&nbsp;

A local Australian has spent a Lower North Shore record $15.1 million at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elevate-hume-place-crows-nest-25-hume-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Elevate Hume Place</a>, the new TOD above the recently opened Crows Nest Metro Station.

The buyer amalgamated a penthouse and sub-penthouse to create the triplex apartment that will have five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a private rooftop pool, expansive terrace, and panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and skyline. The building is being created by burgeoning developer Third.i, alongside joint venture partner Phoenix Property Investors.

The buyer was drawn to Elevate’s unrivalled connectivity, situated directly above the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/crows-nest-nsw-2065">Crows Nest</a> Metro Station, and the vibrant lifestyle precinct that surrounds it. The Metro connects to the CBD in just seven minutes, and Chatswood in four.

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Designed by internationally acclaimed architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, Elevate draws inspiration from the ancient blue gum forests native to the area. The building is a Net Zero development, created in consultation with Indigenous communities and exceeding sustainability benchmarks. Interiors feature chevron-engineered timber flooring, natural stone benchtops, and premium Sub-Zero Wolf appliances, delivering timeless elegance and next-level comfort.

The exchange of the $15.1 million apartment, follows a recent $5 million sale, and over $30 million currently in expressions of interests. Interest in Elevate’s penthouse stock has surged, reflecting a strong appetite for ultra-luxury residences that combine design excellence with unmatched connectivity.

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“We’re seeing a significant uptick in interest from local and international buyers who are prioritising connectivity, sustainability, and lifestyle,” said Callum Billinghurst, Head of Sales at Third.i Group.&nbsp;

“These recent sales are a testament to the vision behind Elevate. It’s not just about luxury finishes or panoramic views, it’s about creating homes that are deeply connected to the city and the community. Buyers are responding to that. They want to live somewhere that offers more than just a postcode, they want culture, convenience, and long-term value. Elevate delivers all of that, and more.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142550 project_image_fid=297878]

As part of the Hume Place precinct, Elevate is transforming Crows Nest into Sydney’s most dynamic urban village. Elevate’s unique position directly above the metro, combined with its curated amenity offering, has made it a magnet for buyers seeking a future-proof investment and a vibrant urban lifestyle.

The next release at Elevate is expected later this year.

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“We’re seeing a significant uptick in interest from local and international buyers who are prioritising connectivity, sustainability, and lifestyle,” said Callum Billinghurst, Head of Sales at Third.i Group


Joel Robinson

Third.i & PPI set Lower North Shore apartment record with $15.1m sale at Elevate Hume Place penthouse amalgamation

Sydney developer Deicorp is set to officially open its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hills-showground-village-castle-hill-2-mandala-parade-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Showground Village</a> precinct in Castle Hill.

NSW Premier Chris Minns will attend the opening on Sunday August 31, alongside&nbsp;Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, The Hills Shire Council Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne, Landcom CEO Alex Wendler, and Deicorp Founder Fouad Deiri.

Located just moments from Hills Showground Metro Station, the centre spans 9,500 sqm across four levels and features 26 specialty retailers as well as a 1,400 sqm public plaza, creating a new community meeting point for shopping, dining, fitness, and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Showground Village forms part of the Hills Showground Station Precinct, an urban renewal initiative led by Landcom and Sydney Metro that will provide for around 2,300 new jobs over the next 20 years and around 9,000 new homes.&nbsp;

Deicorp was recently approved for another new development next door to Showground Village.

The new five residential buildings in the East Showgrounds Precinct, will see another 873 dwellings delivered, as well as&nbsp;3,500 sqm of open public space in the form of landscaped courtyards, a public park and communal outdoor recreational space including a playground, barbeque area, and outdoor seating.

“This approval will allow us to start construction on a range of beautifully designed, conveniently located apartments and create another vibrant, walkable and well-connected community,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/deicorp" target="">Deicorp</a>&nbsp;Founder Fouad Deiri.

“These new homes will provide their residents with a seamless connection to jobs and services along Metro North West, and the new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hills-showground-village-castle-hill-2-mandala-parade-castle-hill" target="">Hills Showground Village</a>&nbsp;retail precinct currently under construction."

Deicorp has several thousand apartments in planning and under construction across Sydney, from Zetland and Five Dock to Crows Nest and Macquarie Park.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=133881]

Deicorp, NSW Premier officially open Showground Village, new retail and hospitality hub in Castle Hill

ASX-listed developer Cedar Woods is progressing its plans for its Southbank arts precinct site.&nbsp;

The developer has filed plans, which are now with the&nbsp;Department of Transport and Planning, for a new 20-level tower at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/141-151-sturt-street-southbank-vic-3006">141–151 Sturt Street</a>, a 2,718 sqm block opposite the Habitat Filter sculpture.

The proposal seeks to demolish the two-level&nbsp;commercial building, including a small supermarket and medical tenancies, and create a new building with 180 apartments and a focus on an&nbsp;active public realm and arts integration.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Southbank site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="76a72db6-91ef-43ae-827d-a9cfa72893d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Site.png?VersionId=DZgtB4K6BswVh0QtCs3iLjXaLp0CbcEb" />

&nbsp;

There will be a full mix of apartment configurations, including 28 studio apartments, 16 one-bedroom, 104 two-bedroom, and 32 three-bedroom units.

Retail, creative arts, and residential amenity functions are integrated across the lower levels. A food and drink tenancy is planned to front Dodds Street, while a retail tenancy fronting Sturt Street will be accessed via an elevated walkway. The first floor includes a substantial 734 sqm creative arts space, envisioned to support Melbourne’s growing cultural and digital industries.

Architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has put together the plans. In their&nbsp;Urban Design Report they highlighted the project’s ambition to embed itself within Southbank’s evolving cultural fabric.

A central feature of the design is a through-block link connecting Sturt and Dodds Streets, landscaped with native plantings and embedded with universal access ramps.

“The ramp has been thoughtfully integrated as the primary access point, ensuring universal accessibility for all users,” the report noted, with the link offering “a direct response to the urban planning scheme of creating more green spaces within our communities”.

<img alt="Southbank podium" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4d24b1b2-d69c-4a11-a11d-ec6df432221c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium.png?VersionId=geWoJyZDmPSLODZ_.PNJ0LvpOmyyCdpo" />

The building’s podium form responds to the mandatory height limits along Dodds Street and maintains a fine-grain interface to adjoining developments. Above the podium, the tower is articulated with recessed balconies and a focus on views toward the CBD and surrounding arts institutions. A communal rooftop recreation deck and indoor lounge are positioned on level four, adjoining seven apartments and providing over 900 sqm of resident amenity space.

Vehicle access and loading will be provided via Dodds Street, with 155 resident car spaces located across two basement levels and the first three above-ground floors. Bicycle storage is more generous, with 226 spaces distributed across resident, staff and visitor needs.

Rothelowman describes the architecture as “humanist,” with ground-level interfaces designed to encourage social interaction and provide a dignified entry for both residents and passers-by. “All street interfaces are crafted to invite and nurture human connections,” the design report states. “The façade transitions to a human scale, providing an approachable and engaging streetscape”.

Cedar Woods, while well-known for its large communities it develops outside of Australia's capital cities, they have recently developed in Melbourne's inner-ring before. They are approaching completion at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/88-leveson-north-melbourne-88-leveson-street-north-melbourne-vic-3051">88 Leveson</a>, just 15 townhouses in the heart of North Melbourne.

Cedar Woods progresses with new apartment plans in Southbank arts precinct

Brisbane developers Core Property Partners and Vector Property Australia has teamed up for Brisbane's newest apartment development.

The duo identified <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/east-brisbane-qld-4169">East Brisbane</a> as their preferred suburb, on the fringe of the Gabba Precinct, where they've just revealed BANKSII, 72 apartments opposite Raymond Park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5481]

The one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments will sit in a glass-wrapped building that will also feature a rooftop with an&nbsp;infinity-edge pool, a BBQ area and alfresco dining spaces, sun lounges, and a sauna, as well as a resident-only gym and a ground-floor cafe.

Rhett Williams, Director of Vector Property Australia, said the project will lift the quality of the East Brisbane community and set a new benchmark.

"In Brisbane’s current property landscape, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/banksii-east-brisbane-169-wellington-road-east-brisbane-qld-4169">BANKSII</a> stands out through its emphasis on lifestyle-oriented living, connectivity and sophisticated design," Williams says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5479]

The 10-level building has been designed by MAS Architecture. Their designs were inspired by the native Banksia flower, with the architecture and interiors reflecting the organic symmetry of its namesake flora. MAS has interpreted this throughout the building’s curved form, façade detailing and interior palette.&nbsp;

The building’s flowing geometry and natural tones are complemented by large balconies and floor-to-ceiling glazing, maximising cross-breezes, daylight and views over the city, parklands and river.

“Having a strong narrative for a building helps us architecturally,” MAS noted. "We can choose colours that come off that species of flowers. The trunk and the trees and the flower elements all are now visible in our joinery on the inside and in our architectural finishes on the outside."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5485]

Apartments will feature timber floors, soft porcelain tiles, brushed bronze fittings, and stone benchtops with warm veining.&nbsp;

Kitchens feature premium SMEG appliances and generous storage, while bathrooms have been designed as calming retreats with curved cabinetry and twin sinks in the master ensuites.

The building will feature a suite of rooftop and wellness amenities. Residents will have access to an infinity-edge pool, BBQ and alfresco dining areas, sun lounges and a rooftop sauna.&nbsp;

A residents-only gym will be located on the podium level, while a ground-floor café and landscaped laneway will further activate the site and improve neighbourhood connectivity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5488]

BANKSII will rise from a prime Wellington Road site, with the building oriented to overlook the adjacent Raymond Park and take in extensive city views. It is also on the doorstep of key&nbsp;lifestyle infrastructure, including the future Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, The Gabba stadium, and the planned Brisbane Live arena.&nbsp;

Public transport options, including ferry, bus and rail - including the future Cross River Rail Woolloongabba station - are all nearby, supporting a car-optional lifestyle just minutes from the CBD.

Williams said the team spent over a year searching for the ideal site before securing this location.

"We were attracted to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/east-brisbane-qld-4169">East Brisbane</a> as it is a vibrant and growing community that offers a perfect balance of urban convenience and natural beauty with the parklands and river on our doorstep.”

The project is part of the broader Woolloongabba Games precinct, which is undergoing significant investment in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. This urban renewal, coupled with infrastructure upgrades, is expected to enhance long-term liveability and capital growth in the area.

Given the wide max of configurations, BANKSII is expected to suit everyone from first home buyers and investors to families and downsizers.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136432]

BANKSII sales launch in booming East Brisbane apartment market

The Minns Labor Government will deliver Sydney’s first new heavy rail station in more than a decade – enabling up to 10,000 new homes by rezoning land around Woollahra and Edgecliff stations, right next to the CBD, to tackle the housing crisis and rebalance growth across the city.

Recent reports by the NSW Productivity Commission have warned that Sydney is losing twice as many young people as it is gaining, while also finding that Woollahra is the most feasible Local Government Area (LGA) in New South Wales to build new housing.

Despite this, housing approvals in Woollahra consistently lag well behind other LGAs, and the population has declined by 11 per cent over the past 50 years while Greater Sydney as a whole has grown by 74 per cent.

The new station that will be an eight-minute trip from Sydney CBD, will be located on the Eastern Suburbs train line in Woollahra, where a station build was started in the 1970s but never completed.

To enable the delivery of new homes the NSW Government will lead a rezoning of Woollahra and Edgecliff stations similar to other state led rezonings to allow additional homes to be built around the stations.

Affordable housing will also make up a proportion of development on the site with the final amount of affordable housing required, to be determined as part of the rezoning process.

The area surrounding the new station is within walking distance of major green and recreational space including Cooper, Trumper, Rushcutters Bay and Centennial Parks.

The Eastern Suburbs train line between Bondi Junction and Sydney CBD also has the lowest passenger usage rates during the AM peak of any line on the Sydney network, with only 43 per cent of operating capacity during the AM peak currently being utilised by passengers.

Sydney Water and Infrastructure NSW have confirmed there is capacity in the water and wastewater systems to accommodate the proposed 10,000 dwellings without major upgrades.

The rezoning is expected to take around two years and will further support the Government’s housing targets that rebalance the delivery of new homes around existing infrastructure.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Next stop Woollahra train station - delivering up to 10,000 new homes in the heart of Sydney

Geelong apartments

Geelong Quarter is a new lifestyle precinct on the prominent corner of Ryrie and Fenwick Streets. It comprises the Holiday Inn Hotel &amp; Suites, the Ryrie Residences, and the completed <a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong">Ryrie Home</a>, all within a well-connected village.

Positioned just 500 metres north of the foreshore and east of the CBD, Franzé Developments' <a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong">Ryrie Home</a> provides an unmatched cultural and connected experience in <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a>—one hour from Melbourne.

Much loved for its big city feel without the congestion, <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a> — affectionately called G-Town by the locals — has everything within easy reach for Ryrie Home residents.

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Just a five-minute walk from <a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong">Ryrie Home</a>, the eclectic Little Malop Street is home to some of Geelong’s finest restaurants and fantastic whisky, cocktail, and wine bars. A few minutes further, residents can stroll to the beach for a feast of fish and chips by the water at Geelong Waterfront.

The award-winning <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a> Waterfront, overlooking Corio Bay, is a bustling hub with restaurants, cafés, landscaped gardens, playgrounds, and public art. The famous Bollard Trail along the waterfront is a two-hour hike from the <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a> Botanic Gardens to Rippleside Park. The iconic carousel is a pretty sight along the way, not to mention the picturesque pier.&nbsp;

The Eastern Beach swimming promenade comes alive every summer with enclosed sea baths, diving platforms, and a children’s pool. Meanwhile, the Bellarine Peninsula and Great Ocean Road are only a half-hour drive for those who love chasing the surf on the weekends.

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When it comes to lifestyle, culture and entertainment, <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a> also has so much to offer. Westfield <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a> and Market Square Shopping Centre are a 13-minute walk from <a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong">Ryrie Home</a>, while the <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a> Arts Centre, art galleries, and local theatre companies are a mere 400 meters from the property.

Pakington Street, or Pako, a four-minute ride away, offers exciting nightlife, fine dining, and a trendy bar scene.

For the ambitious set, <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a> is fast becoming an important central business district. With work-life balance becoming a key focus in working culture, more companies are choosing <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a> as their base, creating job opportunities in the region.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=219677]

For families, education is one of Geelong’s most significant offerings, with reputable schools attracting thousands of Australian and international students each year. <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a> Grammar Bostock House Campus is a six-minute drive from Ryrie Home, while Deakin University, offering over 200 courses, is only an 11-minute walk away.

Other schools within one kilometre include St John's Lutheran School <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a>, St Mary's School, Matthew Flinders Girls Secondary College, Sacred Heart College, and The <a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a> College.

Designed by Architectus, <a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong">Ryrie Home</a> features 109 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments with an exclusive communal rooftop lounge equipped with BBQ and dining facilities overlooking Corio Bay and the&nbsp;<a href="/developments/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a> CBD.

Ryrie Home is ready for move-in, with only limited apartments remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5559]

Positioned just 500 metres north of the foreshore and east of the CBD, Franzé Developments' Ryrie Home provides an unmatched cultural and connected experience in Geelong—one hour from Melbourne.

Urban Editorial

In the heart of Geelong's revolution: How Ryrie Home takes advantage of its central location

When Rothelowman were tasked with designing Stella Maris, the luxury residential development just outside Geelong in Rippleside, their first thought was to incorporate the beauty of the landscape and the significance of the location.

Nick Williams, Senior Associate at Rothelowman, said the design brief from MONNO Projects was to create&nbsp;a dynamic community nestled within the embrace of nature's bounty.

"Our design brief for Stella Maris was to create a dynamic community immersed in nature, with a focus on natural green spaces and a lush garden setting," Williams said, noting the proximity to Corio Bay played a vital role in shaping their vision.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136222 project_image_fid=213722]

The historic St Helen's Mansion, the 1848 stately mansion which sits at the heart of the development, was also a major driver in the design of the surrounding buildings, as were the numerous mature trees which are scattered throughout the three-acre waterfront site.

"St Helen’s Mansion holds the distinction of being one of the oldest remaining homesteads pre-dating the Gold Rush, something Rothelowman took into careful consideration when realising the&nbsp;site vision," Williams said.

"That didn’t mean imitation, but careful consideration to the siting of the four new buildings around it and composing them in a manner that was calm and harmonious in terms of form and&nbsp;materiality."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136222 project_image_fid=213710]

The four new buildings, Nautica House, The Arbory, Park Row and The Acreage, incorporate 54 new apartments and three townhouses. They're built sensitively around St Helen's Mansion, a 3,000 sqm subdivided allotment which will be launching later in the year, with a full restoration and extension planned by Carr.

Williams said the Nautica House building, the closest to Corio Bay, was delivered by formulating a floor plan that granted nearly all apartment bedrooms and living areas a view of Corio Bay through repetitive angled walls.

"Directing the view out east allowed the design to mitigate over-looking St Helen’s Mansions grounds from the apartment bedrooms, creating a more comfortable space for residents."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136222 project_image_fid=213700]

The 'Garden' setting informed much of the Acreage building to the west, Williams added.

"Whilst it is, in reality, a long three-storey apartment building over a basement, it presents as a series of three-storey “walk-up” townhouses facing a heavily planted mews style road and pedestrian way. This meant the Park Row townhouses on Bay Street just sit humbly and comfortably alongside their apartment neighbours with similar materiality and detailing. A&nbsp;magnificent Morton Bay Fig tree separates these three townhouses from the Arbory apartment building providing pedestrian access and vehicular egress from the development."

At the heart of the development is significant resident amenity in the form of a&nbsp;wellness retreat, featuring a 20-metre lap pool and an edible garden, fostering a holistic approach to health and well-being.&nbsp; Adjoining the lap pool is a gym with dedicated yoga space and a steam room.&nbsp;

Read more: <a href="/news/vic/stella-maris-a-haven-of-amenity-and-wellness-on-geelongs-corio-bay">Stella Maris: A haven of amenity and wellness on Geelong's Corio Bay</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136222 project_image_fid=213712]

There's also a string of sustainability features such as EV charging, high performance glazing, a&nbsp;communal vegetable gardens and fruit trees.

Williams said Stella Maris has a number of sustainable features that represent a greener approach to architecture.

"EV charging will be future proofed in the development to allow for the anticipated adoption of environmentally friendly vehicles. Solar power will be used in common areas of the buildings whilst all dwellings will be powered solely by electricity in lieu of gas."

Demolition is currently underway at 39 Bay Street, Rippleside, with the project 50 per cent sold. A builder is soon to be announced by developer MONNO Projects.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136222]

Nick Williams, Senior Associate at Rothelowman, said the design brief from MONNO Projects was to create a dynamic community nestled within the embrace of nature's bounty

"A dynamic community immersed in nature" How Rothelowman designed MONNO's Stella Maris

While Geelong has been in the spotlight for the last five years following the COVID-19 and the now defunct Commonwealth Games, there's been little opportunity to buy a brand new apartment.

There's been more opportunity in Greater Geelong in the house and land market than activity near the city.

Franze Developments recently completed Ryrie Home in the city centre, which is all but sold out, and development around the outskirts of Geelong is skewed toward the absolute top end of the market.

Melbourne developer DM Property has timed its entry into the Geelong market perfectly with Motif, their debut project on the Bellarine, after seeing success at their Sandringham townhouse project, Early 3191.

Motif is ideally located at 1 York Street on the fringe of the CBD, just a stones throw from Pakington Street's cafes, restaurants and bars, and the Little Malop Street precinct, home to The Geelong Library and Heritage Centre, the most striking piece of architecture in town,&nbsp;while all being one street away from the water.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136615 project_image_fid=222936]

Following on from their relationship born in Sandringham, DM Property, led by Brendan Mullen and David Dordevic, has had renowned architecture firm Rothelowman handle the architecture of the five-level, 129-apartment building. Their focus was on creating something with a humanist design, communicating the best Geelong has to offer.

Motif is fossil fuel-free, and the electricity consumption is offset by significant solar paneling, making it a 7-Star NAThers-rated building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136615 project_image_fid=222937]

RPM Group Project Marketing Director Nic Cuni, who is handling sales at Motif, says the project presents the best opportunity to get into Geelong at the moment.

"There's nothing like this kind of development in Geelong to buy, and there won't be for some time to come," Cuni says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136615 project_image_fid=222939]

Cuni believes the varied configurations on offer, a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments, and a varied price point, will appeal to everyone, from first home buyers, young professionals, downsizers, and investors, both local and interstate.

"Investors will have a keen eye on Motif given Geelong's growth over the last five years, and its future growth prospects," Cuni says. He expects some city swappers from Melbourne, who are seeking a city change.

"This really ticks all the boxes for so many people. The location is unbeatable, so close to amenity, the beach, and just a 10-minute walk into the heart of the city. Then there's Rothelowman, who are one of the best collaborators in the game."

Apartments at Motif start from $480,000.&nbsp;

Motif's display suite at 11 James Street is now opening, and a VIP launch is planned for October 14, followed by a grand public launch October 21. Construction is expected to start early 2024.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136615]

RPM Group Project Marketing Director Nic Cuni, who is handling sales at Motif, says the project presents the best opportunity to get into Geelong at the moment

DM Property to bring Rothelowman-designed apartment development Motif to burgeoning Geelong

Ryrie Home is the most development from developer Franzé Developments.

The mixed-use development, which saw off the plan buyers move in earlier this year, delivered Geelong’s first major hotel and apartment project in two decades.

The Ryrie Home development was a hit throughout its off the plan marketing. Now there's just a handful of apartments left, which are selling for considerably more than what buyers paid a few years ago given Geelong's significant growth.

We've wrapped up the top five reasons why buyers have swooped on Ryrie Home.

<h2>1. Created by the proven&nbsp;Franzé Developments</h2>

Franzé Developments has proven track record in developing, managing and delivering projects across every segment of the property market with residential projects like Nero, The Alexandra and Brunswick establishing prestige in this field.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=219671]

Demonstrating their strength and commitment they recently purchased a prestigious Chapel Street site valued at $55 million with plans for a mixed-use development in the works.

<h2>2. Designed by Award Winning Australian firm Architectus</h2>

Architectus&nbsp;are a top-tier Australian architecture and design studio specialising in commercial, education, interiors, public, residential, transport, urban design and planning.

They take an insightful and human-centric design approach&nbsp;combined with a collaborative ethos to create unique places that are exemplars of elegance, function and sustainability.

Architectus create projects that are sensitive to a changing climate, responsive to technological developments, and built to contribute to healthy and happy communities for generations to come as can be seen in Ryrie Home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=219677]

When we asked about where they drew inspiration for Ryrie Home, Principal Architect Oliver Mayger told us, "Geelong is a city with a rich heritage of prominent buildings that mark the corner of intersections and are recognisable meeting points. These buildings define the structure of the central city grid and are typically characterised with increased height, a chamfered corner to the building mass and a canopy at street level."

"The repurposing of this site is another example of Geelong’s transition from a primarily agricultural and manufacturing base to a centre for services and innovation. The site’s vision is to embrace and support this new direction whilst celebrating what Geelong was built on."

<h2>3. Prime Location in the heart of Geelong</h2>

Geelong is well-known and much loved for its big city feel, without the congestion. Affectionately called G-Town, everything is within easy reach, so you can spend more time doing the things you love, be it sports, shopping, or exploring the cafés and diverse eateries.

Situated at 44&nbsp;Ryrie Street,&nbsp;Ryrie&nbsp;Home holds a prime position in the center of Geelong a short walk from the acclaimed Geelong Gallery.

Placed on a main thoroughfare the development is 5 minute walk from shopping centres,&nbsp;boutiques and a number of dining establishment.

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Slightly beyond those is a Cinema and the MoPa Museum. And further afield&nbsp;are acclaimed dining institutions like&nbsp;Restaurant IGNI and the&nbsp;Empire Grill

Try taking the bike for a ride along the Geelong waterfront and experience the beaches and Royal Geelong Yacht Club, or enjoy an evening out by the water at bars like the Sailors Rest or Edge Geelong.

<h2>4. Enjoy the view and walking appeal</h2>

The project features exposed concrete ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, merging a minimalist aesthetic with a sense of modern luxury in the bayside location.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=219677]

Every&nbsp;home in the development features&nbsp;a private balcony where you can enjoy the panoramic bay views and alfresco dining year-round.

Ryrie Home features a&nbsp;new public connection through the&nbsp;site from&nbsp;Ryrie Street&nbsp;to Cuzens Place, driving a&nbsp;built form response and allowing Architectus&nbsp;to activate these resulting laneways and edges with commercial retail and F&amp;B spaces as well as the hotel and residential lobbies. &nbsp;

<a href="/buildings/ryrie-home-geelong-44-ryrie-street-geelong"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/geelong_5.png" /></a>

<h2>5. The Design Details, Façade&nbsp;and Material Choices</h2>

The material choices and façade articulation are a nod to the strength and robustness that define Geelong’s character and its legacy of craftsmanship and quality.&nbsp;An authoritative and restrained grid is articulated on every façade in various but consistent compositional forms.

Ryrie&nbsp;Home has drawn upon the history of Geelong and its architectural vernacular. The robust materiality and strong compositional order of the brick woolstore are defining markers of the city character and are considered through our podium scale and design. &nbsp;

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Designed by Architectus, Ryrie Home will deliver a landmark Holiday Inn tower, 16 luxury apartments at Ryrie Residences, and a separate 11-storey tower, Ryrie Home

Alison Warters 1

Five reasons why buyers are snapping up the completed Geelong apartments, Ryrie Home

Developer MONNO Projects' Stella Maris is offering something the City of Geelong hasn't seen before, and will likely never see again.

The four-building development, arranged around the historic St Helens Mansion in Rippleside, just outside of the Geelong CBD, sits on a rare three-acre waterfront block which traded hands for the first time in over a century when MONNO secured the site.

The striking Rothelowman-designed apartments, townhouses and duplexes, have all been created to honour the unrepeatable location.

But with any truly great apartment development, the surroundings have to match. Creating more than just dwellings, but an environment in which residents could truly live, was a key focus for MONNO, who have already sold over half of the 54 residences as construction commencement approaches.

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From the moment residents step through the gates of Stella Maris, they are greeted by a world of tranquility and greenery. The extensive landscaped gardens, designed by the celebrated landscape architecture studio Acre, offer a modern interpretation of 19th-century aesthetics, infusing the grounds with a captivating sense of history and place.

Respecting the legacy of established trees and foliage, the landscape design incorporates spaces that encourage both connection and contemplation. Nature becomes an integral part of daily life for residents, providing an environment that nurtures wellness and serenity.

Given the developments waterfront location, gardens have been oriented to take in as much as the ocean vistas on offer as possible. Demolition and early works are currently underway on site.

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Central to the Stella Maris ethos is a focus on wellness. The community enjoys access to a shared wellness retreat, featuring a 20-metre lap pool and an edible garden, fostering a holistic approach to health and well-being.&nbsp; Adjoining the lap pool is a gym with dedicated yoga space and a steam room.&nbsp;

The wellness centre's eco-friendly roof, blanketed in lush vegetation, further enhances the verdant surroundings. Accompanying the pool and the gym area is a built-in barbecue with alfresco dining.

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Everything at Stella Maris has been considered.

Catering to the pet-loving community of Greater Geelong, an on-site pet wash ensures furry companions are also looked after. Residents will also have access to an on-site car wash within the basement carpark.

Addressing the demands of a rapidly evolving world, Stella Maris embraces technology with contactless parcel lockers for safe and efficient delivery and collection of parcels.

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The striking Rothelowman-designed apartments, townhouses and duplexes, have all been created to honour the unrepeatable location

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Stella Maris: A haven of amenity and wellness on Geelong's Corio Bay

Late last year MONNO Projects launched its once-in-a-generation development, Stella Maris, on the outskirts of the Geelong.

Stella Maris, set on a prime three-acre waterfront block in Rippleside which had been owned by the Sisters of Mercy and the MacKillop Family Services for over a century, has provided a new form of living in the growing area.

Recognising the rarity of the project and the quality of the development team, the distinctive project is already 50 per cent sold, which MONNO Senior Development Manager CJ Koay says is an incredible achievement in the current market.

Urbis calculated in their Q1 2023 report that only five per cent of available stock on the market in Melbourne sold in the first quarter of 2023, the lowest sale to available stock percentage across the country. Comparably Sydney saw nine per cent of its available stock sell, and the Gold Coast and Brisbane closer to 20 per cent.

Koay attributes Stella Maris' success to the project's uniqueness.

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"It's an unrepeatable project in an unrepeatable location," Koay says, adding that they could have made the project denser, but to create a luxury product such as Stella Maris, part of that is the landscaped surroundings and generous space within the grounds.

The project comprises 52 apartments and three townhouses across four striking buildings designed by Rothelowman. At the heart of the development is St Helens Estate, an 1848 stately mansion with a contemporary rear addition on a 3,000 sqm subdivided allotment designed by Carr, complemented by landscape design from Acre. The once-in-a-generation residence is slated for a very exclusive release Q4 2023

"We've brought our expertise in curating and delivering quality development to Geelong, and matched that smarts and attention to detail with a location which will be incredibly difficult to replicate, and that's resonated with buyers," Koay added.

The majority of buyers at Stella Maris, particularly those securing the higher-priced stock, have come from the local area, something which Koay said the team had anticipated when they were putting the plans together.

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"The majority of buyers have been the mature downsizers from Geelong and the Bellarine Region, as well as those on acreage who have lived and worked further away from a city hub. Now they want to be closer to the action, while also having the added bonus of being on the water."

Monno's big sales milestone will soon be followed by commencement of demolition and early works in the coming weeks, which Koay says will no doubt see the remaining stock in the development sell out well before it’s forecasted mid-2025 completion date.

"Stella Maris has managed to buck the trend of the current market in reaching these milestones, a testament to the quality of our offering which is a confidence booster for our customers and prospective buyers,” Koay says.

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Geelong is quickly establishing itself as Melbourne's second CBD, and with newly gazetted planning controls which facilitates development activities, the forecast population growth is expected to see nearly 400,000 residents call the Geelong region home in the next two decades, a 40 per cent increase from the current population.

Traditionally the Mornington Peninsula has been the weekender playground for Melburnians, but Koay says Geelong and the surrounding areas are now offering a different prospect for those looking for something near the water.

"Geelong offers a an exciting proposition, where downsizers and seachangers can have the best of both worlds, living near a growing city without the density compared to Melbourne, whilst also being on the water and at the gateway to Great Ocean Road and the surf coast regions."

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Stella Maris, set on a prime three acre waterfront block in Rippleside, has provided a new form of living in the growing area.

Monno sell 50 per cent of Geelong's Stella Maris

Geelong, located just 60 minutes away from Melbourne, has become an increasingly popular choice for homebuyers and investors.

Franzé Developments' Ryrie Home delivers a new offering to the area, with the completed and ready-to-move-in apartments presenting an opportunity to enter the strong performing Geelong property market.

The design of Ryrie Home draws inspiration from New York, featuring exposed concrete soffit ceilings that add a touch of urban sophistication. The living areas boast generous 2.85-metre-high ceilings, while the kitchens come equipped with gas cooking and Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances.

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The oversized floorplans ensure a spacious living experience, while abundant storage caters to practical needs.

The apartments at Ryrie Home boast a range of impressive features and amenities. Residents will be greeted by timber flooring and considered finishes, with premium plush carpet and mirrored robes adorning the bedrooms.

Comfort is a priority at Ryrie Home, with reverse cycle cooling and heating systems installed in each apartment. This ensures a pleasant living environment throughout the year. Some units even offer dedicated laundry rooms, providing added convenience for residents.

In terms of aesthetics, buyers have the option to choose from a light or dark colour palette, allowing them to personalise their space to suit their personal style.

The private balconies are free from air condenser units, preserving the aesthetic appeal and tranquility of these outdoor spaces.

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For those who enjoy entertaining, the rooftop barbecue and private dining facilities offer the perfect venue. Moreover, the building's strategic location provides bay and city views.

Practical considerations have also been taken into account at Ryrie Home. Waste chutes are conveniently located on each level, ensuring efficient disposal for residents. The apartments come with secure individual basement car parking and storage units, in addition to TV video intercom systems, ensuring a secure living environment.

Situated in the heart of the Geelong arts precinct, Ryrie Home offers easy access to the city's vibrant cultural scene.

The waterfront, Deakin University, major employers, and the train station are all within walking distance, while the world-famous Great Ocean Road, with its beaches in Torquay and Anglesea, is just a 20-minute drive away.

Furthermore, the close proximity of Avalon airport provides convenient travel options for residents.

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The design of Ryrie Home draws inspiration from New York, featuring exposed concrete soffit ceilings that add a touch of urban sophistication

Ryrie Home's completion brings brand new apartment option for Geelong buyers

Only two apartments remain at Nexus 104, the&nbsp;new low-rise development by Projects by Gartland and Glengarry Developments in Highton, around five kilometres inland from central Geelong.

The 22-apartment development, completed last year to a design by&nbsp;GKA Architects, follows the successful sellout of Nexus102 next door.

Nexus104 offers a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments, catering to a diverse range of needs and buyers, from young professional to small families.

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There are two apartments left for sale, apartment 23 which has one bedroom and is asking $455,000, and apartment 24, a two-bed unit which is priced at $535,000.

Beyond the immediate amenities around the development, including the new Aldi supermarket, the Nexus apartments are strategically located in close proximity to a wealth of quality retail options and sporting facilities.

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Residents will have access to a plethora of amenities in the vibrant suburb of Waurn Ponds. Whether it's shopping, catching a movie, or accessing premier educational, sporting, and health facilities, residents can leave their cars behind and enjoy the convenience of a Nexus lifestyle.

The Geelong CBD and the famous Surf Coast are also easily accessible.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=26489]

The 22-apartment development, completed last year to a design by GKA Architects, follows the successful sellout of Nexus102 next door

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