Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

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

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Malvern apartments

It was 2017 when prominent developer Kokoda Property swooped on what was an amalgamation of old brick buildings and warehouses.

Before they even purchased the site, which had been their largest acquisition in their 18-year history at that point, they knew the importance of what they were going to develop, and the impact it would have on the local community.

Kokoda appointed heritage consultant Lovell Chen early in the peace to work out exactly how they could keep the grandeur of the vast 4,720 sqm site.&nbsp;Some elements of what was on the vast development opportunity were almost as old as the suburb itself.

It was banker and pastoralist John Gardiner, among others, who settled Malvern back in 1835. The land was named Malvern by barrister and land developer Charles Skinner, after his ancestral home, Malvern Hills, in England.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/it-will-be-a-landmark-for-generations-to-come-how-jackson-clements-burrows-designed-malvern-collective">"It will be a landmark for generations to come"; How Jackson Clements Burrows designed Malvern Collective</a>

What was once known as the Gardiner Hotel was developed on the site some time before 1856.&nbsp;It was altered in the 1880s, and then in 1925 it was extensively remodelled to create the interwar Free Classical style façade which remains today.

Back in the 1860s, the licensee of the Gardiner Hotel was well-known Melbourne cricketer, William Greaves, who, as an added attraction or the hotel, built what is believed to be the first bowling green in Victoria.

Also on the site is Station Place. A collection of Victorian-era shops which were located at the gateway to Station Place, once the home of grocer and merchants Lindsay Bros.

<img alt="Lindsay Bros" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="edba09ec-a2cf-4567-8b79-62023e6b2d36" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-18%20at%208.52.13%20am.png?VersionId=wnaGzox_jY5u9i314rHxdPILGs7JMHR2" />

In the late nineteenth century, Dandenong Road consisted mainly of residential buildings, with Station Place providing access for people between the street and Malvern Station.

"We’re really pleased to see this being reactivated aspart of Malvern Collective,"&nbsp;Lovell Chen Senior Associate John Statham says.

When Kokoda secured the site, only the former Railway Hotel, now known as the Angel Tavern, and two Victorian-era shops on Station Place, survived from the earliest period of development on the corner site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12457 project_image_fid=217254]

Statham says the style of the shops&nbsp;would be described as ‘polychrome Italianate’.

"Polychrome refers to the multi-coloured bricks used to create the decorative patterns around the windows and doors. Italianate refers to the revival of an Italian Renaissance style which was popular in the late nineteenth century."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12457 project_image_fid=217264]

The shops have been restored, and will form part of the buzzing hospitality precinct Kokoda have put together. They've called the project a 0-minute neighbourhood, given the extensive amenity at the foot of two strikingly modern residential towers and its proximity to Malvern Station.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/how-kokoda-is-creating-a-0-minute-neighbourhood-at-the-malvern-collective">How Kokoda is creating a 0-minute neighbourhood at The Malvern Collective</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12457 project_image_fid=217263]

Under construction with completion slated for early 2024, Malvern Collective comprises 205 apartments with interiors by Carr.&nbsp;

Residents of Malvern Collective will have private access to a&nbsp;co-working space, a cinema, a swimming pool, a wellness centre with hot and cold plunge pools, and a private dining area, bookable through the residents' app.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12457 project_image_fid=217249]

Using the app, residents can order a coffee from their room&nbsp;and pick it up before jumping on the train, or have the concierge make dinner reservations, not only for the hospitality in Malvern Collective, but anywhere in Melbourne.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=12457]

Kokoda appointed heritage consultant Lovell Chen early in the peace to work out exactly how they could keep the grandeur of the vast 4,720 sqm site

The history behind the Malvern Collective apartments

The leafy suburb of Malvern was initially part of the Parish of Prahran until 1856 before it was established as its own suburb.

Named after Malvern Hill in England, Malvern's development was&nbsp;primarily driven by the arrival of the railway in the late 1850s. This transportation link connected Malvern to Melbourne, leading to increased settlement and growth.

One of the significant developments in Malvern's history was the land boom of the 1880s. During this period, grand Victorian and Edwardian-style homes were built, many of which still stand today, showcasing the suburb's architectural heritage. Malvern's tree-lined streets and spacious properties attracted affluent residents.

The neighbouring Malvern East began to evolve as a separate entity in the early 20th century, however it too experienced a housing boom during the interwar period. That saw Californian bungalows and Art Deco homes developed.

The establishment of prestigious schools and institutions in the vicinity such as Caulfield Grammar School and Monash University continued to drive the family demographic. The most recent ABS Census data shows around 60 per cent of residents in Malvern and Malvern East have children.

Both <a href="/new-apartments/malvern-vic-3144">Malvern</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/malvern-east-vic-3145">Malvern East</a> have managed to preserve their historical character. There's not been an overwhelming amount of new developments in either suburb of the past decade or so.

There are currently three high quality developments currently on the market in Malvern and Malvern East, and we've put together a bio on each.

<h2>Maléa</h2>

<h3>Developer: Abadeen Victoria</h3>

<h3>Address:&nbsp;94 Burke Road, Malvern East VIC 3145</h3>

<h3>Price: From&nbsp;$2.6&nbsp;million</h3>

Luxury Sydney developer <a href="/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> has branched out into the high-end Melbourne apartment market, revealing their parkside apartment development <a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Maléa</a>, which will replace one of the last remaining homes to be redeveloped overlooking Central Park in Malvern East

Maléa, just seven apartments facing the 19-acre Central Park, is the result of a collaboration with Ewert Leaf as the architectural team behind its stoic, enduring form, featuring textural brickwork, layered concrete planes, and sleek metalwork, and John Patrick and Associates who took control of the extensive landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141969 project_image_fid=222407]

These luxury apartments, available in two and three-bedroom configurations, feature a beautiful Calacatta Viola in the kitchen, dining area and bathroom, teamed with richer-toned porcelain slabs.

Maléa has been thoughtfully designed with sustainability in mind, aiming to achieve a minimum 6.5-star green energy rating. This commitment to environmental responsibility is evident through features like double glazing, concrete walls and floors, limited gas usage for hot water services, rainwater harvesting, solar panels, and provisions for future electric vehicle battery storage in the basement.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141969 project_image_fid=222390]

Abadeen Victoria is being led by former CBRE Residential Projects Director&nbsp;<a href="/news/urban-ceo-mike-bird-interviews-360-propertys-john-meagher-cbres-andrew-leoncelli-about-the-property-industrys-response-to-covid-19" target="">Andrew Leoncelli</a>, who says&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Malea</a>&nbsp;is the culmination of many years of experience working in this community. He says to have secured a site directly opposite Central Park, one of the very final sites in&nbsp;<a href="/developments/malvern-east-vic-3145">Malvern East</a>, is a phenomenal opportunity.&nbsp;

"It's an amazing community hub at your doorstep and where we are opposite Central Park Road, which is one of the best in all of the Gascoigne Estate, is one of the last opportunities to secure a park fronted luxury residence, and we are very excited to be bringing this to the market."

<h2>Project: Plant Street by Milieu&nbsp;</h2>

<h3>Developer: Milieu</h3>

<h3>Address:&nbsp;1 Plant Street, Malvern</h3>

<h3>Price: From&nbsp;$1.25 million</h3>

The forward-thinking, design-led developer <a href="/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a>&nbsp;took to Malvern for their debut south-east Melbourne project,&nbsp;which they are developing alongside partners Penfold and MaxCap.

Milieu has brought together a talented team, including architecture firm RITZ&amp;GHOUGASSIAN, interior design practice Georgina Jeffries, and renowned landscape architects Acre, to create a harmonious living environment.

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Comprising just 21 generously-sized apartments, the design of <a href="/new-apartments/plant-street-by-milieu-malvern-1-plant-street-malvern">Plant Street</a> revolves around the concept of connecting internal and external spaces, resulting in striking, textural architecture paired with warm, inviting interiors and integrated landscaping.

The use of natural materials such as honey timber joinery, brown ash brick, terrazzo, and natural stone creates an atmosphere of warmth and welcome throughout the apartments. Custom-made lighting by Volker Haug Studio complements the material palette, adding a touch of sophistication.

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The landscaping at Plant Street is dynamic, with deciduous plants and trees that evolve with the seasons. Ground floor apartments feature spacious landscaped gardens, while upper-level units boast planters and terraces adorned with lush creepers.

<h2>Malvern Collective</h2>

<h3>Developer:&nbsp;Kokoda Property</h3>

<h3>Address: 2 Station Place, Malvern</h3>

<h3>Price: From&nbsp;$555,000</h3>

Malvern Collective is the under construction masterplanned development by national developer <a href="/developers/kokoda-property">Kokoda Property</a>.&nbsp;The innovative project introduces the concept of a "0-minute neighbourhood," ensuring that residents have every essential amenity right at their doorstep.

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Comprising over 200 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, including a luxurious grand penthouse and sub-penthouses, <a href="/new-apartments/malvern-collective-2-station-place-malvern">Malvern Collective</a> is perched above what will be a thriving hospitality precinct. This precinct, designed to enhance community life, includes a Woolworths Metro, six distinctive hospitality venues, and a dedicated concierge service that feels like a high-end hotel experience.

One of the project's unique features is its integration with the surrounding community. It will connect with Glenferrie Road via new laneways, providing direct access to Malvern train station, making commuting a breeze.

Designed by Jackson Clements Burrows, these apartments offer breathtaking views of Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges, and Melbourne's CBD. With over 70 percent of units sold to owner-occupiers, it's clear that people are not only drawn to the stunning design but also the superior concierge service, accessible through a dedicated residents' app. From ordering morning coffee to making dinner reservations anywhere in Melbourne, the concierge service goes above and beyond to cater to residents' needs.

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Malvern Collective residents will also enjoy exclusive amenities within the project, including a co-working space, a cinema, a swimming pool, a wellness center with hot and cold plunge pools, and a private dining area – all bookable through the residents' app. The concierge will also collaborate with local businesses to offer services such as housekeeping, laundry, and even dog washing.

We've taken a look at the top three off the plan apartment developments selling in Malvern and Malvern East

How Malvern and Malvern East has preserved its historical character

A lot of developers have looked to try and develop the 15-minute neighbourhood, the term coined by French professor Carlos Moreno.

According to Moreno, each 15-minute city should fulfil six&nbsp;social functions—living, working, supplying, caring, learning and enjoying. It reduces residents’ environmental footprints by boosting green initiatives, creativity and wellbeing at a neighbourhood level and reducing travel, urban density, pollution and loneliness.

Longstanding Melbourne developer Kokoda Property, who have been synonymous for quality developments across the Victoria capital since 1997, have created an even more convenient neighbourhood at their new mixed-use precinct, Malvern Collective.

What they've put together they're calling a 0-minute neighbourhood, and it's hard to argue with.

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Their Malvern Collective project encompasses a number of apartments above a soon-to-be thriving hospitality precinct that will reshape the affluent suburb.

The middle of the one-acre Station Place site, opposite Malvern Station, was previously a laneway called Station Place. That's just been acquired from the local council, with the view to give that back to the public. It will offer future residents&nbsp;every convenience on their doorstep, from a Woolworths Metro, six hospitality venues, concierge, and a simple commute to the city. Above the precinct will be two striking glass buildings which will home a collection of apartments.

"Malvern Collective is a lifestyle and transported oriented development," Kokoda Founder and Managing Director Mark Stevens says.

"The project is one of the last urban infill apartment sites in Melbourne's east. It offers proper food and beverage options and transport links, which is uncommon for Melbourne."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12457 project_image_fid=217254]

Stevens says the project will revolutionize the southern end of Malvern.

"While the number one priority is to cater for our residents, we're expecting the hospitality precinct to be popular with those who are commuting in and out of the city, hopping off the train at Malvern, wining and dining, and then continuing their commute home. Nowhere else in Melbourne offers that."

The station is a large commuter pass through and takes four train lines which go north, south and east.

The Malvern Collective apartments have been popular in recent months with owner-occupiers, who see a crane on site, and a clear timeline of construction.

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They've not only been drawn to the rare proposition of Malvern Collective and the design of the apartments, but also the superior concierge service, which acts more like a high-end hotel, and is managed in a residents' app. They can order coffee from their room and pick it up before jumping on the train, or have the concierge make dinner reservations, not only for the hospitality in Malvern Collective, but anywhere in Melbourne.

The concierge will connect with locals businesses to create new services, anything from housekeeping to laundry services and dog washing.

As well as the hospitality precinct downstairs which will be shared with the local community, Malvern Collective residents will have exclusive amenity within the project. There will be a co-working space, a cinema, a swimming pool, a wellness centre with hot and cold plunge pools, and a private dining area, bookable through the residents' app.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12457 project_image_fid=217249]

Kokoda held a design competition for Malvern Collective, selecting Jackson Clement Burrows to collaborate with Carr who have handled the interiors of the project.

Construction on Malvern Collective is well advanced, with completion slated for H1 2024.

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alisonwarters@gmail.com

How Kokoda is creating a 0-minute neighbourhood at The Malvern Collective

The forward-thinking, design-led developer Milieu has launched its latest project.

It's already been met with significant demand given Milieu's standing as one of the most design-focused developers across Melbourne.

They've started taking enquiries for Plant Street, their first project in the bluechip suburb Malvern, which they are developing alongside partner Penfold.

Plant Street will comprise just 21 generously-sized apartments, with an equal focus on architecture, interiors, and landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139856 project_image_fid=214086]

Milieu Director and Head of Development Shannon Peach said the approach to design starts with an ensemble who can understand a project’s context and respond to it, which is what they do in all of their projects.

"It’s part curatorial process and part innovative exploration."

Milieu assembled a collaborative team of architecture firm RITZ&amp;GHOUGASSIAN, interior design practice Georgina Jeffries, and esteemed landscape architects Acre.

Peach said that while&nbsp;Plant Street represents a new location for a Milieu project, their approach remains the same.

"We’re curating a building that sits comfortably within its setting, using enduring materials like concrete and brick that will age gracefully."

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RITZ&amp;GHOUGASSIAN Co-Directors Gilad Ritz and Jean-Paul Ghougassian said the project filters the streetscape without creating disconnection from the neighbourhood, while&nbsp;Georgina Jeffries says the interiors are warm, inviting and elegant.

“We want these homes to feel like sanctuaries”, Jeffries, the Creative Director at Georgina Jeffries, said.

“The intuitive and adaptable design of the interiors means residents can really make these spaces their own. The considered layouts, natural materials and varied textures are there to serve as backdrops for the residents’ belongings and personalities."

Penfold Co-Director Dave Penfold said a&nbsp;great deal of thought went into ensuring the design was distinct, contemporary and progressive while remaining considerate of local sensibilities.

"The strong architectural response, warm and functional interiors, and generous landscaping ensure Plant Street will be a timeless addition to the neighbourhood."

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Milieu Head of Sales Patrick Cooney says he's expecting most of the buyers to be downsizers within the area who want to lock up and leave home.

"This might act as their Melbourne base, and they have property elsewhere either coastal or in the country where they split their time," Cooney says.

Every thought has been considered for the downsizer market.

"We've created a product that still offers all of the home comforts those downsizers want in their next home" Cooney says.

"The expansive dining space can cater for over 10 people for dinner parties, or host the family over Christmas. The kitchens have too been designed to be large enough to cook and entertain for large groups, with large island benches and include space for wine fridges in every apartment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139856 project_image_fid=214089]

Milieu will soon be hosting a VIP launch for those who first enquired on the project, as they draw the curtains on the display suite located at 8 Otter Street, Collingwood.

The Northside display location will give prospective purchasers the opportunity to tour Milieu’s portfolio of completed developments within the inner north.

Milieu is currently working on their largest development offering to date in Elsternwick, due to launch early in 2024.

Last year they secured the site of the former ABC Studios, some 11,000 sqm on Gordon Street, and plan six different buildings, which they've just received their planning permit for. They're only covering 50 per cent of the site, with the idea to create a community address.

"There will be plenty of separation between the six buildings given we're keeping 50 per cent of the site to landscaping and walkways," Cooney says, adding that they'll be developing three individual parks through the project.

"The intention is to create a community rather than a high density project," Cooney said.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139856]

Plant Street will comprise just 21 generously-sized apartments, with an equal focus on architecture, interiors, and landscaping

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