Sydney's Lower North Shore is soon set to be home to a new architectural masterpiece, with Abadeen Group engaging renowned architect Koichi Takada to design their latest project, Koyo.

Nestled in the leafy suburb of Crows Nest, the boutique collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments at Koyo promise to be a serene escape from the bustling city.

Inspired by the vibrant colours of autumn, Koyo embodies Takada's philosophy of simplicity, expressive materials, and organic forms, both inside and out.

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The gently curved façades draws inspiration from the nearby harbour bays, seamlessly blending Koyo with the natural surrounds.&nbsp;

Stepping inside, residents will be greeted with interiors that serve as a canvas for personal style and self-expression, boasting an natural palette.

Each residence within Koyo offers generous living spaces, complemented by thoughtful extravagances. From statement stone-surround fireplaces to chic in-built bars and crafted timber study nooks, every detail has been carefully considered.

Takada's interiors promote connected living spaces that seamlessly transition to the outdoors, which allows for cross flow ventilation and an abundance of natural light to bounce throughout.&nbsp;These elements enhance the overall ambiance of the spaces, capturing the ever-changing play of light from dawn to dusk.

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Following on with the open plan layout, the high-end kitchens in Koyo have been designed for both generous entertaining and everyday life, featuring a layered combination of natural stone, timber, and metal detailing.

A suite of premium V-Zug appliances have been included, while signature details such as iron bronze tapware and fluted paneling on the generous islands create a bespoke mood.

The bedrooms in Koyo have been designed to provide a tranquil escape within each living space, featuring authentic textures, muted hues and pure wool carpets. In the ensuites, the use of sculptural natural stone paired with brushed platinum tapware only adds to the sense of calm and luxury he tried to create, with select residences even featuring freestanding baths.

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Two palettes, one light and one dark, offer a choice between pale European Oak or darker Cor Ash engineered timber floors in the living spaces, while in the bedrooms, buyers have a choice between Ivory or soft grey wool carpets. Further customisation can be selected in the benchtops, splashback and bathrooms tiles, with each residence set to be unique to every buyer.

One, two and three-bedroom floorplans are still available, with prices starting from $1.325 million for a one-bedroom unit and reaching $2.795 million for the three-bedroom apartments.&nbsp;

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The gently curved façades draws inspiration from the nearby harbour bays, seamlessly blending Koyo with the natural surrounds

alisonwarters@gmail.com

How Koichi Takada designed Koyo, Crows Nest apartments

The vibrant Brunswick neighbourhood is not just a place but a tapestry woven with the threads of its rich heritage and diverse community. At the heart of the evolving landscape lies Flux, a boutique apartment development comprising just 18 apartments.

Designed to be more than just a place to live, Flux encapsulates the essence of Brunswick and places residents at the heart of the best the suburb has to offer from its Union Street location.&nbsp;

Positioned strategically in the heritage locale, Flux benefits greatly from its connectivity to the community and the myriad opportunities it offers. From the moment you step out of Flux's doorstep, Brunswick's heritage unfolds like a moving feast, inviting anyone with a bike, an appetite, and the time to wander through its eclectic streets.

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The neighbourhood's unique blend of eateries, boutique shops, and cultural landmarks such as Sydney Road and Lygon Street are all within easy walking distance, as are Brunswick's pocket parks and sporting grounds, with Brunswick offering residents the ease of an active lifestyle while basking in award-winning contemporary landscape designs framed by centuries-old trees.

Connectivity is key in Brunswick, and Flux is ideally positioned to offer convenience and accessibility. Located just 50 metres away, Jewell Station provides easy access to public transportation, while the tram on Sydney Road is equally close. Within 20 minutes, residents can find themselves in the heart of the city, free from the hassle of parking. For those who prefer cycling, Flux offers dedicated bike storage and car parking facilities for longer trips.

But what really sets Brunswick apart is its sense of community. Flux embraces this spirit by providing residents with access to a plethora of cultural experiences throughout the year. Festivals, music events, art exhibitions, fashion showcases, and design exhibitions are a regular part of life in Brunswick, with these events all just a short walk or tram ride away from Flux.

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The Brunswick community thrives on everyday moments shared in shops, galleries, churches, schools, parks, and the local cafés and bars. Whether it's a leisurely stroll through Barkly Square or a visit to the bustling farmer's market on the Village Green, Brunswick offers a sense of familiarity and comfort as well.&nbsp;

For those seeking recreational activities, the iconic Brunswick Baths, which celebrated its centenary in 2014, offers state-of-the-art facilities including a gym, indoor and outdoor pools, and water play areas. The local football, soccer, cricket, and netball teams cater to participants of all ages, and for those who prefer cycling or walking, the bike paths leading to the city and along Merri Creek provide a serene commuting option.

Education is a cornerstone of Brunswick's identity, with a diverse range of schools catering to the learning needs of all children. From early learning to world-class tertiary education, Brunswick offers a hub of active thinking that seamlessly connects residents to a spectrum of educational opportunities.The area's historical connection to Melbourne's clothing manufacturing industry is also evident in the presence of textile and printing facilities at RMIT University.

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Designed to be more than just a place to live, Flux encapsulates the essence of Brunswick and places residents at the heart of the best the suburb has to offer from its Union Street location

How Flux takes advantage of it's Brunswick locale

North Melbourne welcomes a new addition to its open and welcoming character with the arrival of Academy, a thoughtfully designed residential development that seamlessly combines townhouses, apartments, and shared green spaces.

Born out of the collaboration between MAB Corporation and MCR, Academy aims to create a diverse and welcoming community that caters to the needs of its residents.

Comprising four small, sustainable buildings designed in a two-pair composition, Academy takes inspiration from the celebrated low-rise neighbourhoods of Paris and Copenhagen.

Each building benefits from a secure central courtyard at the ground level, while the open-air corridors encourage cross ventilation and promote the use of stairs within the buildings.

The central courtyards, adorned with lush landscaping, also offer views of the sky from every vantage point and are designed to evolve over time, blending harmoniously with the surrounding environment.

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The heart of Academy lies in the central Wood Street Garden and community piazza, connecting the buildings and enhancing the sense of community. Adding to the lively atmosphere, a new alfresco café at street level will grace the piazza, complementing the adjacent retail strip, contemporary primary school, and kindergarten.

Each building also boasts its own rooftop garden, designed by award-winning landscape architects, TCL, who&nbsp;took inspiration from the local trees, plants, and materials of North Melbourne.

The rooftops feature open lawns, established trees, bushes, and planted gardens that serve as natural dividers between different areas, allowing residents to occupy various zones within the serene surroundings. Pergolas provide shade for the barbecue, dining, and lounge areas, while carefully selected trees and plants, resilient to changing seasons, mirror and complement the gardens of the surrounding area.

Academy offers a wide range of living options to cater to diverse needs and preferences. Prospective residents can choose from one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, split-level homes with expansive ground floor or rooftop terraces, or flexible home office (SOHO) apartments.&nbsp;

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Comprising four small, sustainable buildings designed in a two-pair composition, Academy takes inspiration from the celebrated low-rise neighbourhoods of Paris and Copenhagen

Inspired by low-rise European neighbourhoods: The design behind Academy North Melbourne apartments

The Perth unit market has been incredibly resilient during the year long, seemingly nationwide downturn, triggered by the RBA's aggressive interest rate hikes.

The latest Home Value Index produced by CoreLogic showed unit values in the WA capital have actually shown modest growth over the last 12 months (+0.1 per cent).

It's one of just three unit markets, (Adelaide +8.8 percent, Brisbane +1.5 per cent), to see growth over the 12 months to May. Sydney saw declines of -7.2 per cent and Melbourne -5.8 per cent.

The national median unit value in Perth is now $409,000, according to CoreLogic, nearly $200,000 less than the median house price in Perth.

Migration is forecasted to improve in Perth. An influx of migration, paired with the current difficulty for developers to get projects out of the ground, means supply levels for off the plan property are well below demand.

We've wrapped up a list of the best apartments currently selling across Perth.

<h2>Amara City Gardens 
Address: 171 Davy Street, Booragoon 
Developer: Iris Residential&nbsp;</h2>

Offering a ready-to-move-in option on the list, the $43 million Amara City Gardens is home to 124 apartments across 14 levels.&nbsp;

Located on the doorstep of Westfield Booragoon Shopping Centre, which has recently been green lit for expansion, all the one-bedroom floorplans in Amara have been sold, with a limited collection of two and three-bedroom apartments remaining.&nbsp;

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The two-bedroom apartments can be snapped up for&nbsp;$670,000, while the three-bedders are priced from&nbsp;$810,000.

Each apartment has been designed with spacious open-plan living and plenty of storage for the owner-occupier, with the apartments connecting to expansive balconies, with some even benefiting from city views.&nbsp;

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Wide picture windows with double glazing and high 2.7 metre ceilings give a sense of space and light, while engineered oak floorboards and 100 percent wool carpets add luxury and warmth.

Designed with the future in mind, Amara City Gardens achieves an average Nationwide House Energy Rating of seven stars, with initiatives including photovoltaic cells providing solar power to the common areas, boosted solar gas hot water systems, double glazed windows, a car-charging bay, designated car wash areas, secure bike racks, leafy, manicured gardens and creative artwork screens by award-winning local artist Anne Neil.

Residents also benefit a communal yoga deck, along with a wine cellar, dining pavilion, barbecue terrace, gym, sauna and a garden.&nbsp;

<h2>The Terraces 
Address:&nbsp;3 Shenton Road, Claremont 
Developer: Iris Residential</h2>

Due for completion later next year, The Terraces will home 137 apartments across eight-storeys, with a mix of one, two and three-bedroom floorplans on offer.&nbsp;

Located among the tree-lined streets and on the boundary of the historic Claremont Oval, The Terraces are at the heart of one of Perth’s most affluent and sought-after suburbs.

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Local construction group BGC are currently under way with building the $150 million development, which is the final addition to DevelopmentWA's sought-after Claremont on the Park precinct.&nbsp;

One-bedroom apartments are priced from&nbsp;$570,000, with the two-bedders from&nbsp;$715,000, and the three-bedders from $1.45 million.&nbsp;

Inspired by the terraced grandstands that grace the world’s most famous sporting grounds, The Terraces have been thoughtfully designed with owner-occupiers in mind, reaching new heights in sustainable living and design innovation.

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The Terraces will set a new benchmark for sustainable residential development in Australia, with the project achieving an industry-leading average 8.05-star Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) rating.

The highest-rated residences at the HASSELL-designed project reach 9.7 stars on the 10-star scale, which means those apartments are virtually self-lighting and self-climate controlled, while close to 30 per cent of the apartments at The Terraces will achieve a 9-star NatHERS rating.

Residents will also benefit from access to private onside amenity including two private landscaped podiums, a resident’s lounge and dining room, as well as a gym.

<h2>The Pearl 
Address:&nbsp;1-3 Lyall Street, South Perth 
Developer: Prosper Living</h2>

Still in the pre-construction phase, The Pearl is set to be perched between the river and the city.

Drawing inspiration from the nearby Swan River, the 26-storey tower will incorporate soft curves and a green spine, with a promise to deliver premium living spaces and resort-inspired amenities.

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With 137 one, two and three-bedroom apartments plus three four-bedroom skyhomes, the interiors of The Pearl focus on flexibility and function,&nbsp;with each cleverly orientated to allow for access to natural light and ventilation.

The one-bedders are priced from&nbsp;$566,000, with the two-bedders coming in at&nbsp;$988,000. The three-bedroom apartments are priced from&nbsp;$1.865 million, while the four-bedroom penthouses are priced from $5.94 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The apartments adjoin to generously proportioned balconies, extending each living space, while also drawing in gentle breezes and far-reaching views.

Residents of The Pearl will also have access to an array of resort-inspired amenity within the tower, including a landscaped terrace which is complete with an infinity edge pool, a massage room, private seating alcoves, gardens, an outdoor dining area and barbecue facilities.&nbsp;

The tower also homes a gym, sauna, steam room, yoga deck, theatre, games room, resident's lounge and dining room, as well as a temperature-controlled wine room.&nbsp;

Construction of The Pearl is slated for completion by mid 2025.&nbsp;

<h2>Olive St 
Address:&nbsp;263 Hay Street, Subiaco 
Developer: Devwest</h2>

Construction has begun on the latest residences set for the leafy suburb of Subiaco.

Set across six-storeys, Olive St. will feature 71 apartments, with a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as commercial and retail space.

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Designed by the architects at MJA, the apartments are well-oriented, with natural light abounding, and a range of views to be enjoyed from different apartments, including city views and an outlook over Subiaco.

Each apartment is fitted with premium appliances, ample storage, and flow, as well as open-plan living spaces that connect to spacious terraces or balconies, allowing for seamless indoor and outdoor living.

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Olive St has also been cleverly designed to offer communal work from home facilities, complete with plenty of desk space, high-speed WiFi, booths for private calls, and a boardroom for client meetings.&nbsp;

The development will also feature leafy green outdoor spaces, a barbecue area, a residents' lounge, and even a fire pit.

The one-bedroom apartments are priced from&nbsp;$535,000, with the two-bedders beginning from&nbsp;$710,000, before topping out at $1.145 million for the three-bedroom offerings.&nbsp;

The latest Home Value Index produced by CoreLogic showed unit values in the WA capital have actually shown modest growth over the last 12 months (+0.1 per cent).

Perth's best off the plan apartment selling in May 2023

The heritage-inspired East Sydney Collection in Sydney's Darlinghurst is set to be completed later this year.

The collection of just 27 residences,&nbsp;designed in collaboration by MHN Design Union and&nbsp;Lawless Meyerson, are being developed by developer builder HIGA on Yurong Street, just a few streets back from Hyde Park.

The five-level block of residences is being constructed on the site of the former Aston Martin dealership, with many of the heritage features retained as part of the project.&nbsp;

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Fit with lavish interiors, including natural timber veneers, slab marble, parquetry and timber flooring, East Sydney Collection includes both apartments and townhouses, with a mix of one, two and three-bedroom floorplans. The group also launched a loft collection, which are located just off the bustling hotspot of Stanley Street.

MHNDU designed the lofts to pay homage to the original 1930s art deco saw-tooth warehouse, infusing it with modern aesthetics and creating an exquisite canvas for both living and entertaining.

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The loft units at Stanley Lane Lofts are the epitome of sophisticated design, combining industrial charm with luxurious features. Mezzanine spaces add a sense of openness and versatility, while the classic steel-framed windows allow an abundance of natural light to flood the interiors.

The kitchen areas are a striking focal point, featuring steel-framed islands, while the bathrooms boast timeless terrazzo floors, harking back to an era of classic design.

Each apartment comes equipped with individual air conditioning systems, along with premium Swiss VZUG appliances. In addition, the building features low levies and is pet-friendly, accommodating the needs of a diverse range of residents.

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Crowning the building is a communal rooftop garden, which offers views of Hyde Park, St Mary's Cathedral and the CBD skyline.

Nestled amongst renowned cafes, dining establishments, small bars, galleries, and designer stores, it encapsulates the vibrant and cosmopolitan spirit of Sydney.

Residents will have the convenience of the CBD within walking distance, allowing for easy access to business, shopping, and entertainment hubs. Darlinghurst, with its eclectic mix of culture and entertainment, is also a short stroll away, offering an array of cafes, galleries, and shops to explore.

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The five-level block of residences is being constructed on the site of the former Aston Martin dealership, with many of the heritage features retained as part of the project. 

Darlinghurst's heritage-inspired East Sydney Collection to complete later this year

A prime inner city development site with uninterrupted views of the CBD and development approval for a 12-storey residential apartment complex has been sold.

After a competitive expressions of interest sales process, the corner site consisting of three lots, 37 Leichhardt Street as well as 8 and 10 Downing Street, was sold to ACT based Addval Developments.

Colliers Director Investment Services Nick Wedge said the property represented one of the best ‘infill’ residential development sites, in the tightly held and highly sought-after suburb of Spring Hill.

“With development approval in place for 15 luxury residential apartments over 12 levels, with the refurbishment of the existing heritage dwelling on site, this provided a great investment opportunity,” Wedge said.

“We had a lot of interest in the site due to the exceptional demand for established and new housing in Brisbane."

“Based on historical demand and likely anticipated supply, Inner Brisbane will experience a shortfall of 16,000 new apartments over the next four years," he added.

Colliers National Director Investment Services Hunter Higgins said Spring Hill was one of Brisbane’s premier inner city suburbs with unmatched locality through its connectivity to amenity including Brisbane CBD, Roma Street Parklands and Train Station and two major private hospitals and schools.

“Opportunities to develop boutique apartment or townhouse projects on the doorstep of the CBD are exceptionally rare,” Higgins said.

“This site presented an unrepeatable development opportunity, especially with market conditions continuing to improve and opportunities like this virtually non-existent."

“Both the established and new housing markets have seen exceptional demand and increased pricing across Brisbane."

“This coupled with the site-specific attributes will result in premiums being paid for the end user product,” Higgins added.

Colliers Residential Site Sales Executive James Matley said located less than one kilometre from Brisbane’s CBD this site provided a great opportunity for the purchaser.

“While it already has development approval for residential units, it is zoned as mixed-use one, allowing for a range of development outcomes," Matley said.

“The zoning provides opportunities including residential, mixed use, retirement/aged care, build to rent, student accommodation, office, a hotel or serviced accommodation, commercial, medical, retail as well as child care, all subject to council approval."

Colliers Director Investment Services Nick Wedge said the property represented one of the best ‘infill’ residential development sites, in the tightly held and highly sought-after suburb of Spring Hill

Addval Developments pay $5.1 million for Spring Hill apartment development site

The dynamic and sought-after inner west suburb of Ashfield is set to bring in a wave of new residents, with developers BuildHub offer stamp duty incentives in light of their project launch, AshLife.

With 74 apartments across the six-storey building, buyers can select between a range of one and two-bedroom floorplans, which are set to redefine urban living in the suburb.&nbsp;

Designed by the architects at Urbanlink, each apartment maximises the influx of natural light throughout, while the seamless integration of the kitchen, living and dining areas are enhanced by details such as marble benchtops and engineered timber flooring.&nbsp;

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The living spaces spill out on to expansive outdoor balconies or terraces, adding additional living space into each of the apartments, with the outdoor areas taking in views of the lush landscape surrounds.&nbsp;

The kitchens feature high-quality appliances and integrated refrigerators, while the bathrooms include frameless showers, brushed gold tapware, and feature tiling.

AshLife prioritises green spaces and natural landscapes, ensuring a harmonious blend of urban living and nature. Sweeping pathways connect private residences to three interconnected outdoor spaces.

The lush fern garden provides a serene retreat, while the vast residents-only park offers ample opportunities for exercise and relaxation, equipped with barbecues and ample seating.

Convenience takes centre stage in AshLife's prime location. Situated within walking distance of Ashfield station, residents will enjoy easy access to express trains connecting directly to the CBD, which is just eight kilometres away.

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Taking place at 328 Liverpool Road, the&nbsp;location also places residents on the doorstep of a vibrant mix of culinary delights, village centres, and a wide range of amenities catering to diverse tastes.

Renowned throughout Sydney for its authentic and humbling Asian cuisine, Ashfield draws visitors from far and wide who crave Asian-inspired flavours, with a plethora of diverse and eclectic eateries lining the streets.&nbsp;

If you're in the mood to explore a bit further, neighbouring areas like Croydon and Summer Hill also offer a range of amenity, with One Penny Red a favourite among Sydney foodies, in addition to the nearby Excelsior Jones which is hailed as one of the best cafes in the Inner West.

With construction underway at AshLife, completion is slated for late 2024.&nbsp;

Prices for a one-bedder begin from $650,000, which includes one-bathroom and one car space.&nbsp;

The two-bedders are priced from $840,000 and feature two-bathrooms and one car space.

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Project launch stamp duty incentives on offer at Ashfield apartments, AshLife

DASCO, a 30-year-old family-run construction and development business, was one of the first companies to achieve a coveted 4.5-star iCIRT rating in NSW – and they are now among the first to go through the rigorous assessment process for the second time.

The Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT) was created by Equifax in consultation with the public and private sector. The tool pulls together thousands of data points to understand the character, capability, capacity and other vital aspects of developers and building professionals and provides a rating of between one and five stars.

It’s an investment that DASCO co-owners Daniel and Sam Nicolas are more than happy to make, with the group having achieved their rating in February 2022, and now preparing for their rating review.

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With many developers now realising the importance of the rating, DASCO are seeing the benefits, receiving engagements to help attract confident purchasers to their projects.&nbsp;

“We have had situations where buyers have come to us specifically because of the rating, and even getting deposits on other competing projects refunded so they can buy with us. We’ve always been confident in our quality, but having the rating to prove it gives buyers incredible confidence and that’s definitely translating into sales,” Daniel said.&nbsp;

“The trust from buyers is returning – the industry has gone through some significant challenges in the past few years, and we see the iCIRT as key to restoring trust in and revitalising the industry.”

With more than 1,200 dwellings in the pipeline, DASCO sees the rating tool as an integral part of building and protecting their brand and reputation.

“The iCIRT rating was an extremely detailed process to go through, however, the benefits that we’ve seen and how we’ve improved our systems have already started to pay off."

‘We have had developers tell us that they’ve entrusted their projects to us as builders because the iCIRT rating has given them confidence in our ability to deliver. We’ve also heard from sales agents that our 4.5 star rating has given off-the-plan buyers assurances about our reliability,” Salim said.

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DASCO is working with Kassis Homes on 192 apartments with 2,000 sqm open space at Grand Rève at Castle Hill. Managing Director Sam Kassis signed up with DASCO before the iCIRT was awarded based on his knowledge of the company and its good reputation.

“We have known the DASCO team is innovative and experienced with a proven track record, but the iCIRT rating has provided a real edge over others in the market. It really means something to buyers, and we can see that confidence reflected in the strength of early sales at Grand Rève,” said Kassis.

DASCO is also working with Top Spring on 323 apartments at The Newlands in St Leonards, a luxury mid-rise development in the Lower North Shore.

A Stage 2 DA for an approved masterplan consisting of 376 apartments, with circa 800 sqm of retail, indoor gym and rooftop pool and many other amenities, such as an outdoor boot camp, walking trails and communal garden and barbecue areas, in Epping is currently under assessment with the NSW Department of Planning.

The rating tool was introduced in response to reforms introduced in NSW in recent years and is intended to improve transparency and assist in lifting construction capability and consumer confidence in residential buildings within the state.

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NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler joined a recent industry forum hosted by DASCO where their rating journey was shared with financiers, competitors, trade contractors, real estate marketers and insurers. Chandler told the forum that the NSW industry reforms were having a profound effect at all levels.

“There is an obvious shift in the respect now being given across the entire building ecosystem from designer to contractors and manufacturers. Suddenly sharing the imperative to restore trust in the industry and reverse the previous race to the bottom has taken hold,” he said.

The Building Commissioner also pointed out the growing value being placed on the new rating system by financiers and insurers. Having rated players delivering complex projects, like the integrated developments involving apartments, improves the quality of the debt that is required to fund and own these assets.

The iCIRT scheme is restoring confidence and building momentum in the construction industry, particularly at a time of rising demand for high-quality housing developments.

Equifax's Head of Product and Rating Services, Brad Walters said&nbsp;iCIRT brings much-needed visibility to an industry where reliable&nbsp;objective data has up until now been hard to come by.

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"It applies an independent, holistic and evidenced-based assessment, boosting trust in the industry and giving more confidence to buyers,” Walters said.

“The iCIRT system is building momentum with more than 91 companies already rated and 238 more in the pipeline. I want more companies to be like DASCO and look critically at their business and respond to feedback in the iCIRT process,” Chandler said.&nbsp;

ICIRT ratings are giving insurance providers and financiers extra confidence to engage and invest with highly-rated companies.

“As more small and large companies take the time to invest in their business and get certified, we’re going to see longer-term business resilience, more confident buyers and investors, and more reliable, trustworthy buildings that will stand the test of time,” said Chandler.

DASCO joins group of highly-rated builders and developers in NSW with iCIRT rating

Established by Nick McKimm in 1991, holistic architecture, construction and property developers mckimm, have been a stalwart in Melbourne's bayside area for over three decades.

Having completed a number of projects in the sought after suburb of Brighton, including Luce, Casa, Otto, last year they finished Nero.

Located at 27 Black Street, the project of just eight house-sized apartments has just one unit remaining, priced at $3 million.

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The remaining completed residence sits alongside a small collection of apartments and penthouses, which range in size from 221 sqm through to 285 sqm, boasting spacious bedrooms and living spaces, with a refinement and practicality at the core of the design.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The interiors of Nero seamlessly blend design with the surrounding landscape, with natural materials adorning the spaces. From luxury appliances to custom finishes exclusive to Nero, every detail has been carefully curated to reflect the essence of the Brighton locale.

Situated just moments away from the vibrant Church Street in Brighton, Nero is positioned near Melbourne's finest cafes, restaurants, and amenities.

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With Middle Brighton Station a mere 100 meters from the development, commuting to the CBD, located 11 kilometres away, is effortless.

Residents can also enjoy the proximity to iconic landmarks such as Brighton's renowned beach bathing boxes, Dendy Park, and the prestigious Royal Melbourne Golf Course.

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Located at 27 Black Street, the project of just eight house-sized apartments has just one unit remaining, priced at $3 million

One apartment remains at Nero, Brighton apartment development

Palm Beach is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant dining scene, and natural beauty. Set to be nestled in the heart of the coastal community is Eva Tenth Avenue, a small boutique development that weaves together the tapestry of the evolving story of the area.

It's being developed by fifth generation Chippendale family member Daniel Chippendale, whose family has long lasting roots in the area.

Chippendale set out to offer the ideal environment for families seeking to establish lasting roots and become part of the fabric of Palm Beach.

“The inspiration behind Eva Tenth Avenue is about creating homes that allow others to share in the beauty of Palm Beach,” Chippendale said.

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“We’re proud of our family history and wanted to reflect our legacy in creating a beautiful product to pay homage to the local area.

“My family has been here for generations and we have created many wonderful memories on the coast. We want to share a part of our family history with others to help them create their own memories.”

EVA will home 48 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, which will provide residents with a coveted beachside lifestyle just steps away from the golden sands.

Designed by BDA Architecture to embrace the natural beauty of the surroundings, each apartment at EVA has been crafted with an intuitive flow of the spaces, creating a seamless connection to the Pacific Ocean.

A timeless material palette, featuring elements such as white brick, coloured concrete, timber screening, and VJ paneling, adds depth and richness to EVA, contributing to a layered coastal effect.

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The nine-level building will feature amenity area on the ground floor, encompassing a pool, communal lounge area, gymnasium, yoga lawn and a BBQ area surrounded by lush sub-tropical landscaping.

With a prime location within Palm Beach's burgeoning dining and retail precinct, residents will be in proximity to an array of restaurant options, along with local boutiques and cafes.&nbsp;

Of course, the true allure of EVA lies in its proximity to the beach, allowing residents to fully embrace coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108429 project_image_fid=193749]

Eva is also positioned between two natural estuaries, Tallebudgera Creek and Currumbin Estuary, with the idyllic setting presenting endless opportunities for water activities, from paddle boarding and kayaking to fishing and picnicking by the water's edge.

One-bedroom apartments, which start at a generous 69 sqm, are priced from $650,000.&nbsp;The two-bedders range in size from 95 sqm to 106 sqm and start from $850,000, topping out at just over $1 million.

The three-bedroom apartments cover an expansive 208 sqm and are priced from&nbsp;$2.25 million.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108429]

EVA will home 48 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, which will provide residents with a coveted beachside lifestyle just steps away from the golden sands

EVA Tenth Avenue: Where coastal living meets lasting roots

The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

Alison Warters

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