Townhouses have emerged as an increasingly popular choice for homebuyers seeking a balance between the convenience of apartment living and the space of a standalone house.

Offering a unique blend of affordability, space, and privacy, townhouses are an ideal solution for those looking to bridge the gap between these two traditionally distinct property types. With their multi-level layouts, townhouses often feature larger living areas than apartments, while still being more affordable and manageable than detached homes, making them a sweet spot for many buyers in today’s competitive real estate market.

For upsizers, townhouses offer the opportunity to expand without stepping into the larger, more expensive realm of detached homes. Buyers with growing families or those who simply need more space often find townhouses an appealing option. With multiple bedrooms, additional living areas, and often private outdoor spaces, townhouses provide room to spread out while remaining in a desirable location. Many townhouses are situated in vibrant urban or suburban neighbourhoods, offering a balance of convenience and space that single-family homes may not always deliver.

At the same time, townhouses are equally attractive to downsizers looking to simplify their lives without sacrificing too much space or comfort. For empty-nesters or retirees who no longer need the upkeep of a large family home, townhouses offer an appealing compromise. They typically require less maintenance than a detached house but still provide ample space for comfortable living. Many townhouses also come with features like low-maintenance yards and modern amenities, making them an easy choice for those wanting to reduce their living footprint without feeling cramped.

Melbourne's inner west&nbsp;has become increasingly popular for townhouse development due to a combination of factors that make these areas highly appealing to both developers and buyers. As Melbourne continues to grow, the inner west offers a strategic location with easy access to the city’s CBD, making it an attractive option for those who want to live close to the action while still enjoying a more relaxed, suburban lifestyle.

One of the key reasons for the popularity of townhouse developments in these suburbs is the relatively affordable land prices compared to other inner-city areas. While the inner city and more established suburbs have seen significant price increases, the inner west still offers more value for money, making it an appealing area for both rightsizers and downsizers, and even first home buyers.

The inner west is also known for its vibrant community, rich culture, and proximity to local amenities, which further adds to the attractiveness of townhouse living. Suburbs like <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/yarraville-vic-3013">Yarraville</a> and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/south-kingsville-vic-3015">South Kingsville</a> are popular for their charming local shops, cafes, restaurants, and strong sense of community, while <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/altona-north-vic-3025">Altona North</a> has easy access to major shopping centres and transport links. These areas are also close to parks, schools, and recreational spaces, making them ideal for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

The area's ongoing gentrification is another contributing factor to the rise of townhouse developments. As these suburbs evolve, more young professionals and families are moving in, looking for modern, low-maintenance housing options that offer a mix of style, space, and convenience. With good public transport connections, proximity to major road networks, and the overall appeal of the local lifestyle, demand in Melbourne’s inner west isn't likely to abate.

Some of Australia's biggest developers have descended on Melbourne's inner west, further solidifying the view the area will continue to grow.

We've rounded up the top five townhouses currently being developed or recently completed in Melbourne's inner west.

<h2>Project:&nbsp;Bradmill, Yarraville</h2>

<h3>Location:&nbsp;355-359 Francis Street, Yarraville VIC 3013</h3>

<h3>Developer:&nbsp;Frasers Property Australia</h3>

National development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/frasers-property">Frasers</a>&nbsp;is producing one of the best townhouse communities in the inner west of Melbourne, focusing on sustainability and community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134727 project_image_fid=311277]

The <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/bradmill-yarraville-355-359-francis-street-yarraville-vic-3013">Bradmill townhouses</a>, designed by renowned architecture firm Rothelowman, offer prospective buyers three or four bedrooms across two or three levels.

The all-electric townhouses, which have been given 6 Star Green Star Communities rating from the Green Building Council of Australia, have been strategically located in the wider masterplan that is becoming the central hub of the inner west.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134727 project_image_fid=311178]

They neighbour the vast grounds of McIvor Reserve, and will be in walking distance of Bradmill Quarter, the proposed retail precinct spanning around 8,000 sqm that will home all the essentials services complemented by speciality shops and culinary delights.

The precinct will include a full-line supermarket, childcare and medical services alongside locally owned stores, eateries and conveniences. Biophilic design for retail spaces means locals and visitors will shop, dine and roam amidst green, healthy spaces.

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Bradmill is currently under construction. The townhouses will be completed toward the end of 2025.

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<h2>What:&nbsp;The Fabric</h2>

<h3>Where:&nbsp;188-198 Blackshaws Road, Altona North VIC 3025</h3>

<h3>Who:&nbsp;Mirvac</h3>

Another national developer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a>, has committed to development in the inner west.

Their masterplanned community,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/the-fabric-188-198-blackshaws-road-altona-north">The Fabric</a>, will be home to nearly 600 townhouses once completed, near Newport Station and supported by&nbsp;Patchwork Park &amp; The Cooks Patch resident kitchen garden facility.

There will be over three hectares of community open space in the fully electric community.

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The townhomes come in different configurations, Angora, Bedford, and Zephyr, catering to a range of lifestyles, with floorplans offering flexible living spaces, private gardens, and energy efficiency with solar panels powering the homes.&nbsp;

Townhouses in the Blackshaws Road developments have already been completed. The rest are slated for completion in mid-2025.

<h2>What:&nbsp;Haven, Altona North</h2>

<h3>Where:&nbsp;278-288 Blackshaws Road, Altona North VIC 3025</h3>

<h3>Who:&nbsp;Stockland</h3>

Yet another development giant,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>, is creating a masterplan in the inner west.&nbsp;

Another in Altona North,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/haven-altona-north-278-288-blackshaws-road-altona-north-vic-3025">Haven</a> comprises 289 townhomes in 13 unique styles.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB Architects</a>&nbsp;has designed the&nbsp;sustainable two, three, and four-bedroom townhomes, some of which are designed with a reverse layout, pushing the living areas to the top of the townhouse so they can capture better views compared to a traditional floorplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29947 project_image_fid=225921]

Buyers benefit from industrially-inspired interiors, Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, and access to a new central park and future planned amenities.

Haven is complete and ready to move in.

<h2>What:&nbsp;Kings Lane, Kingsville</h2>

<h3>Where:&nbsp;50-58 New Street, South Kingsville VIC 3015</h3>

<h3>Who:&nbsp;Blue Run</h3>

Boutique developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/bluerun">Blue Run</a>&nbsp;recently released&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/kings-lane-kingsville-56-new-street-south-kingsville-vic-3015">Kings Lane</a>, just&nbsp;25 three and four-bedroom townhouses designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>.

Located just eight kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD on New Street, the townhouse offer a rare opportunity to buy three bedrooms under $1 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145042 project_image_fid=279554]

With South Kingsville undergoing rapid transformation, the project benefits from proximity to emerging retail and hospitality spaces, including Union Quarter.&nbsp;

The townhomes are particularly aimed at young families and downsizers seeking more space closer to the city.

Currently under construction, townhouses at Kings Lane will complete in 2026.

<h2>What:&nbsp;South Kingsville Place</h2>

<h3>Where:&nbsp;79 Stephenson Street, South Kingsville VIC 3015</h3>

<h3>Who:&nbsp;Metro Property Group</h3>

Near Kings Lane is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/south-kingsville-place-79-stephenson-street-south-kingsville">South Kingsville Place</a>&nbsp;by Metro Property Group, uniquely designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/clarke-hopkins-clarke-0">ClarkeHopkinsClarke Architects</a>&nbsp;with industrial-inspired rooflines.

The two, three and four-bedroom homes integrate energy-efficient features such as solar panels, double-glazed windows, heat pump hot water systems, and EV chargers.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142237 project_image_fid=235955]

Flexible layouts include downstairs rooms that can serve as home offices or guest bedrooms and large living areas that connect to outdoor spaces.

The neighbourhood includes pedestrian-friendly streets, tree-lined parks, and a coastal-inspired landscape by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/landscape-architect/mdg-landscape-architects">MDG Landscape Architects</a>.

The townhouse start from under $900,000 and are expected to complete by the end of 2025.

Suburbs like Yarraville and Kingsville are popular for their charming local shops, cafes, restaurants, and strong sense of community, while Altona North has easy access to major shopping centres and transport links

Joel Robinson

Why Melbourne's inner west has become one of the most popular regions for new townhouses

Developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/scion">Scion</a> and Ray White Wider Sydney welcomed prospective buyers to the VIP launch of Sterling, the new apartment development set to transform a quiet pocket in Lane Cove North.

A mix of local first home buyers, rightsizers and downsizers attended the event on site at 2 Merinda Street, with the building nearly finished by Scion's in-house construction team.

With one, two and three-bedroom apartments on offer, and prices starting from $750,000, Sterling has proved popular with the majority of buyer types.

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<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/sterling-lane-cove-north-2-merinda-street-lane-cove-north-nsw-2066">Sterling</a> is one of very few new developments in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/lane-cove-north-nsw-2066">Lane Cove North</a>. It comprises 50 apartments, just six apartments per floor, ensuring the development is in keeping with the privacy its location expects.

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Sterling is also the first development in the area to be protected with Resilience Insurance's Latent Defects Insurance, a first resort insurance policy that covers apartment buildings for structural defects for 10 years post-completion.

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=136108 project_image_fid=303417]

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Kitchens are equipped with integrated Miele ovens and cooktops and dishwashers by Fisher &amp; Paykel. The bathrooms feature rainfall showers and high-end fixtures and fittings.

All inclusions and designs go back to the project name, Sterling, reflective of the quality Scion is instilling across the whole of the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136108 project_image_fid=303414]

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Open plan kitchen, living and dining spaces feature floor-to-ceiling windows to maximise natural light and offer views of the leafy surrounds and back to the Sydney CBD.

All apartments open onto either a garden courtyard, a balcony, or, for the upper-level apartments, expansive terraces that capture the best views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136108 project_image_fid=303420]

The development also offers communal amenities, including a rooftop entertaining area equipped with barbecue facilities — reinforcing the project’s focus on creating a lifestyle centred around both community and comfort.

Sterling’s location on Merinda Street places it in the heart of nature without sacrificing accessibility to urban amenities.

Residents will be positioned near Stringybark Creek and the endangered Blue Gum High Forest while benefiting from proximity to key hubs like Chatswood and Macquarie Park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136108 project_image_fid=303418]

Essential services and lifestyle destinations such as The Canopy community hub and major shopping centres are just a short drive away.&nbsp;

Scion has a solid reputation as a premium builder-developer across Sydney, with a string of projects completed and several in the pipeline.

Sterling will complete in early 2025, with buyers moving in shortly after.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136108]

Sterling’s location on Merinda Street places it in the heart of nature without sacrificing accessibility to urban amenities

Scion launches Sterling apartments in Lane Cove

Since the plans were established in 2014 to create the new Maroochydore CBD—transforming the former Horton Park Golf Course into a thriving greenfield city—both local and interstate investors have been drawn to the growing centre of the Sunshine Coast.

While holidaymakers argue Noosa is the heart of the Sunshine Coast, those seeking a city with strong employment opportunities and thriving sectors in education and healthcare are increasingly flocking to <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/maroochydore-qld-4558">Maroochydore</a>.

The multi-billion dollar investment is turning what was once a retirement town into a thriving city with a self-sustaining economy.

Local property investor Andrew&nbsp;knew what the infrastructure pipeline for Maroochydore would do to the property market. Over the years he's secured four apartments with builder developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/habitat-development-group">Habitat Development Group</a>, one of the biggest apartment developments on the Sunshine Coast for the last two decades.

First he bought two apartments in a previous development by Habitat. Now he has just settled on two more apartments in the newly completed <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/the-corso-maroochydore-20-south-sea-islander-way-maroochydore">The Corso</a>, one of only two new apartment developments in the evolving Maroochydore CBD.

"I am constantly staying up to date on the market, and looking for locations that are likely to outperform the greater market, plus of course developers who deliver value and a reliably good product," Andrew says.

"I have strong trust in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/habitat-development-group">Habitat Development Group</a>, and I believe Maroochydore will perform well in terms of capital growth and rental growth in the medium to long term."

Andrew secured a three-bedroom penthouse apartment in The Corso, driven by the high-end finishes, high ceilings which made it feel more like a house than an apartment, and the large floorplan on offer.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=100708 project_image_fid=294387]

Holding equal importance for Andrew as an investor are the facilities in the building

"Having amenity that will attract good quality tenants is one of the biggest drawcards to an apartment development," Andrew says, adding that the pool and lawn area, barbecue facilities, high-end private dining room, and work-from-home-space in The Corso would assist in securing great tenants.

He says that he always looks for locations with a&nbsp;high walkability score and significant amenity that is close.

"The Maroochydore CBD cannot be beaten in terms of its proximity to amenity and future government investment, and so the location really ticked all of my boxes."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=100708 project_image_fid=291147]

Ultimately however, it came down to the reputation of Habitat.

"There are always risks in buying off the plan, and that is why I am such a big believer in Habitat," Andrew says, noting that the way they operate with their inhouse construction arm should fill any prospective buyer with confidence in their apartments.

"Most developments have to sell 50 per cent or so of their development before a bank will lend them money to start building. Habitat is not one of these developers."

Andrew bought his apartments just as the project launched back in 2022. Since then, according to CoreLogic, the Sunshine Coast unit market has boomed nealy 18 per cent, taking the new median unit value to $859,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=100708 project_image_fid=291166]

Situated in the heart of the new Maroochydore CBD, The Corso comprises 158 apartments across two towers.&nbsp;

Only three-bedroom units, including a sub-penthouse and penthouse, remain on the market, with prices just below $1.7 million.&nbsp;

Andrew took part in Urban's Buyer Q&amp;A series which focuses on the driving factors behind&nbsp;<a href="https://expert-insights/buying/the-top-eight-considerations-when-buying-off-the-plan" target="">buying off the plan</a>&nbsp;property in Australia

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=100708]

Local property investor Andrew knew what the infrastructure pipeline for Maroochydore would do to the property market

Why a Maroochydore investor has bought four apartments with Habitat: Urban Buyer Q&A

The Grand Residences in Eastlakes has been the focal point of new development in the suburb since its completion in 2022.

No doubt the best apartment complex to be developed in Eastlakes, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/the-grand-residences-eastlakes-16-evans-avenue-eastlakes">The Grand Residences</a> embody the connectivity of inner-city living, matched with the luxury finishes the Eastern Suburbs market expects.

We recently sat down with the team at McGrath Projects and Crown Property Agency to find out more about The Grand Residences, how it has shaped <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/eastlakes-nsw-2018">Eastlakes</a> , and what buyers love about the new development.

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Crown Group completed The Grand Eastlakes in 2022 but kept a significant portion of the 133 apartments that were developed.&nbsp;

"We still have an amazing selection of apartments available, particularly one-bedroom apartments and sub-$1 million two-bedroom options, with prices starting at just $750,000," Adam Sparkes, Associate Director of <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/project-marketer/mcgrath-projects">McGrath Projects</a>, said.

"Many of our buyers have come from the immediate Eastlakes area, transitioning from older apartments that lack the modern floor plans, spatial planning, and amenities of a brand-new development."

The facilities, proximity to train and light rail stations, and immediate convenience of a Woolworths Metro downstairs, have too been key contributors to the successful relaunch of the project, developed by the respected Crown Group.

"I think the standout feature is the location of the project compared to others in the area," McGrath Projects agent Sam Noakes says.

"You’re a bit further from the main city, but still close enough to the airport, universities, and beaches."

The surrounding area is set for further growth, with plans for over 70 specialty stores and a medical centre across the road.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7652]

The facilities, proximity to train and light rail stations, and immediate convenience of a Woolworths Metro downstairs, have too been key contributors to the successful relaunch of the project, developed by the respected Crown Group

Inside The Grand Residences, Eastlakes: What the agents say

It takes a team to deliver a new apartment development, and experience across every stakeholder in the project counts for a lot in today's off the plan space.

Boutique developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/sma-projects">SMA Projects</a> has had several key collaborators they have worked with going back decades.

Where some developers focus on volume, SMA has had a concentrated approach, predominantly in the mid-rise market, with a mix of new design with a heritage twist.

While working in the likes of Elwood, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick</a> and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/hawthorn-vic-3122">Hawthorn</a>, the majority of their craft has been applied within a few kilometres across Fitzroy and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/collingwood-vic-3066">Collingwood</a>.

Several developments they've undertaken have been in the adaptive reuse space, converting old buildings like breweries into striking residential developments that offer something far past the ordinary.

SMA Projects, led by Martin Strode, has had a long relationship with award-winning architecture firm Hayball Architects, another business well-versed in putting together design plans that incorporate heritage features.

The pair worked together on several developments before its flagship project, Yorkshire Brewery in Collingwood, which they completed in 2015. Soon followed the Lyric which sits prominently on the corner of Gore and Johnston Streets in Fitzroy capping off three developments now located in Gore Street, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/fitzroy-vic-3065">Fitzroy</a> all completed by SMA Projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Lyric spans two sites, the Lyric Theatre, renowned as one of Melbourne's first theatres, and MacRobertson Chocolates. The grandeur and cinematic glamor of the site heavily informed the design. SMA and Hayball decided on keeping the original red brick facade from MacRobertson Chocolates factory to pay homage to the site's former life, also preserving the original pressed metal ceiling panels in the lobby.

When the opportunity arose to acquire the former site of The Regent Theatre in Fitzroy, it presented the opportunity to create something similar.

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While not adaptive re-use in its entirety given the site is now a low-rise commercial building after <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-regent-fitzroy-340-fitzroy-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">The Regent</a> was demolished in 1983, the brief was essentially to create a building that echoed The Regent's former life, but crafted in a way that focused on design principles that translated into elevated living.&nbsp;

A true Art Deco building in its design, with arched ceilings and period details throughout, The Regent will comprise just 65 one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

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SMA has brought on another industry stalwart, Studio Tate, to craft the interiors, offering buyers the choice of two distinct colour palettes; the light and airy Classic Collection, influenced by Nordic minimalism, or the Fitzroy-esque, more dramatic, Arthouse Collection.

Residents will also have access to a commanding rooftop terrace overlooking the city, a workshop, a dog wash, and even a guest suite, bookable for when friends and family come to stay.

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The Regent is the perfect example of why collaboration is of upmost importance in the new apartment development industry.

Those developers who can point to their former projects completed to a high level, not only by themselves, but the same team that is delivering the current one, stand in significantly better stead to deliver the future aspirations of those who seek out the same.&nbsp;

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A true Art Deco building in its design, with arched ceilings and period details throughout, The Regent will comprise just 65 one, two and three-bedroom apartments

Why experience matters in off the plan apartment development

Construction Completion

Locale is home to 44 apartments, characterised by open-plan layouts and high-quality finishes, including stone-topped Miele appliances and integrated fridge-freezers

Family-living is great in Ivanhoe, VIC 3079, especially if you like a touch of luxury. From golfing to elegant cafe options, you can live the high-life with tree-lined streets via the new and off-the-plan apartment developments that are currently listed on Urban.com.au. Settle in for comfort and style today!

Equire and Balmain & Co complete Ivanhoe apartment development, Locale

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