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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

Templestowe

Located on Templestowe’s golden mile, Serpells Place is the work of Hub Property Group, Hewson and Gacesa.&nbsp;

The joint venture engaged Kavellaris Urban Design to curate the 20-apartment project, with the Cremorne-based architect firm's Director, Billy Kavellaris at the helm.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=34209 project_image_fid=196184]

Crafted to command the streetscape whilst honouring its esteemed location, the building features a bold and engaging facade design, with clean lines and robust materials juxtaposing with the vibrant greenery of the landscape.

To the middle level, the building is softened by fluid curves, imbuing a sculptural quality that is only enhanced by cascading vines, while expansive glazing allows abundant natural light into the homes whilst allowing for a connection to the landscaping and surrounding views.

“A composition of contemporary form, enduring materiality and generous scale, the architecture of Serpells Place has been born out of a commitment to excellence.” Kavellaris said.

Renowned for its rolling hills, abundant landscaping and mature trees,&nbsp;Kavellaris drew great inspiration from the location of Serpells Place.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=34209 project_image_fid=196185]

"Serpells Road is one of the most esteemed streets in Templestowe. It’s wide, filled with trees and has a beautiful link to the past, lined by large acreage properties," he said.

"We took elements of the area and then metaphorically put them together to create something that is dynamic and engaging. There’s a lot of fluid forms and a nice combination of organic and industrial materials. There’s also beautiful facade articulation, with three layered planes that present individual design moments to create one unified gesture."

"Also, every residence is huge – they’re essentially home-style residences,"&nbsp;Kavellaris added.

Large openings create a physical connection to the outdoors, while the expansive terraces, which adjoin to each of the homes, further connect Serpells Place to its surrounds.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=34209 project_image_fid=196193]

"There’s also visual connections from living spaces, which look out to the landscaping and surrounding views. And then we have large light courts that allow sunlight and ventilation in through two sides of the residences, which is really quite rare," Kavellaris said.

Through envisioning the interiors and exteriors as a combined concept, the architecture seen from the streetscape is transported inside.&nbsp;

"Whenever we design a building, there’s a language we explore on the outside, and then we pick up on these cues internally. It might be in the materials, the textures, or a form. The idea is that as you walk in, there’s a language and a story that unfolds in a linear way."

Whilst designing the interiors, KUD took cues from the facade to create a seamless, free flowing transition between in and out. Favouring soft textures, natural materials and cool tones, the finishes palette has been carefully curated to cultivate a rich and harmonious sensory experience, enhanced by plentiful natural light.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=34209 project_image_fid=196186]

“No expense was spared for the finishes and fixtures of Serpells Place. Enhanced by expansive living spaces, the level of quality and craftsmanship speaks for itself."

The pièce de résistance is the sophisticated chef’s kitchen, where you’ll find features of everyday luxury including a sleek wine fridge, state-of-the-art appliances, a butler’s pantry and a bar area.

"The kitchens are probably bigger than what you’d find in a residential house. They’ve got extensions of bars and their own butler’s pantry as well as heaps of storage. These residences are for people who want spacious, high-quality design with the low maintenance lifestyle of an apartment."

The striking island bench has been designed to emulate the soft curves of the facade, adorned in an elegant and durable grey marble.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=34209 project_image_fid=196188]

Sophisticated yet comfortable, the open-plan living area is a haven for unwinding or entertaining. Here, soaring windows provide seamless outlooks to the landscaping, encouraging residents to feel as if they are wholly immersed in nature.

Sliding doors collapse the boundaries between in and out, allowing the terrace, living, dining and kitchen areas to become one all-encompassing sanctuary.

"Afforded with timber floorboards, there is a warmth to this space that evokes the essence of a home, complemented by an opulent fireplace for cosy nights in during the colder months of the year,"&nbsp;Kavellaris concluded.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=34209]

Staff Writer

How KUD's Billy Kavellaris designed the Templestowe apartments, Serpells Place

Located on Templestowe’s golden mile, nestled amongst idyllic greenery and landmark mansions, Serpells Place is being developed as a joint venture between Hub Property Group, Hewson and Gacesa, who have teamed up to produce something the quiet suburb hasn't seen before.

Setting a new benchmark for the area, Serpells Place is a collection of just 20 house-sized apartments designed by award-winning design firm KUD.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=34209 project_image_fid=196193]

KUD's Managing Director, Billy Kavellaris, says the vision for Serpells Place was to compose a building with a contemporary form, enduring materiality and generous scale, that blends seamlessly with its surrounds.&nbsp;

Crafted to command the streetscape whilst honouring its location, KUD have envisioned a bold and engaging facade design, which has been curated to blend seamlessly from the outdoors in.&nbsp;

“Serpells Road is one of the most esteemed streets in Templestowe. It’s wide, filled with trees and has a beautiful link to the past, lined by large acreage properties. We took elements of the area and then metaphorically put them together to create something that is dynamic and engaging," he said.

Clean lines and robust materials are juxtaposed by the vibrant greenery of the landscape, which has been designed by John Patrick Landscape Architects, creating a seamless harmony between the built form and the Templestowe landscape.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=34209 project_image_fid=196186]

Three distinct layers each present an individual design moment, says Kavellaris, creating a sense of visual depth.&nbsp;

“To the middle level, the building is softened by fluid curves, imbuing a sculptural quality that is only enhanced by cascading vines, while extensive glazing allows abundant natural light into the homes whilst allowing for a connection to the landscaping and surrounding views.”

“No expense was spared for the finishes and fixtures of Serpells Place. Enhanced by expansive living spaces, the level of quality and craftsmanship speaks for itself,” he added.&nbsp;

Whilst designing the interiors, KUD took cues from the facade to create a seamless, free flowing transition between in and out.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=34209 project_image_fid=196189]

“We don’t see interiors and exteriors as seperate concepts. Whenever we design a building, there’s a language we explore on the outside, and then we pick up on these cues internally. It might be in the materials, the textures, or a form. The idea is that as you walk in, there’s a language and a story that unfolds in a linear way.”

Favouring soft textures, natural materials and cool tones, the finished palette has been curated to cultivate a rich and harmonious sensory experience, enhanced by plentiful natural light.

The pièce de résistance of the apartments is the chef’s kitchen, featuring a sleek wine fridge, state-of-the-art appliances, a butler’s pantry and a bar area, along with a striking island bench, designed to emulate the soft curves of the facade, adorned in a grey marble.

“The kitchens are probably bigger than what you’d find in a residential house. They’ve got extensions of bars and their own butler’s pantry as well as heaps of storage. These residences are for people who want spacious, high-quality design with the low maintenance lifestyle of an apartment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=34209 project_image_fid=196191]

No expense was spared for the finishes and fixtures of Serpells Place, says Kavellaris.&nbsp;

Apartments are paired with expansive living spaces, in tow with interior features like timber floors, porcelain tiles, natural stone, and integrated fireplaces.

“Sophisticated yet comfortable, the open-plan living area is a haven for unwinding, entertaining or spending time with loved ones. Here, soaring windows provide seamless outlooks to the landscaping, encouraging residents to feel as if they are wholly immersed in nature, evoking a wonderful sense of wellbeing.”

Sliding doors collapse the boundaries between in and out, allowing the terrace, living, dining and kitchen areas to become one all-encompassing space.&nbsp;

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One of the things Templestowe is renowned for is its rolling hills, abundant landscaping and mature trees.&nbsp;

Drawing inspiration from the landscape, KUD focussed on incorporating large openings to create the physical connections to the outdoors, along with large light courts throughout, allowing sunlight and ventilation through two sides of the residences.&nbsp;

A limited number of residences remain in Serpells Place, with two-bedroom, two-bathroom and two car space-apartments starting from $950,000.

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Setting a new benchmark for the area, Serpells Place is a collection of just 20 house-sized apartments designed by award-winning design firm KUD. 

alisonwarters@gmail.com

How Serpells Place fits into the Templestowe landscape 

Deemed one of Melbourne&#39;s greenest pockets, Templestowe is an oasis of&nbsp;wide open space, lush scenery, hidden walking trails and native wildlife.

The latest residential development to land in the suburb blends into its surrounding context like the last piece of the puzzle, with a collection of&nbsp;just 20 house-sized apartments, designed by award-winning firm KUD.

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Taking its name from the site&#39;s location on Serpells Road, Serpells Place oozes with living greenery, with Melbourne-based landscape architects, John Patrick put to the task of connecting the residences to the suburb&#39;s landscape.&nbsp;

Headed by John Patrick himself, the Director said the inspiration for the design was taken from all across Templestowe, with the landscaping creating a sense of sanctuary, allowing the residents to feel completely immersed in nature.&nbsp;

For Serpells Place, John Patrick has designed tranquil garden retreats in the form of ground floor courtyards and spacious terraces.

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The plant palette has been selected for its ability to flourish throughout the year with very little maintenance required from residents.

&quot;This creates a sense of privacy &ndash; of being encompassed by an oasis of greenery &ndash; providing an idyllic backdrop for outdoor entertaining or quiet relaxation. This sense of immersion is enhanced by an overhead canopy on the terraces, draped with cascading vines,&quot; John Patrick said.&nbsp;

To the middle level, the building is softened by fluid curves, imbuing a sculptural quality that is only enhanced by cascading vines, while expansive glazing allows abundant natural light into the homes whilst allowing for a connection to the landscaping and surrounding views.

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Landing on Templestowe&#39;s golden mile, KUD&#39;s Managing Director, Billy Kavellaris, said they&nbsp;designed the residences to connect to the outdoors, with the spaces set to&nbsp;deliver the luxuries owner-occupier&#39;s had grown accustomed to in Kew&#39;s prestigious&nbsp;locale.&nbsp;

&quot;One of the things Templestowe is renowned for its rolling hills, abundant landscaping and mature trees.&quot;

&quot;Drawing inspiration from this, we incorporated large openings to create physical connections to the outdoors, including expansive terraces, in addition to&nbsp;visual connections from the living spaces, which look out to the landscaping and surrounding views,&quot; he added.&nbsp;

Within walking distance of magnificent parklands and Templestowe&#39;s vibrant village hub, Serpells Place cultivates an elevated way of life, encompassed by nature.

The Yarra River meanders its way along the suburb&rsquo;s western boundary, hugged by multiple parklands including Finns Reserve, a haven of lush vegetation and recreational amenity with an impressive children&rsquo;s playground.

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Further north, Westerfolds Park is a 120-hectare sanctuary perfect for picnicking, cycling, walking and canoeing, while resident kangaroos are also known to be found hopping around sharing the space.&nbsp;

Even closer to Serpells Place, the Ruffey Creek Trail provides a scenic route for your morning jog, encompassed by greenery from end-to-end, and leading all the way down to the idyllic Ruffey Lake Park.

In addition to winding rivers and verdant parklands, Templestowe is beloved for its recreational amenity. Fostering a strong sense of community, the suburb is home to a myriad of sporting facilities including tennis courts, a bowls club, football ovals and more.

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"Encompassed by an oasis of greenery": How John Patrick designed Serpells Place to blend with Templestowe's landscape

Serpells Place, a collection of just 20 house-sized apartments designed by award-winning design firm KUD, is set to take apartment living in Melbourne&#39;s Templestowe to new heights.

Located on Templestowe&rsquo;s golden mile, nestled amongst idyllic greenery and landmark mansions, Serpells Place is&nbsp;being developed as a joint venture between Hub Property Group and Hewson &amp; Gacesa, who have teamed up to produce something the quiet suburb hasn&#39;t seen before.

Hub Property Group&#39;s Michael Hermans said Serpells Place brings a new calibre of living to Templestowe&#39;s golden mile location, brought together by an esteemed selection of collaborators.

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KUD has created the apartments with three key design principles&nbsp;kept in mind;&nbsp;functionality and practicality, quality, and storage, all addressing the need of&nbsp;the downsizer and owner-occupier market.

KUD Director Billy Kavellaris says the architecture at Seprells Place has been born out of a commitment to excellence, a&nbsp;composition of contemporary form, enduring materiality and generous scale.

&ldquo;No expense was spared for the finishes and fixtures of Serpells Place. Enhanced by expansive living spaces, the level of quality and craftsmanship speaks for itself,&quot;&nbsp;Kavellaris says.

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The initial plans were for 29&nbsp;apartments, with one, two and three-bedrooms on offer, but a rethink of the demand profile for the area saw 20 high-end, three-bedroom apartments, more akin to a family home rather than apartment, preferred.

Each of the homes are appointed with oversized kitchens and hotel style ensuites, complete with expansive living areas. The open plan designs give the homes the air of space and room with each home spilling out onto a terrace, that has either a courtyard or balcony with&nbsp;both options large enough for outdoor dining and barbecue facilities.

John Patrick Landscaping has handled the greenery.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Drawing inspiration from the greenery of Templestowe, the landscaping of Serpells Place creates a sense of sanctuary, allowing residents to feel completely immersed in nature,&quot; Patrick says.

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Serpells Place offers everything a downsizer seeks when moving from a house to an apartment. It connects the residents to nature, and brings a sense of familiarity for local downsizers of the surrounding area.&nbsp;

The Serpells Road development&nbsp;is only a short walk away from Templestowe Village, one of Melbourne&rsquo;s hidden suburban gems, complete with supermarkets, an abundance of cafes and dining options, sporting facilities and parks.

Construction is soon to start on Serpells Place, with&nbsp;completion slated for the end of 2023.

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The collaboration is set to redefine apartment living in Templestowe, delivering a string of home-sized apartments to the golden mile.



Serpells Place takes Templestowe apartment living to the next level

The final three-level townhouses on Templestowe Lower&#39;s Manningham Road, has been listed for sale.

The townhomes at 234 Manningham Road are priced from&nbsp;$772,000.&nbsp;The&nbsp;three-bedroom, two-bathroom homes are&nbsp;well under the suburb median of&nbsp;$846,000, which is up 11 per cent in the last 12 months.

The townhomes will feature&nbsp;an open-plan&nbsp;layout, with a home office located on the ground level.

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There are SMEG kitchen appliances and Caesar stone benchtops used in both the bathroom and kitchen.

Located in the premium suburb of Templestowe Lower it is&nbsp;16km northeast of the Melbourne CBD.

It has the access to natural parklands at Ruffey lake park and the Yarra River&rsquo;s recreation, city-bound buses, and leading schools, while minutes from the Eastern Freeway and Westfield Doncaster.

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It is situated&nbsp;within the Templestowe Primary School and Templestowe college school zones, a five-minute drive away.

10 minutes of walking sees residents at a&nbsp;Woolworths supermarket and the surrounding restaurants.

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&nbsp;

Priced at $772,000, the two or three bedroom, two bathroom homes are well under the suburb median of $846,000, which is up 11 per cent in the last 12 months

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Templestowe Lower townhouses cheaper than the suburb median

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A five bedroom trophy home in Templestowe's Golden Mile precinct has been sold for $3.58 million. 
The five bedroom plus study residence is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-templestowe-132423670" target="_blank">4 Jacov Gardens</a>. 
Traci Stella and David Moskovic of Jellis Craig Doncaster sold the home. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/2/5/templestowe%203.jpg" alt="">
Nestled on a 4,285sqm allotment, the home features lounge with marble open fireplace, family room, gourmet kitchen overlooking the dining room and theatre. 
All bedrooms have ensuite access.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/2/5/templestowe%204.jpg" alt="">
Other highlights include tennis court, alfresco, indoor pool and four-car auto garage with workshop. 
The home is located within close proximity to Primary Schools, park and buses. 
The property was last sold at $1.55 million in 2001. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Templestowe trophy home on a lifestyle acre sold

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A Templestowe Lower, Victoria mortgagee home has sold at auction for $525,500.
The 2013 built terrace went to auction with a price guide of $450,000-$495,000.
Declan Treacey and Michael Moretti of Phillip Webb held the listing.
Situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-terrace-vic-templestowe+lower-131218222" target="_blank">3/215 High Street</a>, Templestowe Lower the property is held within a boutique complex that is walking distance from Macedon Square.
Set across two levels, the terrace comprises two bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Featuring secure basement parking, the property has easy access to the freeway &amp; public transport.
Last listed as a rental in 2016, it had an accompanying price of $460/pw a minor reduction on the price it sought in 2013 and 2015 of $480/pw.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/Subscriber%20strip%20ad.jpg" alt=""></a>
The median price for a home in <a href="/developments/templestowe-lower-vic-3107">Templestowe Lower</a> is $1.1 million according to CoreLogic, which calculate its annual change in median price over the past 10 years as 5.4%. 
 
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Templestowe Lower mortgagee home sold for $75,000 above price guide

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A Ravida Homes-built family residence on the Golden Mile at Templestowe has been sold for $3.67 million.
It was sold by Dallas Taylor and Shaun Wang from Jellis Craig Doncaster.
Set on a flat acre allotment,<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-templestowe-128055378" target="_blank"> the 167-173 Serpells Road </a>house features four large bedrooms, a refined living domain flowing through to formal dining, French styled kitchen, and rear north-facing garden.
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Other features include rumpus/drawing room, alfresco dining area,  water fountain and dual rose gardens.
It is appointed with GDH throughout, refrigerated cooling downstairs and evaporative cooling upstairs, laundry with BI cabinetry, garden irrigation and lighting, video intercom entrance and automated custom designed wrought iron gates.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/5/15/templestowe.jpg" alt="">
In addition, the home comes with dual entry with a circular driveway and remote DLUG with internal access plus OSP.
It is only to minutes to Templestowe Village, The Pines and Westfield and close to Ruffey Lake Park, Kew school buses, zoned schools.
It was last traded for $485,000 in 1992.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/5/15/Temoplestowe%203.jpg" alt=""> 
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Templestowe Golden Mile trophy home sold for $3.69 million

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A Templestowe Lower three bedroom apartment has been sold for $480,500 by mortgagees.
The north-west Melbourne house was sold by Tehran Mashayekh and Danial Reza Ali from Ray White on May 5.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-vic-templestowe+lower-127993002" target="_blank">The 7/231 High Street apartment</a> comes with three bedrooms, modern living, and private balcony.
It also features double-glazed windows, reverse-cycle heating and cooling, and double car garage. 
The suburb’s median unit price sits on $850,000, according to CoreLogic.
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Templestowe Lower three bedroom apartment sold by mortgagee

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A Templestowe Lower homes whose shape resembles Star Trek’s USS Enterprise has been sold.
It fetched $1,225,000 when bought by a developer who will likely demolish.
CoreLogic records show it last changed hands for $901,000 in February last year. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/11/9/Templestowe.jpg" alt=""> 
The dodecagon part of the house is carved into six triangular shaped spaces, a bathroom with a spa bath, three bedrooms, a kitchen, as well as a laundry and powder room.
A circular passageway with a light well connects the pieces of the 1960s two-storey, four-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-templestowe+lower-126526502">15 Linton Avenue.</a><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-templestowe+lower-126526502"> </a>
Set on a 652 square metre block, the property came with approved plans and permits for two townhouses, Jellis Craig, Doncaster, agent Andrew Keleher said.
Keleher said the history of the property, suggesting the reason behind its design, had been lost over time.
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