<html><body>
Early this year, developer Kalex is planning to launch their apartment and retail vision for their Gertrude Street, Fitzroy development, at the former Manfax hardware site.
However, they are going to launch the properties a little differently – with a new concept for the display suite presentation under the name ‘Living Events’, with sessions set to be held on Sundays.
Effectively, this is an interactive display suite that allows prospective buyers to be active, rather than passive, in exploring the space, according to <a href="https://www.kalex.com.au">Kalex</a>’s development director Liam Wallis.
Jackson Clements Burrows Architects, Roger Seller, Gaggenau, Urban Commons and Great Dane are involved in bringing Living Events together.
“Living Events is our exploration of the design for a space that invites people to imagine themselves in this exceptional location, living within a truly considered boutique scale apartment building, for example, by witnessing in action exactly the same Valcucine kitchen and Gaggenau appliances that will be installed within the project,” said Wallis.
With a flexible 254 square metre front of house area and 34 square metre back of house kitchen, featuring the Gaggenau appliances, the site can hold 150 people at a time.
The 166 Gertrude Street mixed use development will feature a range of apartment types, as well as ground level retail opportunities.
“Our aim for Living Events is to create an engaging experience that connects with discerning, design-savvy people,” Wallis said.
Some of these events will include cooking sessions but also gardening classes. Their event invitations encourage prospective buyers to visit the local area, such as Fitzroy, for lunch. It's all so very Melbourne and will be interesting to see whether it resonates with their prospective buyers.
</body></html>

jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Kalex set to launch Fitzroy apartments with an interactive display suite sessions

<html><body>
Perth’s home owners have been reminded by the Building Commissioner to check the registration of painters, in particular, before paying them to carry out work priced over $1,000. If property owners do not undertake this due diligence, they may face being ripped off.
According to Building Commissioner Peter Gow, they are continuing to receive details of unregistered painters obtaining business by distributing flyers and going door-to-door offering services. Just recently, home owners in Willetton and Sorrento have provided reports of this activity.
Sub-standard and overpriced work could be the result of getting involved with an unregistered painter.
“In most parts of Western Australia, carrying out painting work valued over $1,000 requires a registration and any advertisements offering major painting work should contain the painter’s registration number,” Gow said.
“The Building Commission and our colleagues at Consumer Protection receive frequent complaints from consumers who have handed over money to an unregistered painter only to be left with overpriced and substandard work – or in some cases, no work at all,” he said.
“The best way for consumers to protect themselves from dodgy painters is to ask to see their accreditation and independently verify it before agreeing to any major work on their property.”
For those concerned, a quick check on the Building Commissions registration portal will <a href="https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/building-commission/find-registered-building-service-provider" target="_blank">be able to find registered painters</a>.
Other signs to watch for are headings such as “full roof painted” for a value in excess of $1,000, and sometimes a 1800 phone number and no trading name could be warnings home owners could check out for to determine whether they are operating illegally.
Always check for credentials before agreeing to any work.
“These unregistered traders are difficult to track down for a refund or to make a warranty claim if you’re not satisfied with the work and are breaking consumer law by not observing a 10-day cooling off period for unsolicited sales,” Gow said.
“Most building work valued over $20,000 also requires the builder to be registered in WA and all plumbing work must be carried out by a licensed plumbing contractor,” he said.
You can report anyone you know to be offering unauthorised work via the Building Commission:1300 48 90 99 or <a href="https://mail.privatemedia.com.au/owa/redir.aspx?C=Ultkv_vW706GgICQ1Lr4DMvqpdX_AtIIb4VbQ_7izJOeO3QJXpzOHTVog-kX_Y62w6VPR2gnEM8.&amp;URL=mailto%3abcinfo%40commerce.wa.gov.au">bcinfo@commerce.wa.gov.au</a>.
</body></html>

Home owners warned to check registrations before paying for home improvement

<html><body>
Flinders Street apartment project, 108 Flinders, from Melbourne developer Riverlee, has been revealed – with a dual façade feature designed by Fender Katsalidis.
The development was launched in 2010 and is completely sold out, with 80% of <a href="https://www.108flinders.com.au" target="_blank">108 Flinders</a> purchased in the first few months.
The 190 apartment project includes one façade facing Flinders Street with another onto ACDC Lane. Each is created with a different concept, the Flinders Street facing front using a mosaic of coloured glass and stainless steel frames.
According to Fender Katsalidis Architects’ Karl Fender, the rear façade to ACDC Lane includes an urban scale art wall created by graphic artist Garry Emery, and includes a new restaurant. The façade can be individually altered by the residents to create privacy screens, altering the face of the art whenever they are moved.
The new restaurant is Patuso, a Peruvian grill.
“Our practice enjoys, wherever possible, to create an architecture that contributes to the richness of our city through the thoughtful integration of art into the building fabric, often working in close collaboration with Melbourne artists,” Fender said.
“108 Flinders is a sculpture in its own right, which embraces the diverse fabric of our city through its precinctual responses.”
In the middle of 108 Flinders is a modernized internal garden, 18 metres high, which is planned to improve amenity for those living in the two connected buildings. It includes a wall mural designed by Emery Studio, a waterpond skylight to the level below and upside-down tree sculpture suspended above.
There is also a rooftop terrace of level 12, explains Riverlee sales and marketing director Kristine Lee. It has views of the MCG and Federation Square.
On levels 11 and 12 there are premium penthouse residences that include their own mini-garden retreats within the home. The three penthouses that face onto Flinders Street have motorized louvered windows that have views of the Yarra River and Royal Botanic Gardens.
“We believe at 108 Flinders we have achieved an urbane home that gives Melbournians the chance to live, work and play in the CBD without compromising on anything,” said Lee.
The development also has communal facilities, including a gym and residents’ lounge.
</body></html>

Dual facades for Fender Katsalidis designed 108 Flinders

<html><body>
New data from the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia has found that Perth’s rents have dropped in December, with the median rent for the metropolitan area falling $10 to $440 per week.
REIA president David Airey has found that this drop is more prominent for apartments and villas, with houses weathering through a little better.
“Houses are typically holding a rental median of $450 per week, while units, apartments and villas have dropped to a median of around $420 per week,” Airey said.
The overall vacancy for Perth has lifted to 4.2%, with 6,300 rental properties vacant. Usually, a “normal” market for Perth is 3%, according to Airey, who says that the high rate is being driven by a slowing growth in population as a result of fewer jobs.
The data released by the REIWA sees the stock of property for lease increased by 10% over the December quarter – up some 37% over the year.
“The increase in stock over the past two years can be directly attributed to the rapid turnaround in migration which peaked in the year to September 2012. The latest reading of WA’s population growth for the year to June 2014 has it falling to its lowest level in eight years,” Airey said. 
“The available rental stock bottomed-out at around 2,100 dwellings in September 2012 and has grown by 200 per cent since then, lifting the vacancy rate from 1.8% to more than 4% over the last couple of years,” he said.
Areas that have seen the largest increases in rental listings include:
<ul>
<li>Belmont</li>
<li>Kwinana</li>
<li>Armadale</li>
<li>Wanneroo’s northwest corridor</li>
</ul>
However, Kwinana is up by $5 over 2014, to $390 per week – the only area to report an increase in median rent. Armadale is currently the most affordable area to rent – with a $370 per week median.
The biggest drops in median rent over the year (drop is in brackets):
<ul>
<li>Perth City ($65)</li>
<li>Vincent ($50)</li>
<li>Stirling South-east ($50)</li>
<li>Mundaring ($45)</li>
<li>Wanneroo South ($40)</li>
<li>Serpentine/Jarrahdale ($30)</li>
<li>Stirling West ($30)</li>
<li>Western Suburbs ($30)</li>
<li>Canning ($25)</li>
<li>Cockburn ($25)</li>
</ul>
Source: REIWA 
</body></html>

Perth rents plummet in December: REIWA

<html><body>
Three developers have been shortlisted for Darwin's Berrimah Farm project and will now submit comprehensive proposals prior to being selected.
The three local developers, Gwelo Developments, Halikos Group and Urbex, are competing for the development rights of the site and turn it into an urban centre.
Northern Territory Minister for Lands and Planning, Peter Chandler, said that they are looking for a developer with a vision to match the ‘premium’ location.
“This will be a community that not only supports its planned 6,750 residents but also attracts visitors from surrounding suburbs by creating spaces and places people want to be in,” he said.
“Restaurants, bars, supermarkets, schools and speciality shops are all possibilities.”
Chandlersaid that the shortlisted developers have the experience and knowledge to deliver quality proposals. They had previously answered an expressions of interest campaign that ran from October to 5 December 2014.
The request for detailed proposal process begins in February, with plans to choose a developer by mid-year, leaving the start of construction possible before the end of 2015.
</body></html>

Three developers shortlisted for Darwin's Berrimah Farm project

<html><body>
Further growth in new home construction is tipped this year, with the Housing Industry Association's (HIA) senior economist Shane Garrett pointing to the relatively high number of loans.
The November 2014 lending figures recorded by the Australian Bureau of Statistics found that the number of owner occupier loans for new dwellings dropped by 1.4%, however lending was 4.6% higher than November 2013.
New home loans are now up 0.7% in the three months to November and are 7.3% higher than a year prior.
“Last week saw building approvals reach an all-time high during November, and today’s lending figures add further to the evidence that Australia’s new home building industry will start 2015 on a strong footing,” said Garrett.
“The number of loans remains high although there is little sign of further growth,” he said.
“Fortunately, the flow of loans for new home construction is very solid. The number of new home construction loans in November was 7.6% higher than a year ago.”
He did note that the total volume of loans for home purchase has been dropping steadily for the past few months and that, as house prices have risen the stamp duty bills have also.
“Excessive taxation is hampering the efficient operation of Australia’s housing market. The issue requires immediate attention,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Real Estate Institute of Australia suggests the slowing activity may signal a rate cut.
REIA president Neville Sanders pointed to the proportion of first home buyers improving marginally, but noted the potential issues with the statistics.
"With moderating housing lending and GDP growth below trend, inflation well within the RBA’s target zone, the RBA Board should be considering a cut in interest rates at its February meeting,” said Sanders.
</body></html>

Lending figures point to new home building growth in 2015: HIA

<html><body>
Stamp duty is a tax paid by property buyers upon the purchase of a home or investment property. It’s not only levied on real estate – it’s also charged on a number of other assets – however, it’s most often discussed around property.
It’s charged on land, established homes, new properties, apartments, villas and pretty much all property sales and even gifts of property. Stamp duty is often also payable on your mortgage.
As the figure can add a substantial cost to purchasing a property, it pays dividends to be aware of what the cost may be upfront.
When you’ve bought a property you have 30 days after settlement within which to pay your stamp duty.
However, the total amount does differ by state and territory as it is levied by the state and territory governments and is not a federal charge. This means that buying the same priced property in Victoria will see you charged a different amount than if you bought it in South Australia.
Duty is usually charged by a threshold structure, based on how expensive the property is that you are buying.
You may be eligible for a concession or to even have your stamp duty waived, if you are a pensioner, a first home buyer, purchasing your principal place of residence or buying new (under certain schemes). Similarly, some groups, such as farmers, can achieve concessions. These concessions, again, are decided by your state and territory and so will differ.
Occasionally, no duty or minimal duty will be charged under a certain amount, however this is usually not a figure high enough to purchase a substantial property holding ($25,000 or so). In some states, duty can go as high as 7% for premium-priced properties (over $3 million). Usually, you pay based on the market value or the purchase price and take whichever is higher to do the calculation.
The stamp duty rates can change, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for any alterations made by your state or territory government.
You can usually pay your stamp duty by BPAY, mail, overseas or local EFT or in person at the local regulating office (e.g. OSR). You can also pay ahead of time.
</body></html>

What is stamp duty? Investment terms explained

<html><body>
Australians with a mortgage of $489,300 or more will see themselves spending $1 million or over for the life of their 30 year loan, according to Finder’s research.
The statistic is calculated on an average variable interest rate of 5.5%.
In a situation where the mortgage is 80% of the property value, then a property bought for $611,625 or more will end up costing more than $1 million.
Michelle Hutchison, money expert at Finder, said that borrowers are not looking down the track to see how much they end up spending when they look to see if they can afford a home loan.
“While it’s likely that your home will increase in value over a 30-year loan term, it might not compensate the cost of a home loan as the money you end up spending can be greatly increased if you have a small deposit and don’t shop around for a good value deal,” she said.
“This research was based on the average variable rate of about 5.5% but borrowers need to remember that there’s a big difference between what lenders are offering, which can mean bigger costs for a home if you’re not careful.”
She notes that the lowest ongoing variable rate they are current recording is 4.39% from Heritage Bank, or 1.11% lower than the average variable rate.
“Take advantage of the online tools and comparisons of different home loans to help you find the best value deals,” she said.
</body></html>

A $500,000 mortgage will cost $1 million plus over 30 years

<html><body>
A record amount of industrial sales helped push commercial property sales to $26.8 billion in 2014, according to CBRE Research.
With commercial property sales up 6% on 2013 levels, office property was the largest contributor at $14.5 billion of sales, with retail assets at $7.3 billion. Industrial property clocked in $5 billion of transactions – up 55% from 2013’s total and surpassing the 2006 record of $4.9 billion.
CBRE head of research for Australia, Stephen McNabb, said that the last quarter of 2014 saw strong activity in the industrial market.
“Industrial sales grew by 55% year on year, driven by a number of large portfolio sales,” McNabb said.
“Activity is being prompted by divergence of opinion as to the degree to which yield compression can continue. Strong yield compression in the super prime sector (80 to 90bp in Sydney/Melbourne) through 2014 prompted selling from some owners, in an environment where new sources of demand are looking for income yield combined with an expectation that the risk of yield softening is low,” he said.
He also said that across the entire commercial market, foreign investors have maintained their presence, however a slowing was noted – to 12% after a 2013 doubling of investment.
Meanwhile, Matt Haddon, CBRE regional director, industrial and logistics services, said that they had been predicting the strong uptick in industrial in early 2014.
“Despite a slow start to industrial sales volumes in 2014 with only modest figures recorded at the end of Q2, based on the volume of sales and enquiries we were handling back in July, we made the call that 2014 would set a new benchmark and that’s how it’s panned out, reaching the $5 billion mark for the first time,” Haddon said.
“Given the volume of deals currently in the pipeline and the number of quality assets due to come to the market in Q1 this year, we see this volume of sales being sustainable for the foreseeable future and don’t believe that 2014 will be viewed as a ‘spike’ in any way.”
The office markets’ growth was sustained throughout 2014 with Sydney and Melbourne recording strong years for turnover – totaling 80% of the national turnover for office stock, when in 2013 they numbered 65%.
“This is consistent with stronger demand for assets in these core markets in which the vacancy risk over the next few years looks more contained for both prime and secondary assets,” Haddon said.\
<img src="/images/2015/01/14/Commercial%20property%20transactions%20-%202014.png" alt="">
Source: CBRE Research
</body></html>

Record 2014 industrial sales leaves commercial market on a high

<html><body>
Harcourts’ latest addition, Harcourts Carlingford, was opened last week by owner Andrew Magro.
Magro, who has been working in the Carlingford area for 14 years, said that it’s nice to be known locally and expressed his enjoyment with the area where he started out putting up for sale signs, making coffee and answering the phones.
“I basically watched and learnt from my peers, I immediately grew a strong interest and passion for the real estate industry and I knew then I wanted to be the best at what I do and thrive on customer satisfaction,” he said.
“Real estate isn’t only about making a sale, it’s about building relationships with people which I love to do,” said Magro.
Joining Harcourts Group Australia due to a desire to own his real estate office, he chose the brand after having been involved with Harcourts Hills Living when looking to buy a property.
“I immediately fell in love with the Harcourts system, their operations and most of all, the blue stripes,” he said.
“My motivation was real estate agent, Jamie Benjamin and his performance, not only selling properties but in the way it was actually performed.”
He also aligns with the ‘Harcourts values’, putting people first and giving them the time they need, which he intends to continue at his new 5/326 Pennant Hills Road office.
“I believe the difference I have to offer is quality of service, not quantity. People deserve nothing but the best of service, all the time,” he said.
</body></html>

New agency Harcourts Carlingford launched 

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

Joel Robinson

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

When the opportunity arose for South Australian developer Palumbo to return to Kent Town, where it had previously delivered East Park Apartments and the East 
Rundle Apartments, it wasn't one the longstanding developer-builder was going to pass up.

The decision was quickly vindicated, with more than 30 apartments sold within the first month of launching <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/royal-apartments-kent-town-2-8-north-terrace-kent-town-sa-5067">Royal Apartments</a> to the market.

The 206-apartment development, which will bring significant new supply to Adelaide's tightly held eastern city fringe, also gives <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/palumbo">Palumbo</a> the opportunity to bring new life to one of Kent Town's most recognisable watering holes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376073]

Royal Apartments incorporates the historic Royal Hotel, a venue Palumbo Managing Director Daniel Palumbo said has a longstanding connection with the local community.

"Everyone in the area has history with the Royal Hotel," Palumbo told Apartments.com.au.

"It was quite an active pub and social gathering place for locals. We want to bring it back to its former glory."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376072]

The wider development will comprise two residential towers alongside the restored hotel, sitting on North Terrace opposite the Adelaide Park Lands.

For Palumbo, the project also marks a return to familiar territory.

The developer completed East Park Apartments next door more than a decade ago and jumped at the opportunity to develop in Kent Town again when the Royal Hotel site became available.

"The opportunity emerged, and we moved to secure the site," Palumbo said.

"We were approached by the previous landowner, who said they had extensive commitments in Sydney and weren't in a position to deliver the project.

"We took over the site and within six months recut the design scheme to be more in keeping with the type of development we want to bring to Adelaide.

"Now we're on the market and those changes have really resonated with local buyers."

That has translated into a strong start to sales, with 33 apartments transacting in the project's first 35 days.

Palumbo said the early purchaser profile had been consistent with the group's traditional focus on owner-occupiers rather than investor-led apartment stock.

"Local owner-occupiers have always been our market," he said.

"There are always some investors, but we've never developed what would be called traditional development stock. Owner-occupiers are very much our market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376068]

The buyer mix has been diverse so far, with downsizers and younger professionals both accounting for a significant portion of early sales.

South Australia's current stamp duty settings, which allow&nbsp;eligible homeowners in South Australia aged 60 savings of up to $103,830 on stamp duty when they downsize to a new property valued at up to $2 million,&nbsp;have helped encourage downsizer activity, while younger buyers in their late 20s and early 30s have been attracted to the opportunity to live immediately outside the CBD while still being able to walk into the city.



Location has been a major part of the proposition for both buyer cohorts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376075]

Royal Apartments sits on North Terrace directly opposite the Adelaide Park Lands, with residents able to walk through the parklands toward the East End, Rundle Street and Rundle Mall.

Apartments have been positioned to capture views across the parklands, Adelaide skyline, Botanic Gardens and Adelaide Hills.

Palumbo believes the scarcity of developable land along this section of the Park Lands makes the site particularly difficult to replicate.

"There's very few allotments on that side that can be developed," he said.

"If this location was in New York and you were sitting on Central Park, you'd be talking about a $60 million apartments."

Royal Apartments will offer a broad mix of residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.

Current listings include one-bedroom apartments from $680,000, while larger three and four-bedroom residences are priced around $2.5 million.

Residents will have access to a swimming pool, gym, barbecue and recreation areas, residents' lounge and dining space, and a communal deck.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376067]

The apartments will feature generous balconies, while secure parking, bicycle storage and storage cages will also be provided.

A porte-cochère-style arrival and drop-off area has also resonated with buyers, particularly those attracted to being able to walk into the CBD during the day while retaining secure vehicle access at home.

Palumbo is acting as developer, architect and builder on Royal Apartments, continuing the vertically integrated model it has used across its South Australian portfolio.

The group was also behind the $150 million Sofitel Adelaide, the 251-room five-star hotel and residential tower which opened in 2021.

Palumbo said Royal's launch had come at an interesting time for the broader Adelaide apartment market.

Buyer confidence had initially been impacted by uncertainty surrounding the Federal Budget and broader economic conditions, but Palumbo believes sentiment is beginning to improve against a backdrop of significant investment flowing into South Australia.

He pointed to increased activity across defence and resources, including Olympic Dam, as potential long-term drivers of the state's economy and housing market.

"Money is starting to flow into Adeliade, significant amounts as Adelaide bucks the trend of the rest of the country.," Palumbo said.

"There's a lot of activity in the economy over the next decade. I think more investment will come into this market."

Early works on Royal Apartments are expected to commence this year, with major construction activity and cranes anticipated on site from early next year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6109]

Palumbo's return to Kent Town strikes early chord with buyers

Go-to builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">GRAYA</a> is continuing to bulk out its already impressive and diverse apartment portfolio across South East Queensland. Their latest milestone is securing development approval for Silk, its boutique riverfront apartment development in St Lucia.

The approval clears&nbsp;the way for the team to begin construction planning for the 22-residence project.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/silk-st-lucia-16-18-sandford-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">Silk</a> will rise 15 levels from an 810 sqm site at 16-18 Sandford Street, occupying a prominent bend of the Brisbane River with a prized northern aspect across Orleigh Park toward the Brisbane CBD.

The approved scheme will comprise 16 split-floor and six full-floor residences, continuing GRAYA's move into larger-format apartment developments targeting Brisbane's prestige owner-occupier market.

The project has been designed around the site's broad river frontage and dual-direction views, with GRAYA prioritising larger residences, privacy and outlook over apartment yield.

<img alt="Silk St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa5c2349-f96c-4914-a812-1f2cd6827af8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%208.25.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=WY0vEU_7vYjeRJKQHiCwFdMxu8PvFh52" />

GRAYA Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Rob Gray said the project had been shaped around local homeowners wanting to remain in St Lucia without maintaining a traditional family home.

"St Lucia is one of those suburbs people do not want to leave," Gray said.

"They know the river, the trees, UQ, the golf course, Toowong and Indooroopilly, and that familiarity is hard to replace.

"True riverfront opportunities here are exceptionally scarce. What we have designed at Silk is a way to stay in the suburb people love, with the scale and privacy of a private home and far less to maintain.

"This is not typical apartment product. It is a proper home on the river, and that is exactly what this market has been missing."

The approval comes as new apartment development continues to increase across the St Lucia and neighbouring Toowong corridor, although direct riverfront sites remain considerably more tightly held.

GRAYA Co-founder and Managing Director Andrew Gray said securing the approval had removed a significant element of development risk from Silk.

"Genuine riverfront sites of this quality in St Lucia are not something that comes up regularly," Gray said.

"The approval removes a substantial layer of execution risk, and the location underwrites demand in a way very few inner-city sites can.

"The fundamentals here are as strong as anything we have assessed in Brisbane."

<img alt="Silk St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d0f3d734-65e1-48e8-8ed3-2e0715ffcdd9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%208.25.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sOLSs_jdHkXLWbBKzRyayf5BfTb2vPsD" />

Silk will see GRAYA return to a stretch of the Brisbane River where it already has recent construction experience. The vertically integrated group recently completed ARC in neighbouring Toowong as builder for developer Spyre, delivering the riverfront project on a constrained site.

GRAYA will take a different role at Silk, controlling the project from design and development through construction and aftercare under its vertically integrated model.

The development will include a gym and resident leisure areas at ground level, integrated with the river's edge.

Silk joins a growing pipeline for GRAYA across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, which includes Enclave, The Gallery, Coral and Ripple.

The developer-builder has also recently lodged plans for its largest project to date, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-silo-19-chester-street-newstead-qld-4006">The Silo</a>, a proposed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/graya-buys-frasers-newstead-site-plans-the-silo-between-james-street-and-gasworks-precincts">$700 million mixed-use development</a> in Brisbane's James Street precinct.

Silk is expected to predominantly target local owner-occupiers and prestige buyers seeking a permanent riverfront home in Brisbane's inner west.

Registrations of interest are now open, with further details on the project and construction program to be released as it progresses.

<hr />
<h2>SILK PROJECT FACTS</h2>

Developer-builder: GRAYA

Project: Silk

Location: 16-18 Sandford Street, St Lucia

Apartments: 22

Built form: 15 levels

Site: 810 sqm riverfront holding

Mix: 16 split-floor and six full-floor residences

Status: Development approved

Next step: Construction planning underway

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152168]

Jennifer Duke

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News