For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Joel Robinson

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

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Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

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The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

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The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

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Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

La Vera closes in on completion as Macquarie Park continues residential transformation

Southbank apartments

While South Bank generally refers to the collection of suburbs south of a river that dissects the city (think Brisbane or London), Melbourne's Southbank is a suburb in its own right, and it's arguably the most connected suburb in the whole of Melbourne.

Given its proximity to the city and the river, it's no surprise that the near-12,000 apartments make up over 98 per cent of dwellings in the 3006 postcode, the 2021 ABS Census showed.

Private investment from the commercial, retail, and hospitality sectors has matched the increase in density and population, turning Southbank into one of the city's most vibrant residential and cultural hubs, right on the Yarra River. The focal point of <a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a> is the casino Crown Melbourne, having stood just off the river for the best part of two decades, while the Melbourne Arts Centre and the National Gallery of Victoria are also key destinations.

It wasn't until the 1990s when the suburb began its development, having predominantly been a commercial and industrial area. Now skyscrapers line the skyline.

Just over two decades ago, work began on <a href="/buildings/eureka-tower-7-riverside-quay-southbank">Eureka Tower</a>, which by the time it completed in 2006, was the tallest residential building in the southern hemisphere at nearly 300 metres, putting Southbank on the global map.

That was topped in 2020 when the 317-metre <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">Australia 108</a> was completed. Australia 108, only 200 metres from the front door of Eureka, comprises 1105 apartments across a 100-level building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=582 project_image_fid=182857]

It was one of the first crop of towers with upscaled resident amenities, a trend which we've seen only grow in the last five years.

The building boasts two exclusive resident grand lobbies with lounges and a hotel-style porte-cochere. The Sky Rise Club features a heated indoor swimming pool, a sauna, a fully equipped gym, a theatre, a grand dining room, and a virtual golf room.

The Star Club, on Levels 70 and 71 and reserved for owners of the more premium apartments, features double-height, full glass infinity pools with spa facilities, along with two state-of-the-art gyms, dining rooms, expansive lounge rooms, a reading room, a private cinema, and a sky garden.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=582 project_image_fid=182879]

One of the newest tower developments in development in Southbank is <a href="/new-apartments/sth-bnk-by-beulah-southbank-60-southbank-boulevard-southbank">STH BNK by Beulah</a>. One of the two towers, at 366 metres, will be the tallest in Australia.

The 367-apartment development has already seen records shattered after it hit the market last year.&nbsp;A penthouse broke the Melbourne off the plan apartment record when it sold for $35 million, only to be topped by a sub penthouse <a href="/news/vic/sth-bnk-by-beulah-breaks-melbourne-apartment-record-again">that sold for $38 million</a>.

At the heart of&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/sth-bnk-by-beulah-southbank-60-southbank-boulevard-southbank">STH BNK by Beulah</a>&nbsp;will be the world’s tallest ‘greenscraper’—promising a green, active and connected urban environment with the future of retail innovation, customised hospitality, fresh food perspectives, cultural experiences, and vitality and wellness at its core.

A wellness precinct, located on an entire podium level in&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/sth-bnk-by-beulah-southbank-60-southbank-boulevard-southbank">STH BNK by Beulah</a>, is designed to be the city's world-class, all-in-one health and wellness destination backed by science's leading practices.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8804 project_image_fid=221153]

International developer&nbsp;<a href="/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a>&nbsp;is also working on one of the largest mixed-use precincts in Melbourne nearby.

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">Melbourne Square</a>, across an unrepeatable two-hectare site on City Road above Melbourne’s internationally acclaimed Arts Precinct, is well into its development, with two towers already completed and ready to move in.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=211867]

Currently under construction is <a href="/new-apartments/blvd-at-melbourne-square-19-hoff-boulevard-southbank">BLVD</a>, the latest stage which offers just over 600 apartments across a 74-level tower littered with facilities like&nbsp;private dining rooms, state-of-the-art gyms, a 25m indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, golf simulator, entertainment and lounge spaces, and a double-storey co-working area on levels 55 and 56.&nbsp;

Multiplex is building BLVD, which is slated for completion in early 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=201012]

While precedent has been set for towers getting up to 100 levels, not every development in Southbank is reaching that high into the sky.

Almost boutique at 62-levels is The Queensbridge Building by Time &amp; Place, MaxCap Group and Hickory, under construction on Queensbridge Street, just one street back from Crown Melbourne.

<a href="/new-apartments/the-queensbridge-building-southbank-90-queensbridge-street-southbank">The Queensbridge Building</a> will have 367 apartments which will share the building with the 188-room Hannah St. Hotel, operated by TFE Hotels.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1504 project_image_fid=272071]

Only a handful of developments have completed in recent years. Central Equity's FOCUS is Melbourne's most awarded high-rise development in 2023.

<a href="/buildings/focus-melbourne-81-city-road-southbank">FOCUS</a>, rising 50 levels on City Road, won the&nbsp;prestigious Victorian Housing Award from the HIA, and also a coveted UDIA Victoria Award for Excellence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3260 project_image_fid=206139]

The $450 million FOCUS Melbourne comprises a&nbsp;mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments.

International developer Landence also recently completed its slice of Southbank. <a href="/buildings/the-evermore-southbank-58-66-dorcas-street-southbank">The Evermore</a>, a two-tower development designed by Hayball closer to the Botanic Gardens than the Yarra River, has over 50 different floorplans for buyers to choose from.

There are 366 one, two and three-bedroom apartments in The Evermore, atop a&nbsp;podium level housing upscale retail spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2087 project_image_fid=237888]

Enquiry for apartments in Southbank on Apartments.com.au has been dominated by&nbsp;first home buyers since the start of 2024.

They represent 46 per cent of enquiry in Southbank this year, followed by those buying their next home (34 per cent), and then investors (20 per cent).

Project searches in Southbank spiked by nearly 60 per cent from September to October, with enquiry also jumping by 75 per cent.

Southbank’s skyline evolution: The rise of new apartment living on the Yarra River

Southbank, <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">the epicentre of Melbourne's culture scene</a>, is set to see a striking addition to it's residential pipeline with Young Group's Aurum on Clarendon,&nbsp;a distinct new landmark designed by award-winning architecture group Fender Katsalidis.

The development will stand out amongst <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank's grand towers and high-rise buildings</a>, due in part to its graceful golden forms and sleek, modern design.

Aurum's signature circular motif is artfully incorporated into its street-level façade, engaging with passersby and introducing visitors to the exceptional design that lies within. As one's gaze ascends, the building's exterior transitions into a simpler, lighter expression of sleek, gridded glass, beautifully reflecting the brilliance of Melbourne's cityscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4843 project_image_fid=70631]

There's three different categories of residences in Aurum; the Classic Residences, the Bespoke Residences and the Penthouse collection.&nbsp;

The Penthouses, elevated in scale and luxury, offer an extravagant amount of space and opulent details. What sets these residences apart is the personalised approach they offer, allowing residents to tailor the floor plan to suit their individual lifestyles.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4843 project_image_fid=70635]

From the layout to the finest finishing touches, the Penthouses at Aurum are a testament to bespoke living at its finest.

The Bespoke Residences, on the other hand, are defined by their generous proportions and unique details. These residences feature a sculptured island bench, stone accents, and custom-made joinery that is exclusive to Aurum.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4843 project_image_fid=70637]

For those seeking a more classic and sophisticated living experience, the Classic Residences at Aurum offer a blend of timeless design and modern comfort. The interiors boast rich stone finishes and parquetry flooring, elevating these residences to the pinnacle of elegance.

Private balconies, seamlessly integrated into the building's form, serve as light-filled outdoor retreats, providing residents with sweeping views of the surrounding cityscape.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4843]

The development will stand out amongst Southbank's grand towers and high-rise buildings, due in part to its graceful golden forms and sleek, modern design

alisonwarters@gmail.com

How Fender Katsalidis designed Aurum on Clarendon in Melbourne's Southbank

Developer Capital Alliance is offering prospective purchasers in The Normanby, the collection of apartments above the recently opened AC Hotel by Marriott, to secure an apartment at 2022 prices, before a price increase in the next few weeks.

Prices for the two and three-bedroom apartments are set to rise from July 1. Two-bedroom apartments are currently priced from $812,400 and three-bedroom apartments from just over $1.4 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1487 project_image_fid=92313]

Comprising 101 residences, Normanby boasts expansive views of the CBD and Bay from every apartment, with only a select number of apartments across each level.&nbsp;

Designed by DKO Architecture, the residences provide a blend of style and functionality, equipped with gas cooking and ducted air-conditioning, along with a careful selection of fixtures and finishes.

Every apartment includes a personal storage cage on the residential level, eliminating the hassle of frequent trips to the basement.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1487 project_image_fid=92324]

Residents enjoy full access to AC Hotel Level 7, which features a lounge, bar, and restaurant, while membership options are also available for those seeking access to the gym and pool amenities.

Normanby provides secure residential access and private residential elevators, in addition to a contract-ban on short-stay accomodation, meaning residents won't be disrupted by transient visitors.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1487]

Comprising 101 residences, Normanby boasts expansive views of the CBD and Bay from every apartment, with only a select number of apartments across each level

Final chance to buy into Southbank's The Normanby before prices increase 

Melbourne's iconic Australia 108 building is offering exclusive price reductions of up to a massive $225,000.

The developers, World Class Global, have cut the price&nbsp;for a limited-time only on the project's Cloud Residences, a collection of three-bedroom apartments which have come down from $1,823,000 to $1,567,000.

Australia 108, which became Melbourne's tallest tower when it was completed in 2020, was designed by Fender Katsalidis and features interiors by Carr Design.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=582 project_image_fid=79946]

The tower, over 316 metres tall, features a range of hotel-style amenities scattered across it's 100 levels.

The building boasts two exclusive resident grand lobbies with lounges, along with a hotel-style porte-cochere, providing a grand entrance.&nbsp;

The resident facilities at Australia 108 are unparalleled, with the Sky Rise Club on Level 11 offering a range of amenities to enhance residents' lifestyles, including a heated indoor swimming pool, a sauna, a fully equipped gym, a theatre, a grand dining room and a virtual golf room.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=582 project_image_fid=182879]

For an even more elevated experience, the Star Club on Levels 70 and 71 offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city, garden, and bay.

The exclusive space features dual, double-height full glass infinity pools with spa facilities, along with two state-of-the-art gyms, dining rooms, expansive lounge rooms, a reading room, a private cinema, and a sky garden.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=582 project_image_fid=182880]

The apartments themselves feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows which maximises natural light and captures sweeping views.&nbsp;

Resident's will also benefit from being within proximity to Melbourne's vibrant arts and entertainment precincts which are just a short walk away, offering a range of dining, shopping and recreational opportunities.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=582]

Australia 108, which became Melbourne's tallest tower when it was completed in 2020, was designed by Fender Katsalidis and features interiors by Carr Design

Over $200k price reductions at Southbank's Australia 108

Growland Group are looking to tap into the investor market at their Southbank development, Marco.&nbsp;

For a limited time only, the developer is providing a rental guarantee of up to five per cent for the first 12 months of ownership to lure investors.

Located in the vibrant Southbank precinct, Marco presents a unique fusion of urban convenience and luxurious living, with an array of world-class amenities and proximity to key attractions.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=257 project_image_fid=26681]

One of the standout features of Marco is its unparalleled location. Situated just a stone's throw away from the Southbank retail and dining precinct, residents will have an extensive selection of culinary delights and shopping options at their doorstep.

The renowned NGV (National Gallery of Victoria) and the Arts Centre Melbourne are also within easy reach from Marco.&nbsp;

The convenience of Marco Melbourne extends beyond its immediate surroundings. A quick drive will take residents to the bustling CBD, along with Port Phillip Bay which is also in close proximity.

Within Marco, investors and tenants will be greeted with a wealth of amenities, including a pool, a private cinema room, state-of-the-art gym and a residents lounge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=257 project_image_fid=26682]

The two-tower development comprises a total of 432 apartments across the 36-level east tower and 40-level west tower.

The apartments themselves feature premium Smeg and Miele appliances, with select units boasting marble kitchen benchtops and integrated fridges and washing machines.&nbsp;

There's only one and two-bedroom apartments remaining in Marco, with prices from&nbsp;$390,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=257]

Growland offer investor rental guarantee at Marco, Southbank apartments

The sculptural masterpiece STH BNK By Beulah is set to become Australia’s first five-minute vertical city, providing residents with a plethora of everyday essentials and world-class offerings within walking distance.

The vertically integrated city within a city will offer over 100 shops spanning retail, everyday essentials, food and dining (inclusive of a fresh food market), a comprehensive wellness precinct, a childcare centre, extensive green spaces including rooftop gardens and eight pocket parks dotted throughout, an innovative cultural centre in partnership with Centre Pompidou, over 50,000 sqm of commercial office space, in addition to a diverse residential offering.

Beulah's five-minute vertical city is substantially lower than the 15-minute benchmark set by planning models across the world, which was first introduced by French-Colombian scientist Carlos Moreno in 2016.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8804 project_image_fid=194914]

In 2019, the Victorian Government launched a 20-minute neighbourhoods pilot program, following research that 20 minutes is the maximum time that people are willing to walk to meet their daily needs locally.

There is also evidence that active, walkable places produce a wealth of health, social, economic and environmental benefits.

At the helm of the globally collaborative project is Beulah Executive Director Adelene Teh, who says STH BNK offer residents a cosmopolitan lifestyle that prioritises not just health and wellness, but ultimate convenience in the heart of Melbourne.

“Evidence suggests that active, walkable places produce not only health and environmental benefits, but social and economic too. STH BNK By Beulah is redefining what can be made possible by exploring true vertical living."

"By providing a mini metropolis that truly has everything within walking distance, individuals can spend more time on what matters most, as opposed to travelling or commuting.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8804 project_image_fid=214049]

The State Government’s program outlines six key focus areas, with STH BNK By Beulah covering all six areas and more, to create a thriving mini-metropolis in the heart of Melbourne.

The first hallmark is being safe, accessible and well connected for pedestrians and cyclists to optimise active transport. STH BNK By Beulah achieves this via safe cycling networks, walkability and the STH BNK Auto Club: a fleet of 50 cars for residents to book via a car-share subscription. STH BNK By Beulah also provides services and destinations that support local living via childcare and play spaces, co-working spaces and art and culture offerings via a global partnership with Centre Pompidou.

Open spaces are addressed via local playgrounds, rooftop gardens, pocket parks and sport and recreational facilities, including exercise equipment and meditation zones, while urban farms, an outdoor cinema, cooking and dining facilities allow for improved wellbeing as a result of increased connection time.

Other hallmarks the project meets include delivering housing at density, including housing diversity across multiple sizes and price points, as well as facilitating access to quality public transport, with an abundance of trams, trains and buses within reach.

The thriving economy hallmark takes shape in the form of a world-class retail precinct, fresh food market, world-class entertainment and a global hotel.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8804 project_image_fid=214050]

According to the government’s pilot program, if 50 per cent of short private vehicle trips were instead made walking, it would save the Victorian economy approximately $165 million a year in congestion, health, infrastructure and environmental costs. This projection indicates the benefits yet to come with STH BNK’s further reduced travel time.

In addition, by participating in 15-minutes of walking a day, five days a week, the disease burden from physical inactivity would reduce by about 13 per cent, while walkable streets and community spaces can provide critical opportunities for social interaction and social cohesion.

UNStudio Founder Ben van Berkel said it was important to create a building that does much more than just incorporate planting and green areas, to instead be highly biophilic.

“Mixed-use projects are extremely complex. They need to consolidate many different functions for a wide variety of user groups. With STH BNK By Beulah, this also involves a vast public component, so we had to programme the project in the right way to be able to have something for everybody on the site; to create a village in the city for a healthy and inclusive community,” he said.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=8804]

Beulah's five-minute vertical city is substantially lower than the 15-minute benchmark set by planning models across the world, which was first introduced by French-Colombian scientist Carlos Moreno in 2016.



STH BNK By Beulah to become Australia’s first ‘five-minute vertical city’

It’s quite rare to be able to buy into a completed and ready-to-move-in residential development in the heart of Melbourne, much less one that spans an entire inner-city block.&nbsp;

But buyers can still find a home in OSK Property’s Southbank development, Melbourne Square, which comprises two towers; the East and West Tower, along with a curated selection of retail, dining and amenity offerings.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=200839]

The design, by Cox Architecture, focussed on creating a community where every resident’s needs could be met within a short walk, with Southbank home to some of Melbourne’s most dynamic activity zones, including the arts precinct, the Yarra River, a number of sporting venues and open green spaces.&nbsp;

Two and three-bedroom floorplans can still be purchased in the development, with prices starting from $759,300 for a two-bed, two-bath apartment that spans 68 sqm.

Each apartment features a timeless design, with the interior curated in a joint venture by Carr Interior Design and Coco Republic. &nbsp;

The three-bed offerings are the only apartments to include a car space, which is quite a beneficial feature for an inner-city development, where parking can often be hard to find.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=201019]

A range of luxury penthouse apartments are also on offer, with the three-bed floorplans covering an expansive 192 sqm for just over $3.6 million. These residents will also benefit from a 25-metre pool, a gym and associated spa deck, which is only accessible to premium apartment buyers that are situated from level 54 and up, with the exclusive Sky Club rounding out the luxe offerings.&nbsp;

A communal podium is located on level eight in Melbourne Square, expanding further on the curated amenity within the development. Spread across two floors of both towers, the area features a 50-metre pool, along with an expansive park, a gym, seating and lounge options, as well as several dining spaces.&nbsp;

Over 6000 sqm of public space has also been included across the ground floor, with a landscaped public park, along with a number of green spaces and walkways, in addition to a full-line double-storey Woolworths, and a plethora of eateries, retail and dining options, from espresso bars, to cafes and bottle shops.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=2929]

Each apartment features a timeless design, with the interior curated in a joint venture by Carr Interior Design and Coco Republic

Limited opportunities remain at Southbank's completed Melbourne Square apartment development

Set on an elegant tree-lined boulevard in Southbank’s Arts Precinct and surrounded by 3,745 sqm of lush green parkland, Melbourne Square is an award-winning inner-city address in an established and thriving precinct delivering resort-style amenities and elevated wellbeing.

Developer OSK Property has built a successful reputation in the suburb having recently completed the build of the first two towers at Melbourne Square, as well as a heap of community amenity including a two-level Woolworths and a 3,745 sqm park designed by Taylor Cullity Lethlean.

Now the group has launched the third tower in the precinct, BLVD at 19 Hoff Boulevard, which will deliver a much needed 619 new apartments to the chronically under supplied Melbourne apartment market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=211863]

Renowned architecture firm Cox Architecture is behind the design of the sculptural tower, having created the first two glass-swatched towers in the precinct with prices ranging from $517,000 to $5.5 million.

The second stage is one of the first residential projects in Australia to be registered for WELL Certification, offering residents a healthy environment as well as future-proof living with smart technology and co-working spaces.&nbsp;

Asia Pacific International WELL Building Institute's Vice President, Jack Noonan said they know that buildings must respond better to create places that feel healthier, happier and deliver more sustainable outcomes.

“This is why BLVD is one of the first residential projects in Australia registered to pursue WELL Certification. OSK Property has applied this world-leading framework from the ground up with a holistic suite of integrated solutions, including optimised access to natural light, great thermal comfort and indoor air quality, through to social, fitness and mental wellbeing amenities. Together, they create an ecosystem to help you live well every day,” Noonan said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=211865]

Local buyers, mainly from Southbank, Docklands and the CBD are tipped to engage the most with the new tower, with strong interest already generated from buyers who purchased in the previous stage.&nbsp;

Uninterrupted view lines across the Arts Precinct, Royal Botanic Gardens and Sidney Myer Music Bowl have underpinned a lot of the interest so far, as has the ability to buy into the already established Melbourne Square community, with a full-line Woolworths, childcare centre and 3,745 sqm of established gardens, cascading water and leafy grounds.&nbsp;

Cox Architecture Director Paul Curry says with the successful completion of Stage 1, Melbourne Square is the largest consolidated site in Southbank.

“Creating any lasting legacy is ambitious, but four years ago, a vision for Melbourne Square emerged to do just that," Curry says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=211867]

"A place enhanced by the cultural Arts Precinct and iconic city venues around it, and a place that enriches life for those within it, creating a true Melbourne community amidst thriving gardens, parks and genuine amenity.

"Now we present the next evolution, BLVD. The tallest building currently planned on site that extends the language of landscape and surrounding nature. With gently rounded corners and curved glazing, the tower rises to the sky with a softness in its architecture and elegance in design. Below it, the podium displays a fine degree of materiality and focus on articulation from the ground level."

A mix of one, two,three-bedroom and penthouse apartments are on offer at BLVD, with the interiors designed by Carr.

Prices start from $517k for a one-bedroom apartment and $714k for a two-bedroom apartment. The three-bedroom apartments are generous in size in comparison to other high-rise residential projects, spanning from 106 sqm to 177 sqm, with prices for those beginning at $1.146 million.&nbsp;

Construction of BLVD is set to commence in the first quarter of 2024, with completion slated for late 2026 / early 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107714]

Now the group have launched the third tower in the precinct, BLVD at 19 Hoff Boulevard, which will deliver a much needed 619 new apartments to the chronically under supplied Melbourne apartment market.

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