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Kerstin Thompson's House at Hanging Rock has won the top honour at the 2014 National Architecture Awards.
A favourite for the Robin Boyd Award for Residential Architecture, House at Hanging Rock also took out the Australian Institute of Architects Victorian award for best new house, the Harold Desbrowe-Annear Award for Residential Architecture – New, earlier this year.
The win seems fitting, as rumour has it artist Titania Henderson and her husband commissioned Kerstin Thompson Architects to design the home (pictured above) after they missed out on buying South Yarra's Walsh Street House. The former Boyd family home is now the headquarters of the Robin Boyd Foundation.
Titania and Ian Hendersen remain supporters of Boyd's architecture, and are donors to the foundation.
Overlooking Hanging Rock, the winning home is made of three parallel bands running east to west on a sloping block.
The central and largest section, which overlaps at the ends with the upper and lower bands, holds the kitchen, living and dining areas. The main bedroom suite and a study area are situated in the upper band, and a versatile studio and guest space are in the lower band.
Thompson's design allows the home to take in all aspects of the surrounding environment.
The use of brutalist materials is a defining feature of the house. In June, Titania Hendersen told Radio National's By Design: "This is an environment that has extreme weather conditions, so concrete was important to me. Of course concrete is very difficult to build, and that wasn't easy, but I'm very pleased that I chose this material."
The materials also give the house a high Bushfire Attack Level rating.
This year was the first time the National Architecture Awards divided the Residential – Houses category into new builds and alteration and additions.
West Australian practice Philip Stejskal Architecture won the inaugural award for alterations and additions for a Bellevue Terrace home, pictured below.
<img src="/images/2014/11/06/1Res-AA_PhilipStejskalArchitecture_BellevueTerraceAlterations_BoWong.jpg" alt="">
Source: AIA. Photograph by Bo Wong.
University of Queensland's Advanced Engineering Building by Richard Kirk Architect and HASSELL was the most awarded project of the night, taking home the Sir Zelman Cowen Award for Public Architecture, the Emil Sodersten Award for Interior Architecture and a Sustainable Architecture Award (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2014/11/06/Sustainable_RichardKirkArchitectHASSELL_UQAdvancedEngineeringBuildi_PeterBennetts.jpg" alt="">
Source: AIA. Photograph by Peter Bennetts.
The jury was headed by the Architecture Institute of Australia's immediate past present Paul Berkemeier.
"It is encouraging that so many projects embodied best practice with informed clients, effective procurement methods, appropriate funding models and intelligent architecture. This provides us with great optimism for the future of our public spaces – an area that has so often delivered dispiriting outcomes," said Berkemeier.
Oxlade Drive House in Brisbane by James Russell Architect won the first ever People's Choice Award (pictured below) ahead of last night's ceremony, where it also picked up the National Award for Residential Architecture – Houses (New).
<img src="/images/2014/11/06/8Res-New_JamesRussellArchitect_OxladeDriveHouse_TobyScott.jpg" alt="">
Source: AIA. Photograph by Toby Scott.
The full list of winners are on the next page. Please click below.
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 The National Architecture Awards 2014 winners:
Commercial Architecture
<ul>
<li>The Harry Seidler Award for Commercial Architecture: White Bay Cruise Terminal – Johnson Pilton Walker (NSW)</li>
</ul>
National Awards for Commercial Architecture
<ul>
<li>8 Chifley Square – Lippmann Partnership/Rogers Stirk Harbour &amp; Partners (NSW)</li>
<li>Bread in Common – spaceagency (WA)</li>
</ul>
National Commendation for Commercial Architecture
<ul>
<li>Prahran Hotel – Techne Architects (Vic)</li>
</ul>
Enduring Architecture
The National Enduring Architecture Award
<ul>
<li>CB Alexander College, Tocal – Ian McKay and Philip Cox, Architects in Association (NSW)</li>
</ul>
Heritage
The Lachlan Macquarie Award for Heritage
<ul>
<li> Eternity Playhouse – Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects (NSW)</li>
</ul>
National Commendation for Heritage
<ul>
<li>Former Police Station, 127-129 George Street, The Rocks – Welsh + Major Architects with Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority (NSW)</li>
</ul>
Interior Architecture
The Emil Sodersten Award for Interior Architecture
<ul>
<li>UQ Advanced Engineering Building – Richard Kirk Architect HASSELL Joint Venture (Qld)</li>
</ul>
National Awards for Interior Architecture
<ul>
<li>Bread in Common – spaceagency (WA)</li>
<li>Garangula Gallery – Fender Katsalidis Mirams Architects (NSW)</li>
<li>Hotel Hotel – March Studio (ACT)</li>
<li>Sustainable Industries Education Centre – MPH Architects + Architectus in association (SA)</li>
</ul>
International Architecture
The Jørn Utzon Award for International Architecture
<ul>
<li>Stonehenge Exhibition + Visitor Centre – Denton Corker Marshall (United Kingdom)</li>
</ul>
Award for International Architecture
<ul>
<li>Shelter@Rainforest – Marra + Yeh Architects (East Malaysia)</li>
</ul>
Public Architecture
The Sir Zelman Cowen Award for Public Architecture
<ul>
<li>UQ Advanced Engineering Building – Richard Kirk Architect HASSELL Joint Venture (Qld)</li>
</ul>
National Awards for Public Architecture
<ul>
<li>Australian PlantBank – BVN Donovan Hill (NSW)</li>
<li>Dallas Brooks Community Primary School – McBride Charles Ryan (Vic)</li>
<li>Dandenong Mental Health Facility – Bates Smart Whitefield McQueen Irwin Alsop Joint Venture (Vic)</li>
<li>Prince Alfred Park + Pool Upgrade – Neeson Murcutt Architects in association with City of Sydney (NSW)</li>
<li>UTAS Institute for Marine &amp; Antarctic Studies – John Wardle Architects + Terroir, in Association (Tas)</li>
</ul>
National Commendations for Public Architecture
<ul>
<li>North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club – Durbach Block Jaggers in association with Peter Colquhoun (NSW)</li>
<li>South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute – Woods Bagot (SA)</li>
</ul>
Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations and Additions)
The Australian Institute of Architects Award for Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations and Additions)
<ul>
<li>Bellevue Terrace Alterations + Additions – Philip Stejskal Architecture (WA)</li>
</ul>
National Award for Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations and Additions)
<ul>
<li>West End Tower – Owen and Vokes and Peters (Qld)</li>
</ul>
National Commendation for Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations and Additions)
<ul>
<li>Strohmayr House – Troppo Architects (NT)</li>
</ul>
Residential Architecture – Houses (New)
The Robin Boyd Award for Residential Architecture – Houses (New)
<ul>
<li>House at Hanging Rock – Kerstin Thompson Architects (Vic)</li>
</ul>
National Award for Residential Architecture – Houses (New)
<ul>
<li>Oxlade Drive House – James Russell Architect (Qld)</li>
</ul>
National Commendations for Residential Architecture – Houses (New)
<ul>
<li>Hover House – Bower Architecture (Vic)</li>
<li>Southern Outlet House – Philip M Dingemanse (Tas)</li>
</ul>
Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing
The Frederick Romberg Award for Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing
<ul>
<li>The Commons – Breathe Architecture (Vic)</li>
</ul>
National Award for Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing
<ul>
<li>UNSW Kensington Colleges – Bates Smart (NSW)</li>
</ul>
National Commendation for Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing
<ul>
<li>Gantry – Bates Smart (NSW)</li>
</ul>
Small Project Architecture
The Nicholas Murcutt Award for Small Project Architecture
<ul>
<li>Bicheno Surf Life Saving Club + Boathouse – Birrelli art + design + architecture (Tas)</li>
</ul>
National Awards for Small Project Architecture
<ul>
<li>Balmain Apartment – Durbach Block Jaggers (NSW)</li>
<li>Kew Studio – Sean Godsell Architects (Vic)</li>
</ul>
National Commendation for Small Project Architecture
<ul>
<li>Studio 217 – Amalie Wright &amp; Richard Buchanan (Qld)</li>
</ul>
Sustainable Architecture
The David Oppenheim Award for Sustainable Architecture
<ul>
<li>The Commons – Breathe Architecture (Vic)</li>
</ul>
National Awards for Sustainable Architecture
<ul>
<li>Australian PlantBank – BVN Donovan Hill (NSW)</li>
<li>The Wayside Chapel – environa studio (NSW)</li>
<li>UQ Advanced Engineering Building – Richard Kirk Architect HASSELL Joint Venture (Qld)</li>
</ul>
Urban Design
The Walter Burley Griffin Award for Urban Design
<ul>
<li>Prince Alfred Park + Pool Upgrade – Neeson Murcutt Architects in association with City of Sydney (NSW)</li>
</ul>
National Award for Urban Design
<ul>
<li>GASP! Stage 02 – Room 11 (Tas)</li>
</ul>
COLORBOND® Award for Steel Architecture
The National COLORBOND® Award for Steel Architecture
<ul>
<li>White Bay Cruise Terminal – Johnson Pilton Walker (NSW)</li>
</ul>
2014 Jury
Paul Berkemeier – Immediate Past President, Australian Institute of Architects and Principal, Paul Berkemeier Architects (Jury Chair) Clare Cousins – Director, Clare Cousins Architects Justin Hill – Director, Kerry Hill Architects Virginia Kerridge – Principal, Virginia Kerridge Architect Lindy Johnson – Director, Lindy Johnson (Lay Juror)
Main picture from AIA. Photograph by Trevor Mein.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Kerstin Thompson Architects win with House at Hanging Rock

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A real estate agency has sold a home after the buyer made contact through Facebook.
The apartment in the Scenic Terrigal development was advertised on Raine &amp; Horne Terrigal/Avoca's Facebook page.
According to general manager Brett Hunter, the social media influenced sale was a first for the agency.
"The initial buyer enquiry came through Facebook, with questions answered by us via the social media platform's chat facility. Meetings were booked, prices negotiated and a deal struck for a final purchase price of $810,000," said Hunter.
Selling agent Cameron Clayton also commissioned a website to advertise the development.
"Email is considered old fashioned now, with many buyers and tenants preferring to work with us via faster, more contemporary platforms such as Facebook," Clayton said.
"The sharing of videos through Facebook is also a massive way for us to engage with new buyers," he says.
Videos are increasingly used to market properties, with Marshall White and Century 21 among agents who create video content for listings.
The off the plan apartment sold has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a two car garage.
 
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Like: Social media marketing secures sale

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For those who don't have time to read Governor Glenn Stevens' full November statement or trawl through the latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the Reserve Bank (RBA) has tweeted a visual update on Australia's economy.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/RBAInfo/status/529835809172492289" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/11/06/tweet-nov-6-one.jpg" alt=""></a>
The infographic also serves as a handy reminder of what the Reserve Bank takes into account when deciding the overnight cash rate, which this month remained at 2.5%.
At 2.3%, inflation continues to stay within the RBA's 2-3% target band, while it keeps an eye on the value of <a href="/expert-insights/investing/how-does-the-aussie-dollar-affect-commercial-property">the Australian dollar</a>.
With the average home now valued at $555,000, the RBA continues to flag increasing <a href="/expert-insights/finance/dwelling-prices-continue-to-climb-governor-glenn-stevens-november-statement">dwelling prices</a>.
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Tweet of the day: RBA's economic snapshot

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Over the quarter to September, houses performed better than units in the country's capital cities, according to RP Data.
RP Data's Daily Home Values Index recorded 2.3% growth in house values for the three month period, while units increased by a more modest 1.3%.
The house price growth was largely driven by Sydney's <a href="/expert-insights/investing/sydney-house-prices-streak-ahead-in-september-quarter-rp-data">4.5% quarterly increase</a>, but in the unit market, Adelaide was the best performer.
The South Australian capital recorded a 3.1% increase in unit values. Sydney's unit prices increased by 1.7%, pushed out of second place by Melbourne, with 2.2% growth.
Four of the remaining capital cities recorded a value decrease.
Unit prices in the Northern Territory capital dropped by the largest proportion, with a 4.7% dip.
The quarterly unit price figures:
<ul>
<li>Adelaide</li>
</ul>
Change: +3.1% Median price: $333,000
<ul>
<li>Melbourne</li>
</ul>
Change: +2.2% Median price: $472,000
<ul>
<li>Sydney</li>
</ul>
Change: +1.7% Median price: $590,000
<ul>
<li>Canberra</li>
</ul>
Change: 1.0% Median price: $398,500
<ul>
<li>Brisbane</li>
</ul>
Change: -0.4% Median price: $380,000
<ul>
<li>Perth</li>
</ul>
Change: -3.0% Median price: $450,000
<ul>
<li>Hobart</li>
</ul>
Change: -3.8% Median price: $250,000
<ul>
<li>Darwin</li>
</ul>
Change: -4.7% Median price: $536,200
Source: RP Data.
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Unit price growth outshone by houses: RP Data

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Purchasing property in resource-driven towns often seems like a sound investment.
Big mines can draw thousands of workers, driving up demand. Meanwhile, local incomes may increase significantly, and investors are often attracted to mining towns by the promise of high yields and fast capital gains.
But the rivers of gold can't always last. Mining town investments are also characterised by their volatility, given their exposure to single industries. Yesterday, Property Observer reported that some former mining town "hotspots" are recording price drops of <a href="/expert-insights/investing/from-hotspot-to-bloodbath-property-investment-in-australias-mining-towns">up to 40%</a> from their previous peaks.
While some defend the profitability of mining town property investments, others choose to steer clear.
Property Observer took the question to leading property experts: Can property in a mining town ever be a safe investment?
Margaret Lomas: Author, television host and <a href="https://destiny.com.au/dotnetnuke/en-au/home.aspx" target="_blank">Destiny </a>founder<img src="/images/authors/fullbody/Margaret-Lomas3.png" alt="" style="float: right;">
It never ceases to amaze me how property investors think simply about an asset's present performance when buying, and never consider all of the valid and crucial factors which must be considered before making any investment.
This is what makes mining town investors leap in to investments where the performance is completely linked to a single industry and the overall global economy in a way which can result in serious disaster.
When you become a property investor you must decide whether you intend to be a buy and hold investor or a speculator. A mining town investment is a speculative investment, yet those who buy them behave like a buy and hold investor - they buy in on the way up (and usually when it's too late) and then hold well past the use by date - often resulting in serious losses and abysmal yields when the area plunges on the back of reduced demand for resources.
Make no mistake - all mining town investments are extremely speculative and require precise market timing, both in and out.
Those buying in a mining town must not only have a very large appetite for risk, they must have the capacity to hedge - in other words, hold enough other assets so that, when the area falls in value, the loss can be offset with other stable assets, rather than result in the investor owing more than they own.
Terry Ryder: <a href="https://www.Hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">Hotspotting.com.au</a> founder<img src="/images/authors/fullbody/Terry-Ryder.png" alt="" style="float: right;"> Can a mining town ever be a safe investment?
If "high-risk" is the opposite of "safe" in investing, the answer has to be no. All investments in mining towns are high risk. Markets in mining towns are always volatile, because they are one-industry towns. And that one industry, the resources sector, is fickle and capricious.
Add to that the tendency of developers to dive into boom markets and build way too much new stock, and you have a formula for a real estate roller coaster.
But can a mining town ever be a lucrative investment? Definitely. Even with the decline in resources-related markets in the past year or two, the best long-term capital growth rates in Australia are all in mining towns or regional centres impacted by the resources sector.
The Queensland coal town of <a href="/news">Moranbah</a> is the quintessential case study for the win-lose scenario presented by these kinds of markets. Over the 10 years to 2012, it averaged 30% per year in growth in its median house price, which reached $750,000. Rents were absurdly high, providing double-digit yields.
Then the downturn popped by. Today the median price is $330,000 and rents have dropped so low that the typical yield is 4%.
Moranbah has had downturns before, though never as severe as this one. It will recover in time, although the trend by mining companies towards FIFO workforces means it may never reach those previous heights.
Bottom line: mining towns are only for experienced investors with large portfolios and cast-iron temperaments.
Article continues on the next page. Please click below.
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Catherine Cashmore: Independent market analyst<img src="/images/authors/fullbody/Catherine-Cashmore.png" alt="" style="float: right;">
Is it ever a good time to 'invest' in a mining town? If it was, the time to do so has passed.
However, let's be clear - nothing of value is being 'invested' – the price escalation in a mining town comes from a self-feeding, virtuous cycle of irrational exuberance, taking a short-term bet on continuing rapid 'capital gains' at the expense of a new wave of speculative investors and the creation of more debt.
During the construction phase of the cycle (which typically employs a larger workforce than the current production phase), the surge in demand from fly in, fly out workers initially rises faster than supply can accommodate.  This drives up rents on existing sites, and attracts an increasing inflow of yield seeking investors.
The beneficial effects to the surrounding town and nearby localities, comes in the form of infrastructure contributions – ports, railroads, hotels, schools and so forth, which naturally boosts employment and can aid the long term viability of a region once the boom has surpassed.
However, the steep escalation created by speculative exuberance cannot be sustained. Timing therefore is crucial – and the losses significant.
A change in market prices can happen over night – Moranbah in Queensland for example – where houses renting for $1,200 - $1,800 per week in 2012, were barely able to attract $200-$300 per week in 2013.  Rumour has it that some properties were even offered 'free' for a short period of time, simply to gain tenancy.
The length of the cycle within any given area is determined by feasibility and long-term sustainability of a project.  New mines are planned years in advance, taking factors into account such as quantity and quality of deposits, milling processes, operating costs, capital costs, staffing, access to facilities (roads, rail etc.) and obviously continued demand from offshore markets. However, even assuming a feasibility study passes all the necessary criteria (and few presently are) – it does not guarantee the mine will be successful – or even commence.
To the peak of 2011, high-prices for resources such as iron ore, base metals and coal, were driven overwhelmingly by emerging markets such as China through heavy investment into infrastructure to accommodate rapid urbanisation of a large rural population.
However, China is undergoing structural changes to its economy – the effects of which are hard to predict over the longer term.  The subsequent dampening of its property market and therefore construction, has seen the price of iron ore plummet over recent months. Demand for scarce commodities is likely to continue, however it's not going to buoy a boom of speculative investment into the mining-town real estate sector as was previously the case.
Gamble your dollars elsewhere.
Damian Collins: <a href="https://www.momentumwealth.com.au/" target="_blank">Momentum Wealth</a> managing director<img src="/images/authors/fullbody/Damian-Collins-profile.png" alt="" style="float: right;">
Mining towns certainly can be quite cash flow positive in a lot of cases. But people need to be aware there are a lot of risks associated with that. Particularly if it's a mining town that's associated with one mine or a single commodity, and the commodity drops in value and they cut their workforce.
To some degree you're speculating on a particular commodity. And in some cases, even if the commodity is fairly well priced, the mine can still be fail if it's not profitable.
That's what happened with the BHP Ravensthorpe nickel project. Basically, they shut the thing down eight months later because it wasn't profitable.
The other risk is extra supply coming off the market. Often the towns are fairly small - 20,000 or 30,000 people. It doesn't take a whole lot of extra land supply to come off the market in order to effect rental yields and prices, like it did in Port Headland and Karratha. That's caused rental yields and prices to drop quite significantly, even though the industries are quite strong up there.
Certainly, you need to be very cautious. Our recommendation is that mining towns are not for the first time investor. They're for investors with a decent sized portfolio, with five or six properties, who willing to take on that risk as part of their property strategy.
Article continues on the next page. Please click below.
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Pete Wargent: Author and <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank">AllenWargent </a>property buyers co-founder<img src="/images/authors/fullbody/Pete-Wargent.png" alt="" style="float: right;">
It's possible, yes, if investors buy an asset using an appropriately financed deal, for the right price, at the right stage in the cycle, provided there is some tolerance for price volatility and possible vacancies.
Generally speaking, an investor or speculator buys property in a mining town in anticipation of a new project passing its feasibility studies and progressing to the construction stage, bringing new labour into town and higher demand for housing.
With the China boom really having taken off over the past decade, commodity prices went skyward – iron ore prices between 2007 and 2010, for example, doubled and then more than doubled again - and Australia embarked on a vast and unprecedented frenzy of mining construction.
But the commodities sector naturally cycles, and look at the macroeconomic picture in late 2014.
We have now transitioned into the less labour-intensive production phase of the boom, and as the new producers really begin to hit their straps there is a tremendous glut of supply hitting global commodities markets placing relentless downwards pressure on commodity prices.
Fewer and fewer significant projects will pass feasibility, particularly copper/silver/gold projects, and in the bulk commodity sectors of coal and iron ore.
In short, mining construction activity will drop off a cliff over the next three years, especially in Queensland, Western Australia and, to a lesser extent, New South Wales.
<img src="/images/2014/11/06/ev.owa.jpg" alt="">
Property investment is generally most effective as a long-term play.
Capital cities with rapidly growing populations tend to be an effective inflation hedge since the required supply of new dwellings must always built at in today's dollars incurring today's labour and construction costs, thus underpinning prices.
Mining towns and resources regions at this stage in the cycle are more likely to experience pain in the form of high vacancy rates, declining demand and falling prices.
Pass.
Todd Hunter: Buyer's agent, <a href="https://www.wheregroup.com.au/" target="_blank">wHeregroup </a>director<img src="/images/authors/fullbody/hunter-profile-2.png" alt="" style="float: right;">
The only time mining towns can become good areas to invest in are when the towns are not sole mining towns and have some mining influence.
These locations have a lot more to offer than simply mining, so should mines close or commodity prices change, then the towns don't see the catostraphic fluctuations in house values like sole mining towns do. Some locations that offer this are Townsville, Bunbury, Mandurah (where many fly in, fly out workers live for lifestyle and are close enough to Perth airport to fly north).
The other major issue for mining towns is the huge availability of land which can see massive housing oversupply occur. At any stage large numbers of new blocks of land can be released and sold to interstate investors. In such small towns these large releases can take towns that have almost a zero vacancy rate to huge vacancy rates that see large rent reductions. We see this now in places like Gladstone, Chinchilla and Karratha.
Combine that with mining companies now opting for fly in, fly out labour forces rather than workers renting in town has seen populations reduce as well. In my eyes, it's way too risky!
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Exclusive: Can property in a mining town be a safe investment?

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A partnership between Connect MyProperty and E-House (China) Holdings Limited will allow the Australian company to access 80 million Chinese buyers registered with E-House.
Connect MyProperty, headquartered in South East Queensland, markets Australian real estate offshore and offers services for international buyers, including assistance with Foreign Investment Review Board regulation processes. According to Connect MyProperty, the company converts online listings for "premier" properties to secured sales.
E-House (China) Holdings Limited is listed on the New York stock exchange.
The Australian property section of SINA Haiwai, E-House's international subsidiary real estate site, may now be used exclusively by Connect MyProperty for listings. The wider SINA Leju property portal, of which SINA Haiwai is a part, records about 40 million hits per month.
Last month, SINA Haiwai and Connect MyProperty began conducting tours of Australian properties and developments, beginning at the Foreign Investment Review Board-approved Sanctuary Cove development.
SINA Haiwai real estate general manager Irene Zheng said the company was pleased to be working with its new Australian partner.
"We've always viewed Australia as an attractive place to do business given it is the 12th largest economy globally, it is in close proximity to China, and has a transparent and well-regulated business environment that is the envy of many countries around the world," said Zheng.
"We have been looking for an independent partner in Australia for some time that could help bridge the gap between Australia and China such as language, cultural customs, and regulations in both countries.
"Connect MyProperty's mutual desire for an online-to-offline model and a strong focus on direct, face-to-face communication provides a truly effective and integrated offer for the 80 million members of our Property Buyers Club."
Preston Richardson, Connect MyProperty Director, said the partnership would strengthen Australian-Asian economic ties.
"In particular, the indirect flow-on effects of our partnership have the strong potential to increase the productivity of the construction industry by creating more infrastructure investment opportunities, more developments, and more construction jobs for Australians," says Richardson.
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Deal delivers Chinese buyers club to Australian industry

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<img src="/images/2014/11/05/hodgson-nov-5-profile.png" alt="" style="float: right;">NAME: Carol Hodgson
POSITION: Director, strategic research
COMPANY: JLL
OFFICE LOCATION: Brisbane
How long have you been in the industry?
10 years
What's happening in the area you specialise in?
Queensland is going through an interesting time at the moment with the switch from resource based to more broader based economic growth. However, there are opportunities, particularly in the residential market, and the longer term outlook is very positive.
Describe the most interesting commercial property you have worked on?
A lot of my work is more based on markets than individual buildings. However, I worked at investment companies in London and Paris during and after the global financial crisis - it made for interesting market dynamics and investment strategies.
What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?
Being analytical and building up relationships across the industry. Having a naturally inquisitive nature also helps.
What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?
I enjoy learning about new property markets and their interaction with the wider economy.
Where would you invest a spare $750,000?
I'd either buy a residential apartment in central Brisbane or failing that residential in London (although I might need more than $750,000 for that!)
Which football team do you support?
I'm originally from the north of England so I'm not an Aussie Rules supporter - my home soccer team is Middlesbrough.
What's your favourite app or techno gadget?
Google Maps - it's saved me from getting lost a number of times!
How do you use social media?
I'm not a big user of social media, however, I am fairly active on <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://au.linkedin.com/pub/carol-hodgson/a/79b/39" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>.
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In profile: JLL's director of strategic research, Carol Hodgson

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Sydney's house market had the highest growth of any capital city for the quarter to September, according to RP Data.
The Sydney median house price now sits at $792,000, after 4.5% quarterly growth. The next biggest price gain was seen in Adelaide, with 2%.
Three cities – Hobart, Darwin and Canberra – all recorded a house price downturn for the quarter, while Perth was stagnant.
Tim Lawless, RP Data's head of research, said Perth and Canberra had moved past the peak of the current price cycle, while on a yearly basis, " it is clear that the rate of capital  growth is continuing to moderate".
The quarterly house price figures:
<ul>
<li>Sydney</li>
</ul>
Change: +4.5% Median price: $792,000
<ul>
<li>Adelaide</li>
</ul>
Change: +4.5% Median price: $415,000
<ul>
<li>Melbourne</li>
</ul>
Change: +1.8% Median price: $615,000
<ul>
<li>Brisbane</li>
</ul>
Change: +1.5% Median price: $470,000
<ul>
<li>Perth</li>
</ul>
Change: 0.0% Median price: $540,000
<ul>
<li>Darwin</li>
</ul>
Change: -1.0% Median price: $570,000
<ul>
<li>Hobart</li>
</ul>
Change: -2.7% Median price: $330,000
<ul>
<li>Darwin</li>
</ul>
Change: -2.7% Median price: $566,000
 
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Sydney house prices streak ahead in September quarter: RP Data

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AMP Capital's head of investment strategy and chief economist Shane Oliver says the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) still hasn't ruled out macroprudential policy to curb investor spending.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/ShaneOliverAMP/status/529479747701460992" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/11/05/tweet-nov-5-one.jpg" alt=""></a>
Looking at <a href="/expert-insights/finance/dwelling-prices-continue-to-climb-governor-glenn-stevens-november-statement">yesterday's statement</a> from Reserve Bank governor Glenn Stevens, Oliver noted Stevens still made a point of the level of investor activity in Australia's housing market.
In his statement, Stevens said: "Investors continue to look for higher returns in response to low rates on safe instruments. Credit growth is moderate overall, but with a further pick-up in recent months in lending to investors in housing assets. Dwelling prices have continued to rise."
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, investment housing commitments rose by 0.9% in August while owner occupier housing commitments fell by 0.1%.
Oliver says the RBA may yet implement macroprudential policies, which would see stricter regulation for lending.
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Macroprudential measures possible: Tweet of the day

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The Melbourne suburb of Hawthorn is a favourite among top end owner occupiers and investors alike.
Six kilometres east of the CBD, the suburb sits along Melbourne's private school belt, and is home to Scotch College. Next to Kew and Camberwell, it also offers easy access to Xavier College, Carey Baptist College among many other private schools.
Glenferrie Road is the main shopping and leisure strip in the suburb, with a variety of cafes, grocery stores and clothing retailers. The strip also serves as the central public transport hub, with Glenferrie Station and the route 16 tram. The suburb also houses Auburn Railway Station and Hawthorn Station, while tram routes 48, 70, 72, 75 and 109 also cart private school students to and from the area.
One of Melbourne's older suburbs, Hawthorn has managed to stretch its post-gold rush riches to the present day. It remains a desirable spot to some of the city's wealthiest families, with RP Data recording a median house price of $2,135,000 for September.
Its early popularity also means the suburb is populated with Victorian and Edwardian homes, which are a major drawcard for buyers, according to Marshall White Hawthorn's Stuart Evans.
He told Property Observer that a combination of character homes, local educational institutions and local amenities command demand from premium buyers.
{qtube vid:=Ug3X6GJnYpU}
Evans did, however, also note that the area sees a diverse mix of stock.
"Hawthorn's market is mainly made up of period homes: beautiful Victorians and Edwardian homes. There is a good mixture of apartments - high density living apartments - due to Swinburne University, so we see that offers some great opportunities for investors as well," Evans said.
Swinburne University attracts a number of students to the suburbs, with multiple low rise apartment complexes in the area catering to students.
However, according to SQM Research, the implied gross rental yield of apartments in the area has been volatile, reaching above 10% in mid-2010 and now sitting around 5%. SQM Research estimates that a two bedroom unit is likely to attract $400.30 at the time of writing.
This <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-hawthorn-414307723" target="_blank">two bedroom apartment</a> is currently advertised at $385 per week (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2014/10/28/hawthorn%201.jpg" alt="">
According to RP Data, the median asking price for a unit in Hawthorn is $593,000.
Median unit prices, which grew by 6.4% in 2013, saw a big uptick in 2010, with RP Data recording 32.4%. They certainly fared better through the period than house prices, which dipped in 2009 by 10.8%.
Hawthorn was not immune to the post global financial crisis downturn in prestige prices, although it has made a recovery, with 13.8% capital growth in median house prices in 2013.
The suburb's premium houses still command high prices: late last month, the six bedroom house pictured below <a href="/expert-insights/buying/rammed-earth-hawthorn-5-35-million-sale-rp-datas-top-10-sales">sold for $5.35 million</a>.
<img class="img-responsive" src="/images/2014/10/7/rammedearth_0009_image2.jpg.jpg" alt="Rammed earth Hawthorn $5.35 million sale: RP Data's top 10 sales">
But the high volume of student accommodation means it's not all prestige stock in Hawthorn. At the other end of the spectrum, this <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-hawthorn-106622918" target="_blank">25 square metre apartment</a>, advertised as "larger than most", was offered with a price guide of $99,000 after buyers failed to bite at $165,000 (pictured below).
<img src="/images/2014/09/11/d1.jpg" alt="">
It was on the market for <a href="/news/vic/25-square-metre-larger-than-most-apartment-the-most-discounted-property-in-victoria-sqm">four years</a>, and finally sold in September for $92,000.
Feature photo of Glenferrie Road courtesy of <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Diliff" title="User:Diliff">Diliff</a>/<a class="mw-mmv-license cc-license" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 3.0</a>.
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Suburb spotlight video: Hawthorn – blue chip, but a mixed bag

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

Joel Robinson

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

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Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

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>.

Jessie Richardson

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