Opportunities to build in Melbourne’s long-established inner suburbs are increasingly rare. In Kew—one of the city’s earliest residential precincts—that scarcity is even more pronounced.

Dorian, a new residential development by Ricdanic Investments, is notable for precisely this reason. Located within a quiet, tree-lined pocket of the suburb, and bordering established greenery near the river, Dorian offers a rare blend of natural amenity and carefully considered residential design.

Architect Chris Idle, who has been practising for over two decades, says projects like this don’t come along often.

“There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs,” he explains. “To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=350400]

The architecture draws on the language of Kew’s grand homes, reinterpreting their scale and character into a refined, boutique form. Idle describes the material palette—brass detailing, natural stone, and timber flooring—as an exercise in restraint and longevity.

“We wanted it to feel timeless,” he says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=350398]

This timeless ethos extends beyond the built form. The development is nestled among mature canopy trees and long-established green spaces—an environment that informed every aspect of the design.

Leading the landscape architecture is John Patrick, a respected figure with nearly 50 years in Australian landscape design. From the outset, preservation and enhancement of the natural environment were central themes.

“When you’re working in a setting like this, with pre-existing mature trees, you work very hard to look after them,” Idle says.

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The gardens have been designed with flexibility in mind, offering space for quiet reflection, family gatherings, or entertaining—with a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor zones.

“These are flexible gardens,” Idle adds. “Not designed with a single purpose in mind—a perfect place for grandchildren to play, for entertaining friends, or simply to sit and enjoy the calm and greenery.”

While Kew has seen infill development over the years, it remains one of Melbourne’s most desirable and consistent residential areas. With its riverside location, established infrastructure, and mature landscape, it offers a setting that can’t easily be replicated in newer growth corridors.

Julian Millman from Gary Peer Projects is managing sales for Dorian Kew.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

Architect Chris Idle, who has been practising for over two decades, says this kind of project doesn’t come along often.

Joel Robinson

Dorian Kew reimagines heritage architecture for modern living

South East Queensland builder-developer Mosaic is continuing its dominance in the new development space.

Before even releasing their new Kangaroo Point development, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a>, to the open market, they've sold 85 per cent of the 125 two- and three-bedroom apartments.

Interest has come primarily from Mosaic’s existing customer base, with the majority of sales attributed to returning buyers and direct referrals. Purchasers include a balanced mix of investors and a strong majority of owner-occupiers.

The Carter, on a prime 2,124 sqm site on Linton Street, has been designed in collaboration with BDA Architecture and includes a suite of wellness and lifestyle amenities across its 22 levels including a golf simulator/cinema, commercial-grade gym, and a rooftop recreation level with pool, steam room, sauna, cold plunge, teppanyaki bar, private dining space, and landscaped terraces.

The Carter follows Mosaic's debut Kangaroo Point development, The Bedford by Mosaic, which is also nearly sold out and well under construction. Due to the speed of sales, construction has been brought forward on The Carter, also to be built by&nbsp;Mosaic’s internal, ISO-certified building team. Completion is forecast for early 2027.

<img alt="The Carter by Mosaic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dd40a9da-3621-44c8-982f-21a9af5453bf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E03_Superman.jpg?VersionId=nkmyXU.mmdYJ3KOetsQFTefHawpP_bFO" /> 
In line with this momentum, the final release of residences at The Carter – held back until construction commenced – is now available, with prices starting from $1.3 million. 
&nbsp; 
Mosaic Founder and Managing Director Brook Monahan said the sales result is not just about momentum – it’s about trust and a deep understanding of how people want to live. 
&nbsp; 
“We’re incredibly proud of the response to The Carter, but even more so of what it represents,” Monahan said. 
&nbsp; 
“In today’s market, trust is everything. Buyers aren’t just choosing a floorplan or responding to architecture, finishes, amenity – they’re choosing who they believe will deliver on their word, who will stand by what they build, and who will still be there long after the keys are handed over.”

<img alt="The Carter by Mosaic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab54573a-b3ae-45f9-a9df-e6cc4e7228c3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I01C_Type%20E%20Overall_Dusk%20Upgrade.jpg?VersionId=zr.NqGGUzf9W0uPwfTp9ZYAvmbrlxat." />

Monahan added that responding to the current market environment means getting the balance exactly right – something Mosaic has long focused on refining. 
&nbsp; 
“It’s not just about creating a luxury product – it’s about understanding how people want to live, where they want to live, and what truly adds lasting value,” he said. 
&nbsp; 
“That balance between scale, quality, timing, and delivery is critical. We don’t chase the market – we prepare for it. That’s how we’re consistently able to meet it with the right product at the right time. 
&nbsp; 
“We listen to our customers, and from that, we continue to learn and evolve our product. We don’t overpromise. On top of that, we don’t walk away. We remain involved – because that’s what makes the difference. You see it in the history of our buildings age, how they’re maintained, and how they continue to perform over time. 
&nbsp; 
“That presence, that ownership, makes all the difference – and buyers respond to it.”

<img alt="The Carter by Mosaic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f72e4d5-d21c-4568-bf61-8642ec2e3752" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A01_Pool%20to%20City.jpg?VersionId=4w3uqbbxEoO5yKv2n_.AC4xxshG.N_dO" /> 
This year is shaping up to be one of Mosaic’s most active to date, with $390 million in completed projects already delivered, $1.2 billion currently under construction, and another $1 billion in new projects set to commence within 12 months.

“It’s easy to launch a beautiful render. It’s much harder to build something exceptional, deliver it on time, and keep standing behind your projects – development after development, year after year. That’s the business we’re in," Monahan concluded.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=141711]

Mosaic Founder and Managing Director Brook Monahan said the sales result is not just about momentum – it’s about trust and a deep understanding of how people want to live

Mosaic sells 85% of The Carter, Kangaroo Point, before public release

Three years after delivering one of the fastest-selling developments in Palm Beach, Ignite Projects is back on the local development scene.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/ignite-projects">Ignite</a>, led by developer Josh Foote, has launched <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/retreat-palm-beach-1177-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Retreat Palm Beach</a>, 56 apartments coastal apartments on the Jefferson Lane dress circle. The nine-level building by Plus Architecture has been designed in the same vein as Cabana Palm Beach, which in 2020 sold out all of its 30 apartments in a matter of months.

Retreat Palm Beach will sit on the dress circle Jefferson Lane and will comprise a&nbsp;mix of two and three-bedroom apartments, most with butler’s pantries, private outdoor spaces, and curated interior finishes. Prices range from $1.35 million to $3.95 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1852]

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/plus-architecture">Plus Architecture</a>, Retreat Palm Beach takes its inspiration from the Mediterranean, with soft curves, natural textures, and an emphasis on light, air, and indoor-outdoor flow.

A standout feature is the ground-floor communal wellness space, envisioned as a subterranean Mediterranean-style day spa, complete with a sculpted lagoon pool and floating day beds.&nbsp;It will also include a cold plunge pool, spa, infrared sauna, fully equipped gymnasium, barbecue and alfresco dining areas.

Residents will enjoy added convenience with access to communal e-bikes and a digital concierge system for seamlessly booking amenities and services.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1845]

Ignite Projects Director Josh Foote said Retreat Palm Beach would be a luxury sanctuary by the sea.

“We’ve considered every detail, from the flow of each floor plan to the materials and amenities, to ensure Retreat delivers calm, clarity and connection for residents,” Foote said.

“We want this space to feel like a retreat from the harsh elements of the beach, so there is a softness to the design featuring curved forms, warm organic stone, textured materials, and lush tropical gardens that create a real sense of relaxation and privacy.

“It’s a rare beachfront opportunity that prioritises wellness, privacy, and a genuine sense of retreat - something we believe the market is really craving right now.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1851]

Sales and marketing is being led by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/project-marketer/new-property-agent-qld-npa">New Property Agents</a> (NPA), continuing their successful partnership with Ignite Projects on Cabana and The Monaco.

While Retreat Palm Beach has strong appeal for owner-occupiers and downsizers, it’s also expected to attract significant interest from investors, particularly for the more affordable two-bedroom apartments.

These residences offer a rare opportunity to secure luxury beachfront property in a tightly held location, with amenities that will be highly sought after by holidaymakers and short-stay visitors.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1849]

NPA CEO Andrew Erwin said Retreat Palm Beach offered a rare chance to secure a residence of scale and quality in a tightly held beachfront location.

“Retreat Palm Beach responds perfectly to what we know buyers want – boutique scale, absolute quality, and a lifestyle that’s both elevated and effortless,” Erwin said.

“The demand for premium beachfront residences in Palm Beach continues to grow, but supply remains incredibly limited, especially for people looking for a holiday home investment.

“Retreat offers a rare opportunity for buyers to secure a future-forward residence in one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held locations.

“Whether it’s a downsizer looking for low-maintenance luxury or a lifestyle investor wanting flexible holiday income, this project ticks all the right boxes.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1853]

Despite its laid-back feel, Palm Beach is fast becoming one of the <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/qld/palm-beach-the-most-indemand-off-the-plan-apartment-market-on-the-gold-coast#:~:text=Demand%20from%20both%20developers%20and,on%20Urban.com.au.">Gold Coast’s most in-demand suburbs</a>, prized for its balance of coastal calm and urban convenience.

The address combines natural beauty with coastal charm, just moments from the golden sands and rolling surf of Palm Beach.

Residents can stroll to award-winning restaurants, casual beachfront cafés, and boutique shops, or enjoy morning walks along the coastline. The area also boasts excellent access to schools, health services, and major transport links, making it as practical as it is picturesque.

Construction on Retreat Palm Beach is expected to commence in October this year, with completion scheduled for late 2027.

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Ignite Projects Director Josh Foote said Retreat Palm Beach would be a luxury sanctuary by the sea

Ignite Projects unveils wellness-inspired Retreat Palm Beach

The first Queensland budget under the Crisafulli Government places a strong emphasis on housing, with several major policies aimed at shifting from short-term fixes to long-term structural reform.

Treasurer David Janetzki described the housing package as part of a “fresh start,” focused on restoring affordability, boosting supply, and promoting economic security through increased home ownership.

Among the headline initiatives is the $165 million “Boost to Buy” scheme, a shared equity program that will provide up to 30 per cent equity for new homes (and 25 per cent for existing homes) valued up to $1 million. The scheme is open to households earning up to $225,000 and is designed to reduce the deposit burden for first home buyers. Registrations of interest open from 1 July 2025.

This initiative complements the extension of the $30,000 First Home Owner Grant until June 2026, applicable to new builds, and comes alongside the abolition of stamp duty for first home buyers purchasing a new home.

&nbsp;

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REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said broadening the ‘Boost to Buy’ scheme was a smart, timely step to match market conditions and help more Queenslanders take their first step into home ownership.

“We called for expanded access to shared equity because we know high deposit hurdles are keeping aspiring buyers from getting onto the property ladder,” Mercorella said.

“With suitable income eligibility thresholds of $225,000 for couples and $150,000 for singles and a statewide property value cap of $1&nbsp;million, the scheme reflects modern property prices across Queensland and makes it the most attractive in the nation."

In Greater Brisbane, the annual median house price is $895,000, and in the Brisbane LGA it's $1.21 million. Even for units, annual median unit prices are $770,000 and $735,000 for the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast respectively.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=290045]

“The generous cap ensures the scheme is relevant in all corners of our state including high-demand areas like Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast, where the median house price now sits above $1 million. Without this adjustment, the scheme risked being out of touch with the reality faced by many first home buyers today.

“With limited placements and a strict focus on first home buyers, this is a measured and proportionate support mechanism. It represents a small share of overall market activity, is unlikely to distort demand, and may assist in rebalancing housing pressure by helping some renters transition into ownership."

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Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA) Chair Nicola McDougall praised the package as a market-aware and practical approach.

“Helping Queenslanders achieve property ownership was front and centre in the 2025–26 State Budget,” McDougall said.

“The Boost to Buy scheme and enhanced grants are pragmatic and market-aligned initiatives. The property price and income thresholds are more in line with market and economic realities, clearly indicating that the Queensland Government is serious about addressing the housing crisis and helping more young people achieve property ownership.”

Beyond direct buyer support, the Budget commits $2 billion to the Residential Activation Fund, with $1 billion allocated in the first year. This fund is aimed at fast-tracking trunk infrastructure, like water, power, and transport connections, for shovel-ready housing developments in both infill and greenfield areas.

The government has also earmarked $5.6 billion for new social and community housing, with a target of 53,500 new homes by 2044, and is investing $31.3 million in 13 new Regional Plans to support projected population growth and urban planning coordination.

McDougall highlighted the importance of long-term investor participation in underpinning Queensland’s rental housing supply.

“PIPA welcomes the opportunity to discuss policies that will not only encourage more property investors into the market but also motivate them to stay for the long-term,” she said.

“Removing stamp duty disparities between owner-occupiers and investors, and updating land tax thresholds to match today’s values, would be simple but powerful next steps.”

&nbsp;

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said broadening the ‘Boost to Buy’ scheme was a smart, timely step to match market conditions and help more Queenslanders take their first step into home ownership

Boost to Buy: Queensland Budget targets first home buyers in high-price market

Some of Melbourne’s most respected names in property are coming together to deliver something truly special—right in the heart of the city’s coolest suburb, and on arguably its coolest street.

Joint venture partners Chapter Group and Crema Group are behind <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/fitzroy-fitzroy-411-421-smith-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">Fitzroy Fitzroy</a>, a striking new apartment development on Smith Street. The project blends heritage charm with bold contemporary design by DKO, incorporating the restored façade of the former McRoberts garage and workshop.

Renowned construction firm Cobild is well underway with the build of the nine-level building that will house 63 apartments.

We recently toured the display suite with Taylor Dow of DOW Real Estate to get an inside look at what Fitzroy Fitzroy has to offer.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PM-5GjXluMU?si=vb0boddAye2EywlM" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

“<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/fitzroy-fitzroy-411-421-smith-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">Fitzroy Fitzroy</a> will be a new architectural landmark when it’s completed in early 2026,” Dow says.

“It’s a sculptural response to its surroundings,” Dow adds, noting how the form has been deliberately crafted to capture natural light and maximise views across Melbourne.

The project blends contemporary design with deep respect for Fitzroy’s storied past, with angular rooftops and sharply defined edges.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14394 project_image_fid=183063]

Buyers can choose from a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, along with a collection of townhomes.&nbsp;

Each residence is available in a range of colour schemes, all drawing inspiration from Fitzroy’s rich cultural palette, inspired by the culture and character of Fitzroy.

&nbsp;

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Location is everything, and Fitzroy Fitzroy is enviably positioned. With a walk score of 96, it’s the second most walkable neighbourhood in Melbourne.&nbsp;

“It’s at the heart of what makes the suburb one of the city’s most popular,” Dow says.&nbsp;

The Smith and Johnston Street interchange is steps away, along with a vibrant mix of cafes, wine bars, restaurants, and direct transport links to the CBD and Fitzroy Gardens.

&nbsp;

The development also integrates seamlessly at street level, with the ground floor of the heritage façade set to host a selection of hospitality and retail brands, reinforcing its role as a new local hub.

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Fitzroy Fitzroy has been one of the most successful selling projects in the area, with over 70 per cent of apartments spoken for, including the sprawling penthouse that was snapped up for a suburb record $10 million. A further $3.5 million is being spent on its custom fit-out.

Cobild is expecting to complete construction in Q4 2025, with residents moving in shortly after

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=14394]

We recently toured the display suite with Taylor Dow of DOW Real Estate to get an inside look at what Fitzroy Fitzroy has to offer

Victorian stamp duty cuts cost $76 million since July

Staff reporter

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