This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
SALTA Properties’ luxury Abbotsford residential development, Walmer, continues to pull focus after its record sale of a $6.8 million apartment in April.
The 649 Victoria Street development, one of the Yarra River’s last remaining north-facing riverside residential sites, is comprised of 69 one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments that include large living and entertainment areas.
“The buyer appeal stems from Walmer Apartments’ flexible design and a strong collaboration between architects, landscapers and artistisans; this creates an environment that offers a very different kind of Melbourne living,” said Sam Tarascio, managing director of Salta Properties.
The development on the Yarra river, has between March and May achieved sales valued over $21 million across 10 apartments, including the sale of the highest recorded apartment sale ever achieved in Abbotsford.
The 360sqm apartment which sold for $6.8 million in April, includes a 212sqm north-facing terrace.
“Walmer is a natural extension of its extraordinary riverbank location. The expansive balcony designs draw in the beauty of the Yarra and neighbouring bushland, connecting residents to their relaxing outlook,” said Tarascio.
“We’ve had strong demand for generously sized owner-occupier apartments and taken the initiative to redesign some of Walmer’s one and two-bedroom apartments into larger three and four-bedroom residences, with spacious living and entertaining areas,” said Tarascio.
The Bates Smart designed building includes a porte-cochere entrance, a climate controlled wine-tasting and storage room, a health and wellness centre and a car and pet washing space.
“Discerning buyers now demand greater access to nature, state of the art climate control and large outdoor areas to accommodate their daily routines. Whether the day includes working from home or hosting social get-togethers, Walmer’s Yarra River backdrop adds to the idyllic balance of both nature and nurture,” said Mark Healey, lead interior architect.
Landscape architect and design firm, T.C.L, is also working with Salta to limit Walmer’s impact on local flora and fauna.
“A pleasant upside of preserving the natural environment in such a unique setting is increased property values for owners. Value is all about the rarity of the offer – and this site overlooking the Yarra River is as rare as they come,” concluded Tarascio.
Walmer was a source of controversy in the local community during the initial development planning, due to the building partially obscuring the iconic Skipping Girl Vinegar neon sign.
Construction on Walmer commenced in May, with Hamilton Marino Builders being appointed to deliver the site, with for total completion and settlement scheduled for late 2022.
