New Johnston, Abbotsford completes this summer: a new address for a neighbourhood already loved

AT A GLANCE: 

• Developer: DCF Property Group
• Builder: Valeo Construction Group
• Address: 398-400 Johnston Street, Abbotsford, VIC 3067
• Estimated Completion Date: December 2026
• Project Marketer: Jellis Craig Projects

At 400 Johnston St in Abbotsford, New Johnston is a nine-storey building of one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes, above ground-floor hospitality, office, and retail space.

Built by Valeo Construction Group for developer DCF Property Group, the building has now reached its full height, with the last floor in place and internal fit-out underway ahead of a move-in by Christmas.

"With construction nearing completion, we're excited to showcase what makes New Johnston special - sweeping views across the city and out to Yarra Bend, in a location that's so close to the city," said Stephen Bowtell, director at Jellis Craig Projects.

Construction update

New Johnston has topped out, with the building now at its full height. Facade works, including window installation, are around 95% complete, and internal fit-out is progressing well, with total construction now sitting at 75% complete.

Inside, plasterboard is finished on the levels below level four, and half complete across levels five to eight. All services rough-in work is done, with the more detailed services fit-out now underway and also at the halfway mark. Flooring, waterproofing, tiling to wet areas, and painting are all in progress, with joinery fully manufactured and ready for installation.

Designed for a range of buyers, not one type

Whether you’re buying your first home, settling in for the long term, or looking to downsize without giving up space, New Johnston has been planned with you in mind, and the floorplan mix reflects that directly.

As Andrew Zunica of interior designer Zunica Design explains, “This range of apartments is really about giving people options at different stages of life.

“Some are looking for a more low-maintenance home in a vibrant, connected community.

“Others need more space, host family and friends, or simply enjoy a bit more room without giving up that same quality location.” 

Inside, kitchens are built around an extended island bench that stretches to breakfast-bar length, opening onto the living and dining areas - as much a space for daily cooking as for entertaining. Finishes include timber joinery, SMEG appliances, stone benchtops and splashbacks, mosaic tile bathrooms, and a choice of brushed gold or nickel tapware.

A facade that nods to Abbotsford’s industrial past

New Johnston’s facade blends concrete and red brick, referencing the warehouses that shaped this stretch of Abbotsford, with metal detailing and balustrading adding a more contemporary layer.

At ground level, a covered walkway separates the retail, hospitality, and office tenancies from the residences above, connecting Little Turner Street through to Johnston Street.

Architect Marchese Partners is behind the building’s form and street presence.

“New Johnston is contextual to its physical surroundings - the trees, the parks, as well as the area’s renowned architectural heritage,” says Calvin Huang of DCF Property Group.

“New Johnston will cater to a diverse range of lifestyles, offering a vibrant inner-city life for couples, top-tier education and natural landscapes for families, and a retreat from the bustling cityscape for young professionals. 

“Life in Abbotsford is made for time spent unwinding in charming cafés and bars amidst picturesque surrounds, with the Yarra Bend at your doorstep.

“This will be more than just a place to reside, it will be a sanctuary tailored for elevated living.”

Location, location, location

New Johnston sits two kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, in the City of Yarra, with a walk score of 90/100. Victoria Park Station and bus routes to Melbourne University and the CBD are close by. Families have Xavier College and Trinity Grammar in Kew a short drive away, while the Studley Park Boathouse and Yarra Bend Golf Club offer riverside green space nearby.

Built with running costs in mind

New Johnston targets a minimum 7.5-star average energy rating. The building is effectively gas-free, with gas connected only to the retail tenancy for commercial cooking. It includes a rooftop solar PV system, 20,000 litres of rainwater collection and reuse, water-efficient fittings throughout, EV chargers in the basement, and secure bike parking with end-of-trip facilities at ground level.

Two- and three-bedroom homes are available at New Johnston, priced from $880,000 for a two-bed, one-bath, one-park residence that will be ready come summertime.

Learn more or enquire about New Johnston here.