Searching for your first home can often be a lengthy process — but not for Melburnian Josh Rothwell, who wasn’t even actively looking when he stumbled across the sales office for <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/olio-officer-corner-of-bridge-road-and-coxon-street-officer-vic-3809">Olio Officer</a>, a new masterplanned community by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a> in Melbourne’s South East Growth Corridor.

“There wasn’t really much of a thought process,” Josh recalled. “I just happened to walk past the display office on my way home from work one day.”

He said he wasn’t armed with a checklist or detailed questions — his curiosity was simply piqued by the location, close to where he grew up.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=84641 project_image_fid=161917]

“I wasn’t going in with a checklist. It wasn’t even a fact-finding mission. I was probably one of the least likely people to walk in and end up buying. But once I learned more about Olio, it all just started to make sense.”

Josh ended up purchasing a three-bedroom home early in the first stage of the development, well before construction was complete.

“I’ve always preferred new builds over older homes,” he said, adding that the financial structure of buying off the plan suited his situation and steady income.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=84641 project_image_fid=161916]

Once he decided he wanted to buy near his family home, Josh broadened his search and visited other masterplanned communities in the area.

However, it was the credibility of the Development Victoria brand that ultimately won him over.

“Knowing that Development Victoria was behind the project gave me a lot of confidence. It’s not just a one-off developer — they stand behind what they build and can’t disappear if something goes wrong.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=84641 project_image_fid=211732]

The location was another key factor. Josh works in Mulgrave, and the connectivity of <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/officer-vic-3809">Officer</a> made the commute easy.

“It’s a straight drive down the Monash, or I can jump on a train at Officer Station — which is right across the road — and be in the city.”

Josh bought in 2021, when interest rates were at historic lows. While rates have since increased, he said buying off the plan gave him time to save during the construction period, making the transition manageable when it came time to settle.

“It was a chance encounter, but I’m glad I walked into the sales office that day. The home works perfectly for my lifestyle,” he said. 
Development Victoria is currently delivering Stage Two of Olio. Over 90 homes were completed in Stage One, which also includes a central neighbourhood park. Homes in Stage Two are now selling, with prices starting from under $500,000.

Joel Robinson

From passing curiosity to first home buyer: Josh’s journey to Olio Officer

Luxury builder-developer GRAYA is continuing its push to deliver high-end apartment living to Brisbane’s inner-ring suburbs.

Led by brothers Rob and Andrew Gray, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/graya">GRAYA</a> is making its mark in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/hamilton-qld-4007">Hamilton</a>, a suburb where the team has already delivered Scorpia and Larq, two of the suburb's most impressive homes.

Their latest vision is in the multi-residential space, with a bold new mixed-use development planned for 63-71 Racecourse Road — a prominent 3,614 sqm site that also incorporates 12 Balowrie Street.

The proposed development, dubbed <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-gallery-63-71-racecourse-road-hamilton-qld-4007">The Gallery</a>, will feature 37 apartments across four storeys — a mix of nine two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences — and will be topped by an 800 sqm rooftop retreat complete with a pool. At ground level, eight boutique retail spaces will activate the street.

<img alt="Galley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43ebd632-e789-4a6b-91b9-2203d9b33888" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-06-11%20at%2011.23.08%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=TrTRwggvE1dgilrQdIURyaheNPyly8Wm" />

“Occupying a pivotal corner of Hamilton’s Racecourse Road, The Gallery introduces a layered precinct that responds to both place and climate,” said architects bureau^proberts in the planning documents.

“Designed as both a civic anchor and a place of connection, the project reimagines the traditional high street through a contemporary Queensland vernacular — delivering a vibrant, village-like environment that draws from architecture, landscape, and community.”

The development occupies an entire street block at the intersection of Racecourse Road and Kent Street, establishing a strong civic presence while echoing the area’s architectural heritage. Drawing from the timber Queenslanders that populate Hamilton’s hillsides and the masonry buildings at either end of the high street, the design combines broad verandahs, green trellises, and finely crafted stone plinths to create a subtropical character unique to the precinct.

At ground level, laneway-style retail pods inspired by European villages are nestled beneath the concrete undercroft, forming a lushly landscaped market environment, bureau^proberts says. Pedestrian paths wind through the site to a green central courtyard — the heart of the development and a key public-facing element.

“As a catalytic project for Racecourse Road, The Gallery is more than a building — it is a place of activation, engagement, and renewal,” bureau^proberts added.

“Through a design-led approach that fuses subtropical architecture with lush greenery and artisanal retail, it sets a new benchmark for high-quality, community-oriented development in Hamilton.”

<img alt="Galley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fcf4f5b3-69dc-42c7-8cde-b8e95f6935b4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-06-11%20at%2011.23.14%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ENB7sm_MTZZNwWbSQyD_RbP3Pl1GzWIR" />

At the core of The Gallery’s identity is the Stone Arbour — a series of sculpted stone plinths at street level that ground the building in both place and history. These robust elements draw from the corbelling techniques found in nearby heritage fences and public buildings, as well as the Hamilton Tuff stone that defines the area’s geological character.

GRAYA has become one of South East Queensland’s most recognisable luxury developers in the last few years.

While originally focused on bespoke homes in Brisbane’s most prestigious suburbs — including Teneriffe, New Farm, and Paddington — the company has successfully expanded into multi-residential projects in both Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Notable developments include two New Farm projects, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/maison-new-farm-60-moray-street-new-farm">Maison</a> and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/chalk-by-graya-228-230-moray-street-new-farm">Chalk</a>, and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/canvas-bulimba-30-love-street-bulimba-qld-4171">Canvas</a> in Bulimba. They recently launched their first true high-rise,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/enclave-by-graya-118-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach">Enclave</a> in Broadbeach, selling half of the 23 apartments on its launch.

Their other Gold Coast developments include Ripple and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/kloud-palm-beach-154-jefferson-lane-palm-beach">Kloud</a>, both in Palm Beach.

The proposed development, dubbed The Gallery, will feature 37 apartments across four storeys

First look exclusive: GRAYA expands Hamilton presence with The Gallery apartments

Consistency hasn’t been a word used to describe Melbourne’s property market in recent years — at least, not in a positive way.

For a time, it was consistently the worst-performing capital city property market nationally. While values rose across most of Australia, the Victorian capital not only lagged behind but even went backwards.

However, the tide has turned since the start of the year, with the market bottoming out around the same time the RBA delivered its first rate cut.

The June Home Value Index by Cotality (formerly CoreLogic) showed unit values grew by 0.4 per cent in May, continuing the same growth pattern seen in both March and April.

The off-the-plan property market has benefitted from the broader upswing — fuelled not only by rate cuts, but also by extended stamp duty concessions, increased construction confidence, and more new projects entering the pipeline.

&nbsp;

<h2>What happened in Melbourne’s off the plan apartment market in May?</h2>

May marked the extension of the VIC Government's stamp duty abolition. Originally launched in October last year, the scheme allows buyers to pay no stamp duty on any new or off the plan apartment, regardless of price.

Initially set to run until October 2025, the recent VIC budget announced it would be extended to October 2026.

The $61 million initiative aims to reduce upfront costs for buyers and accelerate the construction of new apartments and townhouses across the state. The expanded concession has already saved buyers an average of $24,517, with no price caps or eligibility restrictions.

Read more: <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/vic/vic-government-extend-stamp-duty-abolition-for-off-the-plan-properties-to-october-2026">VIC Government extend stamp duty abolition for off-the-plan properties to October 2026</a>

Some of Melbourne's leading developers were active in May. Design-led developer Milieu launched their third active development, marking a return to Brunswick, where they’ve already delivered four projects.

Their fifth, Saxon Street by Milieu, will bring 77 apartments to the heart of the Merri-bek Arts and Culture Precinct.

The nine-level building has been designed with sustainability and cultural integration in mind, featuring a 7.5-star NatHERS average rating and all-electric infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136434 project_image_fid=348839]

Located near Brunswick Baths, Balam Balam Place, and the local library, Saxon Street aligns with the council’s vision to transform the area into a civic and cultural hub.

Read more: <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/vic/saxon-street-by-milieu-to-bring-new-housing-and-urban-design-to-brunswick-s-cultural-core">Saxon Street by Milieu to bring new housing and urban design to Brunswick’s cultural core</a>

&nbsp;

National developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/lendlease-development">Lendlease</a> broke ground on <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/ancora-at-collins-wharf-docklands-971-collins-street-docklands-vic-3008">Ancora</a> at Collins Wharf in May — a strong signal of confidence in the market.

The 28-level tower in Docklands, already over 50% sold, is the third residential building in the six-stage Collins Wharf precinct, which will eventually deliver 1,800 residences and 5,000 sqm of parkland.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9779 project_image_fid=318931]

Read more: <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/vic/lendlease-commences-construction-at-ancora-collins-wharf">Lendlease commences construction at Ancora Collins Wharf</a>

There was another significant construction milestone in May with the commencement of the Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct — a $180 million government-led initiative set to anchor Australia’s largest urban renewal project.

With infrastructure now underway, the 480-hectare site is being primed to support 80,000 residents and 80,000 workers by 2050.

<img alt="Construction begins at Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-05-19%20at%2010.16.26%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5gdJMw44gZyeda9qDGf1DgIpWyn9fFHW" />

Central to the precinct will be the University of Melbourne’s new School of Engineering and Design, opening in 2026. The campus will foster collaboration between students, researchers, and industry leaders, with a strong focus on applied knowledge and practical solutions.

Read more: <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/vic/construction-begins-at-fishermans-bend-innovation-precinct">Construction begins at Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct</a>

&nbsp;

At the top end of the market, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/orchard-piper">Orchard Piper</a> and joint venture partner NPACT secured a $20 million sale for the penthouse at <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/one-toorak-place-7-19-carters-avenue-toorak-vic-3142">One Toorak Place</a>, setting a new record for the suburb.

<img alt="Orchard Piper secures $20m record-breaking penthouse sale at One Toorak Place" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-05-22%20at%208.59.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=V34dKvksgifBKxssOVmnNqO8iPVSPxrE" />

Spanning 560 sqm, the five-bedroom residence includes a private wellness zone and an eight-car garage — redefining apartment living in Melbourne’s most exclusive postcode.

The sale also reflects growing demand for luxury off the plan homes with hotel-style amenities. Construction begins later this year, and the project will deliver 47 residences, plus new retail and dining, including a venue by restaurateur Chris Lucas, to revitalise Toorak Village.

Read more: <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/vic/orchard-piper-secures-20m-record-breaking-penthouse-sale-at-one-toorak-place">Orchard Piper secures $20m record-breaking penthouse sale at One Toorak Place</a>

City Beat May 2025: Melbourne units continue recovery as stimulus and construction confidence drives off the plan market

International DJ Paul Fisher and wife Chloe put a significant emphasis on health, balance, and calm, as much as they did architectural excellence when planning their maiden new Gold Coast apartment development.

The result is <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/pescado-palm-beach-228-230-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Pescado</a>, just seven luxury apartments designed in collaboration with renowned <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>.

For the Fishers, who will retain the two-level penthouse, Pescado is a deeply personal undertaking shaped by their commitment to health and wellbeing.&nbsp;

“Looking after our health and wellbeing is essential for us, it keeps us grounded and connected,” Fisher said.&nbsp;

“Anyone who knows me knows that wellness plays a huge part in my daily life, whether it’s training, surfing, breathwork, or recovery sessions.&nbsp;

“We wanted Pescado to capture that same feeling: a place that brings an immediate sense of calm, while offering real tools to support your wellness journey, from the ice baths to the gym and beyond.&nbsp;

“This is a home designed to help people feel their best every single day, with nature right on the doorstep.&nbsp;

“Whether it’s peaceful walks on the sand, early morning surfs, or heading into the hinterland for hikes and swims in Currumbin and Tallebudgera’s waterfalls, it’s these simple, grounding rituals that shaped the vision for Pescado.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149651 project_image_fid=342045]

Wellness features are woven through Pescado’s design, including a resort-style pool, state-of-the-art gym, cold plunge pools, and peaceful BBQ and dining spaces – all designed to foster relaxation, vitality, and connection.&nbsp;

Chloe Fisher, who led the interiors, said functionality and wellness have been paramount in every design decision.&nbsp;

“It’s about creating a home that makes you feel good every day,” said Mrs Fisher.&nbsp;

“We’ve thought carefully about how each space works, not just how it looks – using organic textures, neutral tones, and premium appliances to ensure every detail contributes to a sense of ease and comfort.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149651 project_image_fid=342044]

Each residence features three bedrooms, a multi-purpose room, and three bathrooms, with expansive open-plan layouts, generous outdoor areas, and high-end finishes that blend elegance with liveability. Kitchens are fitted with Gaggenau appliances, offering the ultimate in performance and precision, reinforcing Pescado’s commitment to quality at every level.&nbsp;

Darren Greenaway, Director of BDA Architecture, said the building’s wave-inspired design reflects the journey from energy and movement to calm and restoration.&nbsp;

“Our goal was to create a building that immediately evokes a sense of peace,” Greenaway said.&nbsp;

“From the soft, flowing forms of the façade to the light-filled interiors, every element is designed to provide residents with a true sanctuary.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149651 project_image_fid=342041]

The collaboration between YLB Property Development and local builder <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/builders/hnkn">HNKN</a> ensures construction will progress smoothly, with a focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail.&nbsp;

Sales are being managed exclusively by Pezet Matheson, with construction expected to commence later this year.&nbsp;

Jayde Pezet, Managing Director of Pezet Matheson, said Pescado is already attracting significant interest from buyers who are increasingly prioritising wellness and lifestyle in their property choices.&nbsp;

“We are seeing really strong early momentum for Pescado, which reflects the growing demand for homes that offer more than just luxury finishes,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers today want spaces that genuinely enhance their quality of life, and Pescado delivers that through its thoughtful design and wellness focus.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149651]

Chloe Fisher, who led the interiors, said functionality and wellness have been paramount in every design decision

Wellness takes centre stage as Pescado ignites buyer demand in Palm Beach

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/gurner">GURNER™ Group</a> has unveiled its latest luxury apartment play in Melbourne.

Gurner is planning 14 luxury residences in Prahran, on the former 130-year-old St&nbsp;Matthew’s Sunday School and Church Hall site at 145-151 High Street, Prahran.

The new development, dubbed <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/highgrove-place-145-151-high-street-prahran-vic-3181">Highgrove Place</a>,&nbsp;responds to a rapidly growing demand from downsizers, right-sizers, and discerning young couples choosing location and lifestyle over suburban sprawl.&nbsp;

GURNER™ sees enormous potential in the boutique luxury sector, identifying a generational shift where owner-occupiers seek the feel of a five-star hotel within inner-urban locations.

<img alt="Highgrove Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b34402c1-b305-4ebd-9e04-1f870604bd4f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/GURN11665_145%20High%20St%20Prahran_IA01_Residential%20Entry%20Path%20of%20Life.jpg?VersionId=t5axogTizgy2YcEc3mLB8aIKXfCOXzT1" />

“We are investing further in the boutique space because we strongly believe in the future of luxury owner-occupier living,” said GURNER™ Founder, Tim Gurner.

“People are making lifestyle-first &nbsp;decisions, choosing to live where they love, and demanding residences that reflect their aspirations in &nbsp;both design and experience.”&nbsp;

Built in 1891 and designed by architect Laver &amp; Fick, the striking Gothic architecture, intricate stone masonry and ornate arches of the original site will be highlighted throughout Highgrove Place, with award-winning practice <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> appointed as architect and GURNER™ Design House leading the interior design.&nbsp;

The architecture takes its cues from the world’s most historic cities and their grandiose hotels, culminating in residences that feel luxurious, exclusive and premium, in a project that pays homage to its history while embracing its future in one of Melbourne’s most sought-after postcodes.&nbsp;

Only 14 residences will be available at Highgrove Place, with prices starting at $1.35 million for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom floor plan.&nbsp;

<img alt="Highgrove Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f55ccc4c-454b-4e1c-a497-7b6daf8dcb65" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/GURN11665_145%20High%20St%20Prahran_IA04_Atrium%20GF_Alt.jpg?VersionId=PMeuYoIe5NooRigcXgR6ueqVcYsce6pZ" />

The pinnacle of Highgrove Place will be its $7.9 million penthouse, which will feature an impressive kitchen complete with custom stone island bench and butler’s pantry, elegant bedrooms that maximise natural light with floor-to-ceiling windows, and a grand dining room that opens onto a private paradise – a terrace space that overlooks Melbourne’s skyline, which was curated by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick Landscape Architects</a>.&nbsp;

Residents will enjoy access to an elevated suite of rooftop amenities, rooftop amenity will be surrounded by an oasis designed by John Patrick Landscape Architects, and will include a sauna, spa, yoga deck, lounge, dining, hot and cold plunge pools, lounge areas, and entertainment areas, while the ground-floor retail and hospitality spaces will create a boutique destination for Prahran.&nbsp;

Level 1 will feature a full-floor premium commercial space, complete with its own grand staircase and entry, which will be ideal for forward-thinking businesses seeking a prestigious address that embodies grandeur, connection and heritage.

Starting with its awe-inspiring arche,s which make a striking statement, Highgrove Place speaks a &nbsp;language of luxury curves, with a grand staircase spiralling upward from the lobby that provides a dedicated entrance exclusively for commercial tenants to access the building’s private workspaces&nbsp;

Krongold Construction has been appointed to build Highgrove Place and will commence construction in Q3 2025.&nbsp;

Krongold Construction has been appointed to build Highgrove Place and will commence construction in Q3 2025

Gina Rinehart's Chelmer listing still for sale

Jonathan Chancellor

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