Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

First look: Winx billionaire’s beachfront Surfers Paradise apartment development greenlit

Melbourne off the plan apartments

Boutique property developer Kervale's completed Brighton apartment development, ESSENCE, has only one penthouse remaining.

The remaining penthouse is part of <a href="/buildings/essence-brighton-66-70-black-street-brighton">ESSENCE</a>'s Lux Living Collection, which includes four penthouses ranging from 200 sqm to 400 sqm with outdoor areas.

The available penthouse features a modern open-plan living space extending to a spacious terrace for outdoor entertaining.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112893 project_image_fid=204990]

The interior includes a marble kitchen with an island bench and a master suite featuring a walk-in robe and an ensuite with a bathtub.&nbsp;

Secure car parks and a private storage room complete the unit.

Designed by the renowned <a href="/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architecture &amp; Interiors</a>, ESSENCE comprises 22 completed apartments spread across two distinct wings divided by a central courtyard.

The development includes 18 two or three-bedroom apartments with two bathrooms and two car parks, while the upper penthouse has four bedrooms and the remaining boasts three bedrooms, three bathrooms and three car parks.&nbsp;

<a href="/developers/kervale">Kervale</a> has smashed the <a href="/developments/brighton-vic-3186">Brighton</a> price record for selling the four-bedroom penthouse off-the-plan within its ESSENCE project for $10.2 million, equating to a whopping $22,000 sqm rate.&nbsp;

“The four-bedroom penthouse is the jewel in the crown, it has all the elements often reserved for an expansive house and truly is the epitome of luxury living in Brighton,” Kervale Sales Director Michael Ryan said.&nbsp;

Kervale Development Director, Stephen Horn said the sales were evidence the luxury apartment market is still thriving.&nbsp;

“The Brighton market is still thriving with buyers eager to capitalise on the limited new quality-focused stock hitting the market,” Horn said.&nbsp;

“ESSENCE offers a number of unique factors and features not available in nearby developments and the boutique nature of the project is highly appealing. This has led to a varied buyer demographic, ranging from young professionals to downsizers.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112893 project_image_fid=204989]

Located beneath the ground floor is a secluded set of amenities, including a private residents' area with a wine cellar, residents lounge area, private dining room, kitchenette, billiards table, and private gym and yoga studio.

Graham Morrison, Managing Director and Corporate Director of Bruce Henderson Architects, said the amenities on offer are reminiscent of a 6-star hotel.

“The idea behind the design was to be able to provide people with large homes to be able to downsize but still have the facilities they’re used to. In some cases they haven’t experienced this level of comfort before,” Morrison said.

In the parking area, amenities such as electric vehicle charging points, pet grooming facilities, bicycle storage, golf club lockers, and a car washing station make ESSENCE living unparalleled in terms of convenience.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112893]

Designed by the renowned Bruce Henderson Architecture & Interiors, ESSENCE comprises 22 completed apartments spread across two distinct wings divided by a central courtyard

Staff Writer

One penthouse remaining in ESSENCE Brighton

National developer&nbsp;<a href="/developers/equire">Equire</a>&nbsp;has started to welcome off the plan apartment buyers into its recently completed Ivanhoe apartment development,&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/locale-ivanhoe-1023-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe">Locale</a>.

Construction firm&nbsp;<a href="/builders/balmain-co">Balmain &amp; Co</a>&nbsp;recently finished off the build of the <a href="/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a>-designed building at 1023 Heidelberg Road, next to Darebin Station.

The development is home to&nbsp;44 apartments, characterised by open-plan layouts and high-quality finishes, including stone-topped Miele appliances and integrated fridge-freezers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8748 project_image_fid=274671]

Each apartment extends onto either a courtyard, terrace or balcony, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living, while double glazing and heating and cooling ensure comfort year-round, along with energy efficiency.&nbsp;

Located just nine kilometres from the CBD, residents are strategically placed to take in all the city centre has to offer, along with the best of <a href="/developments/ivanhoe-vic-3079">Ivanhoe</a>, including shops, cafes, restaurants, schools, public transport and lush parklands.

Completed two-bedroom apartments start from $760,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=8748]

Locale is home to 44 apartments, characterised by open-plan layouts and high-quality finishes, including stone-topped Miele appliances and integrated fridge-freezers

Equire and Balmain & Co complete Ivanhoe apartment development, Locale

The development site of the recently launched The Highlander, one of the first Melbourne CBD towers to be launched for several years, has hit the market.

The 352 sqm site&nbsp;at <a href="/new-apartments/the-highlander-melbourne-490-flinders-street-melbourne">490 Flinders Street</a>&nbsp;and 1-9 Highlander Lane comes with approved plans for a 24-level tower designed by Metier 3.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13067 project_image_fid=256355]

Singaporean investment firm Havenport Investments had been seeking to develop the building that has 35 apartments, a ground floor with a residential lobby, a cafe, retail spaces, a basement level with a car stacker for 10 vehicles, bicycle parking, and site services.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a> is expecting the site to sell for around $12 million.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13067 project_image_fid=256357]

Colliers, Head of Investment Services – Victoria, Matt Stagg, said the permitted project is well advanced, offering an approved building envelope, positioned to capitalise on the premium view lines over the Yarra River and the high-end amenity stemming from the Rialto precinct that is around 75 metres away.

“We expect both local and offshore build-to-sell developers to compete for the site, as apartment pre-sales rates are improving across Melbourne," Stagg said.

"Population growth estimates show Melbourne to have the largest forecast migration of all the capital cities in Australia in the next 10 years”.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Colliers is expecting the site at 490 Flinders Street and 1-9 Highlander Lane to sell for around $12 million.

The Highlander, Melbourne development site hits the market

Balmoral Quay, one of the first residential developments in Rippleside in decades, has completed construction.

Ireland Brown Constructions recently completed the third and fourth stages of the Liverpool Street,&nbsp;<a href="/developments/rippleside-vic-3215">Rippleside</a>&nbsp;development, next to Balmoral Quay Marina.

Stages three and four comprise 44 two-level townhouses and 17 apartments.

The completion of <a href="/buildings/balmoral-quay-rippleside-43-liverpool-street-rippleside">Balmoral Quay</a>, which has been described as a "labour of love" by the developers, comes as the final release of sought-after waterfront homes, with only a limited number of ready-to-move-in units still available for sale.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=34180 project_image_fid=255187]

Designed by internationally acclaimed <a href="/architects/sjb-architects">SJB Architects</a>, the residences feature large, open-plan living spaces meeting terraces or balconies, and panoramic views across Corio Bay.

&nbsp;

Balmoral Quay is strategically located near <a href="/new-townhouses/geelong-vic-3220">Geelong</a>'s CBD, offering convenient access to urban amenities while also providing a serene environment with lush green parks nearby.

The harbourside residences at Balmoral Quay start at $1.785 million, while the parkside residences start from $1.95 million.

McGrath Projects is the project marketer handling sales at Balmoral Quay.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=34180]

The harbourside residences at Balmoral Quay start at $1.785 million, while the parkside residences start from $1.95 million

Final residences remaining as Balmoral Quay Rippleside finishes construction

Moonee Ponds is one of Melbourne's most walkable neighbourhoods.

There are significant amenities in the heart of the suburb, which include transport, retail, cafes, dining,&nbsp; and the renowned Moonee Valley Racecourse just a short walk from the village.

<a href="/developers/giancorp-property-group">Giancorp Property Group</a>&nbsp;were well aware of the walkability of the area when they secured a prime site at 6-14 Young Street where they've recently completed <a href="/buildings/penny-lane-moonee-ponds-6-14-young-street-moonee-ponds">Penny Lane</a>.

The project has an unbeatable WalkScore of 99 from WalkScore.com. Everything anyone could need is on the doorstep.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1676 project_image_fid=268942]

A three-minute walk down Young Street is&nbsp;the closest Woolworths, next door to Moonee Ponds Central that homes an ALDI, Anytime Fitness, Subway and several other hospitality venues.

Puckle St is just 200 metres away, with more cuisine restaurants and cafes reflective of Melbourne's famed laneway culture. Just off Puckle Street is the Moonee Ponds Station, an eight-minute walk from Penny Lane.

At the heart of Moonee Ponds is the newly established Palace Cinemas complex, boasting state-of-the-art facilities that promise an immersive cinematic experience.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1676 project_image_fid=268934]

Ideally located at the heart of the city’s iconic racing district, Penny Lane is located a nine-minute walk from Moonee Valley Racecourse, the home of one Australia’s most prestigious horse race, the W.S. Cox Plate. The Melbourne Cup Carnival, held at Flemington Racecourse, is also within close reach, highlighting the area's vibrant sporting culture.

Just 500 metres away from Penny Lane and the bustle of <a href="/developments/moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Moonee Ponds</a> is Queens Park – Moonee Valley’s oldest and finest park, with a lake, a pool, a cottage café, and expansive exotic gardens.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1676 project_image_fid=268938]

Families will also enjoy the convenience of primary and secondary schools within 900 metres from Penny Lane, starting with Ascot Vale Primary School just 400 metres from home, St Monica's Primary School, Moonee Ponds Primary School, Lowther Hall Anglican Grammar School, and St Columba's College.

Designed by <a href="/architects/clarke-hopkins-clarke-0">Clarke Hopkins Clarke Architects</a>, Penny Lane comprises a total of 109 ready-to-move-in apartments, each offering generous balconies or terraces. It is also the focus on longevity, spatial planning, and environmental credentials that sets Penny Lane apart.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1676]

The project has an unbeatable WalkScore of 99 from WalkScore.com. Everything anyone could need is on the doorstep

Why Penny Lane apartments secured a 99 Walk Score in the heart of Moonee Ponds

It was a strong April for new apartment developments launching in Melbourne, with buyers offered up six new developments to talk about.

It's still far away from what's required, with both building approvals and completions at record lows, at a time when Melbourne is the fastest-growing city in terms of population.

The last update from the ABS saw Melbourne's population grow 167,500 people in 2022-23, above Sydney's 146,700.

There continues to be a large imbalance between new apartment developments being submitted, approved, and built, against the thousands heading to Melbourne to call it home. The demand is coming to the <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne off the plan apartment market</a>, and supply isn't.

We've wrapped up the six apartment developments that launched across Melbourne in April.

<h2>Project: Drummond House</h2>

<h3>Address: 482-492 Drummond Street, Carlton VIC 3053</h3>

<h3>Developer:&nbsp;Bensons Property</h3>

Longtime&nbsp;Melbourne&nbsp;developer&nbsp;<a href="/developers/bensons-property-group" target="">Bensons</a><a href="/developers/bensons-property-group">&nbsp;Property</a> has lifted the lid on their new&nbsp;<a href="/developments/carlton-vic-3053">Carlton apartment&nbsp;development</a>, Drummond House.

<a href="/new-apartments/drummond-house-482-492-drummond-street-carlton">Drummond House</a>, located in the heart of Carlton and on the fringe of Princes Park, has been designed by&nbsp;renowned architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>&nbsp;and is the only fully electric building in Carlton.

It will&nbsp;rise 13 levels and offer a mix of two, three and four-bedroom apartments with interiors by&nbsp;<a href="/interior-designers/sora-interior-architecture-design">SORA Interior Architects</a>.

<img alt="Launch Alert: Bensons reveal new Carlton apartment development, Drummond House" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Drummond%20House.png?VersionId=3SexcQgzKki8AZtsdnUC9FGJTAymGnS." />

The amenities offered at Drummond House include a wellness centre featuring a gym, salt room, sauna, and ice bath, along with additional areas such as private dining spaces, a kids' play area, and a business centre.&nbsp;

<a href="/builders/balmain-co">Balmain &amp; Co</a>&nbsp;has been appointed builder for Drummond House.

<h2>Project: Sculpt Hawthorn</h2>

<h3>Address: 43 Riversdale Road, Hawthorn VIC 6103</h3>

<h3>Developer:&nbsp;Monolith Projects</h3>

The market for off the plan apartments is so tight in&nbsp;<a href="/developments/hawthorn-vic-3122">Hawthorn</a>, the upcoming launch of Sculpt by Monolith Projects will make it the only off the plan development on the market in the sought-after inner&nbsp;<a href="/developments/melbourne-vic" target="">Melbourne</a>&nbsp;suburb.

Sculpt, crafted in&nbsp;collaboration with acclaimed design teams&nbsp;<a href="/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a>,&nbsp;<a href="/architects/parallel-workshop-architecture">Parallel Workshop</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="/architects/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, comprises just 18 two, three, and four-bedroom apartments in a&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/sculpt-hawthorn-43-riversdale-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">low-rise building on Riversdale Road</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144271 project_image_fid=270343]

Crowning Sculpt is the penthouse residence featuring palatial open-plan living areas beneath high ceilings and a stately kitchen.

Underpinned by an innovative design vision, Sculpt is also thoughtfully designed with sustainability at the forefront, with plans for a 10 kW Solar PV system on the rooftop, provision for AC electric vehicle charging, a 27kL in-ground rainwater tank for stormwater collection, and a comprehensive waste management system.

<h2>Project: No.1 Camberwell</h2>

<h3>Address: 1 Cooloongatta Road, Camberwell VIC 3124</h3>

<h3>Developer:&nbsp;Burbank Urban</h3>

Builder developer <a href="/builders/burbank-urban">Burbank Urban</a> has launched a limited release of homes in its new townhouse development in the heart of <a href="/developments/camberwell-vic-3124">Camberwell</a>.

<a href="/new-townhouses/no-1-camberwell-1-cooloongatta-road-camberwell">No.1 Camberwell</a> comprises 16 three and four-bedroom free-standing and semi-detached homes starting from $2.3 million.

<img alt="Burbank Urban launch No.1 Camberwell townhouses" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/No.1%20Camberwell%20back.jpg?VersionId=SGlqEV0Ro2yGpAcEjPKPU_jT3xBPoZSU" />

Designed by <a href="/architects/genton">Genton</a>, each home at No.1 Camberwell showcases a rare proposition in a premium location - unique architectural style, premium finishes, and diverse floor plans.

More than half of the homes sit on large corner lots with spacious courtyards and multiple perspectives, while over half of the 5,000 sqm plus site at 1 Cooloongatta Road, just off Riversdale Road, is dedicated to greenery and open space.

<h2>Project: Napier 235</h2>

<h3>Address: 235 Napier Street, Fitzroy VIC 3065</h3>

<h3>Developer:&nbsp;Romano Property Group (RPG)</h3>

<a href="/developers/romano-property-group">Romano Property Group</a> has unveiled its latest project, the Napier 235 apartment development, situated in the heart of <a href="/developments/fitzroy-vic-3065">Fitzroy</a>.&nbsp;

The fully integrated property developer led by Maurice Romani has launched <a href="/new-apartments/napier-235-235-napier-street-fitzroy">Napier 235</a>, a boutique project of just 14 two and three-bedroom apartments named after its ideal location at 235 Napier Street, near the Napier Hotel and Fitzroy's thriving hospitality scene.

<img alt="New Fitzroy apartment development, Napier 235, launches" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Napier%20235.jpg?VersionId=v9enxl9vGdz3Wwv35X76e6rcJ0LjVyIY" />

Designed by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a>, Napier 235 features sculptural geometric exteriors that blend with the lush green surroundings landscaped by&nbsp;<a href="/landscape-architect/florian-wild">Florian Wild</a>.&nbsp;

Napier 235 is recognised for its sustainability efforts, ranking in Victoria's top five per cent for sustainable developments as per Victorian Planning Policy benchmarks.

<h2>Project: Ancora at Collins Wharf</h2>

<h3>Address: 971 Collins Street, Docklands VIC 3008</h3>

<h3>Developer:&nbsp;Lendlease</h3>

Following the success of its most recent Collins Wharf apartment tower, <a href="/new-apartments/regatta-at-collins-wharf-docklands-951-collins-street-docklands">Regatta</a>, ASX-listed developer <a href="/developers/lendlease-development">Lendlease</a> has unveiled Ancora.

“<a href="/new-apartments/ancora-at-collins-wharf-docklands-971-collins-street-docklands-vic-3008">Ancora at Collins Wharf</a> is the next stage of our ongoing commitment to deliver more housing in prime locations in Melbourne, with the precinct stretching the city’s famed Collins Street further westwards to engage with the water, connecting its maritime past with the contemporary vibrancy of the city,” Daniel Dugina, Executive Director of Development at Lendlease, said.

<img alt="Lendlease unveil latest Collins Wharf apartment tower, Ancora" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-30%20at%208.06.02%20pm_0.png?VersionId=GOqhtremg4Py0hZrXpGO6wTpLbPektmi" />

<a href="/architects/warren-and-mahoney">Warren and Mahoney</a> have been engaged again to design Ancora, a 28-level tower with 303 residences that offer uninterrupted views of either Victoria Harbour towards the city or the Yarra River across to Port Phillip Bay.

Ancora residents will enjoy a hotel-style lobby with concierge service, a private dining room to entertain guests, and the lush, landscaped surrounds of two rooftop terraces located at level four and level 16 with panoramic views, plus a winter garden.

Construction of Ancora is set to commence later this year and is anticipated to be completed in 2027.

<h2>Project: New Johnston</h2>

<h3>Address: 398 Johnston Street, Abbotsford VIC 3067</h3>

<h3>Developer:&nbsp;DCF Property</h3>

It's been four years since <a href="/developments/abbotsford-vic-3067">Abbotsford</a>, in Melbourne's inner north-east, has seen a new apartment development launch.

Abbotsford's newest project, <a href="/new-apartments/new-johnston-abbotsford-400-johnston-street-abbotsford-vic-3067">New Johnston</a> by <a href="/developers/dcf-property">DCF Property</a>, sits at 398 Johnston, near Victoria Park Station and Victoria Park. It will comprise 46 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments across nine levels, on top of ground-level retail spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110322 project_image_fid=259891]

Designed by MA+CO Architects, New Johnston's architecture took inspiration from Abbotsford's industrial heritage, incorporating concrete, red brickwork, and metal detailing reminiscent of the area's historic warehouses.&nbsp;

With a WalkScore of 90, New Johnston's location offers residents easy access to a range of amenities, including the Yarra River, Victoria Park, and prestigious schools.

The demand is coming to the Melbourne off the plan apartment market, and supply isn't

Every new Melbourne apartment development launched in April

Cranes working on residential developments in Melbourne grew in the first quarter of 2024.

The latest edition of the Q1 2024 RLB Crane Index® reveals a measured uptick in crane activity across <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a>, with a 14 per cent rise in residential crane numbers compared to Q3 2023. The total number of residential cranes jumped from 94 to 107.

While heading in the right direction, only two of Melbourne's six main regions recorded gains in crane numbers. Melbourne's north is booming, with 26 cranes added, while there were five added to Melbourne's east.

There's been a jump in large development sites in Melbourne's north which command multiple cranes.&nbsp;

There are now&nbsp;three cranes at HOME in Alphington, two each at Glenvill's&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/yarrabend-alphington-57-parkview-road-alphington">YarraBend</a> in <a href="/developments/alphington-vic-3078">Alphington</a>, Ballarat Street in Brunswick, <a href="/buildings/pace-3058-coburg-9s-wardens-walk-coburg">PACE 3058</a> in <a href="/developments/coburg-vic-3058">Coburg</a> and Hamton's Moonee Valley Park in <a href="/developments/moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Moonee Ponds</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24822 project_image_fid=254449]

The residential sector continues to dominate crane activity in Melbourne, accounting for 55 per cent of all cranes in the city. While an uptick quarter on quarter, the total number of cranes is still five per cent lower than it was this time last year.

Most residential sub-sectors saw lower activity in 2023, with apartments down by 10.8 per cent and new houses down slightly by 0.4 per cent.

A total of 55 cranes were added to residential sites over the past six months, and 42 cranes were removed.

Despite being two of Australia's most populated cities, Sydney has 196 more cranes in the sky than <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a>, which is contributing to the huge undersupply of new property in the Victorian capital.

Inner Melbourne recorded the same number of cranes as Q3 2023.

A total of 38 new cranes were added and the same number of cranes were removed. The residential, commercial and civil sectors each have more than 10 cranes. The sites with the most cranes in inner Melbourne are <a href="/new-apartments/seafarers-docklands-731-flinders-street-docklands">Seafarers</a> by <a href="/new-apartments/docklands-vic-3008">Riverlee</a> in <a href="/developers/riverlee">Docklands</a>, Melbourne Quarter Tower by Lendlease and Local: Kensington.

Despite being two of Australia's most populated cities, Sydney has 196 more cranes in the sky than Melbourne, which is contributing to the huge undersupply of new property in the Victorian capital

Residential crane numbers paint bleak supply picture for Melbourne apartment supply: RLB Crane Index Melbourne Q1 2024

For centuries, Australia's oldest prisons have taken up prime land across the country.

It's the case in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs where Long Bay jail occupies 32 hectares of prime eastern suburbs real estate that has long been touted as a potential to somewhat curb some of Sydney's crippling housing supply issue.

In Brisbane, there's the now-closed H.M. Prison Brisbane, more commonly known as Boggo Road Gaol, one of the most notorious prisons in the country before it closed its doors in the 1980s. That still sits on a prime near 10-hectare block of land in Dutton Park, just south of the city and on the fringe of Woolloongabba, the focal point of the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics.

The Melbourne Assessment Prison is located in one of the most sought-after and busy spots in the heart of the Victorian capital, straddling both Spencer and La Trobe Streets in the heart of the city.

These prisons sit on blocks of land that will likely never be traded, which is why when the HMAS Pentridge Prison in Coburg shut down operations in the late 1990s, astute developers swooped on the 6.7-hectare parcel which is located near the centre of <a href="/developments/coburg-vic-3058">Coburg</a>.

One of those developers was Pace, who secured a site that was formerly the exercise yard of the prison. The site Pace acquired left them with a relatively blank canvas compared to some other developers who bought parts of the prison which had to be retained as part of the redevelopment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24822 project_image_fid=254327]

While not having to follow strict heritage rules, architecture firm <a href="/architects/sjb-architects">SJB Architects</a> still looked to the old prison for inspiration.

"You see the old bluestone walls and you want to embrace its history," former SJB Director Tristan Wong said.

"It's so important, and it is a special part of Coburg's history. Those memories are still there and very visible, but there's now just this much more, community-focused, locally-inspired project. it's like it's had this rebirth or regeneration of its former youth."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24822 project_image_fid=254339]

Pace will soon be welcoming residents to&nbsp;<a href="/buildings/pace-3058-coburg-9s-wardens-walk-coburg">Pace 3058</a>, a collection of 311 apartments and townhouses&nbsp;that are slated for completion in the coming months.

The location has been a major driver in interest given it's just 13-minute walk from Coburg Station and the town centre.

Nestled behind Sydney Road, Pace 3058 is surrounded by expansive parklands, bike trails, and a diverse selection of restaurants and cafes.

The nearest park,&nbsp;Coburg Lake Reserve, is&nbsp;only an eight-minute stroll from Pace 3058, offering picnic areas, playgrounds, barbecue facilities, and walking and bike paths surrounding the lake.&nbsp;There is also a Palace Cinemas within a five-minute walk of Pace 3058.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24822 project_image_fid=254321]

Jackson Reserve, a busier recreational park, featuring&nbsp;an off-leash dog area,&nbsp;a playground, an adjoining basketball stadium, and a track and field oval&nbsp;is just a quick five-minute drive away.

Several retail and dining options also surround the development, starting with The Boot Factory across the street, The Glass Den towards the rear of the property, and O’Hey Cafe an eight-minute walk away.&nbsp;

Moreover, residents are only a three-minute walk to Coburg Farmers’ Market, five minutes to Ritchies IGA Fine Food and Wine Merchants, and just within a kilometre from the closest Woolworths and Coles.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24822 project_image_fid=254326]

Completing the ideal location checklist for family buyers, Pace 3058 not only offers proximity to parks, playgrounds, retail, and dining options but also sits just 400 metres from Coburg Primary School and 850 metres from Coburg High School.

Health services are also nearby, with Merri Health only an eight-minute walk, and Harding Street Medical Centre, a five-minute drive away from Pace 3058.

Prospective buyers can choose from one, two, and three-bedroom DDA-compliant apartments, as well as double-storey three-bedroom townhouses.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=24822]

Australia's inner-city prisons and their potential for new apartment development

For a second month in a row, Melbourne's unit market outperformed houses, a trend now being noticed across the majority of capital cities throughout Australia.

Values of units in Melbourne (which incorporates both apartments and townhouses), grew by 0.1 per cent,&nbsp;according to data from property data analytics firm CoreLogic's Monthly Hedonic Index.

While only modest growth, houses in <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a> went backward -0.2 per cent. Melbourne units are outperforming houses over the rolling quarter, up 0.4 per cent in the last three months compared to a -0.3 per cent decline in the house market.

The median value of units in Melbourne currently stands at $613,000.

<h2>What happened in Melbourne's off the plan apartment market in April?</h2>

While Melbourne is continuing to suffer from chronic undersupply of new property, there was a bit of activity over April with new stock coming to market.

<a href="/developers/beulah">Beulah</a> shifted their attention to Brunswick having now sold over 80 per cent of their landmark STH BNK by Beulah tower. They unveiled a new boutique townhouse development,&nbsp;<a href="/new-townhouses/brunswick-established-23-hodgson-st-brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick Established</a>,&nbsp;which they're pitching as "future-proofed and multi-generational."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136451 project_image_fid=274274]

Comprised of 23 two-storey townhouses, Brunswick Established offers multiple typologies of townhomes to suit different living requirements, allowing residents to grow in place - the majority include ground-floor bedrooms for accessibility while others provide a detached room separated by a courtyard.&nbsp;

Spanning a large 3,705 sqm site and designed by leaders in social and sustainable architecture Six Degrees Architects, Brunswick Established will also feature verdant common spaces inspired by traditional London Mews design, including a private laneway, landscaped courtyards and rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136451 project_image_fid=270371]

There was a rare launch of new apartments in&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/hawthorn-vic-3122">Hawthorn</a>&nbsp;in April. The new Riversdale Road project, <a href="/new-apartments/sculpt-hawthorn-43-riversdale-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Sculpt</a>, is&nbsp;the suburb's only off the plan apartment development currently in the market.&nbsp;

Crafted in collaboration with acclaimed design teams <a href="/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a>, <a href="/architects/parallel-workshop-architecture">Parallel Workshop</a>, and <a href="/architects/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, Sculpt comprises just 18 two, three, and four-bedroom apartments in a low-rise building near Fairview Park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144271 project_image_fid=270343]

<a href="/new-apartments/caulfield-north-vic-3161">Caulfield North</a> saw the launch of <a href="/new-apartments/reverie-caulfield-79-89-hawthorn-road-caulfield-north">Reverie</a> which sold 30 per cent of its 34 two and three-bedroom apartments quickly.

Award-winning <a href="/architects/bg-architecture">BG Architecture</a> have teamed with acclaimed interior design firm, <a href="/interior-designers/hecker-guthrie">Hecker Guthrie</a>, to design Reverie, divided into three levels; The Penthouse Level, The Sanctuary Levels, and The Podium — offering panoramic bay and city views in the Penthouse Level to spacious balconies overlooking Caulfield Park and the city skyline in the Sanctuary Levels.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144513 project_image_fid=269496]

<a href="/developers/bensons-property-group">Bensons Property</a> also has a new project in the market. <a href="/new-apartments/drummond-house-482-492-drummond-street-carlton">Drummond House</a> in <a href="/new-apartments/carlton-vic-3053">Carlton</a>, comprising a mix of two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 13 levels, will be Carlton's first fully electric building.

Drummond House will target an 8.7-star energy rating, aligning itself with modern sustainability standards.

<img alt="Launch Alert: Bensons reveal new Carlton apartment development, Drummond House" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Drummond%20House%20Cinema.png?VersionId=EC80lxoXwR6WByYDuwtLNIwhQ6RkemrV" />

<a href="/builders/lendlease-building">Lendlease</a> revealed their latest stage of Collins Wharf off the back of the success of its most recent apartment tower, <a href="/new-apartments/regatta-at-collins-wharf-docklands-951-collins-street-docklands">Regatta</a>, which is now 80 per cent sold.

<a href="/architects/warren-and-mahoney">Warren and Mahoney</a> have been engaged again to design their new tower, <a href="/new-apartments/ancora-at-collins-wharf-docklands-971-collins-street-docklands-vic-3008">Ancora</a>, a 28-level tower with 276 one, two and three-bedroom apartments that offer uninterrupted views of either Victoria Harbour towards the city or the Yarra River across to Port Phillip Bay.

The Premier Collection comprises 27 residences across a range of townhouses, penthouses, and larger-scale apartments that will soon become available.

Ancora residents will enjoy a hotel-style lobby with concierge service, a private dining room to entertain guests, and the lush, landscaped surrounds of two rooftop terraces located at a level for and level 16 with panoramic views, plus a winter garden.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9779 project_image_fid=263997]

While the supply of new apartments is still nowhere near enough to meet the demand, several new projects on the horizon will bring some more supply, none larger than a four-tower development in the Fishermans Bend precinct.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Citinova plot multi-tower development in Fishermans Bend" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-19%20at%204.18.10%20pm.png?VersionId=eogu21v9z8UCqB3bNm08l5GSzxKbbgXs" />

The project, which is being managed by <a href="/developers/citinova">Citinova</a>, features a four-tower development that will bring over 1000 apartments to the chronically undersupplied Melbourne market.

The five-stage project will also include an unencumbered 3,075 sqm public open space.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-citinova-plot-multi-tower-development-in-fishermans-bend">First look exclusive: Citinova plot multi-tower development in Fishermans Bend</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a> is also set for a new tower with plans filed for a new 25-level tower.

<a href="/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a> has put together plans for the 188-apartment tower at 38 Clarke Street, on the corner of City Road and Clarke Street just behind Crown Melbourne.

In the medium-density space, prominent developers <a href="/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> and <a href="/developers/carpe-group">Carpe Group</a> were both active.

Abadeen lodged plans for their second apartment development in Melbourne having expanded from Sydney's Lower North Shore late last year.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/first-look-abadeen-lodge-plans-for-second-melbourne-apartment-development">First look: Abadeen lodge plans for second Melbourne apartment development</a>

<img alt="First look: Abadeen lodge plans for second Melbourne apartment development" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-17%20at%2011.05.29%20am.png?VersionId=79fVjZ.l2snAFEPFAw3RuGyQuZFmK7pW" />

Currently selling their debut project <a href="/new-apartments/malea-94-burke-road-malvern-east">Maléa</a> in <a href="/developments/malvern-vic-3144">Malvern</a> where they've recently appointed <a href="/builders/brompton-construction">Brompton Construction</a> to build the boutique project of just seven parkside apartments, Abadeen, led locally by Andrew Leoncelli, has filed for a four-level apartment development housing 26 apartments.

They had <a href="/architects/carr-design">Carr Design</a> design the four-level building to curve around a Smooth Bark Apple tree, immovable as it's listed as a national trust significant tree.

Fellow boutique developer Carpe Group secured the green light for two projects in Bayside. They're soon to launch The Coterie, 25 apartments in <a href="/developments/sandringham-vic-3191">Sandringham</a>, and 18 apartments in Hampton.

<a href="/new-apartments/the-coterie-sandringham-49-51-abbott-street-sandringham">The Coterie</a> will go first. That will home two and three-bedroom apartments in a Warren &amp; Mahoney-designed building at 49-51 Abbott Street, near Sandringham Station

<img alt="Carpe Group secure green light for two Melbourne apartment developments" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-16%20at%208.38.06%20am.png?VersionId=lmqKqJjGajM8L4pPzeIzQ_bjThK3RGx0" />

Carpe's other Bayside project, in <a href="/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>, is another that's all about the location.

Strategically located one street back from the vibrant Hampton Street with all the retail, hospitality and Hampton Station. Carpe will launch 18 apartments at 8-10 Ocean Street, designed by <a href="/architects/martin-freidrich-architects">Martin Friedrich Architects</a> who will also handle the interiors.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/carpe-group-secure-green-light-for-two-melbourne-apartment-developments">Carpe Group secure green light for two Melbourne apartment developments</a>

City Beat May 2024: Melbourne unit growth outstrips houses for second straight month

Buyer demand across the country is shifting to units as housing affordability continues to put a strain on budgets.

Research by property data analytics company CoreLogic shows worsening affordability, particularly in capital city markets where house prices have soared.

CoreLogic Economist Kaytlin Ezzy says demand is now tilting towards unit and apartment living due to affordability concerns, particularly in capital cities.

"House values surged nearly 40 per cent since March 2020, while unit values rose 17.9 per cent, indicating the widening gap between house and unit values," Ezzy says.

<img alt="House vs Unit growth" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="488729a0-d3ea-441b-952b-da4978c13edb" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/2405_COTM.PNG?VersionId=J38cRtz3_VtXJL8a4njyWTPBtzxbrtDd" />

&nbsp;

Hobart is the only capital that saw stronger value growth in houses (0.8 per cent) compared to units (0.6 per cent) over the three months to April.

"Given the worsening affordability environment and the growing possibility that interest rates could be higher for longer, it's unsurprising that demand has skewed towards the more affordable unit sector," Ezzy added.

Over the three months to April, lower quartile dwelling values rose three per cent, more than twice the pace of upper quartile values (1.1 per cent), with growth conditions continuing to be skewed toward the more affordable section of the market.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/city-beat-may-2024-sydney-unit-growth-doubles-houses-in-april">City Beat May 2024: Sydney unit growth doubles houses in April</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/qld/city-beat-may-2024-gold-coast-unit-market-continues-to-surge">City Beat May 2024: Gold Coast unit market continues to surge</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/qld/city-beat-may-2024-brisbane-unit-growth-doubles-houses-in-april">City Beat May 2024: Brisbane unit growth doubles houses in April</a>

The prolonged high-interest rate environment has seen buyer demand continue to skew towards more affordable housing alternatives, with most capitals now recording stronger growth in the more affordable unit sector

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