The first residents of Melbourne’s new breathtaking landmark, Sapphire by the Gardens, have moved in

Melbourne’s latest iconic landmark development, Sapphire by the Gardens, has been completed, and the first residents have already moved into the 215 meter tall residential tower.

It’s been a five year process from the planning approval until international property developer, SP Setia, saw their visions of a shining new addition to Melbourne’s skyline come to life.

Strategically located directly opposite the never to be built out Carlton Gardens and the UNESCO world heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building, just minutes away from the buzzling CBD while benefiting from the tranquil garden surrounds. A prime address that attracted many buyers early on during construction.

Over 97 per cent of the 325 luxury apartments have already been sold, with buyers particularly interested in the parkside address in CBD, the best amenities Melbourne has to offer and being in an architectural landmark building alongside the flagship Shangri-La.

Managing Director for Colliers Residential Victoria, Tim Storey said Sapphire by the Gardens has appealed a broad pool of buyers, both locals and internationals.

The apartment tower includes an activated podium and two floors of amenities exclusively offered to residents, including an infinity edge swimming pool, a gym, sauna, sky lounge, a cinema, a karaoke room, a chef’s kitchen and a lounge with a fireplace.

Designed by award-winning Australian architects Fender Katsalidis and Cox Architecture, the 60-level residential tower uniquely connects to a 62-level 5-star flagship Shangri-La Hotel.

“The sky bridge on level 47 that connects the two towers is a striking architectural feature, unlike anything Melbourne has seen before. Residents will be able to enjoy premium amenities, with 360 degree city, bay and park views,” Mr Storey added.

The 500-hotel room, Shangri-La Melbourne, will be one of the brand’s four flagship hotels globally, with a range of rooms suited to guests’ different needs, a range of restaurants and bars, and the largest ballroom space in Melbourne’s CBD.

Cox Director Phillip Rowe said it has been remarkable to see the landmark project take shape and working with Multiplex to tackle some challenging designs along the way, including the sky bridge.

“The striking façade featuring champagne gold fins stands out from other buildings, and the unique sky bridge truly makes it one of a kind,” said Mr Rowe.

“The residential apartments have been well-appointed with a spacious open plan design, floor-to- ceiling windows, including modern timber veneer, opulent marble, stone and porcelain tiles and dark bronze details,” Mr Rowe added.

The first residents of Sapphire by the Gardens moved in during October 2022, while the hotel expects to welcome its first guests in 2024. The limited stock currently available from $1,210,000 with two and three bedrooms available.