Melbourne, renowned for its vibrant culture and stunning architecture, is set to experience a notable upswing in its property market. NAB predicts Melbourne home prices will rise by 5.5% in 2024, while the recent PropTrack Property Market Outlook Report forecasts a 1-4% increase in the city’s property market over the next 12 months.
With Melbourne consistently ranking as one of Australia’s most livable cities, its urban landscape has realised several landmark residential and commercial projects, all brought to life through the ingenuity of brilliant minds.
Below are the top five most iconic Melbourne property developers and how they have not only set new industry benchmarks here but also around the world.
Gurner
Founded by Tim Gurner in 2013, GURNER™ Group represents a visionary approach to luxury living in Australia, seamlessly fusing global influences with a dedication to quality and design. GURNER™ meticulously attends to every aspect from site acquisition and concept development to space design, construction, and delivery. They are renowned for being a lifestyle developer and have solidified their spot in being one of the top developers in Melbourne and the world.
Going beyond design, GURNER™ extends its commitment to include local history and urban regeneration. A remarkable showcase of their commitment is the $400 million Build-to-Rent (BTR) tower in Southbank, a collaborative endeavour with Qualitas and OSK Property. Situated within the $2.8 billion Melbourne Square precinct, this development enriches the area with approximately 500 residences and an array of communal amenities, elevating the standard of rental accommodation in Melbourne.
One of GURNER™’s flagship projects, Saint Haven, has achieved remarkable recognition. Saint Haven pioneers a new era in health and fitness services by seamlessly integrating physical fitness with comprehensive personal health offerings, all within an exclusive members-only format. Gurner enthusiastically promotes this refined and centralised endeavour as “the paramount private club, prioritising social connections and empowering individuals to embrace their optimal lifestyles with a profound emphasis on well-being and anti-aging.” The project secured two Gold and one Silver award at Melbourne’s 2023 Better Future Design Awards. Other noteworthy accolades include Gold awards in ‘Graphic Design Identity and Branding in Health’ and ‘Graphic Design Renderings.’
Piccolo
For half a century, Piccolo has remained a steadfast family-run business dedicated to crafting exceptional homes in Melbourne. Under the leadership of Michael Piccolo, who upholds cherished family values, the company has evolved into a frontrunner among the top developers in Melbourne.
The “Piccolo House – Barry Street, Kew” stands as a remarkable addition to Piccolo’s already impressive portfolio. This venture involves the acquisition of a prime development site in the affluent suburb of Kew, Melbourne and is expected to be worth around $180 million. Development propositions of this stature within one of Melbourne’s most coveted residential locations are rarely offered to the market.
In 2023, Piccolo achieved a momentous milestone by clinching the prestigious UDIA Victoria Award for Excellence in the Apartments (Mid-Rise) category. This accolade underscores Piccolo’s exceptional dedication to crafting high-quality, innovative, and well-designed mid-rise apartment developments, solidifying its status as a trailblazer in the real estate industry.
Bensons
Since its establishment by Elias Jreissati in 1994, Bensons Property Group has consistently played a pivotal role in enhancing the global reputation of its city as one of the world’s most livable. The company’s core mission is crystal clear: to deliver exceptional residential experiences, curate premium brands, and offer luxurious living while actively contributing to the betterment of local communities.
A recent project for Bensons Property Group is Society Armadale. This exquisite development features a collection of boutique residences, each uniquely designed with its own one-of-a-kind floor plan, emphasising luxury and individuality. The residences boast expansive terraces and elegant courtyard-style gardens, creating an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of the city. Attention to detail is evident in every aspect of Society Armadale. A standout feature is the integration of state-of-the-art home automation and energy-efficient technologies. This commitment to sustainability is highlighted by an impressive average 7-star NatHERS energy rating across the development.
With a rich history spanning over a quarter-century, Bensons Property Group has completed a diverse portfolio of residential and mixed-use developments, valued at over AUD $2.0 billion. The company’s steadfast dedication to quality and innovation has garnered widespread recognition, firmly establishing it as a respected industry leader and one of the top developers in Melbourne.
Riverlee
Founded in 1993 by Clement Lee, Riverlee is a respected one of Melbourne’s top property developing companies specialising in diverse developments spanning commercial, residential, hospitality, and retail sectors. As a trusted family business, Riverlee has woven itself into the Australian property landscape, earning a legacy of excellence.
Riverlee’s core mission is pioneering transformative projects, respecting site history, embracing community diversity, and thoughtful design. The company’s proactive approach anticipates market trends, driving urban renewal.
A notable achievement is the $2 billion New Epping development approved by the City of Whittlesea. Riverlee’s dedication shines through in this project, earning recognition like the 2023 Melbourne Design Award for New Epping Brand Identity (Gold) and a spot on the 2023 Australia Interior Design Awards (AIDA) shortlist for Riverlee HQ’s Workplace Design. These accolades highlight Riverlee’s commitment to excellence in Australia’s property and design landscape.
Beulah International
Beulah International, co-founded by Adelene Teh, a second-generation Malaysian property developer, proudly carries forward a legacy of industry leadership. Her father, Datuk Teh Kean Ming, former CEO of IJM Corp Berhad, introduced her fresh perspective to the dynamic Melbourne property landscape.
Beulah stands as a pioneering force as Melbourne’s top property developer, deeply committed to fostering positive change in cities, communities, and individual lives. Rooted in a sense of civic responsibility, Beulah’s approach is founded on extensive research, a global vision, innovative thinking, and a deep passion for design and culture. In doing so, Beulah redefines Melbourne’s property and lifestyle landscape, setting new standards.
The $2 billion STH BNK By Beulah project, recognised as Australia’s tallest tower, has received official approval from the Victorian State Government. This transformative undertaking encompasses residential, retail, and commercial elements, breathing new life into Southbank and enriching Melbourne’s civic fabric. Remarkably, STH BNK By Beulah and Paragon have earned the prestigious “Award of Excellence” in the Future Project and Best Tall Buildings categories at the CTBUH 2023 Awards, cementing their status as significant contributors to the world of tall buildings and sustainable urban development.
Final Words
The new benchmark for property development is transcending traditional luxury with a blend of innovation, wellness, and sustainability Developers who master this, respecting historical elements while embracing contemporary design, are poised to redefine urban living and leave a lasting legacy.
Related Post:
