Assemble, a prominent Melbourne developer, has introduced an innovative approach to property acquisition, offering prospective buyers the opportunity to reside in apartments before finalizing their purchase. This groundbreaking initiative aims to facilitate smoother transitions into homeownership for individuals seeking residences in inner-Melbourne suburbs.
The pioneering housing development at 15 Thompson Street in Kensington features 198 meticulously crafted apartments, alongside communal amenities, currently undergoing construction. Notably, 50% of the apartments have already been allocated, with residents scheduled to move in by June.
Kris Daff, Managing Director of Assemble, underscores the genesis of this purchase pathway, emphasizing the company’s commitment to crafting premium apartments while supporting aspiring homeowners. He asserts that Assemble’s overarching mission is to foster a more equitable and accessible housing system.
“At Assemble, we endeavor to address the hurdles hindering individuals from achieving housing stability. Our innovative housing models aim to empower Australians who may feel marginalized in the homebuying process,” explains Daff.
15 Thompson Street represents Assemble’s maiden project backed by Australia’s largest industry superfund, AustralianSuper. The development is being spearheaded by Hacer Group, with architectural brilliance from Hayball and landscaping expertise from Oculus. The design ethos encourages organic community interactions, fostering a sense of belonging among residents.
Featuring a diverse range of configurations, spanning from studios to three-bedroom apartments, 15 Thompson Street offers floorplans ranging from 56sqm to 132sqm. Prospective buyers can secure rent at a predetermined market rate for up to five years, during which they retain the option to purchase the property.
Daff elucidates the pragmatic yet flexible nature of the purchase pathway, affirming that tenants are afforded the choice, albeit not the obligation, to acquire their Assemble apartment when they deem fit. Notably, interest in this novel approach extends beyond young first-home buyers to encompass older singles and couples intrigued by the prospect of communal living with a clear path to ownership.
Situated in Kensington, a vibrant enclave just 3km from Melbourne’s CBD, 15 Thompson Street offers unparalleled connectivity and lifestyle amenities. Anne Flaherty, an economist at PropTrack, underscores Kensington’s allure, citing its proximity to urban conveniences, robust public transport infrastructure, and burgeoning culinary scene.
Furthermore, the development aligns with sustainability principles, boasting 100% electric utilities and open-air walkways to enhance energy efficiency. Assemble Connect, an opt-in embedded energy network, furnishes residents with 100% accredited GreenPower sourced from a community windfarm, underscoring the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Daff emphasizes the project’s emphasis on sustainable design elements, including breezeway configurations and high-quality facades, aimed at minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling and heating systems, thereby reducing energy consumption and utility expenses.