Developer Landmark is continuing to push on with its Macquarie Park mega site it bought from Landcom four years ago.

Following the launch of its dual-tower apartment development <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-macquarie-collection-5-halifax-street-macquarie-park">The Macquarie Collection</a>, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/landmark-group">Landmark</a> has now submitted plans for the next section of the&nbsp;18,463 sqm, four-lot site it acquired from Landcom in 2020.

They've submitted plans to the Ryde City Council for 6,276 sqm of the site&nbsp;at <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/3-halifax-street-macquarie-park">3 Halifax Street </a>where they're proposing a 75-metre, 24-level tower with 234 apartments.

<img alt="Landmark" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b0a92d9-e72a-4765-8d19-dbcaf5c8a253" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%207.12.27%20pm.png?VersionId=oKnQ.IaGinDZcV1raFLsErmnsm020bcW" />

Fjcstudio, who designed the tower, said their&nbsp;concept is for a "different type of vertical living."

"Not a conventional tower apartment tower of dark glass but a unique form of vertical living that belongs, drawing on the vernacular and materiality of suburban living, and attracts residents who are drawn to the great beauty of this bushland suburb close to urban and village centre,"&nbsp;Fjcstudio wrote in their Design Report.

"Our proposal is for slim figural towers in earthy clay and brick tones suspended above the existing landscape setting. It is a concept drawn from the landscape and bushland dwelling heritage of North Ryde and Northern Sydney, abstracted and interpreted into human-scaled groupings of vertical community dwelling."

They said the heart of the design is&nbsp;an approach to create homes where healthy ecological living and a connection to the environment and landscape are intertwined.

"The strong connection with local nature provides exceptional environments that embrace and enrich health and wellness. Our sustainability objective is to consider a building which is resilient and healthy and will be adaptable to the consequences of the changing climate.

Two main communal areas are offered, the entry garden and arrival space and the 445 sqm podium rooftop garden that will be extensively landscaped.

<img alt="Landmark Macquarie" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f1c5393f-d892-4593-b1b2-8b631e0b2b7b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%207.12.22%20pm.png?VersionId=R89CRHiWmQR.aFT43cyWH5OXpQNM4rr9" />

At the time of the purchase of the 1.8-hectare site, Landmark Group&nbsp;Head of Development, Joseph Scuderi, said they were attracted to it because they saw it as a fantastic opportunity to be able to provide the market with a high-quality residential product, at an affordable price point, in an area that will require greater supply.

“Landmark Group will be able to leverage off the many improvements to the Lachlan’s Line precinct already delivered by Landcom, including all lead infrastructure and services, high-quality public domain spaces, completed regional road infrastructure and the Lachlan’s Line ‘helix’ pedestrian and cycle bridge,” Scuderi said.

“The precinct will become a vibrant community close to the city, providing jobs and sought-after amenities.

“<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/macquarie-park-nsw">Macquarie Park</a> is one of the most accessible and sought-after residential development locations in Sydney, being close to major amenities and we are proud to be involved in this project.”

Fjcstudio, who designed the tower, said their concept is for a "different type of vertical living."

Joel Robinson

First look exclusive: Landmark file plans for Lachlan's Line, Macquarie Park apartments

Following the recent completion of its luxury Palm Beach apartment development Cabana Palm Beach, Josh Foote's Ignite Projects has secured its next development site.

They've paid around $7 million for Laurieton House, a 1960s apartment development at 186 Jefferson Lane, up the road from the Palm Beach Surf Club.

They bought the site through GV Property Group's Antonio Mercuri and Luke Reaby, who also sold the 1,600 sqm block to Sydney-based developer Daascon in 2022.

First look exclusive: <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-apartment-project-revealed-on-one-of-palm-beachs-biggest-sites">Apartment project revealed on one of Palm Beach's biggest sites</a>

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/ignite-projects">Ignite</a> will be looking to revise the 14-level plans Daascon had for the site, instead opting for a code assessable nine-level building which Foote says will be similar to Cabana on&nbsp;Nineteenth Avenue.

“No two projects are the same and we define ourselves by our point of difference, as each project is refreshingly original, but there will be similarities to Cabana,” he says.

“We live, surf and socialise in the area and respect the community so our impact is our legacy.”

Ignite sold out Cabana in 2021, within eight weeks of its launch on Boxing Day 2020.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=84861 project_image_fid=142160]

GV Principal Antonio Mercuri says the sale is&nbsp;a great result for the community.

“These older unit blocks like Laurieton House have well and truly had their day, but it’s great to see a local developer see the potential in the property and look to build a project that neighbours would be much happier with.

“I think that comes from just knowing the area. “It certainly helps when the developer lives locally and is raising their own families here - they genuinely want what’s best for the Coast.”

Daascon’s plans for the 14-floor tower on the site were approved by Council but were the subject of an appeal at the time of their decision to sell the property.

Ignite will be looking to revise the 14-level plans Daascon had for the site, instead opting for a code assessable nine-level building which Foote says will be similar to Cabana on Nineteenth Avenue

First look exclusive: Ignite Projects line up next luxury Palm Beach apartment development

ASX-listed developer Mirvac has submitted plans for its third and final stage in its $1 billion Newstead waterfront precinct, Sky Waterfront.

Their final tower, following the nearly sold-out Isle and Quay buildings, will be the tallest building in the mini masterplan that also includes the build-to-rent tower LIV Anura. <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/mirvac?referrer=Mirvac">Mirvac</a> is proposing a 27-level tower with 138 apartments.

The apartments will sit above four basement levels that will home 244 car parking spaces and 160 bicycle spaces.

There will be over 3,000 sqm of public open space, as well as 746 sqm of resident space that will include rooftop amenity in the form of&nbsp;a gym, swimming pool, dining area, BBQ facilities, and entertaining spaces. Level two will also home a business centre for residents, catering to the work-from-home lifestyle.

<img alt="Mirvac" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd009e3c-6c58-4663-9303-346b11bfd790" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%2012.50.20%20pm.png?VersionId=YSBjvuAOnG0wJiuyG3c6Yn2BRt.LvWP7" />

The owner-occupier-focussed tower will have just a single one-bed apartment, 85 two-bedders, 42 three-bedroom apartments and 10 apartments with four bedrooms or more.

The development will create a community plaza on the corner of Skyring Terrace and Cunningham Street that will act as the focal point of not only the Sky Precinct but also a destination meeting place for the broader Newstead community.

Mirvac says given&nbsp;Brisbane's highly amenable climate, diverse public open spaces have been thoughtfully designed on the ground level, providing inviting outdoor areas for community gatherings and interaction.&nbsp;

The project will sit on 4,989 sqm across 13 Cunningham Street and 57 Skyring Terrace, around a third of the wider 14,774 sqm site that will home the other two towers that are currently under construction.

<img alt="Mirvac" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4fadd18-bd1c-4b16-ba9a-a0b720ce23fc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%2012.50.59%20pm.png?VersionId=aZ7pREV9MX7OpagpTuiJ7Q6SmUMiZCZT" />

Mirvac Design said in the documents submitted to the Brisbane City Council the vision for stage three is&nbsp;to complete the family of biophillic buildings by creating a precinct identity and a sense of place.

They said the design shares a language of organic forms and planted green façades with the previous stages but does so in a way that gives it a unique identity.&nbsp;

"The planting strategy differs from stage one and two, a crucial element in establishing a distinct identity for this building. The treatment of the balustrade for the proposed form directly corresponds to the varied placement of planters on each floor. The balustrade sweeps around the planters, generating an undulating pattern of greenery on the façade."'

<img alt="Mirvac" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="417853c3-2493-4fb7-85d4-99ead36a753f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%2012.50.28%20pm.png?VersionId=QTVs8Y5XwBr2VOy4iXIDCqIagbrlh7Mn" />

Urbis said the proposal for Sky Stage 3 is aligned with the intent of key city strategies, with the greatest reference to Brisbane's Sustainable Growth Strategy.

"Sky Stage 3 offers inner city living at its best, being located across the road from the services and retail of Gasworks shopping centre, within 200m of the Riverwalk, directly on Skyring Terrace which is serviced by the CityGlider bus services and on the Waterfront Park," Urbis noted in the submission documents.

"With delivered experience in design excellence, the proposition by Mirvac is aligned to the future 'brand Brisbane'. With a design for the tower embodying Buildings that Breathe principles and a conscious effort to integrate a high Green factor score, the design proposal will contribute greatly to the skyline of Newstead."

Based on Newstead’s population forecast, the suburb needs an additional 5,800 dwellings by 2041.

Urbis said the proposal for Sky Stage 3 is aligned with the intent of key city strategies, with the greatest reference to Brisbane's Sustainable Growth Strategy.

Mirvac files plans for final stage of Sky Waterfront, Newstead precinct

Brisbane developer Shayher Group has revealed the first stage of its highly anticipated Bulimba Barracks masterplan.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/shayher-group">Shayher</a> secured the <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/bulimba-barracks-stage-1-167-apollo-road-bulimba">Bulimba Barracks</a> in 2020, buying it from the Department of Defence who had owned it since 2015 when the Commonwealth government disposed of the site as a defence asset.

Since 2020 the majority of the buildings that were part of the barracks from World War II to the 1980s have been demolished. The only building that has been retained is the fabrication workshop which was a barge building shop in World War II.

That will form one of three buildings for the <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/bulimba-barracks-stage-1-167-apollo-road-bulimba">first stage of the redevelopment</a> of the 20.73-hectare site. Shayher is first focusing on a 6,382 sqm block fronting Apollo Road in the northwest corner of the site. They're planning two low-rise apartment buildings with 69 apartments, separated by a laneway from the fabrication workshop which will be restored.

<img alt="Bulimba Barracks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="20c132a1-f7e0-4120-9d19-c594aa89f9e1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%209.44.29%20am.png?VersionId=28UWuHHWpkdbXnno5yIT333N4LdhYD9a" />

The fabrication workshop will home a display suite during the market and construction phase of the development, before being converted into a food and beverage hospitality venue with a cafe and outdoor dining next to the Brisbane River.

Shayher had Buchan Group put together the plans for the two three-level buildings. While not having to bow to strict heritage rules given the former factories on the block had been torn down, there was the consciousness that the buildings be located, designed and constructed to reflect the footprint, overall bulk, and scale of the WWII buildings.

The 69 apartments will be split across two buildings that will be divided by a central community garden, complete with a 13-metre resident swimming pool, activities lawn, sauna, outdoor dining cabana and cabana lounges. Each building will have a rooftop garden with golf-putting greens and open lawn spaces for yoga and lawn bowls. One rooftop will have a reduced-size pickleball court.

<img alt="Bulimba Barracks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="935d39ed-5b74-4d3a-a28b-7e5a90bdede2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%209.44.43%20am.png?VersionId=tDMrv1X818lMTsOsN1qaM7fWw7ViUAbW" />

There will be 10 one-bedroom apartments on offer, 38 two-beds and 21 three-bedroom units. They will sit above 180 basement parking spaces.

Buchan Group said in their Urban Context Report the <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/bulimba-qld">Bulimba</a> Barracks represents an eastern gateway to the river’s edge and symbolises the continuing evolution of Brisbane’s inner city.

"The intent is to start creating a new neighbourhood as envisioned in the Masterplan approved in 2022, which seamlessly integrates with adjoining neighbourhoods and surrounding residential areas providing new opportunities for connectivity and access to the riverfront," the architecture firm said.

<img alt="Bulimba Barracks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9753bc6e-8a40-4372-9ce9-407b046c5240" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%2010.18.50%20am.png?VersionId=Z_GE9Amz0oTdce6ntn6U5867g5Enuso2" />

They said the development&nbsp;offers an exciting opportunity for the renewal of an underutilised site and activation to the surrounding area.

"The focus for the development will be on providing a new offering to the local area. The fabrication workshop will be retained and adapted to create a new community heart that will provide a strong visual identity for the neighbourhood and new neighbourhood centre."

Development of the site is set to occur over the next five to 10 years, broadly following the masterplan layout in the Bulimba District Neighbourhood Plan.

Shayher has experience delivering multi-stage developments in Brisbane. They've previously created the $1 billion mixed-use precinct, Brisbane Quarter on George Street. That features three towers, a mix of residential and commercial next door to Brisbane Square and behind Brisbane City Hall.

Development of the site is set to occur over the next five to 10 years, broadly following the masterplan layout in the Bulimba District Neighbourhood Plan.



First look exclusive: Shayher Group file for first stage of Bulimba Barracks

Cumberland City Council has given builder developer ALAND approval to begin work on Amber, the second stage of The Gladstone Village, a major component of its $800 million mixed-use development in Merrylands.

Amber will bring much-needed housing to Western Sydney, including potential affordable apartments for key workers.

Negotiations are ongoing to designate the entire 21-storey tower, consisting of 236 apartments, for affordable housing under the federal government's Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF). If successful, these units will be offered at lower rental rates for essential workers, easing the housing crisis and supporting the local economy.

Dr. Andrew Charlton MP, Federal Member for <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw">Parramatta</a>, highlighted the critical role of developments like The Gladstone Village in addressing the growing housing needs of Western Sydney.

"This project will help meet the demand for affordable and appropriate housing, especially for key workers, given its proximity to Westmead Hospital, other essential services, and its direct access to <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/merrylands-nsw">Merrylands</a> train station," Charlton said.

"Projects like this are vital for meeting housing targets. Being just minutes from Parramatta, Sydney's second CBD, plays a crucial role in supporting the region's ongoing economic growth."

Amber will feature 31 one-bedroom, 186 two-bedroom, and 19 three-bedroom apartments. The tower will include a residents-only rooftop space, a children’s playground, and three retail spaces on the ground floor. The rooftop terrace will offer amenities like an outdoor cinema, barbecue areas and a community vegetable garden.

Upon completion, The Gladstone Village will transform a 2.5-hectare site into a vibrant urban precinct, featuring over 1,000 residential apartments spread across seven buildings. The development is strategically located near essential transport links and shopping convenience.

The first stage of The Gladstone Village, Quartz, was completed last month and has officially sold out its 363 apartments, with most apartments snapped up by first home buyers and investors.

ALAND Founder and owner, Andrew Hrsto expressed his excitement about the project's progress and its positive impact on the local community.

"This project plays a key role in the transformation of Merrylands,"&nbsp;Hrsto said.

"ALAND is committed to creating a best-in-class development that adds significant value to the broader community and addresses the need for more affordable housing.

"With the inclusion of planned roads and cycleways, improved walkable connections and bustling streetscapes, The Gladstone Village will become a dynamic public space for people of all ages. This precinct will also feature 4,300 sqm of retail space and over an acre of parkland and civic spaces, including the largest public park in the Merrylands town centre."

Hrsto said the Gladstone Village is designed to create a vibrant neighbourhood, fostering community growth and providing new opportunities for both business and social interaction."

The retail spaces in Amber are expected to attract alfresco dining operators, complementing the precinct’s active urban spaces and tree-lined boulevards.

ALAND's Head of Development, Anas Rahhal, said the Amber apartments would exceed the expectations of today's market, with high-quality finishes and spacious designs.

"We've created floorplans that emphasise expansive living areas and workspaces to cater to modern urban living," Rahhal said.

Construction for Stage Two is scheduled to begin in Q3 2024 and is expected to be completed by Q4 2025.

Plans for Stage Three, which include three buildings with 303 apartments and four food and beverage outlets, have already been submitted to Council.

About ALAND

ALAND is an award-winning, Australian-owned family business and one of Sydney’s largest and leading private development and construction groups. For over 20 years ALAND has delivered exceptional quality at an affordable price to Greater Western Sydney and the Central Coast of New South Wales.

ALAND invests significant amounts of time and expertise in researching the market, ensuring that each location is hand-picked for growth and income potential.

Dr. Andrew Charlton MP, Federal Member for Parramatta, highlighted the critical role of developments like The Gladstone Village in addressing the growing housing needs of Western Sydney.

ALAND to launch Amber; stage two of $800 million Merrylands precinct The Gladstone Village

Building crew, staff and guests last week celebrated the topping out at Paramount on Parkes, ALAND’s new $357 million development in Paramatta CBD, marking the successful conclusion of its construction phase.

The ceremony, an age-old tradition in which a tree is hoisted onto the top floor of a new building, was held on level 46 of the mixed-use development on Parkes Street.

When completed in August this year, the new tower will contain 331 apartments, a ground-floor retail precinct, resort-style amenities and six floors of dedicated commercial space at the summit.

The ceremony was attended by Dr Andrew Charlton, federal MP for Parramatta, Cr Pierre Esber, the Lord Mayor of Parramatta, Tom Forrest, CEO of Urban Taskforce Australia and Gurmeet Tuli, President of Little India Australia.

Speaking at the event, Dr Andrew Charlton, federal MP for Parramatta said, “As the fastest growing CBD in Australia, Parramatta needs more high-quality housing, close to our exceptional transport hubs, lifestyle amenities, and beautiful parklands – Paramount of Parkes exemplifies this. With vistas of the river, little India and the CBD, it is a real contribution to our city, offering a symbol and benchmark for mixed-use development here in Parramatta.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/builders/aland">"ALAND</a> and its partners should be extremely proud of bringing this development to fruition. I congratulate them on this remarkable contribution to the future of our growing and dynamic city.”

ALAND Founder and Owner Andrew Hrsto told the gathering that as someone who was born and raised in Western Sydney, he was immensely proud of Paramount on Parkes, one of the largest projects that ALAND has developed.

“Paramount stands as a beacon of our enduring commitment to providing much-needed housing in Paramatta CBD and Western Sydney generally,” he said.

“With its blend of residential apartments, ground floor retail and commercial spaces, and views of our much-loved Parramatta Eels stadium, Sydney CBD and surrounding parklands, this building illustrates our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of this community and is also a landmark achievement in ALAND’s own journey.”

<img alt="Paramount on Parkes" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5aa70edd-6e0b-4722-b00b-742d79f00d24" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%209.25.54%20am.png?VersionId=AuFebPAlYm5CtTfJi5Biqu21At6g4DCt" />

Hrsto paid tribute to the 5,000-strong workforce that was involved in the development of the 156-metre-high tower, plus ALAND’s many trusted suppliers and sub-contractors.

“On this momentous occasion, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to the realisation of this visionary project,” he said.

“As we gather here today to mark this occasion, let us reaffirm ALAND’s ongoing collaboration with both state and local authorities, and our commitment to help tackle the housing supply problems that we are facing in New South Wales.”

Paramount on Parkes is a cutting-edge building that features many sustainable features, such as efficient use of wind, water and solar access, state-of-the-art security technology and the latest digital comms, including optic fibre cabling.

The distinctive curved exterior of the building reflects the meandering nature of the nearby Paramatta River, 
softening the visual impact of the tower which is a gateway to the city.

Apartments are available in one-, two- and three-bedroom formats and offer open-plan living, floor-to-ceiling 
windows, private balconies and high-quality appliances and finishes. Residents enjoy access to an outdoor swimming pool, playground, landscaped gardens and other communal space on the podium level.

About ALAND

ALAND is an award-winning, Australian-owned family business and one of Sydney’s largest and leading private development and construction groups. For over 20 years ALAND has delivered exceptional quality at an affordable price to Greater Western Sydney and the Central Coast of New South Wales.

ALAND invests significant amounts of time and expertise in researching the market, ensuring that each location is hand-picked for growth and income potential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=9187]

Hrsto paid tribute to the 5,000-strong workforce that was involved in the development of the 156-metre-high tower, plus ALAND’s many trusted suppliers and sub-contractors

ALAND's Andrew Hrsto marks construction milestone at Paramount on Parkes with topping out event

Byron Bay's Jonson Street is set for a new $100 million mixed-use development.

Local <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/byron-bay-nsw">Byron Bay</a> developer, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/jd-property-group">JD Property Group</a>, has been approved for a luxury shoptop development at 119-123 Jonson Street, a 2,725 sqm block just 750 metres from Main Beach and on the corner of Jonson and Kingsley Street.

They'll launch the project, dubbed <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/secret-garden-119-123-jonson-street-byron-bay">Secret Garden</a>, this month.

Read more: <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-new-apartments-planned-for-byron-bays-jonson-street">First look: New apartments planned for Byron Bay's Jonson Street</a>

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-new-apartments-planned-for-byron-bays-jonson-street"><img alt="Secret Garden" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d8a152c7-32be-4813-b414-6b85991175f5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%209.05.01%20am.png?VersionId=03MVZS.3oyVl41AqHTxhzacPEbGsxbpR" /></a>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/secret-garden-119-123-jonson-street-byron-bay">Secret Garden</a> is JD Property Group’s second premier Byron Bay development. Following the success of its flagship precinct, Jonson Lane, it promises to bring the spirit of the Byron Bay Hinterland to the centre of town with premium amenities, green spaces, and a personalised concierge service for residents.

Secret Garden will comprise 22&nbsp;apartments, including luxury penthouse suites, alongside 10 upscale retail and hospitality tenancies on the ground floor. The premium-grade retail space&nbsp;will showcase local talent, including top chefs, designers, and artisans, while bringing some of Australia’s leading brands to the Byron Bay township.

JD Property Group Managing Director and third-generation local, Jason Dunn, said the precinct aims to spotlight what makes Byron Bay uniquely special.

“As a proud local, I am excited to showcase the best of Byron in a world-class, luxury precinct,”&nbsp;Dunn said.

“Every element has been thoughtfully considered and designed. From partners to products, we have aimed to work with our local community at every stage. This includes partnering with a local landscape architect to incorporate natural vegetation in our expansive greenspaces, which account for more than 40% of the precinct’s ground floor area. We have also worked with a local designer to deliver a rustic, coastal, and authentic style emulating the Byron Bay coast and hinterland, not yet seen in residential apartment living.

“Secret Garden is a very different offering to others in the market and has been positively received by our community and stakeholders. We anticipate strong interest from residents and retailers.”

<img alt="Secret Garden" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="693766ea-1cfa-404a-abc6-0d6adaec163d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%209.05.35%20am.png?VersionId=Ppyt6WNxXgEKByRO.OJBI.bQnnONGouZ" />

From amenities to personalised service, Secret Garden will offer residents a hotel-style service experience. The precinct features premium communal spaces,&nbsp; such as a rooftop wellness centre including magnesium pool, sauna, meditation space, and spa. There's an exclusive terraces for residents, BBQ areas, and a teppanyaki grill. A private concierge will be part of the project.

With an eight-star average NatHERS (Nationwide Housing Energy Rating Scheme) score, Secret Garden is a fossil-fuel free residential development. Its sustainability credentials include high-performing internal features, like glazing, to regulate temperature; water-efficient fixtures and fittings; and a ventilation strategy that maximises fresh, clean indoor air.

<img alt="Pool" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3d23a872-b6fe-445e-91e1-6e72dadaf73a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-05-13%20at%209.05.08%20am.png?VersionId=fgXoCyEXa6ybwtizp_EHGAIyLSW4QhAk" />

“We are proud to be delivering a sustainable development that offers residents the choice of 100% renewable energy supply,” Dunn added.

“Our market-leading sustainability commitments are a true point of difference for our precinct.

“Sustainable design is a must for us, and we aim to celebrate and nurture our natural environment at every stage of the process. We hope to attract residents and retailers who share these values.”

The three-storey precinct is a collaboration with Australian architect, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/bayley-ward">Bayley Ward</a>, renowned local interior curator Island Luxe, and local landscape architect, LARC. It follows JD Property Group’s award-winning Jonson Lane project, which has around 80 per cent of its retail, restaurant, health, and wellness offerings serviced by local Byron-based brands.

Secret Garden will comprise 22 apartments, including luxury penthouse suites, alongside 10 upscale retail and hospitality tenancies on the ground floor

Byron Bay set for Secret Garden after luxury shoptop development gets approval

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

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

Local owner-occupiers have jumped at Mirvac's new Brunswick apartment development, Prince &amp; Parade.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/prince-parade-by-mirvac-brunswick-701-park-street-brunswick">Prince &amp; Parade</a>, on the doorstep of the 39-hectare Princes Park, home of Carlton Football Club, walking paths, sports grounds, and playgrounds, has proven to be a hit with local buyers from <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/brunswick-vic">Brunswick</a>, as well as the neighbouring&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/parkville-vic">Parkville</a>, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/princes-hill-vic">Princes Hill</a>, and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/carlton-vic">Carlton</a>.

There's been an influx of purchasers who are working in the medical industry in particular, given the development's proximity to several local hospitals. Prince &amp; Parade's location has also proven favourable for academics who work at highly prestigious local universities like <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic" target="">Melbourne</a>&nbsp;University and RMIT.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4802 project_image_fid=217113]

The parkside location has been one of the biggest drivers in purchasing, according to <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a>. The Urban community has also marked the great location as the biggest key strength of the project.&nbsp;There are few opportunities to be so connected to nature in inner-city Melbourne.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/vic/on-the-doorstep-of-princes-park-how-mirvacs-prince-parade-takes-advantage-of-its-park-side-location">On the doorstep of Princes Park: How Mirvac's Prince &amp; Parade takes advantage of its park side location</a>

There's also confidence in Mirvac's ability to deliver quality as an ASX-listed developer who has completed a string of apartment developments across Australia over the last five decades.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4802 project_image_fid=269392]

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a> in collaboration with <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/mirvac-design">Mirvac Design</a> and landscaped by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, Prince &amp; Parade comprises one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments.

The fully electric Prince &amp; Parade features a residents' lounge and dining room, as well as a rooftop terrace with extensive panoramic views of Melbourne.

Prince &amp; Parade is just four kilometres from the CBD and is within walking distance of the historically vibrant suburbs of Melbourne's inner north. It's also just a short walk to Jewell Train Station and Royal Park Train Station.

Early site works by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/builders/mirvac-construction">Mirvac Construction</a> have commenced, with Prince &amp; Parade's completion slated for June 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4802]

Location and brand recognition drive sales at Mirvac's Prince & Parade apartments in Brunswick

Bellevue Hill's dress circle Victoria Road is set for a new apartment development, with the Woollahra Council signing off on a boutique block of 12 apartments near&nbsp;

Local developers Mark Alexander and Eugene Shaw are behind the $11 million plans for the 1,107 sqm block at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/214-218-victoria-road-bellevue-hill">214-218 Victoria Road</a>, an amalgamation of three sites backing onto Cooper Park on the corner of Victoria and Old South Head Road.

Two semi-detached dwellings and a standalone home will make way for the&nbsp;Bureah SRH-designed, five-level building that will offer a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

The sole one-bed spans 60 sqm, the two-bed apartments start from 77 sqm and the three-bedroom units from 110 sqm. They will sit above 25 parking spaces.

Architect Simon Hanson's&nbsp;Bureah SRH said in their submissions to the Woollahra Council that the project is designed to integrate into the site and the locality and reflect the style and design of character provided for in the Council's future vision for the area.

"The project has grown through a thoughtful design process which has fundamentally addressed the demand for quality outcomes for residents and the wider Eastern Suburbs community," the report noted.

"The design concept for this proposal has grown simultaneously from the consideration of the surrounding natural landforms and future urban requirements. The development strives to enhance and engage the public domain through a range of architectural devices. The articulated built form establishes a significant street presence. The site is situated on a major intersection of Victoria Road and Old South Head Road.

"Architectural devices such as fixed horizontal privacy screens, planter boxes create a distant presence busy street frontage and provide an acceptable level of privacy protection. The relationship between the apartments and the public domain is further enriched by an open landscaped private open space on ground floor and large balconies on the upper levels."

Mark Alexander and Eugene Shaw have worked in the area before. Their most recent project was on Boronia Road where they developed the luxury Tesoro building.

Mark Alexander and Eugene Shaw have worked in the area before. Their most recent project was on Boronia Road where they developed the luxury Tesoro building

Joel Robinson

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