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

Construction firm Iurada is continuing to press on with LDS Property's new Glen Iris apartment development, GALERIE.

They're pushing to have the boutique building of 29-apartments completed before the end of the year, with off the plan apartment buyers moving in shortly after.

The main building structure is all-but complete, with windows being installed in the coming month before <a href="/builders/iurada">Iurada</a> shift its focus to the internal fit-out of the two and three-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="February 2024 Construction Update" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="81ad071e-e8ab-42d0-8355-c2fb297e58f0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/427800199_1337864223587721_8149138869675408896_n.jpg?VersionId=5K2eHjmgjBcJXu3oiJf5jEWDa3til.Om" />

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112375 project_image_fid=250355]

Wall frames have been installed across all levels, and service rough-ins are close to completion.

<a href="/buildings/galerie-glen-iris-1538-1540-high-street-glen-iris-vic-3146">GALERIE</a> has been one of the most popular apartment developments in <a href="/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a> since it launched to the market in late 2022.

Over 40 per cent of the apartments sold before construction began, including a $4 million amalgamation of two penthouses which topped the Glen Iris apartment price record. The majority of buyers have been local downsizers and empty nesters who wanted to stay in the Glen Iris postcode.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112375 project_image_fid=250354]

The low-rise building has been designed by <a href="/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> and sits in landscaping by <a href="/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick Landscape Architects</a>.

<a href="/developers/lds-property">LDS Property</a> secured the prime 1,825 sqm site on High Street in 2021.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112375 project_image_fid=250357]

GALERIE sits near the High Street and Burke Road intersection, in close proximity to Glen Iris Station.

LDS is offering a five per cent deposit on the apartments at GALERIE for a limited time, with prices starting from $895,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112375]

GALERIE sits near the High Street and Burke Road intersection, in close proximity to Glen Iris Station

Staff Writer

Glen Iris apartment development GALERIE pushes ahead on time with completion planned for Q4 2024

North Melbourne, once an industrial hub, has undergone significant transformation over the years, evolving into a vibrant and sought-after suburb to live in.

There's been&nbsp;significant gentrification in the suburb, and there's expected to be even more eyes on North Melbourne with Development Victoria's 30-year Arden Renewal precinct which will bring over 15,000 residents to the 45-hectares surrounding Metro Tunnel's new Arden Station, as well as&nbsp;the City of Melbourne's $1.7 billion renewal precinct on the fringe of the Melbourne CBD and North Melbourne.

We've looked at the top off the plan apartment and townhouse developments in North Melbourne currently selling in 2024.

<h2>Project: WOBO</h2>

<h3>Location: 103-105 Boundary Road, North Melbourne VIC 3051</h3>

<h3>Developer: Orb Property Partners</h3>

Melbourne-based <a href="/developers/orb-property-partners">Orb Property Partners</a>&nbsp;is creating a lifestyle precinct with its Boundary Street project, Tapestry.

The first stage of the development, <a href="/new-apartments/wobo-north-melbourne-103-105-boundary-road-north-melbourne">WOBO</a>, will be the&nbsp;beginning of Orb's multistage mixed-use precinct, which, when complete, will be a new creative precinct in the heart of North Melbourne.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112082 project_image_fid=249767]

The Tapestry will include a range of residential buildings, along with a wellness centre, fresh food marketplace, 220-seat theatre, co-working spaces and specialty stores.

Designed by the renowned architecture firm <a href="/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a> and set in landscaping by <a href="/landscape-architect/oculus">Oculus</a>, the warehouse-style WOBO offers one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, as well as three penthouses.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112082 project_image_fid=249769]

Drawing inspiration from the industrial fabric of the area, WOBO's striking articulated brick podium creatively re-uses materials from the former factory site.

Crowning the apartments is the rooftop terrace, complete with outdoor dining, a firepit area, seating pods and views of the city, Royal Park and Docklands.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112082 project_image_fid=249796]

The entire project is 100 per cent renewable powered and features leading energy efficiency initiatives.

<h2>Project: Florenze Terrace</h2>

<h3>Location: 89-101 Lothian Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051</h3>

<h3>Developer: Drake Developments</h3>

<a href="/developers/drake-developments">Drake Developments</a>' new address, Florenze Terrace, brings a visual nothing like <a href="/developments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">North Melbourne</a> has seen before.

Designed by <a href="/architects/nicholas-murray-architects">Nicholas Murray Architects</a>, the townhouses feature textural planked concrete, wide arches, and symmetrical facades, blending with the local architectural style.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142902 project_image_fid=236444]

<a href="/new-townhouses/florenze-terrace-north-melbourne-89-101-lothian-street-north-melbourne">Florenze Terrace</a> comprises 18 four-bedroom townhouses, commanding broad street frontage for unobstructed views and ample natural light.&nbsp;

Designed for those who appreciate spacious living in an inner-city setting, the townhomes feature multiple living zones, rooftop terraces, expansive retractable doors, ample storage and private garages.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142902 project_image_fid=236449]

Florenze Terrace also prioritises sustainability, aiming for a 6-star energy rating, incorporating rainwater tanks and smart EV charging points.&nbsp;

Construction by <a href="/builders/keyway-built">Keyway Built</a> is underway, with move-in expected in 2024.

<h2>Project: Hotham Hill&nbsp;</h2>

<h3>Location: 5 Curran Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051</h3>

<h3>Developer: Mainstone</h3>

Development group <a href="/developers/mainstone">Mainstone</a> imbued their history into the heritage suburb of North Melbourne through their aptly named apartment development, Hotham Hill, paying homage to the sought-after district.

<a href="/new-apartments/hotham-hill-north-melbourne-5-curran-street-north-melbourne">Hotham Hill</a> comprises just 10 three-bedroom apartments in a boutique three-level building designed by <a href="/architects/mgs-architects">MGS Architects</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112765 project_image_fid=200556]

The building boasts a sustainable biophilic design, with asymmetrical rooftops echoing nearby heritage homes, and the use of classic, durable materials striking a balance between timeless and modern design.

The interiors are light-filled, following an open-plan design that merges the indoors with the outdoors, with generously proportioned balconies and terraces adjoining each.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112765 project_image_fid=200559]

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Hotham Hill boasts an average energy rating of 7 stars, the homes consume 80 per cent less energy, while dual aspects are provided across all two and three-bedroom residences for cross ventilation.

Construction at Hotham Hill is underway, with completion slated for late 2024.

North Melbourne's best off the plan developments selling in 2024

Luxury Melbourne developer Prime Edition&nbsp;has launched AVOCA, a boutique apartment development in South Yarra's Domain Hill.&nbsp;

AVOCA comprises five single-level three-bedroom apartments surrounded by gardens landscaped by <a href="/architects/myles-baldwin">Myles Baldwin</a>.

Designed by Paldolfini Architecture, AVOCA's exterior is characterised by well-composed forms, sculptural elements, and a restrained palette, punctuated by deep windows and a ribbon of planter boxes.

<img alt="AVOCA Launch" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="702c6344-b965-43cb-ac9e-bdc16cb7278f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/AVOCA%20Balcony.png?VersionId=TyjfyAluRt8O6LHFQsmBvujNdZRtM8KU" />

The apartments' open floor plans extend to three private terraces, each serving as a reading nook, an al fresco dining area, and entertainment space.

Expansive living areas feature a large gas fireplace and are adorned with brass, natural stone, and extensive timber throughout for a warm and welcoming ambience.

The gourmet kitchen is fitted with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, a concealed wine fridge, and a limestone island as a centrepiece, complemented by a zip tap and Broadware tapware.

<img alt="AVOCA Launch" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74051e84-4414-40bb-8a60-52591dced73b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/AVOCA%20Kitchen.png?VersionId=BjU3KHBtx2v1sh1aIeb47fEyKPd7Hul7" />

Bathrooms have underfloor heating, heated towel rails, and double vanities, while the powder room features Scarpa stone pattern mosaic wall tiles.

There was a conscious effort in the design to allow generous expanses of empty walls,&nbsp;specialised lighting and art rails throughout the apartments for residents to showcase their personal art collections.

AVOCA's prime location puts residents just a five-minute walk from <a href="/new-apartments/south-yarra-vic-3141">South Yarra</a> Station and a kilometre away from Fawkner Park.

Late last year Prime Edition <a href="/news/vic/prime-edition-launch-jolson-designed-como-toorak-apartments">launched the $120 million Como Toorak</a>, just 17 apartments designed by Jolson at&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/como-toorak-2-bruce-street-toorak">2 Bruce St</a>. They secured the&nbsp;amalgamation of multiple blocks, over 2,500 sqm, from AFR Rich Lister Larry Kestleman for a record $26 million in 2022.

&nbsp;

They have another project in&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/toorak-vic-3142">Toorak</a>,&nbsp;and another in&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/clifton-hill-vic-3068">Clifton Hill</a>.

There was a conscious effort in the design to allow generous expanses of empty walls, specialised lighting and art rails throughout the apartments for residents to showcase their personal art collections

Prime Edition launch luxury full-floor South Yarra apartment development, Avoca

The Australian coffee market is among the largest in the world.

Data by Statista found that in 2022,&nbsp;Australia exported over $90 million worth of coffee, with coffee imports over 12 times the value of exports. The revenue of the coffee market is over $9 billion, and the domestic coffee consumption amounted to more than 2.2 million 60-kilogram bags in 2023, with Australians consuming, on average, around two kilograms of coffee per person.

A growing trend is occurring in Melbourne's off the plan apartment landscape, Australia's coffee capital, with the increasing integration of in-house cafes.

The practical amenity not only brings the daily caffeine fix closer to future residents, but also nurtures a community vibe.&nbsp;

In this article, we take a look at Melbourne’s newest apartment developments with an onsite cafe.

<h2>Project: Candela Ivanhoe</h2>

<h3>Location: 40 Upper Heidelberg Road, Ivanhoe VIC 3079</h3>

<h3>Developer: Salter Brothers</h3>

Melbourne developer <a href="/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a> is bringing <a href="/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe">Candela Ivanhoe</a> to the heritage-rich suburb of <a href="/developments/ivanhoe-vic-3079">Ivanhoe</a>. This upcoming development, designed by <a href="/architects/john-demos-architects">Turner Studio</a>, offers 62 apartments in a prime location, just a six-minute walk from Ivanhoe Station.&nbsp;

Residents will enjoy proximity to parks, restaurants, and prestigious schools in this walker's paradise. In addition to enjoying all the surrounding neighbourhood has to offer, Candela residents will also benefit from an in-house cafe, wine bar and rooftop gardens.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=169539]

The building's podium level, designed as a publicly accessible piazza, will house a cafe and various commercial spaces.&nbsp;

Additional amenities include outdoor seating, an atrium, a providore, and a rooftop garden, enhancing the drinking and dining opportunities for residents amidst landscaping by <a href="/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>.

<h2>Project: The Eighth</h2>

<h3>Location: 8 Palmerston Crescent, South Melbourne VIC 3205</h3>

<h3>Developer: Projects by Crema</h3>

Nic Crema, head of <a href="/developers/crema-group">Projects by Crema</a>, aimed for something unique on his Palmerston Crescent site, strategically positioned near St Kilda Rd and amidst three of Melbourne's top parks.&nbsp;

The outcome is <a href="/buildings/the-eighth-south-melbourne-22-kings-place-south-melbourne">The Eighth</a>, a mixed-use development featuring commercial office space, 36 high-end apartments, a resident rooftop with a pool and bar, and a holistic corporate well-being business on the podium level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5345 project_image_fid=227090]

Convenience is also at the foot of the building with Palms Cafe and Beppi's Wine Bar on the ground floor. The coffee lover will not run out of options as coffee spots are also plentiful nearby, with The Kettle Black and Albertchino Cafe just around the corner.

The 18-level building, designed by <a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0">Elenberg Fraser</a> and <a href="/architects/rob-kennon-architects">Kennon</a>, has recently been completed, welcoming its first residents during the Christmas break.

<h2>Project: Malvern Collective</h2>

<h3>Location: 2 Station Place, Malvern VIC 3144</h3>

<h3>Developer: Kokoda Property</h3>

<a href="/developers/kokoda-property">Kokoda Property</a>'s 4,714 sqm site at 2 Station Place will bring two <a href="/architects/jackson-clements-burrows-architects">JCB</a>-designed apartment buildings with luxury amenities, as well as new dining, retail, and commercial options to Malvern.

The <a href="/new-apartments/malvern-collective-2-station-place-malvern">Malvern Collective</a> precinct aims to create a 0-minute neighbourhood, ensuring everything is easily accessible.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12457 project_image_fid=217259]

It's the only development in <a href="/developments/malvern-vic-3144">Malvern</a> that offers the convenience of both direct access to a train station and a retail precinct of coffee shops, restaurants, wine bars and lifestyle services directly below.&nbsp;

The precinct will also include six hospitality venues, a health and wellness centre, a gym and a pilates studio, and will adjoin a 600 sqm Woolworths Metro.

<h2>Project: 333 StK</h2>

<h3>Location: 333 St Kilda Road, St Kilda VIC 3182</h3>

<h3>Developer: Matrix Developments</h3>

Future residents at <a href="/developers/matrix-developments">Matrix Development</a>'s <a href="/new-apartments/333-stk-333-st-kilda-road-st-kilda">333 Stk</a> will enjoy a well-rounded lifestyle thanks to a variety of on-site amenities and facilities.

The 76 apartments are elevated above a podium, which will have two retail spaces, expected to be a mini grocer and a specialty bakery cafe.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112949 project_image_fid=252259]

Communal areas include a private dining room, a versatile lounge for media, conferences, and meetings, an exclusive gym for residents, and a rooftop retreat with a built-in barbecue and comfortable seating—also an ideal spot to savour coffee with a view of <a href="/developments/st-kilda-vic-3182">St Kilda</a>.

<h2>Project: WOBO</h2>

<h3>Location: 103-105 Boundary Road, North Melbourne VIC 3051</h3>

<h3>Developer: Orb Property Partners</h3>

<a href="/new-apartments/wobo-north-melbourne-103-105-boundary-road-north-melbourne">WOBO</a> marks the first stage and release of <a href="/developers/orb-property-partners">Orb Property Partners</a>' multi-stage mixed-use project, The Tapestry, set to become a creative hub in <a href="/developments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">North Melbourne</a>.

Designed by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>&nbsp;and <a href="/architects/oculus">Oculus</a>, WOBO comprises 99 warehouse-style apartments on top of a retail arcade, cafés, restaurants, bakery, hairdresser, beauty salon and a multidisciplinary medical centre on the podium level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112082 project_image_fid=249789]

Crowning WOBO is a rooftop, where residents can also enjoy a cup of coffee and al fresco dining on the lounge or around the fire pit with panoramic views of the city, green parks, and docklands.

<h2>Project: BLVD</h2>

<h3>Location: 19 Hoff Boulevard, Southbank VIC 3006</h3>

<h3>Developer: OSK Property</h3>

Upon completion, <a href="/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a>'s <a href="/new-apartments/blvd-at-melbourne-square-19-hoff-boulevard-southbank">BLVD</a> will stand tall at 73 floors, accommodating nearly 600 apartments and a range of resort-style amenities.

It will be part of the established <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">Melbourne Square</a> community, which already includes completed East and West Towers, Kennedy Park, and extensive retail options.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=211870]

The square's anchor tenant is the double-storey, full-line Woolworths, there is also a BWS, Pacific Asian grocery store, Sama Sama Malaysian restaurant, an 87-place childcare centre, and 10 Hoff Café offering a variety of sweet and savoury baked goods, juices, smoothies, and coffee.

The practical amenity not only brings the daily caffeine fix closer to future residents, but also nurtures a community vibe. 

Wake up and smell the coffee: Melbourne’s newest apartment developments with an onsite cafe

The record for an apartment in&nbsp;<a href="/developments/fitzroy-vic-3065">Fitzroy</a>, one of Melbourne’s oldest suburbs, has hit a new high following the sale of three amalgamated apartments in Chapter Group's Fitzroy Fitzroy project on Smith Street.

The three combined apartments, which will made a 400 sqm home with 120 sqm of outdoor entertaining space, sold for around $10 million.

The buyer was an Australian expat who will call&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/fitzroy-fitzroy-411-421-smith-street-fitzroy">Fitzroy Fitzroy</a>&nbsp;home when the project is completed later this year.

The buyer, in their 30s,&nbsp;was attracted to the project’s central location on Smith Street and the ability to create their dream home in the sky.&nbsp;

The penthouse buyer went through a customisation process for the floorplan and interior finishes with DKO and <a href="/developers/chapter-group">Chapter Group</a>. The result is a whole-floor four-bedroom apartment with five bathrooms, a library room, a games room, a formal lounge, a living room, a dining room, a mud room, laundry and butler’s kitchen, as well as 360-degree views and parking for six cars.&nbsp;

The buyer will also have access to the project’s residential amenities including a residents-only ‘Smith Club’ with communal bar and dining, private meeting and work-from-home spaces and an expansive tranquil rooftop garden on level nine designed by <a href="/landscape-architect/tcl">TCL</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a>, Fitzroy Fitzroy sits behind a grand heritage brick facade, once home to MacRobertson’s Garage and Workshop, and reaches nine storeys high, complete with angular rooftops and a chamfered western side to create sunlit internal spaces and generous viewlines.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14394 project_image_fid=183065]

Internally, two colour schemes are on offer, both inspired by the culture and character of Fitzroy – the Avant Scheme is marked by fresh, natural finishes and a muted colour palette, while the Gastronome Scheme is bold, unrestrained and modern.&nbsp;

“Fitzroy Fitzroy initially launched with 56 apartments and six townhomes but following a number of amalgamations, the project make-up has shrunk to 52 apartments and five townhomes,” says Dean Lefkos, Chapter Group Founder &amp; Director.

“All buyers to date have been owner-occupiers, very much from within the local area ranging from 20s to 60s, comprising downsizers, empty nesters and young professionals.&nbsp;

“Buyers have largely been attracted to the heritage facade and unique design of Fitzroy Fitzroy, particularly the way it fuses old with new. Apartments and terrace homes boast industrial features the suburb is known and loved for - angular rooftops, concrete, steel and brick, yet a modern edge is evident via fluted glass, brass accents and natural stone."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14394 project_image_fid=183072]

At ground level, an internal laneway connects Smith Street to the residents’ lobby, inspired by the local arcades in Melbourne’s CBD, complete with ground-floor residential amenities and two retail tenancies.&nbsp;

Fitzroy Fitzroy is 70 per cent sold and is currently under construction. Custom floorplans are still available, with completion scheduled for Q4 2025. There is a further opportunity for a full-floor exclusive residence, up to 650sqm to be fully customised.&nbsp;

Remaining apartments are priced from $650,000.

Fitzroy Fitzroy is a joint venture between <a href="/developers/chapter-group">Chapter Group</a>, <a href="/developers/crema-group">Projects by Crema</a> and <a href="/developers/cdl-australia">CDL Australia</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=14394]

The buyer was an Australian expat who will call Fitzroy Fitzroy home when the project is completed later this year

Confidence in Melbourne's off the plan apartment market soars with record $10 million Fitzroy sale

Future residents at Matrix Development Pty Ltd's 333 Stk will enjoy their well-designed apartments with a well-rounded lifestyle, thanks to a variety of on-site amenities and facilities.

The <a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed <a href="/new-apartments/333-stk-333-st-kilda-road-st-kilda">333 Stk</a>, named after its premium location at 333 St Kilda Road, comprises 76 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, including two two-level penthouses.&nbsp;

The apartments are elevated above a podium featuring two retail spaces anticipated to house a mini grocer and a specialty bakery cafe.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112949 project_image_fid=252261]

Some units feature winter gardens or outdoor terraces, providing flexible spaces for personal studies or hobbies.

Communal areas include a fully appointed private dining room, perfect for hosting long lunches or dinner parties.&nbsp;

The multifunctional lounge serves as a media room, conference, and meeting space, catering to both business and relaxation needs.

The crowning feature of 333 Stk is the rooftop retreat, offering panoramic views across <a href="/developments/st-kilda-vic-3182">St Kilda</a>, complemented by a built-in barbecue and comfortable seating areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112949 project_image_fid=254183]

There's also a fully equipped gym exclusively for residents use.

Sustainability is a priority at 333 Stk, with 100 per cent renewable energy provided in each home. Energy-efficient appliances, 4 to 5-star WELS Tapware, and ultra-low Volatile Organic Compounds Interior (VOC) paint contribute to environmentally conscious living.

All apartments include one or two parking spaces, with provisions for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and lockable storage areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112949 project_image_fid=254183]

Strategically located on a 2,540 sqm corner site along St Kilda Road and Blanche Street, 333 Stk places residents in proximity to various local amenities, such as St Kilda Beach, St Kilda Esplanade Market, The Avenue Hospital, St Kilda Park Primary School, St Mary College, St Kilda Botanical Garden, and Luna Park.

Construction, led by <a href="/builders/balmain-co">Balmain &amp; Co</a>, is on track for completion in Q4 2025. Prospective buyers can capitalise on stamp duty savings available now.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112949]

Construction, led by Balmain & Co, is on track for completion in Q4 2025

Amenity watch: The break out spaces at new St Kilda Road apartment development, 333 StK

National diversified developer Fortis has achieved planning approvals for $570 million worth of projects across three major developments in Sydney and Melbourne.

They've secured approval for the second tower of their&nbsp;$320 million mixed-use Wiltshire House development in Richmond, an $80 million commercial building in Sydney's Manly and a landmark $170 million precinct in Double Bay, in collaboration with Restoration Hardware (RH), that will bring the luxury lifestyle brand to Australia and Asia-Pacific for the first time.&nbsp;

At Wiltshire House, the 22,200 sqm, two-tower project in <a href="/new-apartments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a>, Fortis has appointed SJB as lead architect, having reimagined previously approved plans for the second tower from commercial to residential in response to the pent-up demand for high-quality residential stock in Melbourne’s inner suburbs. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=232939]

The move is reflective of the confidence that Fortis continues to hold in residential development across Melbourne’s inner-ring suburbs, which is underpinned by the initial off-market enquiry for the building’s first residential tower, and the macro fundamentals which points to a sustained, significant undersupply of new housing across the state into 2027*.&nbsp;

The development approval comes at a critical time for housing supply in the state of Victoria, with Charter Keck Cramer’s State of the Market H1 2023 report revealing that between 15,000 and 18,000 new build-to-sell and build-to-rent apartments are required to meet the current levels of demand. Yet, completions are only forecast to reach 10,500 per year.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in <a href="/developments/sydney-nsw">Sydney</a>, the RH DA decision made by the Woollahra Planning Panel provides approval for a purpose-built Design Gallery that integrates artistic installations of luxury home furnishings, an Interior Design studio with professional design services; and a Rooftop Restaurant, &nbsp;offering a curated fine dining experience.&nbsp;

<img alt="Fortis achieves planning approval for RH in Double Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="777ea9b6-1153-4ee5-9295-988ab5aec480" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/RH%20Double%20Bay.png?VersionId=9TFqhSCWQMYYPipVIQuDDq5qVT4eECyw" />

With an architectural approach defined by the RH design ethos – a study of balance, symmetry, and perfect proportions – RH Sydney, The Gallery at Double Bay will be a signature landmark for the city’s eastern suburbs, integrating a timeless yet contemporary structure into the landscape of Double Bay.&nbsp;

Fortis acquired the 1,027sqm RH Gallery site for $49 million in 2021 with the vision to create a bespoke design and hospitality destination. Working in collaboration with RH, MHN Design Union and &nbsp;Dangar Barin Smith, the $170 million commercial project will represent a distinctive and inspiring space of the highest quality and craftsmanship.&nbsp;

The new RH Gallery complements a number of highly successful Fortis developments in the area including Neil Perry’s ‘Margaret’, ‘Baker Bleu’ at 2 Guilfoyle Avenue, another soon-to-open Neil Perry venue, ‘Song Bird’ at 24 Bay Street, and boutique commercial office suites for sale within the luxurious Ruby House project, currently under construction opposite the RH Gallery development.&nbsp;

Fortis has also secured development approval for 34-35 South Steyne in Manly from Northern Beaches Council.&nbsp;

<img alt="Fortis achieves planning approval for 34-35 South Steyne in Manly" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a55d69d-500b-430b-bb0e-2c0677616e3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Manly.png?VersionId=D6AyL1uZbdVS2Y_zMy7wNPXycFwT8A7l" />

Named ‘White Water’, construction on the 690 sqm site is set to commence in Q3 2024, with developer Fortis set to transform it into a commercial and retail offering with three levels of commercial office space, two basement levels for parking, and a private rooftop terrace.

The Manly site will be developed by Fortis and anchored by Pallas Capital, with its growing operations across the eastern seaboard driving demand for a second office.&nbsp;

For Wiltshire House in Richmond, Fortis re-submitted the project as a residential scheme in August &nbsp;2023 – just as Property Council of Australia figures revealed that 12,000 new homes could be created by converting vacant office buildings to residential projects in Melbourne’s CBD.&nbsp;

The new scheme for the second tower will encompass 10,000 sqm of premium residential, &nbsp;commercial and retail space, featuring ground-floor retail and hospitality, alongside 50 apartments spanning 11 floors above.&nbsp;

Victoria's General Manager, Development, Tim Mills, says Wiltshire House aims to create a lifestyle precinct.

“As with our Sydney and Brisbane projects we are aiming to deliver more than just residences – by emphasising the existing local DNA of the areas in which our projects sit, while ensuring connection between our network of neighbouring projects within the same suburbs, we can create lifestyle precincts that add value to locals and visitors as well as our own buyers," Mills says.

“We saw a number of developers last year either re-think their future commercial projects or re-develop existing ones, into sorely needed residential stock – we expect to see more of this as factors like population growth, stabilising interest rates and improving economic conditions fuel residential demand.&nbsp;

“We believe there is a significant undersupply of quality stock in Melbourne’s in-demand inner suburbs and see huge potential to pivot existing sites where appropriate into a product that serves the market at any given time. &nbsp;

“As a private developer with a proven track record for strategic precinct place-making and delivery, &nbsp;we can be nimble to move where the market is which is why we’ve been able to successfully execute a permit amendment and reposition this second tower to residential so that we can deliver much-needed stock to one of the city’s most sought-after suburbs."

Victoria's General Manager, Development, Tim Mills, says Wiltshire House aims to create a lifestyle precinct

Fortis eye launch of Wiltshire House, Richmond apartments as $570 million of projects approved

Having recently completed their Elsternwick apartment development EVA, builder developer Pitard Group is onto its next project.

They've already started construction at Moola Court, a 60-apartment project in <a href="/developments/cheltenham-vic-3192">Cheltenham</a>.

<a href="/buildings/moola-court-cheltenham-1-moola-court-cheltenham">Moola Court</a> comprises 60 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, presenting a rare opportunity to buy into a suburb where less than a fifth of dwellings are apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136163 project_image_fid=252604]

Designed by <a href="/architects/via-architects">VIA Architects</a>, the apartments feature open plan living and dining spaces that open to private terraces, as well as kitchens with Ilve appliances, an island, and marble countertops.

Euro laundries are cleverly tucked away behind bi-fold doors.&nbsp;Some apartments also include a nook alongside a large window, or a fully fitted-out study room as a dedicated workstation.

&nbsp;

All apartment levels come with a lift service from the basement car parking and a secure intercom entry. The building also has a resident lounge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136163 project_image_fid=252607]

Moola Court sits at the end of a cul-de-sac on the fringe of Cheltenham's centre, near Cheltenham Station and the 20-hectare Cheltenham Park, home to Cheltenham Golf Club, Shipston Reserve, and Jack Barker Oval.

Construction on Moola Court is well advanced, with completion slated for June 2024. Prices start from $560,000 for a one-bed and rise in price to the $1,295,000 three-bed apartments.

&nbsp;

<a href="/developers/pitard-group">Pitard Group</a>&nbsp;is also selling the final apartments at its completed&nbsp;<a href="/buildings/eva-elsternwick-village-apartments-241-glen-huntly-road-elsternwick">EVA Elsternwick Village</a> development.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136163]

Construction on Moola Court is well advanced, with completion slated for June 2024

Pitard launch under construction Moola Court apartment development in Cheltenham

Underlying land value, scarcity factor and desire for more space through the pandemic has led to a substantially larger rise in house values relative to unit values over the past four years, property data analytics firm CoreLogic says.

At the onset of the pandemic in March 2020, the house premium, or the difference between median capital city house and unit values, was just 16.7%. Fast forward almost four years later, and that premium has jumped to 45.2% or $293,950.

CoreLogic&nbsp;research director, Tim Lawless,&nbsp;said while houses have historically attracted a price premium over units, and have shown a higher rate of capital gain, several factors have led to the accelerated value growth for detached dwellings over recent years.

“The house premium rose sharply through the pandemic upswing as more people sought out space and were more willing and able to live further afield in our cities," Lawless said.

"While we saw the premium contract through the early part of the rate hiking cycle as house values fell more than unit values, across the combined capitals the gap between house and unit values has since rebounded to a new record high as house values once again rise at a faster pace than units.”

<img alt="CL chart" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ef56cfb-232c-400f-93a3-8c575ca2bf77" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-02-21%20at%206.40.50%20am.png?VersionId=XKlBupTQ_38ULQhrLobRRv1SqjnhH6Nr" />

Since the onset of the pandemic to January this year, capital city house values have increased by 33.9% or by $239,000. Unit values over the same period are up 11.2% or $65,235.&nbsp; A similar trend has played out over the past 12 months with house values up 11.0% ($93,552) while unit values are up a lesser 6.9% ($41,789).

Across the capital cities, Sydney has seen the largest expansion in the house premium since the pandemic, with the gap between house and unit values widening by almost 36 percentage points, catapulting it from sixth to first position on the premium leagues table. Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane have all seen their house premium grow between 15 and 16 percentage points over the same period, while Darwin has seen its house premium reduce by -12.2 percentage points.

“Over the past 12 months, we see a different picture. While Sydney tops the table again for largest 12-month change in premium followed by Canberra, several cities have seen the premium shrink back a little, including Brisbane and Adelaide. This could be reflective of homebuyers seeking out more affordable housing options, which has diverted more demand towards units,” Lawless said.

<img alt="CL chart" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="06b543c3-41b0-4bad-bdf1-dd9ca198753f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-02-21%20at%206.45.02%20am.png?VersionId=ZgGub1RXC70wHsml9Z.EoPFKXRZYhE8C" />

Since the onset of the pandemic to January this year, capital city house values have increased by 33.9% or by $239,000. Unit values over the same period are up 11.2% or $65,235.&nbsp; A similar trend has played out over the past 12 months with house values up 11.0% ($93,552) while unit values are up a lesser 6.9% ($41,789).

Across the capital cities, Sydney has seen the largest expansion in the house premium since the pandemic, with the gap between house and unit values widening by almost 36 percentage points, catapulting it from sixth to first position on the premium leagues table. Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane have all seen their house premium grow between 15 and 16 percentage points over the same period, while Darwin has seen its house premium reduce by -12.2 percentage points.

“Over the past 12 months, we see a different picture. While Sydney tops the table again for largest 12-month change in premium followed by Canberra, several cities have seen the premium shrink back a little, including Brisbane and Adelaide. This could be reflective of homebuyers seeking out more affordable housing options, which has diverted more demand towards units,” Mr Lawless said.

Across the combined capitals, five of the suburbs with the largest house premium are in Sydney, three are in Melbourne and two in Perth.

Lawless said many of the suburbs with the largest house premium are very affluent markets.

“In Sydney the largest premium for a house is at Bellevue Hill with a 525% premium for houses over units.&nbsp; In Melbourne it is Armadale with a 372% premium and in Perth it is Mosman Park with a 431% premium. Homebuyers attracted to these blue-chip suburbs who can’t afford a freestanding home may be attracted to the significantly more affordable price point to get into a high-end suburb,” Mr Lawless said.

<img alt="CL chart" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2890b787-a9a7-4306-91c0-91aa2e215fde" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-02-21%20at%206.43.51%20am.png?VersionId=m_2KHWrouRdYpdfXjc7V6U7flkLd0Mjy" />

“Conversely, the suburbs with the smallest differential in price between a house and unit may offer good buying opportunities for those able to stretch themselves to secure a piece of land without the hefty premium we’re seeing more broadly across many parts of our cities. With houses typically yielding a stronger capital gain outcome over time, these suburbs with a lower house premium could be strong investment opportunities.”

Lawless says house prices have moved out of reach for a growing portion of the population, especially those seeking a first home or lower income households.

"With housing affordability remaining a key challenge across Australia, the substantially lower price points across the medium to high density sector are likely to become increasingly in demand as buyers become more willing to sacrifice space for proximity to essential amenities."

"With housing affordability remaining a key challenge across Australia, the substantially lower price points across the medium to high density sector are likely to become increasingly in demand as buyers become more willing to sacrifice space for proximity to essential amenities."

High density sector to become more attractive as gap widens between house and unit prices: CoreLogic

Hotham Hill in North Melbourne is one of the city's most historic pockets.

The elevated area near Flemington Bridge Station and Flemington Road Cricket Oval was originally known as Hotham Heights, named after Sir Charles Hotham, who served as the Governor of Victoria in the mid-19th century.

The area has long been characterized by its oversized land lots, terrace houses, and&nbsp;Victorian-era architecture.

Seldom does an opportunity come along to buy into the exclusive pocket, which makes Mainstone's newest project, Hotham Hill, named after the area, all the more rare.

The family-ran developer&nbsp;<a href="/developers/mainstone">Mainstone</a> is offering just 10 three-bedroom apartments in the boutique three-level building designed&nbsp;by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/mgs-architects">MGS Architects</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112765 project_image_fid=200559]

Set on the wide, tree-lined Curran Street in <a href="/new-apartments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">North Melbourne</a>, Hotham Hill showcases a sustainable biophilic design paying homage to North Melbourne's residential fabric.

Asymmetrical rooftops echo nearby heritage homes, and the use of classic, durable materials strikes a balance between timeless and modern design.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112765 project_image_fid=200571]

The interiors are light-filled, following an open plan design that merges the indoors with the outdoors, with generously proportioned balconies and terraces adjoining each.&nbsp;

The kitchens are positioned as the heart of the homes, featuring bespoke cabinetry, natural Carrara marble benchtops and splashbacks, Miele appliances, designer tapware, a generous&nbsp;island bench and a butler's pantry. There are a number of customisation packages available which can include a bar area or an upgrade in appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112765 project_image_fid=200558]

The master bedroom, with walk-in wardrobe, have pure wool carpets, while the bathrooms feature&nbsp;an oversized shower with floor-to-ceiling tiles, double vanities and custom curved mirrors. A free-standing bathtub acts as a centrepiece for selected residences.

An indoor walk monitor and mobile phone connectivity allow residents the option to remotely grant lobby access to visitors and for deliveries. Selected residences also feature a lockup double garage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112765 project_image_fid=200570]

<a href="/new-apartments/hotham-hill-north-melbourne-5-curran-street-north-melbourne">Hotham Hill</a> boasts an average 7-star energy rating, using 80 per cent less energy courtesy of 20kw plus solar panels connected to a cutting-edge SolShare system, as well as energy-efficient appliances, fixtures and fittings.&nbsp;

The building is also designed to feature dual aspects with double glazing for cross ventilation, and include rainwater harvesting for garden irrigation and toilet flushing.

Construction at Hotham Hill is underway, with completion slated for late 2024.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112765]

Construction at Hotham Hill is underway, with completion slated for late 2024

Melbourne off the plan apartments

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