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APARTMENTSGUIDE2 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

Tips for pre-purchasingBeware the tricks andtraps of buying realestate off the plan.

People are often attracted to off-the-plan sales because of duty savings.

With tens of thousands ofapartments currently being soldacrossMelbourne before theyhave actually been built, it’s no

surprise that the internet is burstingwithadvice for potential investors and owner-occupiers about buying off the plan.

Much of that advice comes fromcompanieswith apartment projects to sell,but because they have their ownpecuniaryaxe to grind, theymight bemotivated toemphasise the advantages rather thanpotential pitfalls.

Consumer Affairs Victoria is oneindependent voice on the tricks and traps ofpurchasing residential property, and itprovides advice on buying off the plan in a52-page booklet calledReal Estate Guide forBuyers and Sellers, which can be downloadedat consumer.vic.gov.au.

“People are often attracted to off-the-plansales as there is a reduced amount of duty(formerly stampduty) to pay,” the guide says.

“The amount depends onhow advanced theconstruction of the building is and its currentvalue. If construction is close to completion,the duty is likely to be higher.

“Other benefits for buyers includemoreinput into the design and a price at today’smarket value that is locked in at the time thecontract is signed.”

That’s on the plus side, but the guide alsowarns that buying off the planwithout beingable to observe the finished product has itsrisks.

“You have to rely on an artist’simpression, floor plan and advertisingmaterial for information aboutwhat you arepaying for,” the guide says.

Other dangers include possibledifferences between the expected and actualquality of the final finishes.

There could also be unexpected changesto the plans or specifications, an uncertaincompletion date, complex contracts andlimited recoursewith the builder if there is adispute.

“This is because the developer, not thebuyer, enters into amajor domestic buildingcontract with the builder,’’ the guide says.

“If you intend to buy off the plan, get afirm completion date inwriting from thedeveloper.”

More independent advice comes fromDomain columnist JimmyThomson ofwww.flat-chat.com.au. In a special report onbuying apartments off the plan published inDomain in January, he says it’s essential thatbuyers check the apartment developer’s trackrecord.

The strata expert also recommendsvisiting the Australasian Legal InformationInstitute’s website to do a quick check. “Asearch for the developer’s name is the easiestway to start your investigations,”MrThomson says. “If you find pages andpagesof court appearances, then perhaps alarmbells will ring.’’

In the same report, Lisa Bradleywho actson behalf of purchasers as co-founder ofSydney-based Finders Keepers BuyersAgents, says that although developers rarelydiscount advertised priceswhile selling offthe plan, theymight sweeten the deal inotherways. “Instead, look for other benefitsin your negotiations such as a better qualityof fittings or a preferred position for yourparking space,”MsBradley says.

However, perhaps themost basic andimportant bit of advice comes from theConsumer Affairs Victoria guide. “You shouldget legal advice before signing a contract,” itsays.

From skyscrapersthat flank the city, tolow-rise, boutiquedevelopments bythe beach or inleafy inner-ringsuburbs –Melbourne has ahost of apartmentoptions for thosewanting to live thehigh life.

Publisher The Age Compnay Pty LtdABN 85 004 262 702PO Box 257, Melbourne 3001

Client relations director Sandra Crestaniacrestani@mmpgroup.com.au

Advertising co-ordinator Stefanie Wilsonswilson@mmpgroup.com.au9249 5290

Editor Alice Archer

Designer Bill Farr

Writers Iain Gillespie, Richard Brewster, AliceArcher.

Feature produced by Mediaxpress on behalfof The Age, PO Box 33211,Domain LPO, Melbourne

Cover Salta Properties’ A Place to Live.

APARTMENTSGUIDESEPTEMBER 13, 2014 ● THE SATURDAY AGE ADVERTISING FEATURE 3

Building frenzy in urban hot spotsDevelopers are mostlikely to select sitesthat are close to thecity or bay.

More than 20,000 planning approvals were given to apartment buildings four storeysand higher across Melbourne’s metropolitan area over two years.

Apartment projects start to becomereally noticeablewhen they reachfour storeys ormore, andwhenresidential developments of that

size receive planning approval, the AustralianBureau of Statistics deems themworthy ofrecording.

The resulting data doesn’t include thecountless thousands of smaller apartmentprojects spread acrossMelbourne, but itdoes give an accurate picture of the suburbsthatmajor developers are targeting.

The ABS figures show that in the twoyears to June, a staggering 21,939 planningapprovals were given to apartment buildingsof four storeys or taller acrossMelbourne’smetropolitan area.

Many bigger projects approved early inthat 24-month periodwill still be underconstruction and themost recent won’t yethave laid a brick, but overall, South Yarra isthemost popular target with 1950 projectsapproved ranging from four to 20-storeys.

Southbank is next, with the green lightgiven to 1448 apartment projects,many ofthempresumably high-rise towers. TheCarlton area is another hot spot with 1198approvals, followed by 1159 in the stretchnorth fromBrunswick to Coburg.

Aswould be expected, themajority ofapartments are springing up across the innersuburbs, which account for a total of 15,500approvals. Standout suburbs, other than

those alreadymentioned, includeNorthMelbournewith 928 approvals, Docklandswith 862, Collingwood 696, Hawthorn 616and Prahran 550.

Approvals were given to 1307 apartmentprojects in the Bayside suburbs of PortMelbourne, SouthMelbourne, Albert Parkand Elwood, and 542were granted in areasaround Bentleigh, Caulfield,

Elsternwick andMurrumbeena.Angie Zigomanis, whoproduces BIS

Shrapnel’s authoritative report onMelbourne’s existing and future apartmentmarket, says the ABS statistics don’t take intoaccount themany thousands of apartmentprojects currently seeking planning approval.

One glowing hot spot is Fisherman’sBend, a newhigh-density residential district

thatwill stretch from the Yarra oppositeDocklands, across theWestgate Freeway andinto PortMelbourne.

It represents the largest inner cityrezoning in Australian history.

“There’s a lot of peoplewith their finger inthe pie in Fisherman’s Bend. A lot of themarestill working through the planning system,but there are literally thousands ofapartment proposals,”Mr Zigomanis says.

“The government has only recently putthe planning structure together, so peopleare jostling for position, but nobody hasreallymade a start because no one is exactlysurewhat can be done.’’

The apartmentmarket guru has alsonoticed that high-rise residential towers arebreaking their traditional inner-cityboundaries, and are starting to pop up insomeofMelbourne’s outer suburbs.

“BoxHill has a fewbig ones, Doncasterhas aswell, butwe’re talking 20 storeys-plusrather than 50 storeys-plus,” he says.“They’re also trying to get through a tower ofmore than 20 storeys aroundPrestonMarket.”

Perhaps surprisingly,Melbourne’smajorsatellite cities of Frankston andDandenonghave large populations but register lowonthe ABS planning approvals list.

“The issuewith Frankston andDandenong is that the starting price for aone-bedroomunit is probably in the veryhigh $200,000s,”Mr Zigomanis says.

“But you could probably buy a housethere for between $250,000 to $300,000.

“As a result, notmany apartments arebeing built in Frankston andDandenongbecause people are probably looking at thevalue proposition and saying, ‘ohwe’ll justbuy a house instead’.”

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APARTMENTSGUIDE6 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

City skyscrapers spring everTall towers are the rockstars of Melbourne’shigh-rise housing.

Twogeneral trends seem to haveemerged in the record frenzy ofapartment construction now takingplace acrossMelbourne. The

buildings are getting higher, and thedwellings inside themare becoming smaller.

Several projects thatwill dwarf the city’sexisting residential towers already haveplanning approval – including the SouthernHemisphere’s first 100-storey building.Thirteen others,more than 200metres high,are said to be in the pipeline.

The Australia 108 skyscraper, at 70SouthbankBoulevard, will be 319metresfrom the top of its 100 storeys down to streetlevel. That easily beats the 297metres ofMelbourne’s current tallest building, EurekaTower.

Another giant, TowerMelbourne onQueen Street, will stretch up 220metres over71-storeys, and house 581 apartmentsranging from43 to 75 squaremetres, aswellas a cluster of very expensive penthouses.

VictoriaOne also has planning approval.It will soar 240metres over Elizabeth StreetnearQueen VictoriaMarket, with 623apartments built into 79 storeys.

Suchmonster towers are the rock stars ofthe apartmentmarket, and judging by thearchitect’s impressions, their designs arespectacular. But cut their height down to amore commonplace level, and you’ll findarchitects bemoaning a lack of willingness bydevelopers to break the “cookie cutter”

mould and try somethingmore experimental.

Someof that debatecentres on the shrinking sizeofmanyMelbourneapartments designs, and theStateGovernment’s proposalsto introduce compulsorystandards that would set aminimumsize for one, twoand three-bedroomdesigns.

Many architects agree suchregulations are needed, otherslike 2014 Australian InteriorDesign Awardwinner, AdrianAmore, say it’s an apartment’sdesign that reallymatters, notits size, and all that’s needed ismore imagination.

One indication of thepossibilities is amicrodwelling calledManhattanLoft, which recentlywonInteriorDesignmagazine’s bestof the year award.

Mr Amore believes theJapanese havemastered theart ofmicro homesmore thanthe Americans. “Their small living spaceschallenge the conventional westernapproach ofmore space is better,” he says.“They are often built on land that is left over,or considered undesirable due to its relativesize, odd shape or obscure location.”

Architects’ creative dreams are oftencurtailed bymarket realities. Theymighthunger for clientswilling to take a risk onsomething new and startling, but thedeveloperswho hire them tend to stick toformulas that have already provedsuccessful.

“To be honest, the role of the developer isnot to be the experimenter, it’s tomanage themarket forces as they see them, andmanagethe building process aswell as possible,” saysAustralian Institute of Architects statepresident, PeterMalatt, who supports theidea of enforcingminimumdesignstandards.

“It’s also incumbent on architects to showhow they can value-add,’’MrMalatt says.

‘‘To showhowgooddesign can not onlyincrease value for the developer, but also forthe first purchaserwho is often an investor,

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upwards in height challenge

OPPOSITE PAGE FROM LEFT: Victoria Onenear Queen Victoria Market; five-storeytownhouses are common in Amsterdam;The Australia 108 skyscraper onSouthbank Boulevard.

and for the long-termoccupants.”Melburnians can already see glimpses of

what happenswhendevelopers are notpeering anxiously over their architect’sshoulders. Leading architectural firmssometimes give themselves a free hand bybecoming developers themselves.

The end results can set new standards inapartment design, and influence themarketfor years to come.MrMalatt points toBeverleyHills apartment towers, built 79years ago by architect and developerHowardLawson in Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra.

The glamorous 1930s low-rise apartment project wasbuilt from recycledmaterialsand set into a steep hilloverlooking the Yarra River.Many architects and plannersnow see it as an example of thelow-impact, high-densityhousing the city needs today.

“Good developments havealways had that ability tointegrate the building and thelandscape,”MrMalatt says.“BeverleyHills is beautifullystitched into its surroundings,with a swimming pool andnatural settingswith trees.”

Koos de Keijzer, nationaldirector of dKOArchitectureand amember of the Victoriangovernment’s architecturaldesign review panel, saysother exampleswere designedbyNondaKatsalidis of FenderKatsalidis, the firmwhichdesigned Eureka Tower.

“Look at what he did backin the 1990s as an architect

developer, he did some fabulous buildings,”Mr de Keijzer says. “I’m thinking of theRepublic Tower on the corner of Queen andLa Trobe streets, andMelbourne Terracesdown inQueen Street.

“They actually set themarket (standard)for quite some time. Architects have aninnate sense of being able to push amarket,whereasmost developers are a lotmore riskaverse.”

Mr de Keijzer is also in a position to pushthe boundaries. His firmhas a developmentbusiness and is breaking themould by

building five-storey townhouses inCollingwood.

“Most developers would say you can’tbuild five-storey townhouses in amarket thatdoesn’t want them, but that’s because ithasn’t been done here before,” he says. “Theyare a lotmore nervous than architects aboutdifferent typologies of apartment living.

“I spent a lot of time living in Amsterdam,andmost of that city is a series of five-storeytownhouses that sit on themajor canals.”

All three architects agree on one thing,and that’s preserving the city’s heritagewhenever possible, rather than taking ablank canvas approach to development sitesand demolishing all the existing buildings.

“It’s a tough one because it’s quiteexpensive to retro-fit and rework olderheritage buildings, but I do think it should bedone,”Mr deKeijzer says. “Those pieces ofhistory, those traces ofwhatwas, are reallyimportant for the future.”

MrMalatt says “tabula rasa”,meaningblank slate in Latin, is a planning term thatdescribes the problem. “You just start with awhite sheet, but I think themorewe can keeptraces of whatwent before, the stronger thedesignwill be in the long term.”

Mr Amore agrees, and says innovativeapartment designs can integratewith olderbuildings by using unusually shaped orderelict spaces. “If we utilised some of thecity’s unwanted spaces by looking atalternative designs, wewould have amuchmore interesting urban fabric,” he says.

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SPECIALREPORT8 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

New project on old bakery site in TipA developmentacknowledges itsprevious commercialuse and pays tribute toan area’s history.

Memories of the bakery it hasreplaced have been kept alive inLittle Projects latest $215 milliondevelopment on the corner of

Edward and Weston streets, Brunswick East.The six buildings in the complex,

comprising 411 apartments and luxurytownhouses, have been named Silo, Seeds,Rye, Stables, Grain and Malt – sparking astrong reminder that this was once the homeof Tip Top Bakeries, which closed 10 yearsbefore the developer purchased the1.2-hectare site in 2009.

Each building contains a mix of one andtwo-bedroom apartments and townhouses.The developer Little Projects worked closelywith project architects ROTHELOWMAN toprovide a development that acknowledged thesite’s previous commercial use and paidtribute to the history of the area.

Through Little Projects vision, the recentlycompleted site has become an exciting newlifestyle precinct, reinvigorating thesurrounding neighbourhood and adding freshappeal to the urban landscape.

Brunswick East is a desirable place forsavvy Melburnians to live – with multipletramlines to take commuters in all directions.

Little Projects managing director MichaelFox says the company recognises BrunswickEast as an up-and-coming inner city suburband it is good to see the regeneration of the

precinct with so many new restaurants, cafesand retailers opening up and Little Projectsresidents calling the area home.

ROTHELOWMAN managing principal KimLowman says the project incorporates the1930s art deco building and the originalstables complex.

“Contemporary additions provide a strikingbut polite balance between historic andmodern architecture,” Mr Lowman says.

“Wherever possible new shapes and formssubtly suggest imagery reflected in its bread-making history.

“The balcony shape on the six-storey Seedsis bulbous like wheat kernels, and the fluidlines of a silo are seen in the facade of theeight-storey Silo building.”

Mr Lowman says the building was cleverly

planned to make the most of city views andpenetration of natural light.

“The design incorporates real sustainabilityinitiatives including the use of photo voltaiccells (PVC) to generate electricity for thecomplex,” he says.

While the development has been designedaround the Silo tower, there are severalimportant community initiatives featured inthe site.

One is the provision of a cafe and TheLearning Centre, a rooftop childcare centreable to cater for 90 children and offeringseveral outdoor areas, within the Seedsbuilding.

The Seeds Collection was launched onlyrecently and is a boutique building of 78 oneand two-bedroom apartments complemented

by huge entertainment-style balconies –providing an outdoor retreat offering bothprivacy and unique design.

The interior spaces of the Seeds buildinghave been designed with warm, neutralpalettes using high-quality fixtures and fittingsand thoughtful storage solutions unparalleledto anything currently available.

There are still a handful of spacious 71square metre plus balcony two-bedroomapartments available for sale ($587,000)within the Seeds building.

Little Projects has also launched the Malttownhouses, which have only recently beencompleted.

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Top location

FROM LEFT: the spacious Malt townhouses; Rye; the Stables;the eight-storey Silo building.

plan living area – ideal for year-roundentertainment.

The homes offer secure undergroundparking and plenty of storage and start at $1.15million.

The Stables building also has commercialspace at its base ideal for retail or office use.

In a new innovation for a Melbourne-basedresidential developer, Little Projectsintroduced the experience centre at the baseof the Stables building. Owners were able tomeet with the Little Projects team, have aguided tour of their apartment and thedevelopment prior to settlement.

New residents and investors also receiveguides to the local area including specialrewards and discounts from local retailpartners and a “Little Move In Guide” that

carefully steers the purchaser through theprocess step by step.

Michael Fox says this has been ofenormous help to residents while theboutique-style residences and additionalamenities have made the development anattractive prospect for all concerned.

“We are creating a community, so weconsidered its flow-on impact on thesurrounding streets,” he says. “We also wantedto create a precinct that added value to theneighbourhood and of which people wished tobe part,” he says.

For more details, call 9234 0050 or visitLittle Projects Live Brunswick East Informationand Sales Centre for a private inspection from10am-4pm Saturday to Thursday at 183Weston Street, Brunswick East.

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SPECIALREPORT10 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

Wharf’s Entrance takes waterfront lifeThe precinct is designedto foster a strong senseof community anddraw people to thewater’s edge.

For developer Mirvac, its new four-hectare Wharf’s Entrance precinct atYarra’s Edge in Docklands is anexperiment in successfully mixing

lifestyle and different demographic groups in awaterfront neighbourhood.

Wharf’s Entrance is the fourth – and final –precinct to be built since Mirvac first beganconstructing Melbourne’s premier waterfrontliving community 15 years ago, and willprovide an attractive western landmarkentrance to Melbourne’s waterways.

In that time, it has completed the Marina,Park (with the focal Array tower almostfinished) and River precincts – a massiveenterprise comprising seven apartmenttowers, and low-rise homes now enjoyed bysome 2500 residents.

This last stage, named for the precinct’shistory of transporting cargo into Melbourne,is due to begin next year, with construction ofthe 100-metre high, 30-level Forge tower.Containing 228 apartments, it will be the mainfocus in what will eventually be a 700-dwellingdevelopment capable of housing 2000people.

Mirvac designers for Wharf’s Entrance havetaken a different approach to that of the earlierstages, introducing a holistic plan to create anenvironment that will encourage residents touse the building, the precinct and open areas

for recreational and community activities.Part of this plan involves the incorporation

of five, one and two-bedroom artist studios, 10one-bedroom lofts and two double-storeymaisonettes to encourage younger people totake up residence in the Forge tower –something not tried before as Mirvac’s mainmarket was empty-nesters or pre-familycouples.

Mirvac design director Michael Wiener saysdesign of the entire precinct is aimed atfostering a strong sense of community to drawpeople to the water’s edge. The complex isgenerously surrounded by parkland to takerecreation to the next level and the creation of“pedestrian purity zones” to encouragepromenading. “Pavement materials will have atraffic calming effect and the roads will beshaped to force vehicles to give way topedestrians,” Mr Wiener says.

Forge tower will have a dual personality –the riverside to be finished in glass, while thesouth side will reflect a strong urban elementthat integrates with the cosmopolitanenvironment of bayside Port Melbourne.

Materials to be used in the tower and theremainder of the precinct – including concrete,steel, glass, brick, recycled wharf timbers, zincand copper – will help the building’s gentlycurving facade reflect the gentle rise andripples of the surrounding water andincorporate the wharf side elements of thearea.

Residents will first experience the tower viaa grand lobby that features an aquariumreflecting the Yarra River ecosystem.

Recycled wharf timbers and copperhighlights will lead to the north-facingresidents’ lounge with its fireplace and leatheraccents and views of the Wharf Club, Wharf’s

Landing park and the Yarra River.There will be three common resident areas

– a dining room linked to a theatre, which canbe used separately or conjointly, and ameeting room complete with fireplace in thelobby where residents can simply “hang out”.

The top six floors offer a mix of premiumone, two and three-bedroom Sky Residenceapartments – while the artist’s studios, loftsand other accommodation will be spreadthroughout the rest of the building.

As more and more Melburnians turn to thewater’s edge lifestyle that is Docklands, Mirvacis keen for the population to reach the criticalmass required to ensure it becomes self-sustaining – offering all the infrastructure,amenities and facilities that constitute asuccessful neighbourhood.

To that end, Wharf’s Entrance is seen as amaturation of the Yarra’s Edge development –

IMAGE: ARTIST´S IMPRESSION OF FORGE APARTMENTS

SPECIALREPORTSEPTEMBER 13, 2014 ● THE SATURDAY AGE ADVERTISING FEATURE 11

to the next level

FROM LEFT: Mirvac’s waterfront neighbourhood, Yarra’s Edge; Forge Tower lobby;Sky Residence living room; the Forge tower.

a place where residents not only choose to livebut also partake in their daily activities.

Mirvac has been an early advocate for highdensity living, as group executive residential,John Carfi says, with an expressed aim for thisstyle of living to become more accepted inMelbourne as in other world-class cities.

“The more residents the area attracts, themore it turns into a place with 24-hour lifestyleactivities in retail, entertainment and councilstructure,” he says.

Mr Carfi believes this can only happen witha diverse residential demographic who aremore than happy to walk or cycle to the CBDand Southbank via the Charles Grimes andWebb bridges – no matter what time of the dayor night.

He sees only positives from the Yarra’sEdge development and particularly theWharf’s Entrance precinct.

“We have a strong following of Mirvacpurchasers across Australia including towerhoppers who, every four to five years, want toupgrade to new ones,” he says.

Twenty-five to 30 per cent of new releasesales are Mirvac repeat customers who like thedesign concepts the company employs.

“When we introduce a new stage withinYarra’s Edge, it’s not a wild departure from theprevious ones but it is an evolution and adaringness to try new things,” Mr Carfi says.

Fifteen years ago, empty nesters hadcertain expectations. These days, thoseentering that period of their lives havedifferent goals to their predecessors.

“At the start, empty nesters wanted to livein enclaves with people of similar interests,” MrCarfi says. “Now they enjoy the diversity of abroader demographic just like a normalsuburb.”

APARTMENTSGUIDE12 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

Take yourself to lofty new heightsHelio is a study in smartdesign with a strongfocus on functionality.

Above: Helio is close to the CBD inFlemington Road, North Melbourne.Left: the kitchens are sleek and stylish.

Loft living can allow interesting andstylish interiors thatmake themostof available space, and the latestproject to use such split-level designs

isHelio, a 14-storey development close to theCBD in FlemingtonRoad, NorthMelbourne.

The $61million development by SpecPropertywill include 111 one, two and three-bedroom single-level and loft-styleapartments.

“With a great restaurant district aroundthe corner, parks at the building’s doorstepand the CBD just a short stroll away,Heliowill give residents direct access to the verybestMelbourne has to offer,” says SpecProperty design leader Ariel Lopez.

“It will be an enduring landmark in one ofMelbourne’smost connected communities,with a striking facade design, proposedground floor retail space and a communalarea featuring two expansive rooftopterraces,”Mr Lopez says.

Helio’s 34 one-bedroomapartments arepriced from$339,000. The 12 one-bedroomversionswith a study and split-levelminilofts have sold out. The 24 two-bedroomplusstudy apartments are priced from$499,000,eight two bedroom split-levelmaxi loftsbegin at $699,000, and the two three-bedroompenthouses range upwards from$1.396million. Apartments vary in size from52 squaremetres to 194 squaremetres,including balconies.

“The facade has a concept of verticality,featuringweathered copper vertical finswiththree columns ofwhite porcelain tile runningits full height,”Mr Lopez says.

“As you step inside, there’s a dramatically

lit foyer opening into a private landscapedatrium.

‘‘With fewer than 12 apartments on eachlevel, a sense of intimacy is ensured.’’

Helio is a study in smart designwith astrong focus on functionality. It is also acelebration of contemporary architectureinspired byMelbourne’s distinct design style.

“We’ve set out to create a striking buildingthatwillmake a statement through its use ofmodern finishes andmaterials.”

Numerous kitchen upgrade optionsincludemovable island benches, timberbulkheads, porcelain splash-backs, anintegrated refrigerator and extended timberflooring.

The single level apartments are designedtomaximise space, with oversized internalsliding doors in one-bedroomapartmentsthat encourage indoor-outdoor living byopening to stone paved balconies.

“The two rooftop terraces 15-storeys up

have communal zoneswith an impressivebackdrop,”Mr Lopez says.

“There’s an undercover dining areawithbarbecue facilities, and a landscapedoutdoor lounge area provides anentertaining solution year-round. Thenortheast terrace is designed to take in theafternoon sun, while the southwest one isoriented tomaximise views of the CBD, andbeyond toDocklands and Port Phillip Bay.”

All apartments have a balcony, and air-conditioning. There are 22 bike spaces and53 car spaces split between three basementlevels with car lifts.

“Safety is ensuredwith swipe pass access,a secure entrance lobby and video intercominstalled in all apartments,”Mr Lopez says.

Construction is due to start thismonth,and the project set for completion in 2016.

For more information, visithelioapartments.com.au

View’s good for bayside loversHere’s your chance tojoin the Village people.

The Village will provide animpressive facade on one ofCheltenham’s prominent corners.

Cheltenham residents won’t be able tohelp butmarvel at The Village twintower developmentwhen completedin late 2016.

To be located on the corner ofNepeanHighway and Park Road, Cheltenham, the$72million project is withinwalking distanceofWestfield Southland.

The on-site display suite has generated alot of interest withmarketing agentsOliverHumeApartments claiming interest in thedevelopment fromall parts ofMelbourne.

Executive director Jamie Kay says themajority of interest is local –much of it fromfirst homebuyers and investors.

“Typically, bayside locals buying their firsthomeswant to stay close towhere they grewup, so areas such as Cheltenham service thatneed,”Mr Kay says.

“Because of themany appealingamenities, demand for bayside living is high,with surrounding areas experiencing capitalgrowth in excess of other suburbs of equaldistance from theCBD.”

The Village project, expected to start earlynext year, will comprise 170 individual oneand two-bedroomapartments rising eightlevels over a basement andpodium level carpark.

Developed as a joint venture byGoldfields Living andMaple, both ofwhichhave years of experience in the constructionindustry and are responsible formany ofAustralia’s iconic projects, The Villageapartmentswill have quality fittings andfinishes throughout and feature generousbalconies.

The kitchenswill be equippedwith stonebench tops andEuropean stainless steel

appliances, while all bedroomswill havebuilt-inwardrobes. Other features includesplit system air-conditioning and electricwall panel heating for the bedrooms.

Purchaserswill have a choice of ceramictiled floors or can upgrade to timber andeach apartmentwill include a car park spaceand storage cage.

One-bedroomapartments are pricedfrom$349,500 and the two-bedroom from$400,000.

The developmentwill feature a residentialcommunal space on the second levelbetween the two towers, known as the VillageCommon.

GoldfieldsGroupmarketing directorRohanAmes says The Village’s strongexternal lineswill provide an impressivefacade on one of Cheltenham’s prominentcorners. “Because it will be visible frommorethan 400metres away, it was important tocreate a building thatwas confident in itsdesign statement, while at the same timecontributing an attractive architecturalaesthetic to Cheltenham’s emerging skyline,”Mr Ames says.

Cheltenham is a fast growing andpopularbayside suburb, nomore than threekilometres from the beach and close tomajorretail and leisure amenities including severalofMelbourne’s leading golf courses.

CharmanRoad shopping strip is only 100metres away and the area is well serviced bytrains and buses.

According to Jamie Kay, bayside residentsare unique in that they tend to live in the areatheir entire lives.

“Developing in Cheltenham is a logicalstep given that the nearby suburb ofHighetthas already been exhausted,” he says.

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APARTMENTSGUIDE14 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

Light House reflects new modeA trend has emerged fortop-end, hotel-stylecommunal facilities.

FROM LEFT: Residents will enjoy the indoor lap pool with waterfall edges; an artist’s impression of the building’s exterior.

LightHouse, a 67-storey prism-liketower on the corner of Franklin andElizabeth streets in the CBD, hasbeen described by its architects as a

“shimmering beacon of light”.Architects Elenberg Fraser say the tower is

destined to become an iconic landmark, andthat its sculptural facadewill have akaleidoscopic effect reflecting changing huesof pink and blue throughout the day.

The project byMelbourneDevelopersHengyi – in a joint venturewith SixthGrange–will house 607 one, two and three-bedroomapartments, alongwith a 25-metre indoordesigner lap poolwithwaterfall edges.

Hengyi’s head ofmarketing and businessdevelopment, Stephen Speer, saysindividually designed, luxury day beds andindividual steamand sauna roomswillsurround the poolwith private powder roomfacilities. “Common spaces in residentialcomplexes are important for a resident’slifestyle and overall fulfilment, and are oftenconsidered an extension of their livingspace,”Mr Speer says.

“LightHousewill featureworld-class,luxurious communal facilities for residents.

“Once a new resident has adapted to theirextended resources it changes their lives.

‘‘If they are set upwell so it’s easy to bookthemand they’rewellmaintained,communal spaces are often used a lot.’’

Mr Speer says common spaces inmulti-residential developments used to just

comprise a garden patch and communalbarbecue.

“A trend has recently emerged, however,in the Australianmarket for top-end, hotel-style common spaces and facilities,moreakin to those found in six-star resorts thanstandard apartment developments,” he says.

“These days, such spaces are drawcardsrather than developer afterthoughts,appealing to tenantswho love to entertain.”

The developmentwill have a terracewithadditional daybeds and an oversized,outdoor spa.

A state-of-the-art gymnasium, includingan open-air component for cross training

will overlook the terrace. “Itmeans residentsdon’t need to leave the comfort of their ownhome to exercise.”

LightHousewill also have an “urbansanctuary” and a private dining room/cocktail lounge, with larger communalspaces andmore discrete private areasfurnishedwith timber flooring, textured,inset rugs and “generous ceiling heights andtreatments’’.

LightHouse is expected to startconstruction early next year, and due forcompletion in late 2017.

TheCBD site is currently home toMelbourne International Back Packers, with

the building scheduled for demolition laterthis year.Mr Speer says: “The design team isled by architecture firmElenberg Fraser, withRider Levett Bucknall providing quantitysurveying services.

‘‘Colliers International has beenappointed as sales andmarketing agents.”

Hengyi is also the developer behind TheWilliamapartment and retail complex,which consists of two adjacent buildings, a23-storey tower onWilliamStreet and a21-storey building in Little Bourke Street.

More details atlighthousemelbourne.com.au

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APARTMENTSGUIDE16 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

Prefabricated apartments scoop poolOutstanding results canbe achieved by doingmost of the work off-site.

Thewinner of theHousing IndustryAssociation’s 2014 award forAustralia’s best apartment probablycame as a surprise tomany

architects and builders. The victoriousdwelling is amass-produced prefabricatedunit called theOmnipod.

The rectangular unit was factory built,then lifted by crane and plonked on top of anoffice building onMacquarie Street inHobart. TheHIA judges called it, “asurprising transformation of an unusedspace to become a unique penthouseapartment”.

“ThisOmnipod design blends seamlesslywith the existing commercial buildingbelow,” the judges said. “Outstanding andflawless detail was achieved bymost of thework being done off-site. The apartment hasmany luxurious fittings and features to createa contemporary living space thatcomplements the stunning views.”

TheHIA awards are regarded as themostprestigious in the residential buildingindustry, and theOmnipod, which hadalreadywon design awards from theAustralian Institute of Architects, is likely toadd to the growing number of pre-fabricatedapartment projects already sprouting up inMelbourne.

Omnipod is a creative collaborationbetween architect, Craig Rosevear, developer,Brett Torossi of NewGroundNetwork, andbuilderMichael Lane of Cordwell Lane.

Mr Lane says the next step is to push salesof the design in other states. “We’re especiallyinterested in big cities likeMelbourne andSydneywhere there’s a lot of prime real estatearound on top of existing buildings,” he toldtheHobartMercury.

“You’re not limited to rooftops. One ofthese could easily be dropped ontofoundations on any block, and then youcouldmove it somewhere else a few yearslater if youwant.”

Another systemdesigned by leadingAustralian architect, NondaKatsalidis, hasalready been used to build apartmentsaroundMelbourne in record time, includinga nine-storey, 34-apartment project inMoonee Ponds thatwas erected in five days.

Of course the apartmentsweren’t actuallybuilt in five days. Thewhole process tookaround threemonths inside a factory, but

that’s still lightning-quick compared tomoreconventional construction times.

Mr Katsalidis, a director ofUnitisedBuilding, whichwas formed tomarket hisUBsystem, says the technology has greatenvironmental benefits and can creategreater affordability in apartments.

“UBwas driven by the frustration I had asan architect in always seeing the designcostingmore andmore, to the pointwherethere is an affordability crisis in this country,”MrKatsalidis says. “My objectivewas to lookat different technologies thatmight help tostabilise costs and even bring themdown.

AnotherUnitised Building director,MarcJohnson, says that, unlike othermodularprefabricated systems, UB can use otherarchitects’ designs, and themodules can bebuilt to any size. “The key thing fordevelopers is that you get a high quality

product in about half the time,” he says.The company hasworkedwith

MelbourneUniversity to develop anenvironmentally friendly system thatreduceswaste and increases the use ofrecyclablematerials, andRobAdams,director of city design for the City ofMelbourne, says the system is showing therest of the industrywhere the future lies.

“The population ismoving into urbancentresworldwide, andwill double over thenext 40 to 50 years,”Mr Adams says.

“Thatmeans – if you stop and think aboutit – we’re going to build the same amount ofurbanism in 40 to 50 years that has taken thewhole of civilisation.”

Modular or prefabricated design is not anew idea. In 1906, the Aladdin company inMichigan started sellingmodular house kitsand advertised that they could be built in a

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APARTMENTSGUIDESEPTEMBER 13, 2014 ● THE SATURDAY AGE ADVERTISING FEATURE 17

at national design awards

LEFT FROM OPPOSITE PAGE : A crane lifts a UB unit into its slot at the Moonee Pondssite; the Omnipod, outside and inside; Mirvac’s River Precinct at Yarra’s Edge.

day. The companywent on to sellmore than75,000 houses across theUS.

Between 1908 and 1940, Sears RoebuckandCo also soldmore than 70,000 kits,whichwere shipped in railroad boxcars andincluded all thematerials needed to build ahouse.Manywere erected by their owners’relatives and neighbours, in the sameway astraditional barn-raisingswere organised byfarming families.

Omnipod’s creators say their system savestime and expense by enabling site works andbuilding construction to happensimultaneously. The small amount ofwasteleft over can be stored for re-use, because ithas not been exposed to theweather.

“The structural design of Omnipod ismore robust than a conventional build. It hasbeen designed to lift, transport and relocate,”they say. “When you are swinging something

around in the air you certainly want itbombproof.

“It’s a poeticway to reinvigorate deadspaces such as city rooftops thatmayotherwise be very difficult to access. Itmakeslots of sense to buildwhere all the servicesand infrastructure already exist. Power,water, sewer, phones, gas, places to shop,work and play – there is no need to build newschools, hospitals or roads. Justmove straightinto themiddle of the action.”

Other top apartment awardswent toVictorian builder,Mirvac, whichwon the2014HIA Australian Townhouse/VillaDevelopment Award for River Precinct atYarra’s Edge inDocklands.

“This prestigious development oftownhouses, all withinwalking distance ofMelbourne’s CBD, boasts a uniquemoderndesign of each townhouse perfectly

matching the recentDocklands’development,” the judges said.

“Sustainable design has been consideredby installing largewater tanks for water re-use and solar panels to reduce energy costs.”

All of the townhouses have a northerlyaspect, and capturewide views of the YarraRiver and city skyline. The three and four-level homes have absolute river frontage andcomewith the option of a privatemarinaberth.

TheHIA award for anAustralianapartment complex, which takes into

account integration of buildings, commonareas, external construction and features thatmake liveable communities, went to theOcean development inNarrabeen,NSW.

“The resort style apartments offerstunning beach views and comfortableseaside living,” the judges said. “Eachapartment is designed tomaximise naturalcross-flow ventilation and slidingmetallouvres to reduce heat fromdirect sunlight.High quality finishes and featuresthroughout complete the stylish apartmentdesign and layout.”

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APARTMENTSGUIDESEPTEMBER 13, 2014 ● THE SATURDAY AGE ADVERTISING FEATURE 19

Rental market ripe for investmentInvestors will reapthe rewards of a localunder-supply.

The Pasco is a quality, boutique development; the display suite shows off the project.

Pascoe Vale South is the kind ofsuburb that attracts thousands ofrenters. It is only 10 kilometres fromtheCBDandwell serviced by

transport, including CityLink. Problem is,according to local real estate agents there arehardly any rental properties available.

“There are almost no one or two-bedroomproperties available for rent in thesuburb, and that’s remarkable for such apopular location so close to the city,” saysPatrick Corrone, the rentalmanager at Raine&Horne in Brunswick.

Apart froman inside knowledge ofproperty supply and demand in the inner-northern suburb,MrCorrone says he alsohas a “home grown love” of the area – so heandhis partner bought two, one-bedroomapartments off the plan in Pascoe Vale South.

The development they chose is aboutique offering called The Pasco, by TheBetter LivingGroup.

It has 142 apartments on three levelsacross a 7500 squaremetre site inCumberlandRoad, and featuresmore than2000 squaremetres of green space.

MrCorrone already lives in the area, andbought both apartments as an investment.

“One of the reasonswe invested here isbecausewe know first handwhat a greatlocation it is,” he says. “You’ve got access tothe freeway, significant retail developmentnearby, great cafes popping up, and you’reclose to the tram, buses and train.”

JemmaBayliss, a sales executive for ThePasco, says that so far about 85 per cent ofpurchasers have come fromwithin a five-kilometre radius. “Our owner-occupierbuyers know and love the area, but it’s theastute investors looking for the nextopportunitywho are going to reap the bestrewards,”Ms Bayliss says.

MrCorrone says he knows there is asevere shortage of rental properties in PascoeVale South fromhis experience inmanaginga rental team that covers the area.

“It is this under-supply thatwill leadmoreandmore investors into the area,” he says.“With demand so high, it’s clear that any newapartment in Pascoe Vale Southwilldefinitely be leased very quickly.

“Another factor inmydecision to invest inthis particular off-the-plan project was thereputation of the developer. The BetterLivingGroup is a locally based, family-runbusiness that has been building in PascoeVale South for over 40 years.

“Buying fromadeveloperwho is also thebuilder, and onewith a proven track history,mitigates the risk,” he says. “Mypartner and Ialsowanted to invest in something thatwasgood quality.”

MrCorrone lists the high quality fixtures,generous apartment sizes and communalgardens as extra touches thatmade thedevelopment stand out.

“Plus everyone gets a car space herewhich is something that you don’t always getwith apartments in places like Fitzroy orBrunswick,” he says.

The Pasco’s first building is set to open inearly 2016. There are also plans for an on-sitecafe, whichwill add to the suburb’s growinglist of “foodie” destinations including JackandDaisy andO’Heas Bakery.

It’s living just moments from Melbourne’s best attractions.

It’s 4,6O9m2 of green space at your fi ngertips and the sea air on your cheeks.

It’s luxurious residents’ facilities including 25m pool, library and lush rooftop garden.

It’s maritime-inspired interiors with views reaching across the city and the park.

It’s a place to live and a place to invest. At Aqui Promenade…it’s all here.

Call Luke Boundy 0478 315 819 or Ivy Chen 0478 307 117.

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SPECIALREPORT20 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

Down on the waterfront, a place withNewQuay is stillevolving and when fullydeveloped will house10,000 people.

There aren’t many places left inMelbourne where you can buy anapartment right on the waterfront.NewQuay, on the north side of Victoria

Harbour, occupies one kilometre of waterfrontat Docklands, offering spectacular views of thewater and city.

The developer, MAB Corporation, is almosthalfway through its plan to create whatgeneral manager – residential, David Allt-Graham, describes as ‘‘a distinctive,architectural waterfront’’ suburb.

‘‘Our vision is to collaborate with localartists to create intriguing public spaces,where people love to live, work, play and visit,’’he says.

Mr Allt-Graham says NewQuay is‘‘consistently evolving’’. It is already home toabout 3000 residents, and when fullydeveloped will house 10,000 people in morethan 20 apartment towers.

As well as dozens of cafes, restaurants andbars, there will be an array of communityfacilities including Western Park – a stategovernment project with football oval, soccerfields, multi-purpose courts and pavilion. Thepark will provide plenty of green, open spaceand play equipment and, Mr Allt-Graham says‘‘will be the perfect bookend to NewQuay’’.

THE QUAYSThe Quays is a mixed-use developmentfeaturing 617 apartments and retail spaces,

including The Sebel hotel. Completed inDecember 2013, this landmark developmenthas captured the attention of the design andarchitectural industry with its vibrant colourand bold design.

The Quays has received five awards – twoVictorian Australian Institute of Architectsawards and three Dulux Colour Awardsincluding the major Grand Prix Award. TheQuays was selected for this year’s Open HouseMelbourne Festival in July where the publicwere taken on guided tours of the buildingwith the architects, McBride Charles Ryan.

MONUMENT PARKA 2000 square metre art and landscapeproject planned for NewQuay Promenade willcomplement The Quays.

Due for completion by the end of this year,the park will set the tone for MAB’s publicspaces throughout NewQuay and a new cafewill form its centre-piece.

Mr Allt-Graham says the public art projectwill be ‘‘a visually dynamic space for localpeople and visitors to meet, play, sit and linger,while enjoying views of Melbourne’s CBD andthe water’’.

‘‘The project has been designed incollaboration with internationally renownedartist Callum Morton, award-winning architectsMcBride Charles Ryan and Oculus LandscapeArchitects,’’ he says. The project is supportedby the City of Melbourne and is being fundedby MAB and Places Victoria.

AQUI PROMENADE (now selling)MAB’s new direction of encouraging vibrantand bold design is evident in its latestapartment release, Aqui Promenade atNewQuay. Designed by award-winningarchitects, Woods Bagot, the residential

building forms two unique silver and bronzesilhouettes with the facade designed to reflectthe movement of the water.

Mr Allt-Graham says: ‘‘Apartments featurenautical inspired interiors, purchasers canchoose from bold colour schemes or neutral tosuit their individual style.

‘‘Aqui Promenade continues MAB’s traditionof providing five-star residents’ facilitiesincluding a 25-metre lap pool, spa, sauna, fullyequipped gym, lounge, library and meetingrooms. There is also a rooftop garden withbarbecue and dining areas.’’

Purchasers have the choice of one or two-bedroom apartments with a limited number ofloft-style apartments available.

The building is just 90 metres from thewaterfront and will overlook 4500 square-metres of open space which has been ear-marked for parklands.

There are a variety of floor plans to suitvarious lifestyles.

Construction will start in 2015.

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ARTIST IMPRESSION

SPECIALREPORTSEPTEMBER 13, 2014 ● THE SATURDAY AGE ADVERTISING FEATURE 21

space to grow

FROM LEFT: NewQuay by the water; Aqui Promenade’s rooftop garden; theprecinct has plenty of parkland.

● Two-bedroom apartments from $505,000.For more details, watch the video at

aquipromenade.com.auVisit the sales centre at 100 NewQuay

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Contact Luke or Ivy on 1300 137 590.

INTO THE FUTUREMAB is in the design phase with The Quaysarchitects, McBride Charles Ryan, to createanother waterfront, luxury apartment buildingdirectly on the water’s edge and backing onto

the park. It will offer panoramic views acrossthe city and harbour. The parklands will besurrounded by retail, cafes and restaurants.

EVENTS AT NEWQUAY● NewQuay will form part of ‘‘Jubilation’’ tocelebrate the festive season in December.● The Australia Day celebrations attracted20,000 visitors to NewQuay this year and willbe held again in 2015.● Docklands Sunday Market is held everyweekend from September to June, alongNewQuay Promenade.

register your interest for an exclusive preview.centrestagerichmond.com.au

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APARTMENTSGUIDE22 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

Modern twist to traditional designResidences will reflectthe characteristic andquality of the existingstreetscape.

The architects want Maison to paytribute to the historic appeal of thearea without replicating it.

StoningtonMansion inGlenferrie RoadMalvern is one ofMelbourne’s iconichomes.Nowowned byMenzies Art Brands

chairmanRodMenzies, themansionwasbuilt in 1890 by Cobb&Co coach servicefounder JohnWagner and used from1901-1931 as the vice-regal residence forsevenVictorianGovernorswhile theCommonwealthGovernmentwas located inMelbourne.

During that time, StoningtonMansionhosted an array of royalty including KingEdward VIII, KingGeorge VI andQueenElizabeth II, enriching its history and status.

Its groundswere the focus of tertiaryeducation – firstly in 1957 as the ToorakTeachers’ College until, with name changesandmergers, in 1992 it becamepart ofDeakinUniversity.

While themansion and its historicgardens are still intact, the formerDeakinUniversity site along Somers Avenue is nowthe location for a three-precinctdevelopment – Stonington Terraces, TheNorfolk Apartments andMaison.

The development is bordered byStoningtonMansion on one side and theleafy promenade of Somers Avenue on theother.

Director of developmentHenry Tsai saysMaison, scheduled to start early next year,will embody five limited edition apartment

residences that will reflect the characteristicand quality of the existing streetscape.

The 30 apartments thatMaison offers arenow selling off the plan through thedeveloper Ever Bright Group.

“Whilewe feel these apartmentswill beperfect for empty nesters looking todownsize and take advantage of the locallifestyle,Maison is unique in the options itprovides to ensure it appeals to a broaderdemographic,”Mr Tsai says.

Each ofMaison’s five residenceswillcomprise one to three apartments on eachfloorwith amix of two or three bedrooms.

All apartments have generous outdoor

areas, with upper level terraces or gardens forground floor apartments – and eachwillcome standardwith twoparking spaces in anunderground car park.

Editions one, two and threewill befinished traditionally with elaborateskirtings,mouldings, cornices and parquetryfloors –while editions four and fivewill havea contemporary feel with square set ceilingsand hardwood timber flooring.

AllMaison editionswill feature stonebench tops,Miele appliances andRogersellertaps.

ChristopherDoyle Architects designedMaison and says the challengewas to create

unique buildings that provided an authenticbalance of architectural languages – both inthe Somers Avenue streetscape andwithinthe StoningtonMansion precinct.

“Exterior forms anddetailing create anatural variation that reflects the rich varietyfound in the immediate neighbourhood,”principal Chris Doyle says.

“The goal has been to fuse bothtraditional disciplineswith contemporarydemands to createmodern, open light-filledspaces.”

According toMr Tsai, the architect hasmanaged to cleverly preserve the fine qualityof the leafy streetscapewithout repeating itsarchitectural elements.

“Instead, there is an emphasis on varietyof design, detail and a sense of individualaddress,” he says.

“The result is a project with genuinecharacter and nuance, particularly within thedetailing of the parts, that has provided auniformity for thewhole complex.”

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APARTMENTSGUIDE24 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

Developer goes to great lengths toThe series of differentcombinations of facadesand forms thatconstitute Smith&Co isrespectful of the existingheritage streetscapecomposition.

FROM ABOVE: The apartments are ‘‘home size in feel’’; units have private balconieswhere you can relax and take in the views; kitchens are stylish and functional.

BancoGroup, the developers of a newresidential and retail development inSmith Street, Collingwood,went togreat lengths to comeupwith a

design that fitted the street’s history andcharacter after commissioning a heritageappraisal.

The result is called Smith&Co, a four-storey buildingwith three large gardens at132-172 Smith Street.

BancoGroup directorMario LoGiudicesays his design team took a “curatorial”approach to the project.

“The curatorial team looked at thevibrancy of Smith Street.Wewanted tohonour the cross-section of people and thesuburb’s unique style,”Mr LoGiudice says.“Part of thatwasworkingwith local peopleand artisanswhounderstood Smith Street.”

ChrisManton of JAMArchitects saysresearching and understanding the history ofthe site laid the foundation for thearchitecture and building fabric.

“The heights, scale and compositionalong Smith&Co’s Smith Street facade aredesigned to be true to the site’s originalbuildings, where they existed in any shape orform,”MrManton says.

“The series of different combinations offacades and forms that constitute Smith&Cois respectful of the existing heritagestreetscape composition –which is anamalgamation of several larger buildings anda lot of small buildings.

“Smith&Co is best understood as threesmaller buildings, which have beenorganised around three generous outdoorcourtyard spaces. The poor condition offormer buildings on the site necessitateddemolition and reconstruction.

“Where newwork ismatched to theformer Foy&Gibson building, acontemporary reinterpretationwas adoptedas opposed to replication, due to the lack ofrequired historical detail.”

According to the heritage appraisal, theSmith Street precinct grew froma cluster ofsmaller traders from the onset of Victoria’sgold rush in the 1850s to “one of the two orthree busiest retail strips inMelbourne” bythe turn of the century.

In 1871, Foy&Gibson built a draperystore at 138 Smith Street, featuring animposing and elaborate trellised verandah.The street was also home to Australia’s firstColes store, which opened in 1914 beforemoving into the Smith&Co site in 1919,where the bargain variety store conceptwaspioneered.

The site is one kilometre from theCBD,and close to universities, hospitals, gardens,galleries, shopping and the Fitzroyswimming pool.

“Melbourne’s coolest restaurants, barsand cafes – are all literally – in the front yard.Walk, bike or tram is theway to experiencelife here,”Mr LoGiudice says.

“Priced from$430,000, the apartmentsare home size in feel and range fromone, two

and three bedrooms, eachwith a privatebalcony. Resident amenities include threelarge gardens, two elevated decks, barbecuefacilities, a library, secure private entry andundercover parking.

“Construction is underway; the build isbeing undertaken byHacerGroup, and thesettlement date is September 2015.”

Mr LoGiudice says the three residents’gardens total 938 squaremetres. “Each isindividually comparable to, if not larger than,

an average inner urban park,” he says.Local firm, Pollen Projectswas

commissioned to design a EuropeanGardento celebrate the Italian andGreek immigrantswho flocked toCollingwood last centuryalongwith a contrasting IndigenousGarden.

An organic pick and eat herb andvegetable garden, which harks back to themarket gardens that once dotted the area,has been designed by Very EdibleGardens.

More details at smith-co.com.au

1 bedroomfrom

$389,000

APARTMENTSGUIDESEPTEMBER 13, 2014 ● THE SATURDAY AGE ADVERTISING FEATURE 25

capture Smith Street’s character

Spacious floor plans from 59sqm - 118sqm with vast living areas still available. DEVELOPER INCENTIVES AVAILABLE - LIMITED TIME ONLY.

SELLING FAST

APARTMENTSGUIDE26 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

Places with pet-friendly policiesAn owners corporationcan set rules in relationto pets as well as manyother things.

Most places allow pets as long as they don’t cause a nuisance and these cats certainly enjoy their high-rise habitats.

Harold andMabel Clark are emptynesters in their late 50swho have aPekinese dog calledCoco that theyadore. They are also ready to

downsize andmove into an apartment.Theymay be an imaginary couple, but

there are thousands of real people inMelbournewith the same basic problem.TheClarks are keen on an apartment projectaround the corner, close to family andfriends. It’s perfect for them, and it’s beingsold off the plan.

That’s when the crunch comes. Accordingto RobBeck, generalmanager of StrataCommunity Australia (Vic), there’s nowaythe developer or sales agent can guaranteeCocowill be able tomove inwith them.

The Pekinese has tumbled into a legalvacuum.

“In an of-the-plan situation, an ownerscorporation hasn’t yet come into existenceand it can end up setting all sorts of rules, notonly in relation to pets but also about a lot ofother things,”Mr Beck says.

“It’s a vexed question. Even if theoccupiers are to be tenants, and the investorwhonowowns the apartment givespermission for them to have pets, it wouldstill be dependent onwhether the ownerscorporation allows that to happen.”

An owners corporation – formerly calledthe body corporate – is the entity formed tomanage the commonproperty of a strata-

title residential development. Apartmentowners aremembers, and a 75 per centmajority vote sets the rules. The legalities canbecome evenmore tangled, becauseVictorian strata schemes are governed by theOwners Corporations Act, which allows rulesabout pets to be set, but also requires that therules are not discriminatory.

Mr Beck says the issue is amatter of legaldebate amongConsumer Affairs Victoriaofficials and strata-title lawyers, but hebelieves a blanket ban onpets would amountto discrimination and be “clearly unlawful”.

The good news for pet owners is thatmost bodies corporate in Victoria don’tbothermaking any specific rules at all, inwhich case a defaultmodel set by the stategovernment comes into force.

These common rules are comparativelypet friendly, and usually apply only if ananimal becomes a problem to otherresidents.

“The common rule says that if an ownerscorporation decides an animal is causing adanger or nuisance to the commonproperty,itmust give reasonable notice of its

resolution to the pet’s owner,”Mr Beck says.“The ownermust then remove the animal

however, the rules do not apply to animalsthat assist a personwith an impairment ordisability.”

Although buying off the plan can causeuncertainty for pet owners, there is anotherpiece of goodnews. “I think developers now,perhaps as amatter of self interest, aredesigningmore apartmentswith pets inmind, because youneed proper access andegress points for dogs and other provisions,”Mr Beck says.

REGISTER NOW FOR

DEVELOPER’S EXCLUSIVE

PRE-LAUNCH PRICE

EXPERIENCE

FUTURE CITY LIVING

IN BOX HILL

•

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

AT WWW.SOSQ.COM.AU

OR CALL ON 03 8680 4888

545 STATION ST.

BOX HILL

•

An outstanding selection of 1 & 2 bedroom apartments in

the heart of South Yarra, featuring contemporary architecture by

ROTHELOWMAN.

35 Wilson Street, South Yarra

Now selling from $389,000essencesouthyarra.com.au

or call 1300 00 3141

STUNNING SOUTH YARRA APARTMENTS

APARTMENTSGUIDE28 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

Capture the Essence of South YarraThis model blends inwell with its stylishsurrounds.

FROM LEFT: The Essenceexterior; a living room.

South Yarra is synonymous withpremium design and is home to some ofthe most celebrated fashion, jewelleryand furniture designers.

When Salta Properties acquired the soughtafter site in Wilson Street, just off ChapelStreet, the company aspired to createsomething extraordinary. Its new boutiqueapartment building, in the heart of SouthYarra’s shopping and entertainment precinct,is inspired by the area’s rich design tapestry.

Renowned architects, ROTHELOWMANhave drawn inspiration from the area to createan elegant and timeless development.

Associate principal, Stuart Marsland, saysas Essence is one of the larger developmentsin the neighbourhood, they were ‘‘mindful oftrying to fit in with the streetscape’’.

‘‘Our building has a vertical emphasiswhich blends more seamlessly with the tightnature of the streetscape,’’ he says.

‘‘We’ve taken each apartment module andstacked them vertically, and celebrated thatstacking by connecting materials over multiplefloors. Massive sheets of glass break thefacade up into smaller, vertical rhythms,’’ hesays.

Mr Marsland says apartments weredesigned with living rooms extending out tothe edge of the building to maximise naturallight and views. Balconies are inset rather thanjutting out from the building. ‘‘They are like anoutdoor room rather than a windswept space,’’he says.

For communal use, there’s a rooftopgarden which is located on the north-westcorner of the building ‘‘to get the best sun andbest views of the CBD’’.

Mr Marsland says the City of Stonningtonhad ‘‘an aspiration’’ to create a connectionbetween Wilson Street and Garden Lane.‘‘Embracing the designer fashion theme, wecreated a light and inviting walkway whichprovides a catwalk experience,’’ he says.

Essence’s one and two bedroomapartments offer premium fittings and finisheswith stylish timber floorboards and welldesigned floor plans to suit various lifestyles.

Apartments have expansive windows toemphasise natural light and complement theneutral and elegant interiors.

Salta Properties’ managing director, SamTarascio says: “As developers, it’s important tocreate urban buildings that can strengthen

and enrich people’s lives.” Salta Properties saysthe project sets a benchmark forcontemporary urban living.

Surrounded by fresh food markets, popularcafes and restaurants, great night life and high-end fashion boutiques, Essence providesresidents with an opportunity to immersethemselves in South Yarra’s highly sought-afterlifestyle.

The company says the interior designcelebrates the kitchen’s role as the heart of ahome with Smeg appliances and island stone-top benches to cater to the urban entertainer.

The shared rooftop terrace for entertainingand outstanding vertical gardens also reflectmodern urban and sustainable living, it says.

Essence provides an opportunity to securean address in one of Melbourne’s oldest andmost affluent inner-city suburbs.

Apartments are priced from $379,000. Thedisplay suite, at Shop 6, 402 Chapel Street,South Yarra is open Thursday to Sunday from1pm to 4pm.

For more information and to register yourinterest, call 1300 00 3142 or visitessencesouthyarra.com.au

Last chance for full stamp duty savings of up

to $30,000 – Call now!

Display SuiteSaturday & Sunday 10–11am or by appointment

610 Victoria Street Richmond

Jamie Weir 0431 400 808 Andrew Howard 0433 206 394aplacetolive.com.au

Construction commencing!

• 1 & 2 bedrooms from $399k• Incentives available

• 2015 settlement• City and park views

SPECIALREPORTSEPTEMBER 13, 2014 ● THE SATURDAY AGE ADVERTISING FEATURE 29

Get inon theaction

A Place to Live offers uninterrupted views across Williams Reserve parklands towards Melbourne’s CBD.

Salta Properties claims its latestresidential development in the VictoriaGardens Precinct, A Place to Live, is setto become an ‘‘architectural landmark

on Melbourne’s skyline’’.Designed by award-winning architects SJB,

A Place to Live’s one and two bedroomapartments across six levels present avaluable lifestyle opportunity for owner-occupiers or a smart investment at an iconiccornerstone location.

Salta Properties’ managing director, SamTarascio, says: “A Place to Live presents anexciting opportunity to secure a piece of whatis set to be an architectural icon in Richmond.

“This development will mark a timelessaddition to Richmond’s vibrant skyline, whichSalta Properties is proud to have played a partin developing,” he says.

A Place to Live is the latest residentialventure Salta Properties will develop in theVictoria Gardens Precinct. The companysuccessfully delivered Richmond – A Place toLive and Green Square in 2013 and 2014respectively.

Located at the Victoria and Burnley Streetjunction, A Place to Live offers uninterruptedviews across Williams Reserve parklandstowards Melbourne’s CBD and overlooks thefamous Skipping Girl Vinegar sign.

The metallic curved ribs of the building’s

exterior partners with scattered timber boxesthat frame private and open spaces,connecting the development with thetranquillity of nearby parklands.

The open plan living areas highlightbeautiful views with floor-to-ceiling glasswindows, which open out to generous-sizedtiled terraces, allowing residents to create aprivate space that is comfortable to entertainand relax.

Each apartment features timber floors,stone benchtops and Smeg appliances andresidents also have access to shared gymfacilities and a cafe on the ground floor.

The company says A Place to Live’ssculpted form will bring the Victoria Gardens

Precinct to life with its ‘‘graceful curvilinearsilhouette floating above Richmond’s bustlingstreetscape’’.

With construction starting in September,only a handful of A Place to Live’s apartmentsremain, with one bedroom apartments from$399,000 and two bedroom apartmentsstarting at $699,000. Buyers will need to hurryto take advantage of stamp duty savings of upto $31,000 before construction starts.

Salta Properties says Richmond’s solidhistory of capital value growth, high rentalyields and low vacancy rates make this projectperfect for the astute investor.

The location provides residents withunrivalled access to an ideal mix of

cosmopolitan culture, open space andconvenience, it says.

Trendy Fitzroy and Collingwood are aneasy tram ride away while nearbykindergartens, primary and secondary schoolsand university campuses create a sense ofcommunity, each easily accessible from APlace to Live’s central location.

Only 3.5 kilometres from the city centreand with the Yarra River, Melbourne CricketGround, bustling Victoria Street and BridgeRoad on the doorstep, some of Melbourne’sbest destinations are minutes away.

For more details, contact Jamie Weir on0431 400 808 or visitwww.aplacetolive.com.au

Premium riverside living on the edge of the city• 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom from $590,000

• Current actual rental yield average is 4.8%

• Typical period of units on market before rental is 4 weeks

• 95% sold – fi nal developer release

Built around a dynamic outdoor recreational hub, Green Square’s generous combination of luxurious amenities includes a library, resort style indoor/outdoor swimming pool, gym, rooftop BBQ and entertainment zone. Grand entrance foyers and intimate garden spaces offers residents a complete lifestyle experience at their fi ngertips.

609 Victoria Street, Abbotsfordgreensquareapartments.com.au

Move In Now!

SPECIALREPORT30 ADVERTISING FEATURE THE SATURDAY AGE ● SEPTEMBER 13, 2014

Resort-style living on the river

Green Square’s communal zone of luxurious amenities including a resort style indoor-outdoor swimming pool and gym.

The architect’s vision for Green Squarewas to provide an escape from thebustling streets of Abbotsford by takinginspiration from the natural

environment of the Yarra River.The result is an ultra-contemporary

residential development with strongsustainability features and modern amenities.

Green Square’s four buildings, Promenade,Garden, Rise and Riverside, are positionedaround a dynamic outdoor recreational hub –creating a secluded sanctuary just minutesfrom the heart of Melbourne’s CBD.

Salta Properties says the ‘‘Green Square’’creates a ‘‘harmonious communal zone ofluxurious amenities’’ including a double-heightlibrary and lounge, resort style indoor-outdoorswimming pool and gym. A shared rooftopbarbecue and entertainment area withsweeping views to the city completes ‘‘theunique lifestyle experience’’.

Green Square reflects Salta’s commitmentto sustainability with a six-star Green Starrating.

Designed by award-winning SJB Architects,Green Square has set a new precedent forapartment living and according to Victoria’sMinister for Planning, Matthew Guy, is “afantastic design of what could and should bedone in inner urban areas of Melbourne goinginto the future.”

Charles Justin of SJB Architects says GreenSquare’s design balances the complexities oflarge-scale developments with contemporaryresidential living and complements the nearbynatural environs.

“The architectural vision for Green Squarewas to bring together the energy ofcontemporary urban living with the calm andgentle amenity of the adjoining Yarra Riverthat will imbue the green open spaces

permeating the project,” he says. Located at609 Victoria Street, Abbotsford, GreenSquare’s proximity to a host of lifestyle andrecreational facilities makes it an attractiveproposition for purchasers.

The company says: ‘‘Offering the best ofAbbotsford, residents have a vibrantneighbourhood to enjoy the finest ofcontemporary urban living.

‘‘Green Square links the expanse of

parkland and bush in nearby Studley and YarraBend parks with the Victoria Gardensshopping precinct. Located within3.5 kilometres of the CBD the best of sport,entertainment and culture are all within easyreach, including the aromatic flavours anddelicacies of Victoria Street’s fresh foodmarkets and restaurants.’’

Salta Properties has delivered the $250million project ahead of schedule and has now

released a limited number of two bedroomand two bathroom apartments to market post-construction.

Starting at $600,000, each apartment hasa car park, generous floor plans and highquality finishes and fittings.

For more details about Salta Properties’final release and the available sales incentives,contact info@salta.com.au.

greensquareapartments.com.au

SPECIALREPORTSEPTEMBER 13, 2014 ● THE SATURDAY AGE ADVERTISING FEATURE 31

Creating properties of distinction

Salta’s 150 Clarendon Street luxuryapartments in East Melbourne.

Salta Properties says it is leaving a lastinglegacy on Melbourne’s skyline, settingthe standard in residential developmentwith premier apartment towers and

award-winning houses.For more than 40 years, the family-owned

business has been innovative in its approachto development and project management.

Renowned for selecting locations thatcelebrate character and lifestyle, SaltaProperties has delivered premium residencesacross Melbourne.

The company says: “Salta Properties pridesitself on looking at how our developments cancomplement what the location offers and weconsider how to provide timeless housingsolutions that enrich the lifestyles of theresident now and in the future.”

According to research by Urban TaskforceAustralia, statistics show an increasing trendtowards apartment living in Melbourne and asproperty purchasers look for urban housing,smart owner-occupiers and investors want tobe wowed by properties.

The research shows factors such as primeinner-city positioning, building amenities andaccess to communal and private entertainingspaces all play a role in the decision makingprocess. Salta Properties says the companydelivers these key elements while continuingto champion sustainability, quality and design.

‘‘Past developments, such as the luxuryresidential apartments, 150 Clarendon in EastMelbourne through to premium Tooraktownhouses at 43 St George’s Road,demonstrate Salta Properties unwaveringcommitment to high-end, quality homes.

‘‘Each project’s attractive design, premiuminteriors and fine detailing distinguish theapartments and townhouses as coveted livingarrangements,’’ the company says.

As part of its development process, SaltaProperties collaborates with industry leaders,appointing award-winning architects, interiordesigners and builders to create each project.

The trendy Richmond – A Place to Live soldin record time and was the second of SaltaProperties’ residential projects in the VictoriaGardens Precinct. It paved the way for Green

Square, which recently completedconstruction and A Place to Live, anarchitectural landmark at the Victoria andBurnley Street junction.

Salta Properties is also set to embark on itsfirst South Yarra based development, Essence,which will launch this month and is ‘‘inspiredby local design and fashion cues’’.

In the next year, Salta Properties says it willcontinue to play a big role in Melbourne’sresidential market with future growth plannedfor Richmond, the Docklands and Preston.

For more details, visit www.salta.com.au

LARGE 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM APARTMENTS EACH WITH SECURE PARKING

VISIT THE DISPLAY SUITE 176 SMITH STREET, COLLINGWOOD TEL: 03 8391 3075

WWW.SMITH-CO.COM.AU

— Smith Street, Collingwood —

Smith & Co is a series of superbly crafted, affordable ‘home-size’ one,

two and three bedroom apartments.

1KM FROM MELBOURNE’S CBD3 GARDENS

2 ROOFTOP DECKS

Inspiring, historic Collingwood address, now the eclectic heart of Melbourne’s thriving cafe, dining, entertainment and art scene.

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