Rolling lockdowns are a thing of the past, but what isn't is working from home.

At the census, albeit conducted in or around lockdown, 31 per cent of workers living in New South Wales were working from home, up from just five per cent at the 2016 census.

In Sydney, it was a jump from four per cent to 39 per cent.

And despite everything from cafes to borders reopened, the working from home trend is still continuing, which is making apartment developers rethink some of the amenity they are offering.

At Astrid, the latest Castle Hill apartment development to hit the market, the local developers went full throttle on the working from home spaces, in a more refined way that others.

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Their focus was to build a working from home space which actually took you away from the home, however without actually leaving.

Not content with just creating study nooks (which they also have done in most the apartments), the developer went out of their way to offer extensive opportunities to work from a different space through the project.

One of the most unique spots to work from is the outdoor cabana (main image). The innovative space is fully solar powered and has its own wifi. It will use&nbsp;only sustainable materials and the power of the sun.

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There's further work from home facilities in the&nbsp;Astrid Lounge, which provides a hub of work desks and lounges that are wifi-enabled and imbued in lush greenery.

"The idea for Astrid was that employees are working from home, but are often camped out on a dining room table or kitchen island," Turner Wolfe Director Matt Wolfe says.

"The developer went out of their way to create extensive, unique work from home facilities, which will give those buyers an option to get out of their apartments and work in an environment that's connected to nature, all without the commute."

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Of course not all employees require an office settings. The rooftop terrace surrounded in landscaping and with extensive skyline views is another option for remote workers.

And when working from home, lunchtimes look a little different.

There's a resort-style swimming pool in the project, as well as a fully-equipped gym.

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There are 94 apartments in the Zhinar Architects-designed Astrid, starting from $625,000 and ranging in price to $1.96 million.

Astrid sit in the booming Showground Precinct in Castle Hill, which is attracting significant investment including&nbsp;more restaurants and cafes, encouraging the dine-out lifestyle much closer to home.

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At Astrid in Castle Hill, the local developers went full throttle on the working from home spaces, in a more refined way that others

alisonwarters@gmail.com

How the work from home movement inspired Astrid's amenity in Castle Hill

Local prestige developers Jacmax have recently launched their latest project in the tightly held suburb of Brighton.&nbsp;

Positioned on a triple-a site at 28-30 Boxshall Street, the aptly named project is a low-rise, three-level dynamic form that stretches across a corner block in the heart of the bayside suburb.&nbsp;

Consisting of 15 residences, a mix of two and three-bedroom apartments are on offer in Boxshall, with floorplans spanning from 152 sqm to 399 sqm, with prices ranging from $2,495,000 through to $3,9995,000.

The $60 million project will also deliver three grand penthouses, spanning from 285 sqm to 339 sqm and benefitting from over 100 sqm of balcony space, with prices from $5,745,000.&nbsp;

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Jacmax specialises in deploying distinguished teams to collaborate on projects, believing that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Boxshall is Jacmax’s latest demonstration of this belief, with the group engaging a trifecta of local and international talent to deliver the project.&nbsp;

Builders Coben have been appointed to construct the project, while renowned group Cera Stribley worked with internationally celebrated Dutch interior designers, Studio Piet Boon - marking the group’s first Australian project - along with acclaimed landscape designer, Myles Baldwin Design to design the residences.&nbsp;

Jacmax Managing Director Trent Skurrie said the Jacmax ethos is that the whole is more valuable than the sum of its parts.&nbsp;

“We are able to achieve outstanding results through the collaboration of truly exceptional contractors. The design team of Boxshall are individually best in class. Through this collaboration we have achieved a project that sets a new benchmark for Bayside Brighton,” Skurrie said.&nbsp;

Relationships are central to Cera Stribley’s architectural design approach. The Melbourne-based architectural practice believes design should be harmonious, enduring and practical, with the considered approach reflected in the architecture at Boxshall with its warm and tonal material palette. Light colours of grey, charcoal, and bronze mirror provide a rich, yet modern materialism that will stand the test of time.

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Interiors at Boxshall are timelessly designed with high ceilings and expansive windows, featuring a vaulted north frontage allowing abundant natural light into the residences. The building presents single level house-sized residences that are designed to allow art and furniture to play their part in each home, together with entertaining and modern living needs.

“We aim to transform the conventional concept of apartment living through our collaborations with creative teams. Studio Piet Boon, along with Cera Stribley have worked together to see things in a new light and offer a true point of difference in the design approach,” Skurrie added

Myles Baldwin’s signature layered planting design will harmonise with the architecture to create calm and tonal green spaces throughout Boxshall. Landscaping is heavily integrated throughout the site with planting set to adorn the ground floor courtyards, private terraces and penthouses, ensuring a verdant outlook at every turn.&nbsp;

Located within the prestigious Middle Crescent precinct, residents will enjoy a short stroll to the local Church Street shopping Village, while the rest of Brighton is easily accessible by foot, or by tram, with the CBD sitting just 13-kilometres from the sought-after pocket.&nbsp;

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Jacmax appoint builder to Brighton residences, Boxshall 

Progressive Australian property developers Lindsay Bennelong are set to add a new landmark project to their burgeoning portfolio.

The group has lodged plans for a boutique development on a prime beachside site in Manly.

Just five apartments will be built across a four-level building at 61 North Steyne, four three-bedroom units and one two-bedder.&nbsp;

With close proximity to Manly’s town centre and the CBD, the area is characterised by a mix of building types which have evolved and changed over the years, with the latest residences set blend seamlessly with the coastal surrounds.

<img alt="Render of the North Steyne development " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e6120c3-3b2c-4566-abe9-0dbb8ee6fa92" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-21%20at%209.46.39%20am.png?VersionId=jZOxyXcsg8efn67l62MtdCE7Ndk4Arr6" />Render of the Manly development at 61 North Steyne.&nbsp;

Designed by Platform Architects, the generously-sized apartments boast views across Manly Beach, complete with expansive outdoor areas fronting the water.&nbsp;

A feature screen has been incorporated in the design to maintain privacy to neighbours and between apartments, with the elements also creating visual interest and articulation to the building as well as providing an element of solar control. The building is also proposed to be constructed of concrete and masonry to enable heat gain to radiate in the cooler evening hours – again contributing to a comfortable temperature.

The site benefits from a portion of road reserve that was dedicated for road widening. That dedication has now been abandoned and the land to south at 60 North Steyne has incorporated the area into their landscaped front setback design.&nbsp;

“We feel that stepping down a corner site that is flanked by taller buildings would result in a less than desirable urban design outcome and as such feel a compatible building height is more appropriate," Platform Architects noted in their design submission.

Landscaping has been incorporated into the design to give all dwellings access to greenery, including large trees, shrubs and ground covers, contributing to the local flora and microclimate. Landscaping is not only limited to the ground floor level but is also incorporated at higher levels, with a green roof over the carlift and planters on the terraces and balconies. Landscaping thus plays an important role in the overall expression of the design, with the green spaces also for water absorption, re-use and filtering of the run off into the existing drainage systems.&nbsp;

<img alt="Render of the North Steyne development " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1ebe2a4c-5311-48ea-adbc-7669442c4dc9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-21%20at%209.46.57%20am.png?VersionId=TubLajRLd7gWytFTIZe9t2r0tXLBcEzC" />Render of the Manly development at 61 North Steyne.&nbsp;

The proposed density on the site is desirable due to the site’s close connection with job opportunities in Manly Town Centre, along with public transport to the city and other suburbs. In addition, the location of the site is well suited to accommodate future residents with easy access to public amenities and transport within walking distance.

Lindsay Bennelong are well known in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, having completed the sold-out Vue in Bondi Junction. The group’s other Bondi Junction project, Whitton Lane, is currently on the market. They also have plans for a small project in Maroubra.

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Just five apartments will be built across a four-level building at 61 North Steyne

First look: Lindsay Bennelong lodge plans for beachside Manly apartments

It was dubbed 'Depreston' by the singer song-writer Courtney Barnett. Not because of the area, it was purely following an open house visit during 2016, dwelling on mortality after visiting a deceased estate.

Barnett was no doubt drawn to Preston for its&nbsp;vibrant culture and diversity, with strong ties to the Chinese, Vietnamese, Italian, Greek, African, Indian and Middle Eastern communities.

A northside gem, Preston is a cultural and foodie’s paradise, beloved by Melburnians for its choice of restaurants, bars, breweries, fashion stores and barbers.

Enjoying a connected lifestyle just 20 minutes from the Melbourne CBD, Due North draws on the suburb’s rich history, delivering 107 apartments to the area.&nbsp;

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Climbing 12 levels, Due North features a mix of one and two and three-bedroom residences, along with a dedicated communal rooftop space, a co-working area in the lobby and three retail spaces.&nbsp;

The façade displays an industrial yet elegant aesthetic, with raw brickwork, exposed concrete, custom metalwork and glass, while internally, the apartments boast an array of stylish features, including timber floorboards, floor-to-ceiling windows, plush carpets in bedrooms, stone benchtops, integrated Baumatic appliances with optional Smeg upgrade and ample storage.

With Due North taking on a sustainable approach, the building has achieved a&nbsp;6.5-star energy-rating, with the environmentally conscious design benefitting the residents' every day lifestyles, while also reducing household energy bills.&nbsp;

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Rooftop solar panels provide a reduction in energy costs throughout the building, while rainwater harvesting and high-performance glazing reduce the need for heating in the cooler months, and cooling in the warmer seasons.

All the apartments also include a bike space, in a bid to cut down transport carbon emissions. The one and three-bedroom apartments are all sold out, with just the two-bedroom units remaining.

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The building has achieved a 6.5-star energy-rating, with the environmentally conscious design benefitting the residents' every day lifestyles, while also reducing household energy bills


Preston apartments Due North go green with sustainable design 

The enviable beachfront enclave of Bilinga is heating up as a hotspot for developers.&nbsp;

As developers look to line the golden stretches of the Gold Coast and beyond, Bilinga has positioned itself as one of the most sought-after spots.&nbsp;

Located just moments from the bustling townships of Tugan and Coolangatta, Bilinga offers a retreat from the outside world while remaining connected to some of the best the Gold Coast has to offer.&nbsp;

From beachside cafes to retail, gourmet restaurants and bars with an ocean view – the southern Gold Coast has it all. There are beachfront dining experiences, casual coffee spots, and after dark hotspots within easy reach, as well as boutiques within walking distance and major shopping centres a short drive from home.

Golden Four Drive is the best and most sought-after street, with some developments touching the sand.

We’ve taken a look at some of the best residences coming to the enviable Bilinga.

<h1>NUSA&nbsp;</h1>

Nusa is a rare offering to hit Bilinga. The development of just six house-sized villas at 135 Golden Four Drive span a generous 240 sqm to 260 sqm, and feature Palm Spring-inspired interiors by&nbsp;Mi Design Studio.

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Crowning each villa is a private rooftop terrace on the upper level, boasting north easterly aspects with ocean views, along with a kitchenette/bar and servery and a multi-purpose room.&nbsp;

Select apartments can also elect to have a private terrace pool, while exclusive yard space will also be provided, perfect for resident’s with pets.&nbsp;

Internally, residences feature timber floors and ducted air conditioning, and kitchen's are kitted out with Miele appliances, luxury stone appointments, and butler’s pantries.&nbsp;

A communal outdoor shower will be provided within Nusa, catering to the beachgoers who want to leave the sand at the door, along with a pet wash bay.&nbsp;

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Less than 100 metres from the sand, Nusa is located moments from a number of Goldie hotspots, including both Bilinga and Kirra Beach, as well as the relaxed hub of Coolangatta, which boasts The Strand and a range of coastie cafes and eateries.&nbsp;

<h1>Navini</h1>

Navini is the most high-end project in Bilinga, right on the beachfront.

The project of just 15 three and four-bedroom apartments and penthouses at 313 Golden Four Drive is the fourth beachfront project for developers Pacific View.

They've got Groupline to build the project which has sizes ranging between 274 sqm and 450 sqm. They start from $2.98 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113047 project_image_fid=206179]

The apartments will span half a floor across the eight-level building.

One ground floor level apartment will be delivered, befitting from its own courtyard and pool, in addition to two dual level penthouses, which take in the panoramic oceans views from Surfers Paradise to the peeling point breaks of Kirra and Snapper Rocks.&nbsp;

Navini is located on the absolute beachfront, midway along Golden Four Drive, between Tugun and Kirra Beach.

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Residents will enjoy the eight kilometre ocean pathway that extends from Currumbin Point right down to Rainbow Bay and Tweed Heads, while bathers and board riders will be at home with the world class point breaks at The Alley, Kirra, Snapper and Greenmount, all just five minutes from the steps of Navini.&nbsp;

The Southern Cross University and International Airport are also just three minutes from the steps of the project.&nbsp;

<h1>Lana</h1>

Sydney developers Arena Property Group have launched their first development in the Gold Coast, LANA.

Renowned architect BDA are on board to deliver the coastal-inspired designs, collaborating with landscape architects, LDG LA.

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Nestled between Golden Four Drive and the sandy shores of Bilinga, Lana is a collection 23 apartments, broken up into nine three-bedroom beachfront apartments, including a penthouse and ground floor beach house, and 14 two-bedroom units.

Inspired by its stunning natural surrounds, Lana is tailored to its location and designed as a perfect fit with beachfront Bilinga life. From the gentle wave-like curves to the thoughtfully planned amenities, every detail is authentic, luxurious, and purely Bilinga.

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Inspired by resort-style luxury, Lana welcomes residences with a landscaped entrance, and considered lobby area.&nbsp;

Level nine homes an infinity edge pool and barbecue area for residents.

Golden Four Drive is the best and most sought-after street, with some developments touching the sand

What's for sale in Bilinga, Gold Coast's pared back, popular beachfront enclave

The Wellington Collection in Brisbane's bayside is set to come out of the ground.

The project, of just six luxury apartments and two townhomes, is being developed by Urbex Living, a division of Australian national award-winning developer Urbex.

The residences, which boast views over the Manly boat harbour and Moreton Bay, are spread across two new buildings at 7 Wellington Street. Apartment sizes start from nearly 200 sqm and rise to 472 sqm. Prices start from $2 million, with the townhomes priced at $3,375,000.

General Manager for Urbex Realty, Craig Covacich said a Manly Village lifestyle is highly desirable with the suburb well entrenched in its gentrification.

“Recent home sales are now exceeding the $5 million price tag and many others firmly sitting above the $2 million range - Manly has very quickly become a frontrunner in the Brisbane property market. The suburb has presented a compounded growth rate of 40.5 percent in houses and 27 percent in units based on the past five years of sales,” Covacich said.

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Completion of the project is slated for late 2023, with nearly half of the apartments already secured.&nbsp;

Nearly half of the project has sold to local buyers, and Covacich says with the&nbsp;continuing demand for bayside views, they expect much of the remainder of the collection to attract Brisbane locals looking to be closer to the water.

“Much of the appeal for The Wellington Collection to date has been from buyers seeking housing solutions aligned to their new phase of life, like growing their family or transitioning out of life with kids," Covacich said.

"Many of these consumers have benefitted from significant lifts in their existing assets which is enabling them the opportunity to embark on these lifestyle changes, and through the apartment or townhomes options, they’re finding that balance between access to what a house offers without the maintenance hassles.

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Urbex Development Director, Carl Bruhn, said the group was fortunate to be in a position to activate the development, when most developers are having to put a hold on delivering as they grapple with both development financing and construction cost hurdles induced by the pandemic supply chain choke and labour shortage crisis.

“Urbex has a track record of delivering award-winning communities nationally and we are excited to commence construction on this bespoke offering in Manly,” Bruhn said.&nbsp;

Benefitting from a north-east aspect, residents will be gifted with expanded views to the Marina and Bay, while natural, textured materials create a complimenting palette to the Bayside surrounds.&nbsp;

The Wellington Collection features an outdoor pool as well as indoor and outdoor entertaining areas. The townhomes&nbsp;feature their own private outdoor lounge deck and plunge pool in tropical gardens.

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General Manager for Urbex Realty, Craig Covacich said a Manly Village lifestyle is highly desirable with the suburb well entrenched in its gentrification

Construction begins on $22 million Manly, Brisbane development

Neutral Bay's busy intersection of Military Road and Wycombe Road is set to see a new shop top apartment project.

A company associated with Jim Simons, the director of project management firm Eastview, has submitted plans for the six-storey shop top development, designed to fit into the North Shore Future Directions Policy, which seeks to activate the Neutral Bay Town Centre with increased pedestrianisation, retail, and commercial offerings.&nbsp;

Just 21 apartments will be on offer across the $24.5 million project, which will have two retail tenancies on the ground level.&nbsp;

Design practice EM BE CE have handled the plans for the development, which will be made up of 15 two-bedroom apartments, four of which will have a study, and six three-bedroom apartments, two of them being large penthouses.&nbsp;

Three levels of basement parking will include 25 car spaces for residents, as well as four motorbike spaces and bicycle parking within the resident’s storage area.&nbsp;

The existing streetscape character is a mixture of two storey shop-top retail, with larger four and five-level apartment buildings.

&nbsp;

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="768a0fbb-b2e4-4bb8-aab8-af3c347c32e5" href="/new-apartments/neutral-bay-nsw-2089"><img alt="Neutral Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="768a0fbb-b2e4-4bb8-aab8-af3c347c32e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-17%20at%201.51.21%20pm.png?VersionId=QNHZlm8fBN9gw5QKLtPCxLPZg9iy80dN" /></a>

"Designed to respect the surrounding streetscape, the proposed development will match the existing street walls, with bricks utilised throughout the three-storey podium," the Design Verification Statement by EM BE CE read.

"Above the podium, the top two levels are setback from the street, minimising solar impacts, and reducing the visual bulk and scale, while the upper levels utilise a lightweight metal materiality, contrasting the heavy masonry base, and allowing the top floor to be more visually recessive

EM BE CE noted that due to&nbsp;the site’s positioning along a high-traffic road, with a high-level of vehicle noise, apartments have been designed with enclosed winter gardens, which allow residents to enjoy the north-facing aspect, while being sheltered from the street.

"The number of dual aspect apartments are optimised whilst maximising significant views to the harbour, while planters help to soften the space," the design studio noted.

The majority of apartments also include a study nook or study room, to provide residents a place to use when working from home, something especially important in a post-COVID workforce.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a communal parcel drop-off room, which includes a cold room section, while the nearby Mary Gibbs Plaza and accompanying park will provide a local connection to green open space within the development, with a number of larger public green spaces within a 10-minute walk, including Forsyth Park and Ibery Reserve.&nbsp;

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Just 21 apartments will be on offer across the $24.5 million project, which will have two retail tenancies on the ground level

First look: Shop-top apartments planned for Neutral Bay village

Taking up a prime spot along the sought-after stretches of the Goldie, La Isla Broadwater is the latest residential offering to hit the list of developments buyers can move into now.&nbsp;

The brand new apartments were completed just recently by Draycon, with the project highlighted as a prosperous opportunity for occupiers or investors, nestled at the intersection of the Pacific Ocean and Broadwater in Southport.&nbsp;

With views over the Gold Coast Broadwater, the Pacific Ocean and the speckled greenery of suburban Southport, La Isla draws parallels to the laid-back and breezy atmospheres of European coastal towns.

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Delivering a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, some of the configurations offer dual-key apartments that comprise one and two bedroom floorplans, with a separate studio apartment attached - perfect for investors where they can live in one and rent the other out, or rent both out.

Designed by the architects at Burling Brown, the residences follow an open plan layout, with the kitchen, living and dining all flowing seamlessly to adjoining balconies, which marvel in views and invite an abundance of natural light in.&nbsp;

Within La Isla’s walls, the residences feature a muted palette, calacatta look porcelain benchtops and splashbacks, brass and gold finishes, parquetry look porcelain tile and premium Italian furnishings. Ducted cooling and heating also features throughout, along with integrated appliances in the kitchens, tile flooring in the main living zones, and carpet in the bedrooms. &nbsp;

A suite of resort-style amenities find a home in La Isla, including a rooftop terrace, complete with an infinity pool and spa, as well as several breakout and lounge spaces. A rooftop bar is also penned for the space, set to make a home crowning La Isla in the coming months.&nbsp;

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An onsite cafe is also set to take up shop across the ground floor in the lobby soon, with everyday conveniences not stopping there as the light rail system stops just across the road.

During the week, rely on the efficiency of the Gold Coast light rail as it passes by, and stops at Griffith University, Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast Private Hospital and a plethora of business centres. Seamless access to the motorway and Gold Coast highway ensure Brisbane, Byron Bay and all corners of the Goldie are within reach too.&nbsp;

La Isla's central location places residents just minutes from Broadwater Parklands, along with the Southport CBD and the stretches of cafes, restaurants and bars that line the streets of the nearby Tedder Avenue. From early learning to tertiary studies, the locale’s premier educational institutions are also within close proximity from the site too.&nbsp;

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Inside the brand new, ready-to-move-in La Isla Broadwater apartments 

Multi-billion-dollar developer GURNER™ has signed a landmark deal with Marriott International, that will see Australia’s very first St. Regis hotel open its doors within the first tower of Gurner’s $1.7 billion joint venture with investment house, Wingate, La Pelago.

The La Pelago project is set to deliver a premier lifestyle resort and destination within the prestigious Budds Beach precinct. La Pelago will feature 12,000 sqm of exceptional lifestyle amenities including luxury residential residences, The St. Regis Gold Coast Resort, and over 5,500 sqm of international hospitality and retail, encompassed in a lush and private landscaped setting.

The iconic St. Regis brand was selected by GURNER™ following an exhaustive expression of interest campaign that vetted some of the most well-known luxury hotel brands in the world. Once negotiations began with Marriott International, it took just 27 days for the two companies to reach an agreement.&nbsp;

<img alt="Render of the arrival at the luxury hotel St. Regis in La Pelago" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d284a89-e0b2-48c6-bbee-d8b9eb92be6b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/EA01%20-%20Hero%20Arrival.jpg?VersionId=n_GZGbT0KcFurnFZH6v3rtX5_G07A8LT" />Render of the arrival at the luxury hotel St. Regis in La Pelago

The St. Regis Gold Coast Resort is a major coup for the top end of the Gold Coast tourism market, which is now booming again after the lockdowns of 2020-2021. The St. Regis Gold Coast Resort will be “unlike anything on offer in Australia’s hotel market currently,” according to Gurner Group CEO Tim Gurner, and offer a “level of bespoke luxury that is not available on the Gold Coast now nor planned into the future”.

“We knew we had to have a hotel brand at La Pelago that would transform the Gold Coast and elevate it – and Australia’s 5-star hotel offering – to another level,” Gurner said.&nbsp;

“We are so incredibly excited and humbled to be able to announce the deal with Marriott International and secure the St. Regis brand for this landmark development - it’s a brand that has stood the test of time for elegance, bespoke service and exquisite experiences.”

St. Regis is Marriott International’s leading luxury hotel brand with over 56 hotels and resorts around the world, making it one of the most exclusive hotel offerings for guests. Vice President Hotel Development, Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific for Marriott International, Richard Crawford said The St Regis brand has defined luxury hotels since the opening of the very first St Regis hotel in New York in 1904, and has since selected partners who can bring to life the rich tradition, heritage and legacy of the brand.&nbsp;

“Gurner’s well-earned reputation for excellence, and their vision for the Gold Coast, aligns exceptionally well with the very high standards we set for every St. Regis hotel around the world,” Crawford said.&nbsp;

“We look forward to bringing to life an iteration of the brand that is modern, aspirational, and befits the lifestyle and energy of the Gold Coast.”

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The circa 185 luxurious guest rooms at The St. Regis Gold Coast Resort have called for design plans with all the rooms and hotel amenities, including the bar and restaurant, to sit well above any of the other towers in the project, and 50 per cent taller than any other surrounding tower, providing unencumbered views across the skyline.&nbsp;

“We completely reconfigured the hotel offering for The St. Regis Gold Coast Resort after we secured the brand, so that the lowest hotel room still sits above any surrounding towers, enabling uninterrupted views of the beach, river and mountain ranges, going all the way up to level 43,” said Gurner.&nbsp;

The design narrative at The St. Regis Gold Coast Resort will celebrate the brand’s timeless legacy and rich heritage. Guests can look forward to entering via the porte cochère and experiencing the hotel’s signature spaces, which include a speciality restaurant, world-class sky bar, pool bar, luxurious lounge, as well as the signature St. Regis Bar.&nbsp;

“The arrival experience, amenity, service offering and rooms will be without equal in Australia, and will put the Gold Coast back on the map as an ultra-luxury destination."

Upon arrival, guests will be whisked away up to the second and main hotel lobby located on level 42, transporting hotel guests high into the sky where they will be greeted by an expansive bar and internationally acclaimed restaurant and function area.&nbsp;

“Above the hotel we have around 100 residences within the Crystal Club that will have their own private entrance and exclusive access to hotel-style services and amenity, to offer those buyers something truly irreplaceable that offers a new level of luxury atop the best hotel in the country,” Gurner added.&nbsp;

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“The Crystal Club will be the next evolution of what we created at Saint Moritz and then taken to another level again with more amenity that just adds a whole new level of glamour and sophistication.”

The world-famous hotel holds a special place in the luxury developer’s heart – the St. Regis New York has been Tim’s favourite hotel in the world since he and his wife Aimee stayed there on their very first holiday together, returning nearly every year.

“For me it was only ever St. Regis. La Pelago is something that will never be re-created again in Australia and St. Regis has always been my favourite hotel brand, so I just had to have them to complete the circle of ultra-luxury at the project," he said.

The St. Regis Gold Coast Resort expects to mark the third Marriott International property on the Gold Coast when it opens, adding to the company’s existing Queensland portfolio – JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa, Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast, W Brisbane, Brisbane Marriott Hotel, Four Points by Sheraton Brisbane, The Westin Brisbane and Courtyard by Marriott South Bank Brisbane. Marriott International currently operates 39 hotels across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific, with 26 hotels in Australia.

“The precinct of La Pelago is a world to its own with incredible hospitality, wellness, a business centre, ballroom and event spaces, alongside over 10,000 sqm of amenity for residents, then to top it all off will be Australia’s number one hotel."

“To have the hotel at such an elevated level in the sky with uninterrupted views gives St. Regis a huge point of difference in the market,” he concluded.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108339]

The iconic St. Regis brand was selected by GURNER™ following an exhaustive expression of interest campaign that vetted some of the most well-known luxury hotel brands in the world. Once negotiations began with Marriott International, it took just 27 days for the two companies to reach an agreement. 

GURNER™ secures Australia’s first luxury St. Regis Hotel for its $1.7 billion Gold Coast La Pelago project 

The delivery of six-star luxury development, COAST, on the Gold Coast is officially underway following a ground-breaking ceremony with construction giant Multiplex.

The $200 million, 37-level project by Sydney-based developer Sammut Group in partnership with Alceon Group comprises an unrivalled collection of 53 residences that are set to redefine luxury living.&nbsp;

With the previous apartment building at 43 Garfield Terrace now demolished, Multiplex will be on site immediately with COAST slated for completion in early 2025.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101672 project_image_fid=207673]

Sammut Group Chief Operating Officer, Julian Sammut said the construction start is a testament to the strength of the iconic project, which has continued to persevere despite the recent raft of issues confronting the construction industry that has seen many other Gold Coast projects slow or stall.&nbsp;

“This is a great moment for the project, the many buyers who have been quick to be part of this opportunity, and for the Gold Coast. We have secured a fantastic partnership with Multiplex, who have an exceptional record of premier projects, which is what we demand for COAST,” he said.&nbsp;

Multiplex has been responsible for the delivery of several of South-East Queensland’s most high-profile developments, including Destination Gold Coast Tower 2 at Star Residences, Queens Wharf Brisbane, Jewel Gold Coast, and the W Hotel Brisbane, with Regional Director, Glenn Robinson saying his team was excited to partner with Sammut to deliver such an iconic project.&nbsp;

“This is a higher end product than anything else we’ve delivered on the Gold Coast with its beautiful architecture, joinery and stonework. It will really challenge anything else available on the coast in terms of quality,” said Robinson.&nbsp;

With all but a handful of apartments left, the project broke records at launch achieving an average per apartment price of $5.25 million.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101672 project_image_fid=207676]

Highland Property Chief Executive Officer David Highland says COAST drew significant interest from launch, with buyers so keen to secure an apartment, they paid upfront holding deposits of $50,000, sight unseen.

The project has drawn local downsizers wanting a lifestyle up-size, along with buyers from Toorak, New Zealand, and Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, Northern Beaches and Sutherland Shire wanting a second home.

“The strength of the Sammut Group brand, and the implicit quality that comes with that has been a major selling point, in addition to the extraordinary absolute beachfront location. At a time where many other projects are facing some major challenges, COAST is forging ahead because of Sammut Group’s determination to deliver and the great partner they’ve found in Multiplex,” Highland said.

58 PBD-designed residences will be delivered in COAST upon completion, including 38 290 sqm half-floor villas, two 466 sqm double-storey sky homes, 11 580 sqm full-floor sub penthouses and one 1,130 sqm penthouse, set across two levels and complete with a private rooftop pool and amenities.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101672 project_image_fid=207678]

For the residents not basking in the private penthouse pool, COAST also includes a 32-metre pool, which wraps from the east to the north, as well as a yoga studio, massage rooms, a sauna, function facilities, a beach bar, numerous break-out areas and a commercial sized gym.&nbsp;

COAST also includes its own concierge, with premium services included for all residents, from home cleaning, to restaurant bookings and even airport transport and food and beverage delivery.&nbsp;

Sammut Group CEO, Allen Sammut said he is pleased with the progress of the group’s expansion into the Queensland market following an award-winning run of projects in Sydney’s Cronulla, which ironically started with a project called ‘Coast’, followed by Drift, Nautilus, Breeze, Loft and Banc and the recently launched Vue.

“We have built up a very loyal fan base who love and trust the Sammut Group brand and what we stand for and their keen interest in our first Gold Coast development is evidence of that,” said Allen.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=101672]

The project has drawn local downsizers wanting a lifestyle up-size, along with buyers from Toorak, New Zealand, and Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, Northern Beaches and Sutherland Shire wanting a second home.

Construction kicks off on $200 million beachfront apartments COAST by Sammut Group

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>

&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Alison Warters

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