In a major milestone for the city’s evolving skyline, developer Holder East has achieved over $80 million in presales for Sento, a groundbreaking new project that will deliver Melbourne’s first urban onsen.
The 48-storey development at 56 Clarendon Street will feature a private tea house, opulent sky garden, and luxury wellness amenities inspired by the traditions of Japanese design.
Sento will contain only 140 apartments — spanning one, two and three bedrooms — along with penthouses designed by a globally recognised firm yet to be revealed.
The project’s first nine levels will be home to a 126-room luxury onsen hotel, boasting wellness experiences rooted in the centuries-old Japanese bathing culture.
CJ Wu, Chief Operations Officer at Holder East, said Sento has drawn strong interest from interstate and international buyers looking for a sophisticated city residence in one of Melbourne’s most dynamic neighbourhoods.
“Melbourne is on the cusp of a significant transformation, with population growth, major infrastructure investment, and relative value compared to other states all drawing renewed attention to the city,” said Wu.
“Sento’s location in the heart of Southbank, opposite Crown and within walking distance to Melbourne’s cultural and dining precincts, has resonated with interstate and overseas buyers seeking a refined city pad in a globally recognised address.
Wu emphasised Sento’s distinctive approach, stating: “Additionally, Sento is designed to offer balance and clarity in the urban context, drawing inspiration from Japanese wellness traditions.”
“From the private teahouse to the secluded onsen garden, every detail reflects the city-zen spirit, one that prioritises rest, ritual and architectural calm.”
Designed by acclaimed architects FK, Sento’s minimalist aesthetic channels natural tones, light-filled spaces, and luxurious simplicity.
Residents will have access to a Japanese-style bathhouse, private teahouse, tranquil gardens, an expansive sky garden, yoga room, and gym.
Drawing on Holder East’s previous success with South Melbourne’s Oasis precinct — home to Australia’s first Hyatt House — the Sento hotel will benefit from a dedicated lobby and lift, ensuring privacy for both hotel guests and residents.
Penthouses occupying levels 36 to 48 promise a new benchmark in luxury design when released to market.
Sento officially launched on July 23.
