Boutique Melbourne developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/carpe-group">Carpe Group</a>&nbsp;is teaming up for the fourth time with joint venture partner ICON Developments to enter the new apartment market in Hawthorn.

The duo is planning a low-rise block of 32 two- and three-bedroom apartments on a prime 3,680 sqm site on Robinson Road, just a short walk from Riversdale Road and located midway between the centres of both Hawthorn and Camberwell.

<img alt="Robinson Road" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c3b61e6-c6d3-47e6-aebc-d379f0ddcadc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-06-23%20at%204.34.29%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=OBSttx0Nmm2DGxrbDOaoc4WVefxPh4li" />

Designed by acclaimed architecture studio <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/powell-glenn">Powell &amp; Glenn</a>, the low-density development is expected to cater predominantly to owner-occupiers—Carpe's primary target market. The majority of the 32 apartments will feature three bedrooms.

The architectural design aims to reflect Hawthorn’s established residential character, integrating seamlessly with the surrounding streetscape in a modern apartment setting. The building will be set within landscaped gardens designed by renowned landscape architect <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/landscape-architect/myles-baldwin-design">Myles Baldwin</a>.

Carpe founders Tim Campbell and Stuart Kacir hope to secure planning approval later this year, with plans to launch the project to market in early 2026. They are expecting to complete the building in mid-2028, pending approvals.

<img alt="23-27 Robinson Road, Hawthorn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c32f8562-763c-4904-a0b3-8add63967981" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Image21.jpg?VersionId=JaOGkrObp67rhfJI.9xIwPSnTd57lc4S" />

Carpe previously partnered with ICON Developments on Grandview in Brighton, a boutique development of just 10 apartments completed in 2023. They are currently delivering <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/ocean-house">Ocean House</a> in Hampton—18 apartments located just one street back from Hampton Street—which have proven particularly popular with local downsizers.

Carpe currently has <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/studley-park-residences-kew-85-studley-park-road-kew-vic-3101">Studley Park Residences</a>, a collection of 31 apartments in the heart of Kew, on the market, as well as <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-coterie-sandringham-49-51-abbott-street-sandringham">The Coterie</a>, a 25-apartment development in Sandringham. They have another project in planning, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/53-57-cambridge-street-collingwood-vic-3066">Cambridge Collingwood</a>, 27 apartments with ground-level retail, which is expected to secure approval later this year.

Designed by acclaimed architecture studio Powell & Glenn, the low-density development is expected to cater predominantly to owner-occupiers—Carpe's primary target market.

Joel Robinson

First look: Carpe Group and ICON Developments team up again for new downsizer apartments in Hawthorn

The Inner West’s long-awaited Rozelle Village has officially hit the market — and buyers haven’t wasted any time in securing an apartment in the new development that has been almost a decade in the making.

Developed by Sydney-based <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a>, part of the <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Group</a>, in partnership with Mitsubishi Estate Asia (MEA), the mixed-use precinct has achieved more than $140 million in apartment sales.

More than 40 apartments have already been sold, including several high-end three-bedroom apartments with sales reaching up to $6.9 million.

Demand has been driven largely by local owner-occupiers who’ve had Rozelle Village on their radar for some time — many of them already living in apartments and looking to upgrade without giving up lifestyle, walkability, or views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8142 project_image_fid=347020]

PERIFA Co-founder and Managing Director,&nbsp;Fabrizio Perilli, said the team is&nbsp;thrilled with the level of interest in Rozelle Village.

"It demonstrates the strong demand for well-designed, high-quality homes in the Inner West, but also the ongoing demand we’re seeing for new housing in Sydney."

Perilli says Rozelle Village is providing the people of Sydney with the quality housing they so desperately need, and with open, community spaces and well-curated retail amenity for everyone to enjoy.

"With demolition complete, we’re looking forward to progressing with construction over the coming months.”

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Director, David Milton, says the response to the development was very strong, as expected.

"There is such limited supply in this area and buyers have been anticipating this release for a long time.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8142 project_image_fid=347019]

<h2>About Rozelle Village</h2>

Rozelle Village is PERIFA and MEA’s second major joint project in Sydney, following Putney Wharf Residences.

With architecture by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/studiosc-0">StudioS.C</a>, interiors designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/interior-designers/sjb-interiors">SJB</a>, urban design and landscaping by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, and retail curation by Retail Strategy Group, Rozelle Village will provide a high-quality, community-focused precinct with long-term value for both new residents and the existing Rozelle community.&nbsp;

Led by Versatile Construction, ground works have commenced with construction approval received, and project completion anticipated in the first half of 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=8142]&nbsp;

Rozelle Village achieves strong results as sales officially launch

Sunshine Coast developer&nbsp;Habitat Development Group is set to break ground on its latest Sunshine Coast project, The Millwell.

Habitat will officially turn the first sod at the start of July at the Millwell Road East site, adjacent to the Sunshine Plaza and fronting the Cornmeal Creek.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-millwell-2-millwell-road-east-maroochydore">The Millwell</a> continues Habitat’s strong momentum in Maroochydore, where the Brisbane-based developer has already delivered Market Lane Residences and The Corso Collection.

The $243 million project will deliver 205 apartments across two eight-level towers, designed by long-time Habitat collaborator <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/k-architecture">K Architecture</a>.&nbsp;

A mix of two, three, and four-bedroom residences, including four premium penthouses, will be complemented by 361 sqm of ground-floor commercial and retail space.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli will join Habitat Managing Director Cleighton Clark to officiate the ceremony, marking a symbolic moment for both the developer and the region.&nbsp;

Clark said The Millwell has been designed to meet this sustained demand with larger format apartments and elevated amenities.

The Millwell will offer a suite of high-end amenities for residents, headlined by the Sunshine Coast’s first 25-metre rooftop infinity-edge pool.&nbsp;

The rooftop terrace, complete with subtropical landscaping and sweeping 360-degree views, will also feature an independently operated spa and wellness centre, private dining rooms, a rooftop bar, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen and communal areas designed to foster a vibrant community.

Views will span across the Maroochydore River and Mount Coolum to the north, Mount Buderim and Point Cartwright to the south, and the beaches and hinterland of the wider Sunshine Coast region.

The project comes at a time when the Sunshine Coast rental market continues to tighten, with historically low vacancy rates driving interest from both investors and owner-occupiers.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113043]

The $243 million project will deliver 205 apartments across two eight-level towers, designed by long-time Habitat collaborator K Architecture

Habitat to break ground on The Millwell in Maroochydore

Renowned developer Sekisui House Australia has launched its newest apartment project, the company’s first development in Sydney’s prestigious Lower North Shore region.

The new development, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/waterstone-st-leonards-24-berry-road-st-leonards-nsw-2065">Waterstone</a>, on the fringe of Newlands Park in the sought-after St Leonards South precinct, comprises 207 apartments designed to look south back to the Sydney CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=230]

The striking landscape-laden building was originally designed by&nbsp;globally renowned Koichi Takada Architects, with equally regarded architect&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/turner-studio">TURNER</a>&nbsp;coming in to handle the interiors and deliver the designs following Sekisui's acquisition of the prime Berry Road site.

One of the biggest focuses for the design was for Waterstone to integrate&nbsp;with the surrounding landscape, with nearly 30 per cent of the site dedeicated to communal open space.

Waterstone will feature a north-south green spine and landscape design by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/landscape-architect/aspect-studios">ASPECT Studios</a>, creating a strong connection to the Lane Cove Council’s St Leonards South masterplan and neighbouring pocket parks, trails, and bushland reserves.

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Peter Valleau, Project Director, Apartment &amp; Mixed-Use Developments at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a>, said&nbsp;Waterstone represents an important strategic play for the developer.

"As our first Lower North Shore project, it showcases a commitment to delivering human-centric, environmentally responsive communities in one of Sydney’s most desirable blue-chip suburbs,” Valleau said.

“This project is guided by our global Japanese design philosophy of Satoyama, where harmony between the built environment and nature enhances quality of life. Waterstone is a carefully considered community where residents will enjoy the benefits of a sustainable lifestyle without compromising on luxury or urban convenience.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=230]

Waterstone extends across five buildings ranging from four to nine levels and comprises 45 one-bedroom apartments, 111 two-bedroom apartments, 49 three-bedroom apartments, and two four-bedroom apartments.

Miguel Serrao, Associate at ASPECT Studios, said their vision for Waterstone was to create a living, breathing landscape that mirrors the local ecology from woodland ridgelines to the shaded escarpment below.

"We have designed a series of outdoor spaces that foster both privacy and community using native planting, sensory gardens and sustainable water management to support wellbeing, biodiversity and daily connection to nature.

“Residents will experience a sense of calm and retreat the moment they step outside their door. From quiet corners and garden courtyards to open lawns and playful spaces for children, every element has been curated to encourage relaxation, interaction and a deeper relationship with the surrounding environment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=231]

Turner led the interior design of Waterstone, with a focus on creating space that are&nbsp;timeless yet contemporary, modern yet relaxed, and blend seamlessly with the project’s park setting. &nbsp;

“Each apartment is individually crafted to feel like a home, incorporating tactile, natural materials, bespoke joinery, light-filled living spaces and framed window views,” said Darren Paul, Interiors at TURNER.&nbsp;

“Our approach focused on balancing elegance with everyday functionality. The colour schemes are warm and neutral, anchored by timeless natural stone and enhanced by optional upgrades such as feature lighting and fluted glass cupboards.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=221]

The first release is now selling and includes Aella and Zenith buildings offering a mix of spacious one, two and three-bedroom apartments, many with multipurpose rooms and flexible layouts tailored for downsizers, families and owner-occupiers.

Designed for comfort and liveability, the oversized residences feature generous layouts, flush indoor-outdoor transitions and sustainability-led inclusions such as a double-glazed façade system and solar panels on all buildings. Interiors are available in customisable palettes with premium finishes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=231]

Residents will enjoy exclusive access to a wide range of amenities integrated along the green spine, including a heated outdoor pool and spa, poolside pavilion with fireplace and dining terrace, gym, infrared sauna, co-working lounge, resident workshop, and wild play areas for children.

Located a short walk from Wollstonecraft and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/st-leonards-nsw-2065">St Leonards</a> train stations, as well as easy access to the new Crows Nest Metro, Royal North Shore Hospital, Mall 88 shopping precinct and Smoothey Park, Waterstone is ideally positioned to take advantage of the Lower North Shore’s leafy character and exceptional amenity. Just three kilometres from Sydney Harbour, it sits within a well-connected precinct.

Construction is expected to commence late in 2025, with completion targeted for the end of 2027.

Sekisui House Australia is a 4 Gold Star iCIRT rated developer and has a strong track record of delivering billions of dollars worth of apartments across both New South Wales and Queensland.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134191]

Peter Valleau, Project Director, Apartment & Mixed-Use Developments at Sekisui House Australia, said Waterstone represents an important strategic play for the developer

Sekisui House Australia launches Waterstone in emerging St Leonards South precinct

ASX-listed developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/cedar-woods">Cedar Woods</a>&nbsp;has acquired a development site in&nbsp;Fairfield, Victoria, as part of the company's more assertive acquisition strategy.

The 11,600 sqm site is uniquely positioned between the Yarra River and Merri Creek parklands, has over 200m of direct frontage to Fairfield Park, and is located only 4.2km from the Melbourne CBD, with the elevated site boasting uninterrupted views of the city skyline.

The site, which is zoned for the intended residential use, will be developed into a mid-rise, multi-stage apartment project, yielding approximately 300 dwellings that will command premium pricing due to the sought-after location.

The site was acquired from a private vendor for $50m on deferred payment terms, with payments to be made in 2027 and 2028.

Sales for the project are expected to be launched in FY27, and with first stage settlements expected in FY29 or earlier, subject to approvals and market conditions.

According to research house, Charter Keck Cramer, Melbourne is projected to have a chronic shortfall in apartments of around 23,500 in coming years with apartment commencements at their lowest level in over 15 years. The total number of approved homes fell by 5.7% in April to 14,633, according to data just released by the ABS.

Cedar Woods’ Managing Director, Nathan Blackburne, said the acquisition will augment the Company’s current Victorian portfolio and provide quality apartments in a market where a significant undersupply is forecast.

“We see Melbourne as an opportunity for counter-cyclic acquisitions of quality sites and are preparing for increased homebuyer demand as purchasers respond to lower interest rates and supportive government policies,"&nbsp;Blackburne said.

“Cedar Woods will craft a premium design for the site to make the most of its unique park-front location and uninterrupted views of the CBD and local area.”

Builder availability in Victoria is superior to other states and extensive work has been undertaken to determine expected construction costs, with multiple builders capable of delivering such a project at competitive prices. Risks will be mitigated through presales, further builder due diligence, and contract structure.

“With our strong balance sheet, and favourable macro conditions, Cedar Woods is continuing its strategy of diversification – by product type, price point, and location – and strengthening our portfolio with quality sites that we can deploy into an undersupplied market”, Blackburne added.

The acquisition comes after the recent announcement of the acquisition of a South Australian site at which the company is planning a premium masterplanned community.

Sales for the project are expected to be launched in FY27, and with first stage settlements expected in FY29 or earlier, subject to approvals and market conditions.

Tim Minchin buys Kangaroo Valley weekender

Joel Robinson

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