UEM Sunrise Berhad (UEM Sunrise) has entered a partnership with Greystar Real Estate Partners (Greystar) to develop the first Build-to-Rent project in the inner-Melbourne suburb of Collingwood. The agreement will see Greystar as the owner-operator of the proposed Build-to-Rent development, with UEM Sunrise as the developer and delivery partner.

The project at 21-53 Hoddle Street, subject to planning approval, is expected to include approximately 400 apartments across two buildings, with a mix of studios and one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments suitable for multi-generational living.

The proposed development will also feature extensive common facilities and services for residents including a swimming pool, gym, movie room, wellness and entertainment spaces, bike parking, electric vehicle charging stations, concierge and co-working spaces.

“Moving into Melbourne’s burgeoning Build-to-Rent market marks a new chapter for UEM Sunrise as we continue our active expansion in the Australian market,” UEM Sunrise chief executive officer Sufian Abdullah says.

“We’ve seen significant demand for Build-to-Rent projects as people seek out more housing options and the sense of a long-term community. Melbourne has just become Australia’s most populated city, which has made it the right place for UEM Sunrise to invest in the asset class. We look forward to working with Greystar and the City of Yarra to bring this exciting development to life.”

The developer chose a design by the leading contemporary architectural practice Cox Architecture for the proposed development following a design competition amongst four of Australia’s top architecture practices. The proposed buildings will feature stepped-form and articulated facades, creating a diverse, inclusive and cohesive design response that captures the essence of Collingwood’s inner-urban vitality.

In line with UEM Sunrise and Greystar’s commitment to sustainability and creating healthy, high-quality communities with the neighbourhoods they serve, extensive new green space and landscaped areas will also be delivered across the 5,390m² site.

“Greystar is delighted to secure our fifth Build to Rent project in Melbourne and to be partnering with UEM Sunrise to deliver this exciting project in the heart of Collingwood. We are committed to making a meaningful contribution to the creation of new rental housing supply in Australia’s capital cities at a time when it is critically needed,” Greystar Australia managing director Chris Key says.

“The project builds on our strategy to provide a greater choice of quality accommodation for renters and importantly, as long-term owners and operators, to be able to provide a housing choice that offers a greater security of tenure for our residents.

“Our proposed Collingwood development will set a new standard of residential amenities, service and experience in this vibrant inner Melbourne neighbourhood.”

The planned scheme will rejuvenate Collingwood’s east end with a proposal for a vibrant public town square at the heart of the site featuring food and beverage options, shops, essential services and greenery. New pedestrian throughfare links will also improve connectivity and permeability between Hoddle, Langridge and Islingston Streets.