<h2>EXPERT OBSERVER</h2>

The SEQ story is a very strong one.

The region should remain resilient to higher interest rates because of its relative affordability, high population growth, constrained supply, accelerating interstate and overseas migration, rising rents and low vacancy rates, and the Olympic program.

<h2>1. A Booming Population</h2>

With a population of around 3.8&nbsp;million, the SEQ region is set to grow by another 1.65&nbsp;million by 2041.

Brisbane, Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast account for 70% of net interstate migration to Queensland which is&nbsp;currently at a 15 year high and far exceeds every other state in Australia.

<img alt="" height="936" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-06-20_at_3.51.03_pm.png" width="1334" /> 
East coast capital city net interstate migration. Source: ABS

<h2>2. Significant Infrastructure Investment</h2>

The total infrastructure pipeline for Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast is currently $75+ billion&nbsp;&ndash; the greatest concentrated infrastructure boom SEQ has experienced.

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The recently finalised SEQ &ldquo;City Deal&rdquo; is the largest in the nation and is estimated to be worth $58 billion to the local economy. Furthermore, confirmation that Brisbane will host the 2032 Olympics will sure up and boost this pipeline substantially.

<h2>3. Strong Base Fundamentals</h2>

Economic and employment growth, relative affordability, low vacancy rates, superior rental yields and declining supply validate the SEQ investment story.

<img alt="" height="764" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-06-20_at_3.48.40_pm.png" width="1338" /> 
South east Queensland economic growth. Source: ID Community

<img alt="" height="834" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-06-20_at_3.51.54_pm.png" width="1286" /> 
&nbsp;

South east Queensland employment growth. Source: ID Community

In Brisbane, it will take 6.2 times the average wage to pay off a dwelling. Comparatively in Melbourne and Sydney, it will take 8.3 and 9.5 times the average wage respectively (source: ANZ)

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Average dwelling price to income ratio. Source: ANZ

<h2>4. An Impeding Product Under-Supply</h2>

Rental vacancy rates are one of the best lead indicators of the underlying demand/supply balance in residential property markets.&nbsp;Vacancy rates across SEQ have been progressively declining since 2016, and now sit at all-time lows.

They have remained consistently below those in Melbourne and Sydney for a number of years. At 0.6%, the current vacancy rate across SEQ represents an extremely tight and undersupplied rental market.

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As a consequence of such consistently and comparatively low levels of vacancy, yearly rental growth across SEQ has been considerably stronger than that which has been experienced in Melbourne and Sydney.

Furthermore, this growth has ensured sustained SEQ rental yields of 5%, significantly higher than those being achieved in Sydney and Melbourne which both sit at near-record lows of 3.7%.

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Based on historical demand and likely anticipated supply,&nbsp;SEQ will experience a shortfall of more than 16,500 new apartments over the next four years.

<img alt="" height="914" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-06-20_at_3.58.07_pm.png" width="1304" /> 
&nbsp;

SEQ potential apartment settlements. Source: CoreLogic, JLL, Place Advisory, PriceFinder.

<h2>5. Strongest Performing Market this Cycle</h2>

The last true SEQ growth cycle occurred between 2001 and 2004. During this period, the region outperformed the southern capitals just as it had during previous peak growth phases.

History shows that in the context of market cycles a period of&nbsp;SEQ outperformance is well overdue and that the current growth cycle likely has much further to run (see diagram below).

<img alt="" height="632" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-06-20_at_3.59.36_pm.png" width="1450" /> 
SEQ yearly increase in average house price. Source: Pricefinder

Michael Zaghini is the Head of Research at Mosaic Property Group

South East Queensland boasts a powerful combination of having a thriving world-class capital city, an enviable lifestyle, stunning beaches, record infrastructure investment, strong employment growth, and a high level of housing affordability

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Five reasons SEQ property will continue to outperform other regions: Mosaic Property

Apartments in the aptly named Treehouse at Midtown MacPark will soon be launched to market, offering new residents a distinctive leafy lifestyle in one of Sydney&rsquo;s most vibrant and sustainable new communities.

Frasers Property Australia&rsquo;s master planned Midtown MacPark community has already become the new heart of Macquarie Park, and Treehouse will be the jewel in its crown.

Designed by Sydney architecture firm Studio Johnston, Treehouse exemplifies community connections and interactions, with an abundance of communal spaces located throughout the building, including the activated sky garden rooftop, complete with its own indoor kitchen, barbecue facilities, and outdoor cinema area.

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The most unique feature at Treehouse is its custom-designed Treehouse Rooms.

These communal spaces span three levels, each with their own landscaped gardens, with spaces to relax and take in the expansive views from its position overlooking the central Village Green.

Each Treehouse Room caters to the varying needs of residents, providing alternative modern day &lsquo;backyards&rsquo; in which to work, socialise, and relax.

There are spaces for children to play, incorporating waterplay, rock climbing and grassy pockets, areas with dedicated seating and tables, as well as entertaining spaces.

Cameron Jackson, General Manager Development NSW, Frasers Property Australia says Treehouse offers buyers flexible living options and connection to nature while enjoying all the connectivity and amenities Midtown MacPark has to offer.

&ldquo;Residents of Treehouse will quite literally be living among the trees thanks to the exclusively designed Treehouse Rooms, which are unmatched by any other residential community in greater Sydney, or indeed, further afield,&rdquo; Jackson says.

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&ldquo;They are just some of the many varied communal spaces residents can spend time with family and friends as well as their new neighbours, including the incredible rooftop space, Village Green and surrounding parks.&rdquo;

Commenting on the unique design features of Treehouse, Studio Johnston Director, Conrad Johnston says residents will enjoy a lifestyle experience not available anywhere else.

&ldquo;Treehouse is a very different style of apartment building that delivers an exciting, new approach to apartment living. The outdoor Treehouse rooms in particular are a really strong innovation and I think they will generate a strong sense of community,&rdquo; Johnston says.

&ldquo;We see Treehouse as the best of both worlds &ndash;the best of apartment living and also the best of living in a home.&rdquo;

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Treehouse will offer 162 apartments, with a mixture of studios and one-bedroom apartments ideal for young professionals, first home buyers and investors, as well as two-and three-bedroom apartments to suit the family market.

Each residence includes contemporary colour schemes and luxurious fittings and fixtures, including natural timber kitchens and Forest Oak bathrooms.

Residents will live directly above Midtown&rsquo;s hive of ground floor shops and cafes, while being within walking distance of the proposed new school, the Macquarie Park and North Ryde commercial hubs, along with the Macquarie Centre, Macquarie University, and the North West Metro.

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&ldquo;Midtown MacPark has been designed for 100 per cent walkability, allowing residents to move about their tree-lined community without the need for a vehicle at all, and Treehouse will take pride of place at the very heart of this community,&rdquo; says Jackson.

Treehouse residents will also have access to Midtown MacPark&rsquo;s car sharing schemes, while a similar number of bicycle spaces will allow residents the freedom to move about by bike and take full advantage of the nearby Shrimptons Creek Cycleway.

The vibrant new community also includes a children&rsquo;s playground, open spaces, pay-as-you-go pool and gym, as well as a community garden.

Frasers Property is targeting a 6 Star Green Star Communities rating for Midtown MacPark and the vision is for the community to be carbon neutral in operation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Unique apartment living unveiled in Treehouse at Midtown MacPark  

The winners of the 2022 Victorian Architecture Awards have been announced, honouring the state&rsquo;s best architecture. This year&rsquo;s winners list highlights the integral role architects play in building communities and driving the evolution of the built environment, with standout projects responding to key issues of sustainability, equity, and access.

Across 14 categories, a total of 66 projects were granted named awards, architecture awards and commendations, drawn from a pool of 125 shortlisted projects &ndash; one of the largest ever selected for the Victorian Chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects&rsquo; awards program.

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Kerstin Thompson Architects&rsquo; Balfe Park Lane received the top award in the multi-residential category, setting a gold standard for designing healthy communities and embedding genuine liveability among a list of winners that highlighted the importance of housing as an essential social infrastructure.

The Melbourne local designed the project, which comprises a mix of apartment types, along with commercial and retail spaces, newly created public access linkages, and&nbsp;shared courtyard and outdoor amenities.

Victorian State Manager, Tim Leslie FRAIA said the undeniable quality of this year&rsquo;s submissions caused significant debate among the Jury.

&ldquo;This year&rsquo;s winners stand as a testament to the vitality of Melbourne&rsquo;s cultural life, providing world-class venues for sport, the arts, education, community, faith and commerce &ndash; it is hugely buoying to see these new additions to our city that that will serve their communities for generations to come,&rdquo;

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Leslie said the winners list further revealed how architectural processes can be creatively utilised to educate clients and stakeholders in shifting perspectives on how to implement viable structures for economic and social concerns.

Recognised for their holistic approaches for modern-day structures, ANZ Breathe, Terrace House, and Shepparton Art Museum were projects awarded for their innovation and excellence in environmental sustainability.

Showcasing the potential of bespoke residential architecture, Corner House, Autumn House, and Arcadia also received top awards in the residential categories.

Emerging practice, Prior Barraclough received the newly implemented EmAGN Project Award for their work on Object 07, a multi-residential project in Fitzroy.

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Among other notable winners were 405 Bourke Street, Wesley Place, the Clendon Centre, Yakimono &amp; Society.

The architecture awards were revealed at an awards ceremony hosted by the Victorian Chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects on Friday 17 June. Projects that received an Architecture Award or a named award will now progress to compete in the National Architecture Awards program, with the shortlist to be announced by the Australian Institute of Architects in the coming months.

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Across 14 categories, a total of 66 projects were granted named awards, architecture awards and commendations, drawn from a pool of 125 shortlisted projects

2022 Victorian Architecture Awards winners showcase culturally inclusive, community-centric design 

Olea, the latest apartment project by the local development firm BNG Group, occupies prime position a stones throw from the iconic Caulfield Racecourse, one of the city&#39;s most notable landmarks.

The Kambrook Road address of just 11 apartments designed by C&amp;K Architects&nbsp;is just 750 metres from the turf, which has around 25 race days each season and hosts some of the Australia&#39;s most famous and historic races including the&nbsp;Caulfield Cup, Caulfield Guineas and the Blue Diamond Stakes.

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Olea&#39;s location is not just sought-after for its proximity to the track. Even closer to Olea to the&nbsp;north is Caulfield Park, the largest park in Glen Eira which has seven sports ovals, three pavilions, sports training facilities, and three playgrounds.

Caulfield is one of Glen Eira&#39;s most popular suburbs, offering both gentrification with new restaurants and cafes, while retaining its village charm just 13km south of&nbsp;the Melbourne CBD. Caulfield is well connected to the rest of Melbourne, with Caulfield Station just 750 metres away from Olea&#39;s front door.

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Marshall White Projects Director Mark Dayman says the infrastructure of Caulfield North and the surrounding suburbs has led the area to an amazing transformation in recent times.

There&#39;s extensive education options in Caulfield, from well regarded primary and secondary schools through to Monash University. There&#39;s also Monash&#39;s Museum of Art.&nbsp;

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Olea is also just minutes away from a number of shopping experiences, like Chadstone Shopping Centre and the High Street shopping strip.

The apartments, which start from $589,000 for the near 60 sqm two-beds, were completed just a few months ago by BNG Group, who have been developing across Melbourne since 2014.

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Olea's location is not just sought-after for its proximity to the track

A sports lover's dream: What's around Caulfield's Olea apartments

BNG Group&#39;s latest residential project, Olea,&nbsp;has been developed to&nbsp;complement&nbsp;both the exisiting neighbourhood character and street presence, whilst delivering an individual architectural addition to the site.

The Kambrook Road development has been designed by Melbourne-locals, CK&nbsp;Architecture, in an effort to appeal to a wide buyer type,&nbsp;with just seven, various-sized townhouses, along with 58&nbsp;one, two and three-bedroom apartments.&nbsp;

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With a distinctive built form, each of the apartments have been positioned to surround a pivotal central courtyard - which is the heart of the project.&nbsp;

Basking in northern aspects and with a considered landscape design, Olea&#39;s courtyard creates a seamless transition from the indoors to the out, which CK Managing Director, Domenic Crisante says is a sought-after feature in modern design.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Generous greenery and communal spaces balance the landscape and built form to give additional character to Olea,&rdquo; says&nbsp;Crisante.&nbsp;

To further decrease the impact&nbsp;the development has on the exisiting neighbourhood, Olea has been broken down into zoned interfaces.&nbsp;

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The townhouses form the front of the site, positioned facing the street to maintain the village feel of Caulfield North, with the definition of smaller sections of the building&#39;s frontage creating individual components which have their own street access, as well as a sense of address.&nbsp;

The brick facades of the townhouses and upper level of Olea reflect the neighbouring homes on Kambrook Rd, allowing the building to sit naturally in the street, while the newly designed laneway interface will increase accessibility and interaction with Olea&#39;s surrounds.&nbsp;

&ldquo;The design approach for Olea is one of simple elegance, with a clever uses of space, best appliances, superior materials and&nbsp;an awareness of the flows&nbsp;of everyday living,&rdquo; says Crisante.

CK has designed all of Olea&rsquo;s spaces with a focus&nbsp;around natural flow, light, and creature comforts.

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The interiors are set with an understated colour palette, featuring limestone benchtops and splashbacks, complimented by timber flooring throughout.&nbsp;

CK Architecture&#39;s Associate Director, Helena Barriga says the fixtures and fittings throughout are just some of the features&nbsp;elevating&nbsp;Olea to another level.

&ldquo;The design and finishes throughout Olea employ creative elements to deliver timeless class, sophistication and luxury,&rdquo; Barriga said.&nbsp;

Each home also features two-pack cabinetry with feature timber-work and a choice of rose copper or satin chrome fittings, further elevating the residences.

The $47 million venture still has a mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences still remaining, with construction complete on the Caulfield project.&nbsp;

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With an effort to appeal to a wide range of potential buyers, Olea delivers seven townhouses and a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments.



The park-life atmosphere inside Olea in Caufield North

Raising the bar in North Melbourne, Orb Property Partner&rsquo;s, WOBO residences bring a new dimension to urban living.

Comprising a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, along with three luxury penthouses, WOBO makes the first introduction to a new thriving urban lifestyle precinct - The Tapestry.

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The Tapestry Project is a multistage mixed-use precinct, that includes a range of residential buildings, along with a wellness centre, fresh food marketplace, 220 seat theatre, co-working spaces and specialty stores.

Designed by leading architects Fender Katsalidis, WOBO combines New York style warehouse living with the traditional foundations of a home.

Drawing inspiration from the industrial fabric of the area, a striking articulated brick podium creatively re-uses materials from the former factory site.

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The raw materiality continues inside WOBO, with recycled brickwork greeting residents in the lobby and exposed concrete ceilings set high inside the apartments.

Living spaces are framed by white oak, while timber floors lie under foot, with exposed concrete ceilings above.

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Light and bright kitchens of refined joinery, premium SMEG appliances and natural stone benchtops connect to bathrooms, fitted with future-retro style fluted glass and bronze finishes.

The Penthouses at WOBO feature large, open layouts with natural light, complimented with rich textures, adding character to the space.

Finely crafted herringbone timber floors meet with high ceilings and custom lighting, stretching out onto large private balconies commanding some of the best skyline views north of the city.

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Crowning WOBO is the expansive rooftop terrace, set high above North Melbourne, the area is complete with outdoor dining, a firepit and views to the city, Royal Park and Docklands.

A collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments can still be snapped up in WOBO, with the one-bedders starting from $456,500, covering 57 sqm of space.

The larger offering in the three-bedroom apartments, span 103 sqm, with two-bathrooms and two car spaces, from $880,000.

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With a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including three luxury penthouses, WOBO forms the first part of the new lifestyle precinct, The Tapestry project



Pushing the boundary; inside the Fender Katsalidis designed WOBO residences

For their debut Gold Coast apartment project, the prominent Brisbane developer, Siera Group, wanted to pay homage to Chevron Island's emerging arts and cultural precinct.

Their development, Tapestry, inspired by HOTA and designed to be a ‘home amongst the art’, will feature an instillation created by a local artist, to pay respects to the Gold Coast’s emerging arts and cultural precinct.

The works, which hang proudly in the onsite Darrambal Street display suite, have been created by the internationally recognised, Burleigh Heads artist Tania Blanchard, who is well known for her impasto style.

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Blanchard says&nbsp;her instillation for Tapestry represents Chevron’s growing art culture and great sense of local community.

“An authentic Tapestry symbolises the connection of a community moving through life, almost like a river flowing into the ocean,” Blanchard said.

“The ideology behind my artwork draws on this sense of individuals coming together to form a community, which in this case, are the Tapestry residents.

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“Each resident at Tapestry can imagine themselves as one of those paint strokes in the painting. As an individual they’re all unique, but when they come together it makes a beautiful piece of art,” Blanchard added.

When the project is complete, the art will hang in the lobby entry to the 22-level tower just a stones throw from Surfers Paradise.

Tapestry on Chevron is the first development on the Gold Coast to employ such a commitment to capturing the neighbourhood's artistic flair.

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Siera Group founder, Brent Thompson says part of his vision was to collaborate with a talented local artist, who could use their artistic talent to create a story for Tapestry that would make future residents feel a part of the project all whilst paying respect to the work being done at the neighbouring HOTA.

“Something that was really important to us when creating Tapestry, was paying tribute to what the city of Gold Coast has done with HOTA and the emerging arts precinct,” Thompson said.

“We believe Tania’s artwork will very much link HOTA and the emerging cultural precinct as well as the vibrant and tight-knit community that can be seen and felt throughout the high street.

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“We engaged Tania to create this unique piece of art that provides a visual representation of the interwoven connection between community, river, hinterland, and beach.

“Tania has her own distinctive signature style that we felt best captured our vision for the project and, when hung in the lobby, would add to the sense of place for our future residents who call Tapestry home.”

Tania has created and developed her own signature style, which from a distance looks like a minimalistic, impressionistic scene. However, with closer inspection an immense layering of coloured impasto can be seen.

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Brisbane based Siera Group has appointed a Gold Coast artist to encapsulate the city’s vibrant culture and arts scene through displaying a commissioned piece of artwork in the lobby of their latest development, Tapestry.



How Siera Group are paying homage to the Gold Coast's art scene with Tapestry, Chevron Island apartments

Long-standing partners, Primeland and Pelligra are coming together again to create another residential project&nbsp;at 83-91 Albert St, East Melbourne.

The group, who are&nbsp;involved in a wide range of commercial and industrial developments, will add to their already impressive portfolio with the Albert St site, with plans to produce a similar set of residences like they constructed at 67-69 Well St, which were&nbsp;designed by prominent Melbourne architect, Christopher Doyle,&nbsp;in collaboration with landscape architect Jack Merlo.

East Melbourne heralds a blend&nbsp;of old and new architecture, set on the doorstep of the CBD,&nbsp;nestled among a natural landscape of parks and heritage-listed gardens.

The streets are lined with nineteenth-century buildings coupled with stylish modern masterpieces, with 83-91 Albert St set to add to the streetscape.&nbsp;

<a href="/new-apartments/83-91-albert-street-east-melbourne-vic-3002"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="930" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-06-17_at_12.01.35_pm.png" width="1664" /></a>

83-91 Albert St will be a four-storey apartment building, comprising 12 three-bedroom residences, as well as two four-bedroom penthouses.

The penthouses capture the surrounding CBD views and nearby parklands, each with their own private staircase leading to the rooftop garden.

A two-level basement car park offers 30 off-street private garages and electric charging stations, as well as individual wine cellars for each apartment.

Renowned architecture and interior design studio, Carr are behind the designs of the apartments, with each space following an open plan design, flowing seamlessly onto landscaped balconies.

Floor-to-ceiling windows further accentuate the space in each apartment, along with connecting the homes to the surrounding nature.

A lush garden oasis exists at the centre of the development, with the dedicated ground floor space creating a unique element in the design.

Pelligra Chairman, Ross Pelligra said the prospect of collaborating again was not only exciting but a great honour.

“This is such a great opportunity being only the 2nd owner of this land in over 20 years and having the opportunity to create another high-end living masterpiece right on the edge of the CBD,” he said.&nbsp;

“The vision for this project is to create a top of the line luxury apartment experience that will serve to become a landmark for East Melbourne,"&nbsp;Primeland Chairman, Robert Brij, added.&nbsp;

83-91 Albert St is expected to go to the market by Q1 of next year, with completion slated from early 2025.

East Melbourne heralds a blend of old and new architecture, set on the doorstep of the CBD, nestled among a natural landscape of parks and heritage-listed gardens

Primeland and Pelligra partner for $80 million East Melbourne apartment development

Owner-occupiers have flocked to Ventura Residences, the new Mermaid Beach development by the longstanding Gold Coast apartment development family, Niecon Developments.

All of the two-bedroom apartments in the Ventura Road development of 47 apartments have already sold, with only a few three-bedroom apartments left.

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The project&#39;s unique offering of a three-bedroom apartment is a rarity for&nbsp;Mermaid Beach,&nbsp;with each residence&nbsp;complete with two-bathrooms and one or two car spaces.&nbsp;

Ventura Residences&#39; is also home to a limited collection of two bespoke, architecturally refined Beachside Villa Residences, with just two park-fronting villas remaining.&nbsp;

The private and exclusive house-sized, multi-storey villas enjoy all the amenities of apartment living.

Both villas benefit from an internal passenger elevator,&nbsp;a gourmet kitchen with upgraded Obsidian black glass wall-mounted Miele appliances,&nbsp;butler&rsquo;s pantry;,open-plan living, dining and entertainer&rsquo;s patio,&nbsp;oversized master bedroom suite with walk-in robes, abundant storage and a separate guest retreat.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108737 project_image_fid=199489]

Villa One is an expansive two-storey, four-bedroom Villa with direct Mermaid Park pedestrian access through a private security gate and a double-car garage on the title with remote entry and direct access into the Villa.

Villa Two, set three-storeys, has three-bedrooms, each of them ensuited, and a private rooftop terrace with Southern Gold Coast and Ocean views; the Villas also features a large open study in addition to direct access to the level five&nbsp;amenities through a secure gate.

Ventura Residences will also home a suite of residential amenity,&nbsp;including the recreational terrace and lounge, suspended waterfall edge pool and sun deck, al fresco dining area, Zen garden and functional gymnasium&nbsp;located on level five.

With the project scheduled for completion in May next year, Niecon Developments is currently preparing to announce further projects across the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108737 project_image_fid=199479]

The group has a suite of completed and upcoming projects to the tune of $2.08&nbsp;billion.

In addition to The Oracle, a development that led the renaissance of Broadbeach, the company is also behind the award-winning Aruba Beach Resort at Broadbeach, Aqua on Broadwater at Labrador, Reflection on the Sea at Coolangatta and Nirvana by the Sea at Kirra.

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The project's unique offering of a three-bedroom apartment is a rarity for Mermaid Beach, with each residence complete with two-bathrooms and one or two car spaces. 



Owner-occupiers snap up apartments in Niecon's Mermaid Beach apartment development, Ventura Residences

Inspired by the leafy, green parklands that surround Irving Domain, APH Holding engaged Sydney-based architects, DKO to design the 102-apartment project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There was a surge of sales at the proejct launch last year, with an number of the three-bedroom apartments snapped up.

Urban&#39;s wrapped up the top five reasons buyers have flocked to Irving Domain.

<h2>Parkfront living</h2>

The site is positioned on the cusp of Box Hill&rsquo;s urban development, where the approach transitions from the bustling Box Hill Central, to the leafy neighbourhood Box Hill Gardens.

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Box Hill&rsquo;s celebrated gardens become an extended backyard to Irving Domain, encompassing over 20 acres of space.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Paved walking paths weave through historic gardens, pillowy lawns, canopy trees and newly-developed sports courts, with playgrounds, a duck pond, barbecue and picnic grounds scattered through as well.

&quot;The gardens offer a tranquil green escape for residents and their neighbours,&quot; APH Holding said to the location of Irving Domain.&nbsp;

At Irving Domain, sweeping panoramas take in the neighbouring parkland, Melbourne&nbsp;city skyline&nbsp;and&nbsp;rolling blue contours of the Dandenong Mountain Ranges. Considered architecture maximises orientation to the views through the use of curves, as well as glazed and transparent walls and balustrades. The interiors have been designed to compliment the neighbouring green space, merging with the surrounding vistas&nbsp;merge with magnificent vistas, allowing the milieu to become a part of daily life at Irving Domain.

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&quot;An ever changing spectacle of light and colour spans from the treetops and greenery of Box Hill Gardens to its leafy neighbourhoods and across to the cityscapes beyond.&quot;

<h2>Walk to Box Hill Central</h2>

With parkside living a major factor drawing buyers into Irving Domain, the development also benefits with it&#39;s position on the transition point of Melbourne&#39;s second city.&nbsp;

Box Hill Central sits a mere 550-metres from Irving Domain, with the two-level shopping centre home to over 210 retailers, as well as one of Melbourne&#39;s best Asian fresh food markets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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At Irving Domain, residents benefit from being able to walk to practically everything.&nbsp;The address earns an impressive 94/100 international walk score. Rated a Walker&rsquo;s Paradise, it is on par with Melbourne&rsquo;s most sought after inner city neighbourhoods.

For commuting further afield, an efficient transit network whisks travellers away in minutes, with connections to the city centre which sits under 10-kilometres away.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Generous floorplans</h2>

The interiors are designed with attention to how residents will use each space. A mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments are offered at Irving Domain, conceived with the idea of different lifestyles in mind.&nbsp;

One-bedroom apartments start from around 64 sqm, with the three-bedders spanning 95 sqm.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8569 project_image_fid=197018]

Private outdoor rooms and expansive balconies are scaled larger than a conventional apartment plan and protected for use in all seasons, extending each of the homes further.&nbsp;

A thoughtful design approach brings the features of a traditional home, into the realm of apartment living, say APH.&nbsp;

A largesse of space is accentuated by the floor-to-ceiling windows utilise throughout, in addition to&nbsp;the&nbsp;open living zones flowing onto the private balconies where glazed balustrades enhance a seamless connection to the neighbouring open space.&nbsp;

<h2>Rooftop deck and gardens</h2>

Crowning Irving Domain is the rooftop deck, with the large, private outdoor space acting as a reference to the fundamentals of a traditional home.&nbsp;

Designed for all seasons, the retreat inspired rooftop features a raised spa, a fully equipped gym, barbecue facilities, and an alfresco dining space, with pockets of seating scattered amongst green landscaping, surrounded by panoramic vistas of Melbourne&#39;s landscape.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8569 project_image_fid=159867]

The seating areas have been separated by leafy architecture and shade trees, creating a sense of privacy between the larger dining space and the smaller, intimate zones.&nbsp;

Select ground floor residences at Irving Domain will also open up to private gardens, further adding to the space of the development.&nbsp;

<h2>Apartments from $482,300</h2>

The thirteen-level building features a broad selection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, designed by one of Sydney&#39;s most acclaimed architect companies.&nbsp;

DKO designed the&nbsp;residences with a&nbsp;focus on the function of each space and how they&rsquo;ll be used in day-to-day life.

&quot;For instance, a sense of arrival is enhanced by providing a place to store shoes, keys and bags near the front door,&quot; DKO say.&nbsp;

Made for entertaining, the kitchens are light, open and curated to blend with the living and dining areas and provide unhindered outlooks to the surrounding vistas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8569 project_image_fid=159861]

The one-bedroom apartments start at the $482,300 price point, spanning 64 sqm with one-bathroom.&nbsp;

The two-bedders are priced from $662,500, with a mix of floorplans offering one and two-bathroom layouts, as well as a car space in select residences.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=8569]

Inspired by the leafy, green parklands that surround Irving Domain, APH Holding engaged Sydney-based architects, DKO to design the 102-apartment project.  

Five reasons to live at Box Hill's Irving Domain apartments

Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Joel Robinson

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Mortgage relief? NAB forecasts RBA rate cut, not hike, after softer economic conditions

A local downsizer has splashed $6.5 million on a penthouse in Perifa's Alex &amp; Willow development in Crows Nest. 
&nbsp; 
The purchaser sold their long-held family home in the area before embarking on a six-month search for the right apartment. After inspecting a range of options across the Lower North Shore, the buyer returned to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/alex-willow-crows-nest-82-90-alexander-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Alex &amp; Willow</a>. 
&nbsp; 
The buyer profile reflects the project’s broader purchaser mix. <a>Alex &amp; Willow</a> has attracted predominantly local downsizers looking to transition from larger homes without compromising on space or quality, alongside a smaller cohort of upsizers and investors drawn to the project’s location and design credentials. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone sale comes as the project, developed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">Perifa</a>&nbsp;and delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile-made-construction">Versatile Construction</a>, both part of Versatile Group, reaches 60 per cent sold.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6680 project_image_fid=371325] 
&nbsp; 
Eddie Mansour, Managing Partner of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/ray-white-projects">Ray White Projects</a>, said the result demonstrates not only a headline price but also depth of demand. 
&nbsp; 
“This is an exceptional outcome and a clear reflection of sustained buyer demand for premium, well-located downsizer product,” Mansour said.

“We’re seeing a consistent pattern of local homeowners selling family residences and reinvesting into high-quality apartments that allow them to remain within their community. Alex &amp; Willow has resonated strongly with this group because it offers genuine scale, thoughtful design and immediate proximity to the village.” 
&nbsp; 
The sale reflects a broader and consistent trend of local downsizers actively seeking high-quality, low-maintenance residences close to established village centres. Agents report that demand for this product type has remained resilient, particularly where developments offer a rare combination of scale, design quality and walkable amenity. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Fabrizio Perilli, Managing Director of Perifa and Versatile Group, said the sale marks a defining moment for the project. 
&nbsp; 
“The penthouse sale is a strong endorsement of the quality we have delivered, alongside our partners, and the clear demand from local downsizers for premium, boutique residences in this location,” Perilli said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
“Most importantly, we’re proud to see the Alex &amp; Willow community beginning to take shape. As we move closer to completion, we’re looking forward to welcoming residents and seeing the project come to life.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6680 project_image_fid=338516] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/nettletontribe">Nettleton Tribe</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richards Stanisich</a>, Alex &amp; Willow is a boutique collection of generously sized two- and three-bedroom residences in the heart of Crows Nest village.&nbsp;

Completion is slated for early 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6680]

Alex & Willow, Crows Nest penthouse sells off the plan for $6.5 million

Fresh from launching the first stage of its Wollongong precinct, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, builder-developer Urban Property Group has unveiled plans for the next phase of the masterplanned community.

Now on public exhibition through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway is a State Significant Development Application for a further 657 homes on the prominent gateway site opposite Beaton Park.

The proposal comprises three buildings, including two build-to-sell towers rising 25 and 30 storeys, delivering 391 apartments, alongside a 12-storey co-living building with 266 residences, making it one of the largest co-living proposals currently planned in regional New South Wales.

Of the apartments proposed in the build-to-sell towers, the majority, 310, are two-bedroom dwellings. The balance comprises 44 one-bedroom apartments and 37 three-bedroom residences. Apartment sizes range from around 50 sqm for one-bedroom homes to approximately 90 sqm for three-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Smith St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19347059-1612-41a0-9c74-b86a657237f8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-10%20at%2010.02.18%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sWXnaCcA.cIC6N8YT1dg5pJ2e1V3Z6z7" />

The submission says the proposal has evolved significantly from its original Housing Delivery Authority application following extensive consultation with the State Design Review Panel and Wollongong City Council.

The final scheme has been designed to align with the emerging vision for the Flinders Street Precinct, an area identified by Council as a future high-density mixed-use neighbourhood capable of accommodating substantial housing growth close to transport, employment and community infrastructure.

According to the design report prepared by COX Architecture, the development aims to "deliver a built outcome consistent with the future character of the Wollongong CBD while responding to the site's unique constraints and opportunities."

"Our vision for the next phase of the site evolution in Wollongong is grounded in three design pillars that guide the design response: place, natural environment and celebration," COX said.

"Inspired by its surroundings and grounded in the stories of place on Wodi Wodi Country, the design proposal acknowledges the established character of its setting while creating a unique and timeless identity that sits harmoniously within it.

"The design proposal responds to its specific site conditions, acknowledging the vegetation, climate, wind conditions and solar access of the site."

The architecture responds directly to the site's position between Wollongong's urban core and its natural landscape setting.

COX identified views towards Mount Keira and the Illawarra Escarpment as defining features of the site, while the upper levels of the towers will also capture expansive views across the city and out to the Pacific Ocean.

The design team has positioned the tallest buildings closer to the rail corridor, where overshadowing impacts can be better managed while establishing a landmark built form on the northern approach into the city.

<img alt="Smith St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="79580d5b-500c-4ebf-9629-797146a4a694" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-10%20at%209.51.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=WbTB1EKSG.KDfsfz0F3wp1QVa2oCMGR5" />

Urban Property Group secured the 11,000 sqm Smith Street site in 2022 and has since progressed plans for the broader Keira Place precinct.

Construction recently commenced on the first stage of Keira Place, which will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, alongside activated ground-floor retail and commercial space.

Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the commencement of construction marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/groundbreaking-marks-start-of-construction-at-keira-place-in-wollongong-cbd">Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD</a>

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Alison Warters

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