<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA</a>&nbsp;doesn’t just rise over North Sydney, it redefines it. Now in its final release, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>’s $1 billion architectural statement is not just complete, but already reshaping the way people live, connect and dine in this rapidly evolving harbourside CBD.

Positioned beside the new Victoria Cross Metro Station and boasting panoramic views across Sydney Harbour, Aura’s 386 residences crown a mixed-use precinct designed with unapologetic ambition. The curvaceous sandstone-inspired form by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, paired with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richard Stanisich</a>’s understated interiors, sets a design tone that’s both monumental and intimate.

At its peak, literally, the two penthouses so spectacular they command their own names; La Davina and Il Magnate. The residents are spread across the&nbsp;entire top floor, offering what many consider the most refined residences ever built in North Sydney. Designed by Richard and Kirsten Stanisich, each four-bedroom home is meticulously crafted to evoke calm, space, and permanence.&nbsp;

<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/VB70993aG-I?si=adRBlXQliYmYvaSz" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The kitchens are fully wrapped in natural stone, with integrated Gaggenau appliances, Sub-Zero fridges, concealed sculleries, and even a zip hydro tap delivering boiling, chilled and sparkling water on demand. A linear stone fireplace anchors the open-plan living space, dividing lounge and dining zones with quiet sophistication.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292861]

The master suite, meanwhile, feels more like a private retreat, complete with a custom stone makeup vanity, walk-through dressing area, and spa-inspired ensuite with heated stone floors, a freestanding Villeroy &amp; Boch tub, and timber veneer joinery throughout.

Kirsten Stanisich, Director of Richards Stanisich, said the penthouses offer incredible scale reflective of a single residence.&nbsp;

“We sought inspiration for these remarkable residences from the classic top-floor Parisian apartment," Stanisich said.

"We looked at what made these French apartments so elegant and found it really came down to their scale. It was ultimately this generosity of space that we used for the AURA penthouses, where we’ve designed considered rooms with deep large-scale proportions."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

Everyday living at Aura feels no less elevated. A dedicated 24-hour concierge, Technogym fitness centre, sky dining terraces, and a resort-style pool serve a lifestyle designed to rival luxury hotels.

At street level, Aqualand’s own hospitality arm, Etymon Projects, curates a precinct of LA-style bistros, Japanese fine dining, and local wine bars, all seamlessly integrated into the building’s sculptural podium.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=310337]

This final chapter, aptly dubbed The Finale, is more than a sales phase, it’s an invitation to two of the most exclusive apartments ever to be built in North Sydney.

With limited residences remaining, buyers can access curated incentives including stamp duty rebates, rental guarantees, legal fee coverage, and even $20,000 towards dining within the precinct.

From generous one-bedders to The Icons, two singular penthouses priced well into prestige territory, Aura’s offerings reflect a scale and calibre rarely seen in urban Sydney. And with move-in now immediate, this is no longer a promise of future luxury. It’s happening.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Staff Writer

Aqualand unveils penthouse collection at AURA By Aqualand in North Sydney

There’s no sign of the development wave that began several years ago slowing along Old Burleigh Road.

Around 10 new apartment developments are either underway or preparing to launch along the 800-metre strip stretching from the southern edge of Surfers Paradise towards the heart of Broadbeach, collectively adding just shy of 1,000 new apartments to the beachfront corridor.

The latest plans propose a further 30 apartments to replace an original six-unit walk-up on a 658 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/20a-old-burleigh-road-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">20A Old Burleigh Road</a>. The 14-storey building has been designed by Ferro Chow Architecture, which recently joined the Elevation Architecture Group.

The developer behind the project is Geoffrey Booth, whose Future Liv In has focused on delivering rental accommodation across regional Australia.

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="99d393e7-d404-43bc-80cb-6255c39b83d6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.44%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ZFT8F3mOny4M4ut.kFF3woC9WH9oR5gT" />

The Old Burleigh Road development will comprise 18 two-bedroom apartments, 10 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom residence occupying the entirety of level 12. Above, the building will be crowned by a two-storey penthouse with its own private lift, several multi-purpose rooms, and two rooftop terraces — one featuring a puppy lawn and spa, the other offering a private swimming pool, sunset deck, and built-in barbecue.

Resident amenities will be located on the second level and include a pool with adjoining spa, cabana, and pool deck, along with an indoor residents’ lounge featuring a bar and an alfresco barbecue kitchen.

In the architectural statement submitted by Elevation Architecture, the project is referred to as “UMI”, which the firm says has been “inspired by the majestic hinterlands and shaped by the coastal climate”.

“It is an exemplar of how community living can still feel at one with nature, breathable, and deeply connected in place,” the architects noted.

They added that the site benefits from established building separation to adjoining towers, helping to maintain privacy, sunlight, and residential amenity, while still offering direct beach access within an urban setting.

“Drawing inspiration from the Gold Coast hinterlands and the region’s natural landscape, the podium and tower detail highlights the contrasting elements of treetop green and cliff-face peach. The vibrant texture and materiality shaped by time has a richness in depth and character.”

<img alt="Old Burleigh Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3d6c923-a0ab-4d74-86da-177313447e8e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2012.28.38%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=i2fygmoVQM6hWpbATTAW_yTitoMTrnI1" />

Old Burleigh Road has become a hotspot for developers, with the three-tower Jewel development kickstarting a wave of projects up and down the strip when it was completed in 2020.

Currently under construction and approaching completion is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/faro-broadbeach-123-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">FARO Broadbeach</a> by 5Point and Bottega, 21 large-scale half- and full-floor apartments. 5Point is also behind the recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lumara-108-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Lumara</a>, another 37 apartments to add to the pipeline.

Luxury builder GRAYA is progressing construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/enclave-by-graya-118-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Enclave</a>, its first Gold Coast tower, while Polycell remains the most active developer on the street. They are preparing to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sandpiper-broadbeach-155-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">Sandpiper</a>, a 50-storey redevelopment of the former Sandpiper Holiday Resort that will deliver around 200 apartments alongside extensive resident amenity. The group also has another 130-apartment project approved nearby, as does <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/dvb-approved-for-second-broadbeach-apartment-development">Dean Gallagher’s DVB Projects</a>.

Joel Robinson

First look: Old Burleigh Road apartment development wave continues

Sunshine Coast developer Habitat Development Group continues to position itself as one of the region’s largest new apartment developers.

Its latest project is in Maroochydore, where it is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-millwell-2-millwell-road-east-maroochydore-qld-4558">The Millwell</a>. Adjacent to the new 53-hectare Maroochydore City Centre project, Habitat is planning a further 180 apartments on a 3,468 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/132-136-aerodrome-road-maroochydore-qld-4558">132–136 Aerodrome Road</a>. The site was purchased with approval for a smaller 13-storey, 103-unit building.

Habitat will demolish the two existing retail centres, currently home to the Salvation Army Family Store and Neighbours Aid, and replace them with an 18-storey building featuring the significant rooftop amenities that have become a hallmark of Habitat developments in recent years. The rooftop will include both indoor and outdoor spaces, anchored by an infinity swimming pool.

<img alt="Maroochydore" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad434d07-666b-4614-b33e-530ad6a2d261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.33%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7pyLsPWKQuwv0us3_v.9DmbzEc2VZe9Z" />

There will be a mix of one- to four-bedroom apartments.

The Development Assessment Report, submitted to the Sunshine Coast Council, says the proposal&nbsp;is not speculative, but a response to both zoning intent and demonstrated housing need.

“The proposed development represents an appropriate and logical intensification of the site, consistent with the planning framework and the intended urban outcomes for the locality.”

Across the Sunshine Coast, councils are increasingly scrutinising not just height or yield, but whether new projects genuinely align with the long-term structure plans underpinning growth corridors. The&nbsp;ASTP Planning Report&nbsp;reinforces the approach, noting that the project has been shaped around site responsiveness rather than generic typology.

“The development has been designed to respond to the physical constraints and opportunities of the site, while delivering a high-quality residential outcome that integrates with the existing and emerging urban context.”

<img alt="Habitat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a03fc54-4ca5-4868-88d0-eeced70604e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-05%20at%2010.12.28%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=1pkK3lJrrZjkghTLBReM2zatcas4Nc4B" />

In mid-2025, Habitat, a developer that also builds its own projects, commenced construction on The Millwell, located just over one kilometre from the new proposal. The Millwell will comprise more than 200 apartments across two eight-storey buildings.

Habitat also has two projects on Lake Kawana in Birtinya: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-clair-birtinya-930-931-waterside-retreat-birtinya-qld-4575">St Clair</a>, a 200-unit, two-building development launched last year and set to welcome buyers this year; and Esperance, a 175-apartment project currently progressing through the development approval process.

First look: Habitat continues to bolster Sunshine Coast apartment pipeline with Maroochydore development plans

John Camilleri, the breeder of legendary racehorse Winx, is set to deliver a landmark two-tower beachfront development that would redefine the Surfers Paradise skyline.

Camilleri, who spent around $100 million acquiring development sites across the Gold Coast in 2025, has lodged plans for two new towers on the dress-circle stretch of Garfield Terrace, just two days before Christmas.

In assembling the site, Camilleri's Celestino Developments has effectively acquired the 71 Garfield project by Iris Capital and AALTO by Weiya Holdings, creating an unrivalled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">4,000 sqm beachfront holding along Garfield Terrace</a>.

The proposal comprises two residential towers of 55 and 48 storeys, linked by a dramatic skybridge which will home “exclusive VIP and wellness amenities.”

In total, the development would deliver 275 two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments across the two towers, rising above a shared landscaped podium that incorporates a central green space and a beachfront swimming pool stretching more than 90 metres.

<img alt="DBI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="097900f3-6bef-4919-b168-b08f2f762876" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.37.58%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=et0SpmcvaPPVrexI_zWi46BVFtZBxAzx" />

Architecture firm DBI, in documents submitted to Gold Coast City Council, said the project at 63–79 Garfield Terrace would “establish a new benchmark for beachfront residential living on the Gold Coast.”

"The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience. Together, the 48-storey North Tower and 55-storey South Tower form a distinctive twin-tower composition whose dynamic silhouette will make a significant contribution to the Surfers Paradise skyline."

DBI said the architectural language draws inspiration from the fluidity and movement of the coastal landscape.

"Each tower is defined by organic, curving forms and continuous balcony ribbons that wrap the buildings, providing deep shading, enhancing environmental performance, and reinforcing the rhythmic, sculptural expression of the façade. These balcony forms also reduce the apparent mass of the towers while maintaining strong visual continuity from podium to summit. Sculpted reflective downturns run along the western spine of both towers, shifting and lifting as they extend upwards to frame service zones and open eastward to maximise ocean views."

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a2a00ce3-a0e9-45d6-b4b5-b7baed592ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.40%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=DnruWV1dhLrtXOeElwekyd7vPq2gw55t" />

The project’s most striking feature is the skybridge at level 45, which will house executive lounges, formal dining spaces, wellness facilities and panoramic ocean-facing views.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI added.

The podium will host an extensive suite of recreational amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a large open green lawn, and the signature 90-metre pool stretching along the beachfront. The pool is divided into lap, lounge and children’s zones.

The southern end of the podium will accommodate additional wellness facilities, including a gymnasium, plunge pools, treatment rooms and a dedicated yoga lawn.

<img alt="Garfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee1b4f25-231f-4804-83b1-a573a1481962" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.55.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zObzIA3D5w7EwqPsHjr2pKrA4vbB28zL" />

There will be 127 apartments in the North Tower and 148 in the South Tower, including multiple penthouses, while the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages will be activated by a series of food and beverage tenancies.

Camilleri emerged as the most active site acquirer on the Gold Coast in 2025. He spent just over $30 million acquiring Pacific Point, a 10-level Surfers Paradise apartment block and an adjoining three-level duplex, from fellow racing identity and Aquis billionaire Tony Fung. Plans are now underway for a 93-apartment, 40-storey tower on the 1,682 sqm site.

He also paid $53.65 million for the 1,500 sqm Garfield Terrace site previously marketed as AALTO by Weiya Holdings, before acquiring the adjoining parcel from hotel billionaire Sam Arnaout’s Iris Capital, the developer behind V&amp;A Broadbeach.

First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge

The Melbourne-based HLA Group is the latest developer to expand into South East Queensland, lodging plans for a unique mixed-use short-term accomodation and apartment building in Taringa, with the building design inspired by the Glasswing Butterfly.

The development application for 10 Morrow Street seeks approval for a total of 232 dwellings, comprising 116 residential apartments and 116 short-stay accommodation units. The build-to-sell residential component is made up of 31 one-bedroom apartments, 67 two-bedroom apartments, 17 three-bedroom apartments, and a single four-bedroom apartment, offering a diverse mix aimed at singles, couples, families, and downsizers.

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33913cd4-9839-4456-b325-d35b3f8b4694" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=sLvc7jUrYzDwqPDZBPrXTosKHDSp.qrt" />

Designed by Ellivo Architects, the tower takes strong inspiration from nature, with the architectural language driven by one of Queensland’s most delicate species. As described in the planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council, Ellivo Architects state the design is “inspired by the elegance of the Glasswing butterfly," and mirrors the graceful sweep of its wings, a form that feels light, fluid, and alive.

“Lush subtropical greenery is throughtfull woven throughout, transforming the building into a sanctuary in the heart of the city.”

The proposal positions the building as more than a conventional residential tower, with Ellivo Architects describing 10 Morrow Street as “an urban oasis that blends short term accomodation with residential living. A destination for rest, relaxation, and renewal.”

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84e9a0ff-464e-4973-bffe-5d5a8fe9f087" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.32%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dhX9eVgUaQE2TvCzJPhF8N8_hzYSKpyK" />

Formally, the building’s massing and floorplate are directly shaped by its butterfly inspiration. Ellivo explain that, “adopting the wings of the Glasswing Butterfly, the tower's plan is divided into four distinct quadrants, each shaped to mirror the wing's segmented geometry and taking the slender ‘veins’ up the facade of the tower.”

"This approach results in a sculpted tower form with articulated façades and a strong vertical expression."

<img alt="Taringa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5947011d-ff6c-4a57-bdc1-9072a472a79c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.40.29%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=nnGqd4WCZM8AOJZY.c3u49BO4LurKRhb" />

The Assessment Report by Human Habitats said the 19-storey tower capitalises on its strategic connectivity and prominence at the entrance of Taringa Village and adjoining the Taringa Station.

"The proposal offers a significant revitalisation of the subject site that integrates architectural excellence, innovation, and sustainable design to directly address long-standing connectivity and safety challenges, housing supply , and diversity together with enhanced streetscape activation and convenient access to major transport corridors."

HLA Group Australia is registered to South Yarra and is currently delivering Adamson No.5, just 15 luxury apartments that start from around $2 million.&nbsp;

The Butterfly Effect: Glasswing butterfly inspires Taringa apartment development

Collingwood apartments

Boutique Melbourne apartment developer Valli has lodged plans for it's next project, a mixed-use building on Collingwood's prized Smith Street.

The plans are for 29 apartments above hospitality and office space at 224-228 Smith Street, toward the southern end of the retail-laden strip with frontages to both Smith Street and Little Oxford Street.

Valli, led by Andy Callaghan and Ari Lakman, had local architecture firm Pandolfini design the building, which will offer a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments above a 300 sqm plus restaurant facing Smith Street and a 234 sqm office space at the rear of the building fronting Little Oxford Street.

There will be six one-bedroom, 14 two-bedroom,, and nine three-bedroom apartments, each with a private terrace or balcony.

Residents will have access to the communal rooftop which will have seating underneath a pergola and a boundary of vegetation.

<img alt="Valli Collingwood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7c91d47-621d-430c-b1d6-2e7eed341cce" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-06-26%20at%2012.52.04%20pm.png?VersionId=20Gym028Rbhoukn3jZ4f5CIqVV.zpE1w" />

In the Urban Context Report,&nbsp;Pandolfini said the architectural response is strongly rooted in the immediate context of significant heritage buildings whilst creating its own unique identity to complement and enrich the streetscape.

"Smith Street boasts an eclectic mix of architectural styles and periods, with many examples of particularly ornate and exuberant Italianate and Edwardian buildings, reflecting the importance of this retail strip in the broader history of manufacturing, retailing and commerce in the Melbourne metropolitan area," the Report read.

"The siting of the proposed development responds to the new design development overlay, reducing its visual bulk on Smith Street and minimising any overshadowing to its surrounds."

<img alt="Valli Collingwood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="344ae6ec-d2a9-465b-a849-d366f1b0cd45" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-06-26%20at%2012.57.46%20pm.png?VersionId=rdvCTvIdP2Z8MdYYw_1Y798UXBBY0Dkm" />

Pandolfini were inspired by Collingwood's iconic Foy &amp; Gibson buildings, located east of the site.They were&nbsp;referenced and reinterpreted as the primary façade structure for the proposed development.

They worked in collaboration with local artist Joseph L. Griffiths on a receding decorated grid, which they say "creates a sense of depth and optical interest whilst establishing a strong connection to the adjacent brick buildings."

"The proposed brick patterned relief for the north and south façades of 224-228 Smith Street express the historical significance of grid structures in defining Melbourne’s urban environment, and their enduring influence of art and architecture.

"The designs employ a contemporary take on the trompe-l’oeil mural tradition, using classical perspective to give the illusion of depth to the flat façades, thus extending the building’s layered grids in three dimensions."

<img alt="Collingwood Valli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="45347bac-efe8-4800-865a-064c0b224101" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-06-26%20at%2012.57.50%20pm.png?VersionId=v8R0jIBtezX9zT6B2yBY62yvo.NVUsCE" />

Pandolfini says, as per the City of Yarra’s applicable Design &amp; Development and Heritage Overlays, the proposal is consistent with the character and formal qualities of the buildings in the area whilst generating no negative impact on the immediate streetscape.

Valli is currently selling Dyason, just six full-floor apartments and a heritage house at 124-126 Jolimont Road in East Melbourne.

They're also working through the design phase of a new project in Brunswick East.

<h2>Fast Facts</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Includes a 3-level podium</li>
	<li>Comprises of 29 apartments
	<ul>
		<li>Six one-bedroom apartments</li>
		<li>14 two-bedroom apartments</li>
		<li>Nine three-bedroom apartments</li>
	</ul>
	</li>
	<li>Office space of 234 sqm</li>
	<li>Ground floor restaurant of 308 sqm</li>
	<li>Roof terrace of 118 sqm</li>
	<li>Provides basement car parking over two&nbsp;levels
	<ul>
		<li>31 residential car parking spaces</li>
		<li>52 residents bicycle storage spaces</li>
		<li>9 staff bicycle storage spaces</li>
		<li>Includes 8 visitor bicycle storage spaces</li>
	</ul>
	</li>
	<li>Accessible through a combined turntable and lift system</li>
	<li>Utilizes precast concrete and brick tile walls</li>
	<li>Features metal cladding and stainless steel balustrades</li>
</ul>

Valli, led by Andy Callaghan and Ari Lakman, had local architecture firm Pandolfini design the building, which will offer a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments above a restaurant and office



Valli lodge plans for Collingwood apartment development

55 Emma presents a rare opportunity for prospective apartment buyers to live between two of Melbourne's trendiest suburbs.

The project, named after its address at 55 Emma Street, is located at the junction of Collingwood, Fitzroy, and Clifton Hill, an enviable position close to extensive amenity.

55 Emma presents a collection of just 36 apartments across nine-storeys.&nbsp;

Developed by A&amp;O Projects in collaboration with SGKS Architects, Ratio Property Consultants, and Hansen Partnership, the building houses a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments.

Drawing inspiration from the rich local heritage, SGKS Architects has created a contemporary design outcome that seamlessly blends with the surrounding area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13216 project_image_fid=174048]

The imposing brick podium, reminiscent of Collingwood's built heritage, occupies the entire square site, adorned with warehouse windows, recessive balconies, and intricate brick detailing.

Above the podium, a ghosted copy in white reflects the rhythm, resulting in an elegant and timeless façade.&nbsp;

As you step inside 55 Emma, residents will be greeted by an activated frontage and a lavishly appointed foyer, while the rear laneway reveals a moody green textured concrete arcade.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13216 project_image_fid=82308]

Each kitchen boast generous bench space, abundant storage, and stone splashbacks and benchtops, with feature lighting illuminating the space, coupled with two-pack joinery with soft-close drawers, as well as state-of-the-art stainless steel rangehoods, gas cooktops, fully integrated ovens, and dishwashers.

The living areas and hallways of the apartments are adorned with wide engineered oak floorboards, exuding warmth and style, while the bedrooms, flooded with natural light, feature plush loop-pile ash grey carpeting.

Crowning the building is the rooftop recreation space, offering residents a space to soak in panoramic vistas.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13216]

Drawing inspiration from the rich local heritage, SGKS Architects has created a contemporary design outcome that seamlessly blends with the surrounding area

alisonwarters@gmail.com

55 Emma: Striking heritage at the junction of Collingwood, Fitzroy, and Clifton Hill

Melbourne's vibrant Fitzroy and Collingwood neighbourhoods are set to welcome a new architectural gem that embodies a decade of creative development by developers Milieu.

Otter Place, the latest addition to the area, promises to be a tangible expression of Milieu's values and an impactful contribution to the local community.

"The design draws on our projects completed across the decade and gets to the heart of who we are, what we represent, and what we envision for urban development," Milieu say.

Collaborating with international design studio Hassell and local practice DesignOffice, Milieu has crafted a building that pays homage to its surroundings while leaving a mark on the streetscape.

"As our sixth project in partnership with DesignOffice, Otter Place is the result of a decade of experimentation and refinement."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3477 project_image_fid=192694]

Situated just moments away from the bustling Smith Street, the cultural and culinary epicentre of Fitzroy and Collingwood, Otter Place finds itself at the heart of Melbourne's highly regarded dining precinct.

Otter Place will deliver 28 luxury residences that are representative of its location in the heart of Collingwood’s eclectic and progressive Smith Street precinct, with two-storey, walk-up, townhomes to penthouses with panoramic CBD views and podium apartments that open onto framed vignettes of iconic inner Melbourne architecture.

Nestled amidst Wellington, Victoria, Johnston, and Brunswick streets, the neighbourhood boasts an unrivalled selection of cafes, restaurants, bars, and cultural institutions. As long-time residents of Collingwood, Milieu understands and cherishes the distinct personality, diverse people, and inclusive community that make this area so beloved.

The architectural composition of Otter Place is a testament to Hassel's attention to detail. The building is divided into two distinct forms, each one reflecting and celebrating the local surroundings. The lower levels, constructed with brick, pay homage to the industrial masonry architecture prevalent in the area. Meanwhile, the upper levels feature an elegant glass design that captures, reflects, and amplifies the shape and detailing of the neighbouring buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3477 project_image_fid=192699]

"By studying the existing urban context and brick detailing we’ve created an authentic celebration of the area’s post-industrial masonry architecture while also charting an exciting future ahead. The building base rethinks the contextual material of bricks via a lower façade of shimmering white glazed brick punctuated with window openings of varying sizes that create a striking impact on the streetscape," Hassel said.&nbsp;

"The reflective glazing of the upper levels quite literally mirrors the city, and reads as one object, delicately floating above the solid brick podium."

Inside Otter Place, an elevated yet functional design ethos prevails. The interiors have been assembled using distinguished materials and boast flexible layouts tailored to modern living. Inspired by the simplicity and effectiveness of gallery spaces, the interiors also incorporate smart technology throughout.

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Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the desired ambiance, and Otter Place demonstrates a departure from conventional downlights. Instead, a curated suite of uplights, spotlights, and wall lights has been selected to enhance various moods and functions throughout the day.

The proportions and strategic window placement within the residences also allow for abundant natural light to flood the spaces throughout the day.

"At a time when our cities are in such significant change as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Otter Place by Milieu provides the reassurance of good old-fashioned quality using elements of traditional construction to provide a unique residential experience for its future residents. And it’s future-proofed for post-pandemic living, with each home offering plenty of flexibility, amenity and access to nature, light and fresh air."

With construction tracking well, the collaborative trio are expecting the first crop of residents to begin calling Otter Place home this year.&nbsp;

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Otter Place, the latest addition to the area, promises to be a tangible expression of Milieu's values and an impactful contribution to the local community.

A decade of design brings to life Collingwood's Otter Place by Milieu

Gurner's highly anticipated Collingwood development, Victoria &amp; Vine, has been popular in the market since its inception.&nbsp;

Just one three-bedroom apartment remains in the Wellington Street project designed by Cox Architecture.&nbsp;

The apartment offers generously proportioned interiors with an open plan floorplans. Inclusions come in three's in the apartment, which has three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and three car spaces, a rarity for an inner-city project.

The New York-style development has long been pitched as where East Melbourne meets the Lower East Side, with Victoria &amp; Vine merging the rich history of Collingwood with world-class five-star hotel amenities.

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The project encompasses a multi-story apartment building, seamlessly blending retail and residential spaces across nine buildings, situated between Victoria Parade, Cambridge Street, Derby Street, and Wellington Street.

The street level retail space boasts 200 metres of street frontage, accomodating 11 retail tenancies, which are home to a range of food and beverage outlets, further enhancing Collingwood's offering.&nbsp;

Comprising a total of 241 apartments, including a mix of one, two, three, four, and five-bedroom dwellings, the project set out to attract a wide range of buyers, from investors, young professionals, and to families.&nbsp;

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Inspired by New York's Meatpacking District, Cox Architects seamlessly incorporated elements of Collingwood's iconic Foy and Gibson warehouse into the design of Victoria &amp; Vine. The façade showcases a blend of glazing, precast panels, and snap-on brickwork elements, bringing the essence of the warehouse-style design to life.

Beyond the apartments, residents of Victoria &amp; Vine have exclusive access to the Victoria &amp; Vine Private Club, which is 4,500 sqm of 5-star hotel amenities and services.

The private club offers an unparalleled experience, featuring a health club, rooftop lounge, spa retreat, private dining facilities, infinity pool with sundeck, outdoor cinema, co-working spaces, business lounge, a NYC-inspired bar, library, and a Teppanyaki bar.

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