worth local Bayside community, the residences will be priced between $5 million and $20 million, with the penthouse slated to be around 600 sqm.

Located at 150 Esplanade, Brighton, the site was first established as a private residence in 1909 before it was transformed into the Savoy Hotel in 1959 and later purchased by the Lee family in 1967, where it had remained under ownership for 55 years until Primeland’s acquisition.

The site is located less than 100 metres from Brighton’s most famed assets – the Brighton Bathing Boxes that proudly line Brighton Beach. They fetch between $300,000 - $400,000 when they ever come up for auction, but are more likely to stay in families for many generations.

Primeland chairman Robert Brij said the acquisition of the Savoy Hotel underpinned the developer’s strategic focus on the ultra-luxury residential sector.

“This site is a prime jewel in the crown of Brighton; the fact that it has only transacted once in 55 years underpins its rarity and location overlooking the bay," Brij said.

“The vision for this project is to create a luxury experience that is befitting of this superior address, that will stand as a landmark for not only Brighton but all of Melbourne.

“The last few years have seen significant growth in our portfolio and capabilities as we focus on building a mixed-use pipeline across Australia in the hotel, industrial and residential sectors."

Brij believes there's a huge opportunity in Melbourne's ultra-high end residential market.

"We are confident in the continued demand for ultra-high end assets noting that this end of the market is largely unaffected by macro-economic factors or interest rate rises."

On the Savoy, Brij said it's the&nbsp;type of development site that will allow them to create something that will honour its location along one of Australia’s most famed Esplanades.

"We are excited to appoint a leading architect that shares this vision in the coming months and progress to the planning stage with council in due course,” he said.

Primeland has super-charged its pipeline in the residential sector in recent years with a string of acquisitions adding a number of hotel, mixed-use, residential and community-based infrastructure developments to its established industrial portfolio, taking the developer’s pipeline to a combined end value over $1 billion.

The more recent acquisitions include a boutique hotel/hospitality development to be designed by Cera Stribley, and a joint venture residential project with Pelligra - both in East Melbourne - where multidisciplinary design practice Carr is currently designing 14 ultra-luxury residences for the high-end market.

Set to cater to the high-net worth local Bayside community, the residences will be priced between $5 million and $20 million, with the penthouse slated to be around 600 sqm

Primeland buy Brighton's former Savoy Hotel, plan $120 million residential redevelopment

Architecture firm Bayley Ward pushed the envelope when designing Willow, the newest addition to the luxury Brighton apartment market.

The striking curved facade creates a street presence on the tree-lined Well Street. Still, it remains quietly shielded by the generous setback from the street and extensive landscaping providing greenery throughout the building's front facade.&nbsp;

From the outset, Bayley Ward focused on delivering elegance through arches defining each residence's façade and many interior spaces.

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Internally, the residences are light-filled in abundance, with three-metre, floor-to-ceiling windows providing generous natural light and ventilation into each space.

"We wanted each owner to experience a home that’s truly a step above," says Romy Jackson, Development Director at Samuel Property.

"Every residence is tailored to sit comfortably within the tranquillity of the leafy streetscape, whilst optimising the quality of views, light, acoustics and air quality.&nbsp;

“Willow has been designed and built for longevity. We consider the final outcome to be a timeless contribution to the character of the neighbourhood."

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The award-winning team at ACRE, who delivered the extensive greenery in the project, says it's a landscape designer's role to help complement the architect and improve the overall outcome for the project and its residents by creating a connection to the living world. At Willow, this was certainly achieved.&nbsp;

The project team's focus on biophilic design creates a sanctuary to be lived in - a home that feels welcoming and also embraces each of Melbourne's seasons. The goal was also to enhance the streetscape of Well Street, Brighton, which is already a prime location.

Beyond the incredible design and layout of each two, three, and four-bedroom home, Willow also exceeded expectations by delivering luxury finishes that make each residence special.

Willow is also in the best part of Brighton. Just a few hundred metres from the convenience of retail and hospitality on Church Street - the perfect reason downsizers chose this Bayside address.&nbsp;

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Darren Blair of Blair Property Group, who is selling the residences at Willow, says interest has been the strongest from those already living in the Bayside area and looking to downsize.

"We've had significant interest from those in Brighton who have been wanting to downsize for a while but haven't found anything suitable; this project ticks so many boxes for that forever home," Blair says.

Blair says several buyers from suburbs like Sandringham, Hampton, and Toorak are a testament to how good this location is - its proximity to Church Street makes the perfect daily stroll for a coffee or glass of wine.

"The striking building is unique because it has an extensive street frontage that commands a presence on esteemed Well Street. &nbsp;

"The way Willow was conceptualized, it acts as a quiet retreat. However, location-wise, it has everything a downsizer would need, from the Church Street shops to the train station within walking distance".

Each residence features the highest level of design, finish, and appliances, with Liebherr and Vzug featuring in the kitchens.&nbsp;

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Willow residents also have access to a communal wine space, a large temperature-controlled wine room with allocated storage for each residence. One of the penthouses in Willow sold for an undisclosed price in August 2022, at the time setting a Brighton record.

Three-bedroom residences starting from $1,665,000.&nbsp;

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From the outset, Bayley Ward focused on delivering elegance through arches defining each residence's façade and many interior spaces

The curved new entry to Brighton: Samuel Property complete Willow apartments

When designing Hub Property Group's Ten to Twelve apartment development in Brighton, architect&nbsp;Paul Conrad envisioned the project to be a haven of thoughtful forms and confident materiality, with the design maximising the abundant natural light, spaciousness, and the inherent allure of Lindsay Street.

The now completed development of just 10 residences had the interiors crafted by interior design legend Miriam Fanning to exude&nbsp;warmth, depth, and sophistication.

Embracing a contemporary aesthetic while honouring timeless elements, the interiors offer a seamless blend of elegance and functionality, with materials such as natural stone adorning the spaces.

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Collaborating alongside Conrad Architects and Mim Design was renowned landscaper Jack Merlo, who handled the greenery, and Cobild, who handled the construction.

Merlo has enveloped the building in a lush green embrace, connecting it with the canopy of plane trees that grace Lindsay Street, with the verdant courtyards, rooftop gardens, and a harmonious mix of evergreen and deciduous plantings contributing to a natural environment.&nbsp;

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Quality is at the forefront of the development, with appliances boasting up to 5-year warranties and a 6-year building warranty for added peace of mind, while Brodware tapware and Miele appliances further enhance the luxurious experience throughout each.

Situated just a two-minute walk from Church Street, residents have easy access to an array of shops, cafes, and amenities, while Middle Brighton Station is also within proximity, just a few hundred meters away, providing connectivity to the wider Melbourne area.

The three-bedroom apartments feature two-bathrooms and two car spaces, with prices from&nbsp;$2.395 million.

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The now completed development of just 10 residences had the interiors crafted by interior design legend Miriam Fanning to exude warmth, depth, and sophistication

Inside design trio's Ten to Twelve, Brighton apartments

Boxshall, the latest residential collaboration by Jacmax, brings together a renowned international team to create 15 apartments in the heart of Brighton.

Positioned within the prestigious Middle Crescent residential precinct, Boxshall is located across from a verdant park and the historic Town Hall, with the tree-lined neighbourhood epitomising&nbsp;the coveted Brighton lifestyle.

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Presenting as the final opportunity to own an apartment in the Piet Boon-designed development, the last remaining park-facing apartments include a range of three-bedroom floorplans.

The Dutch interior designers collaborated with local architects, Cera Stribley and landscape designers, Myles Baldwin in their first Australian project, which fuses European architecture with the character of Bayside.&nbsp;

The apartments come with spacious living areas, in addition to oversized balconies, which take in park views.

Each apartment has also been designed to maximise natural light and ventilation.

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Residents will enjoy the best of both worlds, with the bustling village atmosphere of Church Street just a short walk away, while the calming oceanside is also nearby.&nbsp;

The location also provides easy access to some of the city's best schools, shopping centres, and medical facilities.

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Presenting as the final opportunity to own an apartment in the Piet Boon-designed development, the last remaining park-facing apartments include a range of three-bedroom floorplans

Final release of park facing apartments on offer at Boxshall, Brighton

Developer Kervale has seen a strong uptake in both of their off the plan, under construction apartment developments in Bayside Brighton.

They've achieved the milestone 50 per cent sold status at their ESSENCE project, the $25 million worth of sales primarily driven by rightsizers, and their more affordable project Mode de Vie.

Both projects are currently under construction, with neither requiring a set amount of pre-sales due to Kervale being a privately-funded developer.

Kervale Managing Director Rob Moolman says the ability to see the project out of the ground and that it isn’t a waiting game has been a key deciding factor for some buyers.

“Confidence is everything in this market and buyers are hesitant to buy off the plan if they don’t know who is building their future home, or what the timeline looks like," Moolman says.

"Buyers want the confidence that their home will be delivered as promised and this is becoming more evident in the current economic climate.”

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Mode de Vie,&nbsp;located in and around Brighton's bustling community and shopping streets,&nbsp;offers a more affordable entry into the Brighton market compared to both ESSENCE and other competing Brighton apartment developments.

There's extensive customisation opportunity at Mode de Vie, something which Moolan says is very rare.

“We believe that it is very rare to find an apartment where you can customise a residence to such an extent, at such an attainable price point, with such a strong environmental focus,” Moolan says.

There are a number of energy efficient features at Mode de Vie, including&nbsp;electric vehicle chargers, solar panels and a battery backup pack, which will lead to significant savings for the purchaser in the long term, and allow owners to charge their EV vehicles from solar power.

On the other end of the spectrum, the penthouse within ESSENCE is one of the suburb’s most expensive apartment sales to date, selling for $10.2 million to someone currently living in Hawthorn.

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“Even with the increased price tag, the people buying in ESSENCE are also looking for a connection to a thriving shopping strip, communal amenities that enhance their apartment living, and spaces that enable them to express themselves," Moolman added.

"We have two very unique projects on either end of the price scale and both are doing exceptionally well in the current market."

ESSENCE is due for completion in late 2023 and Mode De Vie is due for completion in the second half of 2024.

Both projects are currently under construction, with neither requiring a set amount of pre-sales due to Kervale being a privately-funded developer

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