It might still be eight years out from the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics, but there seems to be no end to the boom occurring in both Brisbane's house and unit markets.

Brisbane's unit market is on track to grow over 20 per cent in 2024, based on the performance in the first six months of the year.

June marked another 1.8 per cent value jump in units, taking the value increase up to 10.3 per cent year to date, CoreLogic's latest monthly Home Value Index showed. It's the second best performing unit market in the country this year, only behind Perth (+13.7 per cent).

Brisbane's median unit value is now $622,000. The staggering price growth has seen Brisbane unit values overtake both Melbourne and Canberra to be the second most expensive unit market in the country, only behind Sydney.

<h2>What happened in Brisbane’s off the plan apartment market in June</h2>

The main reason for Brisbane's huge price growth, particularly in the unit market, is the supply issues facing the capital.&nbsp;

There are very few developers actively in market, and those that are are focusing on the high-end, luxury developments that might only comprise a handful of apartments.

That's pushing supply to historic lows, while demand continues to swell due to the relative affordability compared to Sydney, and the prospect of further price growth given the billions of dollars of infrastructure projects underway ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics.

One developer able to move ahead with their project is the Sydney-based <a href="/developers/sarazin">Sarazin</a>. They've appointed Hutchinson's to build their <a href="/developments/woolloongabba-qld-4102">Woolloongabba</a> apartment development, <a href="/new-apartments/murcia-residences-east-brisbane-9-overend-street-east-brisbane">Murcia Residences</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=214681]

Murcia Residences, named after its design influence of the Spanish city, comprises 186 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments with open-plan living spaces that integrate indoor and outdoor areas.&nbsp;

Crowning the development will be an infinity pool, accompanied by private poolside cabanas and sun lounges.

Murcia will sit just 500 metres away from the new Cross River Rail Station, slated for completion in early 2025, with the convenient transportation hub set to connect residents to the rest of the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=214651]

There were two notable development applications submitted in June, both in&nbsp;<a href="/developments/newstead-qld-4006">Newstead</a>.

Luxury developer <a href="/developers/fortis" target="">Fortis</a>&nbsp;has tinkered again with their commercial deveopment on Kyabra Street. When they acquired the site in early 2022 when it came with approval for an 11-level timber officer tower.

In February they sought to change the design of the building to create something more in keeping with local architecture.&nbsp;Now those plans are likely to be moot, given the recently submitted plans for a <a href="/architects/bureauproberts">bureau^proberts</a>-designed building with 65 apartments.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Fortis flick offices to apartments in Newstead " data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Kyabra%20St%20east%20pers.png?VersionId=hRC8.BRC23oxayj.iopUAjekM6IBoBtJ" />

The architecture firm suggested in the planning documents that the new proposal better aligns with changing market conditions and the local architectural context.

The new 22-level tower will now house a mix of 54 two-bedroom and 11 three-bedroom apartments.

Jonathan Leishman’s Churchill Development Group is also seeking to add some much needed supply to the Brisbane market, submitted plans for a mixed-use development fronting Breakfast Creek Road.

Dubbed Breakfast Creek Quarter, the proposal aims to transform a 6778-square-metre site into a vibrant residential and commercial precinct.

<img alt="Breakfast Creek Quarter to bring three apartment towers to Newstead" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Breakfast%20Creek%20Quarter.png?VersionId=.q__qZTvUVBhq.eviLHhO_xzuyp21s2W" />

Designed by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/mas-architecture-studio">MAS Architecture Studio</a>, Breakfast Creek Quarter will comprise three towers rising 23, 26, and 28 levels with a total of 752 apartments. Around 80 per cent of the apartments are designated as build-to-rent.&nbsp;

The tallest tower however will feature 164 build-to-sell apartments.

At the ground level, the plan includes an activated laneway and a landscaped civic plaza facing Breakfast Creek Road, envisioned as an extension of Newstead Park, designed to enhance interaction with the streetscape.&nbsp;

The staggering price growth in has seen Brisbane unit values overtake both Melbourne and Canberra to be the second most expensive unit market in the country, only behind Sydney

Joel Robinson

City Beat July 2024: Brisbane units on course for 20 per cent gains in 2024

Cbus Property and joint venture partner&nbsp;Galileo Group has revised plans for their new North Sydney apartment development following the introduction of new height limit allowances if affordable housing is factored into new developments.

Urban revealed in mid-2022 <a href="/news/nsw/first-look-cbus-lodge-plans-for-striking-walker-street-apartment-tower-in-north-sydney">Cbus' original plans</a> for the new on a prime 3,950 sqm site across 173-179 Walker Street and 11-17 Hampden Street.

They've gone back to the drawing board and brought in Rothelowman to rejig the plans, add more levels, and reconfigure the apartment mix. Cbus is now proposing 258 apartments in a development dubbed East Walker Street.

The tallest building, Hampden House, will now rise 30 levels, three more than previously submitted, and home 161 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Hampden House" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f4c8bf77-fe3d-45de-abe7-6d4ff9eed591" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-07-10%20at%209.19.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=r8wwqra28xz02pnuqYwBAzunlzV5pOR3" />Hampden House, the tallest building of the three proposed. Image credit: Rothelowman

Gone are the contemporary terraces that were proposed two years ago. Now a new building, still dubbed Walker Terraces, will span 12 levels and have 78 apartments, 11 of which will be part of the&nbsp;Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA).

The agreement requires five per cent of the dwellings to be allocated for affordable housing, contributing to the broader effort to increase housing supply in well-connected urban areas.

While the documents submitted to the North Sydney Council suggest 11 apartments will be part of the VPA, they also say the other 67 apartments in Walker Terraces will also be affordable. That triggers the new 10 per cent affordable housing criteria as part of new developments which allows developers to push heights and floor spaces up by 30 per cent.&nbsp;

The term "affordable" means apartments will be offered at around 20 to 25 per cent under market rate.

<img alt="Walker House" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a65f9123-1c3b-4db8-bb04-2e96db29ab4e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-07-10%20at%209.03.40%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=7vohYQLdImqRxq6ItOw0s8NnkB6Ac1o." /> 
An artists impression of Walker Terraces. Image credit: Rothelowman

There is a third building proposed on the large site, a five-level building connected to Hampden House. That will have a handful of apartments and a rooftop lap pool.

The new application&nbsp;represents the latest iteration in the site's development, which has undergone two previous concept designs.&nbsp;Local architecture and design firm fjmtstudio designed the 2022 plans, after SJB had had a crack on behalf of Avenor, who sold the site to CBUS in a joint venture&nbsp;for around $150 million in 2021.

The new&nbsp;<a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>&nbsp;proposal&nbsp;aims to address several key issues identified in the previous planning envelope and original development application, the documents suggested.

The issues identified include improving solar access to neighbouring properties, increasing the width of the podium setback for tree planting, and ensuring the facade expression responds to adjacent heritage items.&nbsp;

Rothelowman has incorporated a terraced form at the top of the tower to minimise overshadowing impacts on neighbouring properties, particularly 88 Berry Street and Doris Fitton Park.

<img alt="East Walker ST amenity" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="29e53101-1fea-4f03-a26b-4f9fb3b7538b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/East%20Walker%20St%20amenity.png?VersionId=GZkNqJIbs6SqtAZJPd2pB65x3UeqXw7h" />

The new proposal also includes a two-level transitional podium that more naturally connects the tower with a smaller building on Hampden Street and allows for more planting areas, allowing the precinct to make a generous offering to the street and neighbourhood as a whole, maintaining the leafy green character of the existing context.

The new design also consolidates communal spaces on the ground floor to provide diverse amenities for residents.

<img alt="East Walker St side" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8e16abda-5142-4d10-8f0a-cf31fce71dc3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/East%20Walker%20St%20side.png?VersionId=Anpl12PQW4c3Qegz1qTRqS_K8BIZguQH" />

On the original submission in 2022,&nbsp;<a href="/developers/cbus-property" target="">Cbus Property</a>’s Chief Executive Officer Adrian Pozzo&nbsp;told Urban the intention is to develop high-end owner-occupier residences in this fabulous location, with views across the eastern side of Sydney Harbour and northern Sydney.

“In recognising the prime location of the site within close proximity of the vibrant and burgeoning North Sydney CBD, we seized the opportunity to create this partnership to deliver this outstanding residential development opportunity,” Pozzo said.

<img alt="East Walker St site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e42032ae-6631-43a1-b1c9-6e9494bb9774" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/East%20Walker%20St%20site.png?VersionId=2c5XoNoNK3.zvGiOU6pidgM10rSG73s1" />

Cbus works nationally on large-scale residential projects. They're currently developing 111 Castlereagh Street, the transformative redevelopment of the former David Jones department store on Castlereagh Street.

The original department store, dating back to 1938, will be restored and converted into a nine-level podium, a mix of commercial office space and retail, while a new structure with luxury apartments will rise a further 20 levels.

Cbus' latest in Brisbane is the recently completed 443 Queen Street, a 47-level tower with 264 apartments, while down in&nbsp;Melbourne their next apartment project will be on the dress circle St Kilda Road, opposite Albert Park, on a <a href="/news/vic/cbus-property-set-for-first-st-kilda-road-apartment-development">prime site they secured late last year</a>.

Cbus Property is a wholly owned entity of Cbus Super, the industry superannuation fund for the construction, building and allied industries.

Cbus Property is a wholly owned entity of Cbus Super, the industry superannuation fund for the construction, building and allied industries

First look exclusive: Cbus and Galileo revise plans for new North Sydney apartment development, East Walker Street

The disastrous structural problems at Mascot Towers, and to a similar extent, Opal Tower in Sydney Olympic Park, have significantly impacted people's perceptions of the off-the-plan apartment market.

Mascot Towers, built by J&amp;B Elias Pty Ltd, was evacuated in 2019 due to cracking walls, while Opal Tower, in Sydney's Olympic Park, saw around a third of its residents evacuated for the same reason six months earlier, on Christmas Eve 2018.

The catastrophic failures of the developers and builders of these two towers, along with the ongoing fallout that continues for Mascot Towers owners even five years later, have been major issues in the Australian building environment.

These two major incidents, which constitute a small portion of the market but capture the headlines more than a completed building with no issue, unfortunately tarnishes the reputation of the broader industry, an industry which is seeking to provide housing for Australians.

Fortunately, significant changes have occurred in the building industry since then. Outgoing Building Commissioner David Chandler, who inspected residential development sites and publicly provided feedback on the construction process, asserts that prospective purchasers of off the plan apartments in NSW now face a more level playing field in their favor over recent years.

"This week, various industry and consumer forums have heard testimonies indicating a more trustworthy market. Purchasers are now empowered to make more informed decisions about investing in one of the largest purchases of their lives," Chandler recently stated.

New consumer-facing tools, such as the iCIRT rating service, have helped educate buyers on who are trustworthy developers and builders. Nonetheless, the 10-year Latent Defects Insurance offered by Resilience, remains unparallelled in instilling confidence.

Their new policy, <a href="/news/what-is-latent-defects-insurance-and-is-it-bringing-confidence-to-the-off-the-plan-apartment-market">Resilience LDI</a>, protects buyers from structural defects for 10 years following the building's completion.

The Mascot Towers fiasco would have played out significantly differently had Latent Defect Insurance been available back then.

Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance, believes several issues would not have occurred if the building had been covered by <a href="/news/resilience-latent-defects-insurance">Resilience LDI</a>.

"The first critical factor is build quality," Nugent explains. "Buildings covered by Resilience LDI undergo regular inspections by experts who assess construction quality frequently. This proactive approach ensures that potential problems are identified and rectified in the construction process, long before residents move in."

If any issues impacting structural integrity are missed during inspections, Resilience LDI steps in to protect both apartment owners and developers.

"We implement stringent construction checks to prevent such occurrences in LDI-covered buildings. However, should an issue arise, the policy kicks in immediately to rectify any problems," Nugent adds.

"If the issue renders the building unsafe for occupancy, affected homeowners are promptly provided with fully covered temporary accommodation. There's no protracted process of blaming and finger-pointing among developers and builders."

Developers currently collaborating with Resilience report that prospective buyers are more confident in purchasing properties covered by Resilience LDI. Research data from MatterFact, a data product from Apartments.com.au, shows that 70% of off-the-plan apartment buyers would pay more if their apartment had the Resilience LDI policy.

Leading developers like Deicorp, Abadeen, Urban Property Group, Coronation Property and Princeton have already adopted the Resilience LDI policy for several projects and plan to utilize it in their future developments.

To find out more about Resilience Latent Defects Insurance, <a href="/news/what-is-latent-defects-insurance-and-is-it-bringing-confidence-to-the-off-the-plan-apartment-market">click here</a>.

What would have happened if Mascot Towers had Resilience Latent Defects Insurance 

Following the recent completion of its luxury North Sydney apartment development AURA by Aqualand, leading Australian property group&nbsp;Aqualand&nbsp;is preparing its next landmark project in the area.

It's planning its first hotel and build-to-rent (BTR) project, with the company lodging a Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) request for a mixed-use tower to be built on the site of its existing commercial building at 132 Arthur Street, <a href="/developments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a>.

The 40-level tower includes a 240-key hotel spread across 12 level below around 225 BTR apartments across 25 levels. It will also feature ground-floor food and beverage offerings, a hotel lobby and conference space.

The project will be centrally positioned in the rejuvenated North Sydney CBD, just 450 metres from North Sydney Station and 250 metres from the Victoria Cross Metro Station, which is due to open in August 2024.

The hotel will capitalise on North Sydney’s lack of mid-range highly curated hotel accommodation by offering an edgy and urban vibe, rather than the standard corporate-style hotel offering.

The project also bolsters the company’s commitment to BTR as an effective model to help alleviate the restricted rental market, which remains an important segment of the local housing sector. Aqualand sees the project as capitalising on the growing demand for high-quality and professionally managed rentable residences ideally located within bustling commercial precincts. &nbsp;

Jin Lin, Aqualand’s Group Managing Director, said <a href="/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>&nbsp;is excited to progress its third residential project in the North Sydney Council.

"This project will also see our first foray into the hotel space, which demonstrates our unique ability to pivot to whatever best suits the location.&nbsp;

“We look forward to offering something you’d expect to see in Surry Hills, more so than North Sydney, and have taken inspiration from hotels you’d expect to find in New York’s East Village, Shoreditch in London, or even Berlin.&nbsp;

“We’re envisioning a contemporary ambience, combined with a slick and highly personable front-of-house and professional behind-the-scenes operation, and know this will greatly assist in North Sydney’s ongoing rejuvenation. It will increase North Sydney’s appeal in the tourism sector and help generate a thriving 18-hour economy.

“We’re deeply committed to the North Sydney area as evidenced by our award-winning BLUE at Lavender Bay, which was completed in 2021, the recent completion of our <a href="/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA by Aqualand</a> precinct at 168 Walker Street, and now this second mixed-use tower."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=286067]

Aqualand's lifestyle and hospitality arm, Etymon Projects,&nbsp;has delivered four new venues in AURA’s podium level, which are set to open with the rest of the building this month.

"These world-class hospitality venues will be added to Etymon’s existing portfolio in the area, which already includes Loulou Bistro in Milsons Point and Poetica at 1 Denison Street, to further strengthen North Sydney’s appeal as a thriving precinct," Lin says, adding however that their ultimate commitment remains with their future residents.

"We look forward to providing them with an extremely high-quality rental product, with a large range of amenities and services, specifically designed to elevate their lifestyle, while encouraging a sense of community and inclusiveness."

Aqualand is soon to welcome its first residents to AURA by Aqualand, after <a href="/news/nsw/aqualand-officially-opens-landmark-north-sydney-apartment-development-aura-by-aqualand">officially opening the Walker Street building last month</a>.

Designed by Woods Bagot, AURA by Aqualand comprises 386 luxury apartments above the aforementioned two-level curated food and beverage podium.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Aqualand plans foray into hotel sector with unique mixed-use hotel and build-to-rent tower in North Sydney

Aqualand plans mixed-use hotel and build-to-rent tower in North Sydney after AURA by Aqualand completion

A sales flurry of four sales in as many weeks has seen GALERIE, the new Glen Iris apartment development by LDS Property, approach sellout.

In a positive sign for market sentiment going into the second half of 2024, the buyers transacted quickly.

Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson said three of the four buyers went from enquiry to sale within a week.

"We [Melbourne] haven't had that sort of conversion timeline for what feels like a very long time," Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112375 project_image_fid=250362]

GALERIE has sold predominantly to downsizers, but the recent purchasers presented a different demographic in the building that is expected to welcome buyers toward the end of the year.

Only one of the four buyers was a downsizer, another an investor from Perth who bought the apartment for his daughter to live in, and two upsizers.

"It's a positive sign to see an investor come from Perth who isn't chasing a yield given his daugther will live in GALERIE," Thompson says.

"He, like more and more that are enquiring, is understanding the metrics of the supply, demand, and cost imbalance in Melbourne and is expecting compound growth over the medium to long term."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112375 project_image_fid=250354]

<a href="/buildings/galerie-glen-iris-1538-1540-high-street-glen-iris-vic-3146">GALERIE</a>, backed by Westpac and under construction by award-winning builder&nbsp;<a href="/builders/iurada">Iurada</a>, comprises 29 two and three-bedroom apartments.

Construction has seen the main building structure nearly complete, with Iurada shifting its focus to the internal fit-out of the apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112375 project_image_fid=256710]

Each unit extends to a private terrace or courtyard, with views over the treetop in its elevated position.

GALERIE has been designed by <a href="/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> and sits in landscaping by <a href="/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick Landscape Architects</a>.

The development is located near the intersection of High Street and Burke Road and is well-serviced by various transport options including the nearby <a href="/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a> Station.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112375]

GALERIE has sold predominantly to downsizers, but the recent purchasers presented a different demographic in the building that is expected to welcome buyers toward the end of the year

Sales flurry pushes GALERIE apartments in Glen Iris to over 90 per cent sold

Boutique developer Callex Group is heading to Kew for its latest venture.

Callex is plotting a small development of just seven apartments on an already cleared 1,266 sqm site at&nbsp;9 O’Shaughnessy Street, walking distance to Kew Junction, Glenferrie Road shopping precinct and Victoria Gardens.

The proposed development includes one two-bedroom apartment and six three-bedroom apartments, along with 15 car spaces and six bicycle spaces.

The design by <a href="/architects/carr-design">Carr</a> incorporates elements from the existing built environment, using textures and tones that complement O'Shaughnessy Street and the adjacent Foley Reserve.&nbsp;

"Given the varied roof forms and architectural styles on O’Shaughnessy Street and neighbouring streets the design intentionally reads as a singular and recessive form in its massing and materiality, especially to street and the reserve to the south," Carr noted in their submission to the local council.

"Movement through textured render, hit and mix brickwork for screening devices and a layered landscaped proposal all contribute to a design sited comfortably within its context."

<img alt="9 O’Shaughnessy Street KEW DA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3ebe91e1-c861-49e1-b9fb-18064631590f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/O%E2%80%99Shaughnessy%20Street%20reserve%20view.png?VersionId=zLwcY64PZyZlfqEAMuxLpDNQtWKR8DeZ" />

The apartment layouts focus on connecting internal spaces with external environments, ensuring ample daylight, natural ventilation, and views.&nbsp;

Each apartment has primary views towards O'Shaughnessy Street or Foley Reserve, with dual aspects to prevent purely south-facing units.

Landscaped by <a href="/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a>, new canopy trees will be planted around the front, side, and rear of the property to mitigate visual bulk and provide necessary screening.&nbsp;

<img alt="9 O’Shaughnessy Street KEW site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="04500c12-e604-489b-8d4c-d58729932ec0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Kew%20Site.png?VersionId=0b.njkbiGq3_d2GX6rsO.d.MKU9wFJSu" />

The future development will sit near educational institutions including Xavier College, approximately 800 metres east, and Trinity Grammar School, about 1.1 kilometres north-east.

The <a href="/new-apartments/kew-vic-3101">Kew</a> Activity Centre, which features supermarkets and other amenities, is located approximately 850 metres north along High Street.

First look: Callex Group plan boutique Kew apartment development

Units in Melbourne continued to outperform it's house market counterpart.

Unit values rose 0.2 per cent, according to CoreLogic Monthly Hedonic Index, a modest gain, but considerably higher than the -0.3 per cent decline in the house market.

It was the fourth month in a row that unit values in Melbourne outperformed.

The median value for units in Melbourne is now at $610,000.

<h2>What happened in Melbourne’s off the plan apartment market in June</h2>

One of Melbourne's biggest off the plan apartment developments achieved a major milestone in June.

Nine months after its official launch,&nbsp;<a href="/developers/osk-property" target="">OSK Property</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="/builders/multiplex">Multiplex</a>&nbsp;broke ground on BLVD, the latest tower at the $3 billion <a>Southbank</a> precinct, <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">Melbourne Square</a>.

<img alt="OSK Property and Multiplex break ground at BLVD, Melbourne Square" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-13%20at%206.08.44%20pm.png?VersionId=B_649xLFaYD1Nw78JdyaL31BROFSTDns" />

<a href="/new-apartments/blvd-at-melbourne-square-19-hoff-boulevard-southbank">BLVD</a> will deliver much-needed residential stock to <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a>, just over 600 apartments across a 74-level that will also home private dining rooms, state-of-the-art gyms, a 25m indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, golf simulator, entertainment and lounge spaces, and a two-level co-working area on levels 55 and 56.&nbsp;

Multiplex is expecting to complete the building in Q1 2028.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/osk-property-and-multiplex-break-ground-at-blvd-melbourne-square">OSK Property and Multiplex break ground at BLVD, Melbourne Square</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214125]

There were two residential developments launched last month, in Hampton and South Kingsville.

Melbourne developer <a href="/new-apartments/noetic-place-hampton-28-34-service-street-hampton">Noetic Place</a>&nbsp;revealed its eponymous Hampton apartment development, <a href="/developers/noetic-places">Noetic Places</a>, offering some of the largest apartments on the market in the burgeoning Bayside suburb.

Noetic Place, led by Stephen Barrow-Yu, worked extensively with the local council and community to bring 33 two, three and four-bedroom apartments designed to appear as three individual homes, mimicking the scale of nearby houses on the tree-lined Service Street, within a stroll of <a href="/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>'s beach, village and station.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/noetic-place-hampton-a-celebration-of-design-landscaping-and-community">Noetic Place Hampton: A celebration of design, landscaping and community</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134934 project_image_fid=277880]

Over in&nbsp;<a href="/developments/south-kingsville-vic-3015">South Kingsville</a>, developer Blue Run launched&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/kings-lane-kingsville-56-new-street-south-kingsville-vic-3015">Kings Lane</a>, its boutique townhouse development comprising just 25 three and four-bedroom townhouses designed by <a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>.

The two and three-level townhouses will sit on New Street, tucked away conveniently off Blackshaws Road and near Edwards Reserve.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145042 project_image_fid=279554]

While supply still remains one of the largest constraints in the off the plan apartment market, there were some notable projects mooted for the future.

Developer <a href="/developers/kincrest">Kincrest</a>&nbsp;submitted plans to the Stonnington Council for a mixed-use building on Grattan Gardens in <a href="/developments/prahran-vic-3181">Prahran</a>.

<img alt="Exclusive first look: Kincrest plots new Prahran apartments" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%2010.36.50%20am.png?VersionId=CHSl4.FRxEblmX8Chkbm5NRiGvmTYAZE" />

Kincrest, led by Tom Howgate, secured <a href="/new-apartments/the-osment-prahran-3-7-grattan-street-prahran">3-7 Grattan Street</a> market, and then amalgamated the neighbouring single-level warehouse to create 1,613 sqm and a 35-metre frontage to the park.

The plans by <a href="/architects/cheah-saw-architecture">Cheah Saw Architecture</a> are for 22 apartments across a seven-level building. The two three and four-bedroom apartments, offering larger than standard sizes, something which is built into Kincrest's development ethos, will sit above two levels of strata offices and a ground-floor cafe and retail space that will face the park.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/exclusive-first-look-kincrest-plots-new-prahran-apartments">Exclusive first look: Kincrest plots new Prahran apartments</a>

Camberwell is also set for a new development with the&nbsp;City of Boroondara approving a new 12-level mixed-use development that will become the second tallest building in the area.

The project, at 697-699 Burke Road, Camberwell, has been designed by <a href="/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>&nbsp;for property developer <a href="/developers/above-zero">Above Zero</a> and will have 36 apartments set above five levels of office space and retail on the ground level.

The approval follows an extensive planning process that has been ongoing since 2015 when the City of Boroondara first refused a 15-level, 62-unit development on the 1,950 sqm site.&nbsp;

<img alt="Camberwell set for Cera Stribley-designed mixed-use development after green light" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Cera%20Stribley.jpg?VersionId=GaQwaEBcX2BWEZQzTKwU.SdnNkueblPj" />

The final design, which gained support from both the council and previous objectors, includes office spaces on levels one to five, apartments on levels six to eleven, and a communal rooftop terrace on level 12.

The Camberwell Junction area is expected to need a further 1,500 additional new dwellings by 2051 to keep up with population growth, the planning documentation suggested.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/camberwell-set-for-cera-stribley-designed-mixed-use-development-after-green-light">Camberwell set for Cera Stribley-designed mixed-use development after green light</a>

Developer <a href="/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> also has its eyes on its future development pipeline. Keen to focus on Melbourne's premium owner-occupier market since its expansion from Sydney's Lower Norht Shore, Abadeen, led locally by Andrew Leoncelli, grabbed a parkside development site in <a href="/developments/caulfield-north-vic-3161?sort=">Caulfield North</a>.

Abadeen&nbsp;beat out several other developers to secure 1,060 sqm on Caulfield Park.

<img alt="Exclusive: Abadeen grab next Melbourne off the plan apartment development site" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-06%20at%2010.23.39%20am.png?VersionId=8WDEAS_ndB64HRdLt_hIy5tccDe9dBYB" />

The site at 219-229 Balaclava Road is north-facing and offers uninterrupted views to the north and northwest, over the park and out to the city.

It was offered by JLL with permit-approved plans for a new seven-level apartment development designed by <a href="/architects/cht-architects" target="">CHT</a> Architects.

Abadeen will go back to the drawing board and is engaging a leading architect to tweak the plans to make the apartments larger, but they will stay within the same envelope of what's been approved.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/exclusive-abadeen-grab-next-melbourne-off-the-plan-apartment-development-site">Exclusive: Abadeen grab next Melbourne off the plan apartment development site</a>

City Beat July 2024: Performance gap widening between units and houses

Unit values in Sydney are continuing to trend higher over 2024.

CoreLogic's Monthly Hedonic Index showed another 0.7 per cent rise in unit values across June, following 0.7 per cent gains in May and 0.6 in April.

It was another month units outstripped houses in the harbour capital. House values rose 0.3 per cent in June to be one per cent up over the rolling quarter. Units are now up 1.4 per cent over the same period.

June marked the end of the financial year. Over the 12 months, units in Sydney are up five per cent, to a new median $855,000.

<h2>What happened in Sydney’s off the plan apartment market in June</h2>

The biggest news from the off the plan market in Sydney came from North Sydney where&nbsp;<a href="/developers/aqualand-australia" target="">Aqualand</a>&nbsp;officially opened their mixed-use precinct,&nbsp;<a href="/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA by Aqualand</a>.

Aqualand Managing Director Jin Lin said the project’s completion in time for Aqualand’s tenth anniversary was fortuitous as it perfectly showcases what Aqualand has come to stand for over the last decade.

Aqualand’s Head of Sales and Marketing, Alex Adams, said AURA’s completion is the start of an exciting new phase in the project’s customer journey.

<img alt="Aqualand officially opens landmark North Sydney apartment development, AURA by Aqualand" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/DSC03775.jpg?VersionId=ysntkriVCiHlU.BEG9FHAm0MAk7b4T3m" />

“AURA is no longer an off the plan project," Adams says.

"It’s now complete and move-in ready. This removes any uncertainty in a potential buyer’s mind about purchasing off-the-plan, as they now have no doubt about the build quality. They can now see and feel the construction standards we insist on first-hand."

Towering 28 levels above the streetscape and commanding stunning views of Sydney Harbour, the striking $1 billion <a href="/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>-designed mixed-use residential community features 386 apartments above a richly landscaped community precinct, including a two-level curated food and beverage podium with four world-class venues operated by their hospitality business, Etymon Projects.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/aqualand-officially-opens-landmark-north-sydney-apartment-development-aura-by-aqualand">Aqualand officially opens landmark North Sydney apartment development, AURA by Aqualand</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=284317]

One of the next mixed-use precincts to complete across Sydney is <a href="/buildings/mason-main-merrylands-245-merrylands-road-merrylands-nsw-2160">Mason &amp; Main</a> in <a href="/developments/merrylands-nsw-2160">Merrylands</a>&nbsp;by <a href="/news/coronation-property-launches-its-first-release-in-merrylands-development-mason-main" target="">Coronation Property</a>

Mason &amp; Main has been designed to be the leader of gentrification in the area, with not only an influx of well-designed apartments by Woods Bagot, but to create a central precinct that goes beyond the four walls of the home.

The five towers, a mix of build-to-rent and build-to-sell, will sit above a cool 'Eat Street', which is expected to be open later this year, with a string of hospitality venues and retailers set to create an all-round lifestyle hub for both residents of Mason &amp; Main as well as the wider community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=161007]

Coronation just revealed a completed two-bedroom apartment so prospective purchasers can see exactly what they're buying.

Coronation is expecting construction to be completed by the end of the year, with buyers moving in shortly after.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/inside-mason-main-merrylands-urbans-display-apartment-tour-of-coronations-latest-placemaking-project">Inside Mason &amp; Main Merrylands: Urban's display apartment tour of Coronation's latest placemaking project</a>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mW-jADz8zKY?si=MjAHmlYGMbf2ebeB" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

There were plenty of development applications across Greater Sydney in June, particularly in Sydney's east. The most interesting plans came from <a href="/new-apartments/rose-bay-nsw-2029">Rose Bay</a> where Eastern Suburbs developer <a href="/developers/orosi">Orosi</a> is taking on its largest project to date, filing plans for a new shoptop development at the gateway to Rose Bay.

The integrated developer, who serves as both the architect and builder of its projects, designed the building to offer 50 apartments spanning across a structure that ranges from four to five levels.

There will be 34 two-bedroom apartments and 16 three-bed apartments.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Orosi plan Rose Bay shoptop on key gateway site" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202024-06-19%20at%2011.09.02%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=t.b8xaySLGRrwkYlGmrxHdsEI41l7Ub1" />

It was last year that Orosi, led by Founder and Managing Director Hamid Samavi, secured the vast 3,000 sqm site, a two year-long amalgamation of several lots over The Avenue,&nbsp;<a href="/buildings/dusk-625-627-old-south-head-road-rose-bay">Old South Head Road</a>&nbsp;and William Street.

Samavi told Urban the vision is to create an iconic landmark that serves as a welcoming gateway to&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/rose-bay-nsw-2029">Rose Bay</a>.

"OROSI&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/rose-bay-nsw-2029">Rose Bay</a>&nbsp;will set a new benchmark for architecture and sustainability in The Eastern Suburbs, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and curated retail spaces, including a Kosher café, an organic restaurant, and Sydney’s most iconic wellness centre," Samavi said.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-exclusive-orosi-plan-rose-bay-shoptop-on-key-gateway-site">First look exclusive: Orosi plan Rose Bay shoptop on key gateway site</a>

There were equally striking development plans filed in the nearby Woollahra where&nbsp;Rafi Assouline's <a href="/developers/hsn-property-group">HSN Property Group</a> is seeking to build a luxury seven-level building at 370 Edgecliff Road.

<img alt="First look exclusive: HSN submit plans for $22 million Woollahra apartment development" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Plan%20-%20Photomontage%20-%20DA2024%20206%201%20-%20370%20Edgecliff%20Road%20WOOLLAHRA.JPG?VersionId=5.rpeG78s_EMjsOAAE97E7Bp.lJxBDyw" />

HSN, who has its own building arm, has proposed 19 two and three-bedroom apartments on the X sqm site near&nbsp;the Wolper Jewish Hospital and Matt Moran's The Chiswick.

<a href="/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>&nbsp;has drawn up the plans for the building that "aims to blend with the existing streetscape of Edgecliff Road, incorporating heritage-style elements with a contemporary approach characterised by a symmetrical design, grounded columns, natural stone and zinc for the façade to create a timeless aesthetic."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-exclusive-hsn-submit-plans-for-23-million-woollahra-apartment-development">First look exclusive: HSN submit plans for $22 million Woollahra apartment development</a>

The highest density development submitted across the east was in Bondi Junction, by one of the suburb's most prolific developers.

No single developer has contributed to the apartment market in <a href="/developments/bondi-junction-nsw-2022">Bondi Junction</a> more than local developer <a href="/developers/stargate-property">Stargate Property Group</a>.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Stargate seek new Oxford St, Bondi Junction apartment development" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-13%20at%2012.22.37%20pm.png?VersionId=rIvhIY1K6KnNI8c07UXlJ01Bd.hzPUTo" />

Currently building Centennial Collection, Stargate is staying on Oxford Street where they've submitted $80 million plans for two towers at 362-384 Oxford Street, an amalgamated site on the corner of Oxford and Newland Street.

The new 15-level project will have 111 apartments, a mix of 48 one-bed, 52 two-bed, and 11 three-bedroom apartments. The building will be split into two sections, connected by an internal bridge.

There will be a communal rooftop with resident amenities, as well as commercial spaces on the first two levels.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-exclusive-stargate-seek-new-oxford-st-bondi-junction-apartment-development">First look exclusive: Stargate seek new Oxford St, Bondi Junction apartment development</a>

North of the bridge,&nbsp;<a href="/developers/twt-property-group" target="">TWT</a>&nbsp;revealed another stage of its&nbsp;$1 billion-plus masterplan in <a href="/developments/st-leonards-nsw-2065">St Leonards</a>.

They submitted plans for what was initially called The Collective, but on recent documents was dubbed TWT Village. The two mixed-use buildings will home 137 apartments above retail, hospitality, and commercial office space.

The buildings will be developed on a&nbsp;4210 sqm site encompassing 55-69&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/55-61-chandos-street-st-leonards" target="">Chandos Street</a>&nbsp;and 71-89&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/55-61-chandos-street-st-leonards" target="">Chandos Street</a>.

<img alt="First look exclusive: TWT expand $1 billion St Leonards precinct" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Chandos%20Street%20ST%20LEONARDS.png?VersionId=wxYaIEyhbjAT3IfnhKueA9QYvlGQbHkE" />

<a href="/architects/smart-design-studio">Smart Design Studio</a> has put together plans for the two 11 and 12-level buildings, suggesting in their design statement that the large mixed-use sits within the evolving town centre of St Leonards and is a wonderful opportunity to create a distinctive and appealing architectural and urban response.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-exclusive-twt-expand-1-billion-st-leonards-precinct">First look exclusive: TWT expand $1 billion St Leonards precinct</a>

Double Bay developer SJD is heading north, to Northbridge, where they're proposing a&nbsp;new $45 million development comprising 24 apartments above street-level retail at 57-69 Strathallen Avenue, just off Sailors Bay Road and not far from Northbridge Plaza.

&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Northbridge Hotel to make way for new mixed-use development" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%2012.30.45%20pm.png?VersionId=DVUYXIVF5tvi367ZUelKG9xjVxZbTkMv" />

<a href="/architects/bates-smart" target="">Bates Smart</a> has designed the five-level building which has a mix of just three and four-bedroom apartments. Two EV charging bays will feature in the two-level basement that will cater for 51 cars for both residential and retail use.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-northbridge-hotel-to-make-way-for-new-mixed-use-development">First look: Northbridge Hotel to make way for new mixed-use development</a>

City Beat July 2024: Sydney units continue to outperform houses

Collingwood is a suburb known as one of Melbourne's most vibrant cultural hubs.

For a long time, it has catered to young professionals, predominantly apartment dwellers, who want to be in the heart of what makes Melbourne so appealing.

One demographic that has been overlooked over the years is downsizers. With well over 90 percent of the suburb consisting of apartments and townhouses, larger apartments designed to transition downsizers from family homes haven't been widely available.

However, Duke Ventures, led by architects Joseph Toscano and Dino Pezzutti, identified this gap in the market. Toscano and Pezzutti's architecture firm, DP Toscano, put pen to paper and designed <a href="/buildings/duke-apartments-collingwood-93-wellington-street-collingwood">Duke Apartments</a>, a collection of just nine full-floor apartments, the only recent development offering exclusively full-floor residences.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5366 project_image_fid=61085]

The Wellington Street development, currently under construction by Hamilton Marino, is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. It offers apartments ranging in size from 158 sqm to 185 sqm, some of the largest in the suburb's history.

Each apartment features three bedrooms located privately at the rear, with the living, kitchen, and dining areas opening to a full-width balcony overlooking the Melbourne skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5366 project_image_fid=278517]

To ensure ample natural light and ventilation, the design incorporates a central light well.

The apartments boast a combination of timber floors, timber joinery units, and raw cement ceilings. The centerpiece of each home is the open-plan kitchen, equipped with Miele appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5366 project_image_fid=61089]

Additional features include direct lift access to each apartment and three car stackers at the rear of the building to meet parking needs.

Strategically located, Duke Apartments is within walking distance of <a href="/developments/collingwood-vic-3066">Collingwood</a> Train Station and tram services on Victoria and Smith Streets, as well as the cafes, restaurants, and boutiques on Smith Street.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5366]

The Wellington Street development, currently under construction by Hamilton Marino, is expected to be completed by the end of 2024

Duke Apartments: Collingwood's only full-floor apartment development

Queensland property developer MAYD Group has been greenlit for a $350 million luxury hotel and residential masterplan development in North Kirra.

They've secured approval for a 160-key hotel room and 60 luxury residences including two penthouses and five unique double-storey beach houses.&nbsp;

MAYD, led by founder and director Todd Mould, amalgamated&nbsp;eight sites fronting Pacific Parade, Golden Four Drive and Musgrave Street to create a 4,742 sqm beachfront site overlooking North Kirra Beach.

<img alt="MAYD Group lodges plans for premium five-star hotel and residential masterplan at North Kirra Beach" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/00_4%20%281%29.jpg?VersionId=A2OiKnn4Fc06h0.ioLhhdbnNBZes00hj" />

“The opportunity to develop such a large beachfront site in North Kirra is a rare one that required a development design of architectural excellence and we are very pleased with the plans that we have created in collaboration with award-winning MAS Studio,"&nbsp;Mould said when the development application was submitted in September 2023.

MAS Studio designed the 10-level building at 2-6 Pacific Parade&nbsp;in collaboration with award-winning interior design specialists Mim Design.&nbsp;

“The Gold Coast is a world-renowned tourism and lifestyle destination and spots like Kirra are among the most popular with locals and visitors," Mould added.

"Given the site is just 1km from the Gold Coast Airport that is being expanded for extra capacity to attract new carriers and new international and domestic flight connections, we recognised the need for a five-star hotel, as well as private apartment residences, to meet demand from global travellers and people who work remotely.

“With 90 metres of beach frontage, holidaymakers and residents will enjoy sweeping beach and ocean views from their hotels and apartments, enjoying easy access to the white sands of North Kirra Beach, plus it’s only a short stroll to Kirra where there are restaurants, cafes&nbsp;and boutique stores.”&nbsp;

<img alt="MAYD Group lodges plans for premium five-star hotel and residential masterplan at North Kirra Beach" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/00_1.jpg?VersionId=74P_vrviXz0ihmKqLfyB5l5g98trcdRo" />

There will be two, three and four-bedroom apartments on offer, many benefitting from multipurpose rooms.&nbsp;

Exclusive to the building's residents will be an array of resort-style amenities including a private pool area with a sunken lounge and wet edge, a relaxation zone with sauna, shower and spa, yoga lawn, bar, barbecue facilities, a lounge and a cinema. Residents are also set to benefit from the hotel's five-star facilities, including a port cochere, valet room and laundry services, as well as the hotel pool, lounges and restaurant.

MAS Studio director and lead architect Nick Symonds said inspiration for the masterplan design of the North Kirra project responded to the large site’s prominent position at the gateway to Kirra.

“From the outset of our design process, we have been aware of the importance of this highly visible site and the obligation to create a statement entrance to Kirra, while at the same time blending in with the surrounding built forms," Symonds said.

“The design is strongly influenced by local context, reflecting the unique beauty of North Kirra Beach and relaxed beachside lifestyle, elevating it with luxury dwellings for those who share the passion of this unique lifestyle and location."

<img alt="MAYD Group lodges plans for premium five-star hotel and residential masterplan at North Kirra Beach" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/00_2.jpg?VersionId=TEaSA7CAstwheDPuIpLbXxgZ4u8lUoo4" />

There will be abundant greenery on the podium, which aims to cool the street where a row of beach houses, complete with their own private green courtyards, will provide a residential scaled address to the street.

“The building designs feature deep usable balconies, sunhoods, screens, and an abundance of greenery to compliment South East Queensland’s sub-tropical climate and provide privacy, while expansive windows capture breathtaking views, drawing in the natural light and air deep into apartments," Symonds added.

MAS Studio designed the 10-level building at 2-6 Pacific Parade in collaboration with award-winning interior design specialists Mim Design

First look: MAYD approved for North Kirra hotel and luxury apartment development

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD Group</a> has set a new residential price record in Queensland with the $30 million sale of the penthouse at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-burleigh-88-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads-qld-4220">ONE Burleigh</a> development in Burleigh Heads.

The sale equates to around $37,500 per sqm.

The two-level, 800 sqm penthouse, featuring five bedrooms, five bathrooms, five car spaces, and a private infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean, was acquired by a Gold Coast-based entrepreneur, highlighting continued demand for ultra-premium beachfront product.

Selling agent Freddie Tehle of PRD Burleigh Heads said the result reflects tightening supply of high-quality, large-format apartments in Burleigh.

“There’s very limited opportunity to secure this level of scale and absolute beachfront position in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/burleigh-heads-qld-4220">Burleigh Heads</a>,” Tehle said.

“Buyers are increasingly seeking apartments that genuinely replace a standalone home, and this penthouse delivers that with its size, privacy, and direct ocean frontage.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323057]

The sale comes as construction progresses on ONE Burleigh, a boutique development of 17 full-floor residences at 88 The Esplanade, scheduled for completion in early 2027.

Developed by MAYD Group and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mas-architecture-studio">MAS Architecture</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/sici-design">Sici Design</a>, the project has been positioned as a collection of house-sized beachfront apartments, each occupying an entire floor with around 381 sqm of internal and external living space.

When construction commenced, MAYD director Todd Mould pointed to the long-term resilience of premium coastal real estate as a key driver behind the project.

“Real estate, particularly at the premium end, remains one of the most resilient and proven long-term investment avenues,” Mould said.

“Our ambition is that anyone who buys a MAYD-built product can genuinely feel the care, craftsmanship and commitment we bring to every detail.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323055]

Each residence has been configured with four bedrooms, multiple living zones, a private office, and expansive ocean-facing terraces. Interiors draw on a restrained material palette, including travertine stone, timber joinery, and integrated premium appliances.

Interior designer Sici Design said the approach was to reflect the project’s coastal setting through both materiality and spatial planning.

“ONE Burleigh is our vision of luxury living, designed to bring the essence of Burleigh Heads' vibrant coastal beauty into an unparalleled residential experience.”

Residents will have access to a suite of wellness-focused amenities, including pools, sauna facilities, and dedicated relaxation spaces, reflecting a broader shift toward lifestyle-driven apartment design on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323052]

The project occupies a southern Esplanade site with uninterrupted beachfront frontage, an increasingly rare offering in Burleigh Heads, free from the Norfolk Pines that line much of the coastline and often limit direct ocean outlook.

Mould said the design intent was to balance that outlook with a sense of retreat.

“Living at ONE Burleigh is about how your day naturally unfolds, morning light across the ocean, coffee on the balcony, and being in Burleigh but elevated above the noise.”

The result further reinforces Burleigh Heads’ emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held and supply-constrained beachfront markets, where boutique, owner-occupier-focused developments are increasingly setting new price benchmarks.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146358]

MAYD Group sets Queensland record with $30 million penthouse sale at ONE Burleigh in Burleigh Heads

Apartment developers in the Gold Coast are finding new, creative ways to differentiate themselves from competing projects, as new supply starts to flow through up and down the Coast.

Developer Big Projects brought in the renowned Sydney-based design studio YSG to craft the interiors for The Frederick, Big Projects' new Mermaid Beach project and YSG's first move into the multi-residential development space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5346]

It was a strategic move for Big Projects to bring in a Sydney eye to the development.

“Our role is to give our design partners the space and freedom to explore,” says Matt Barrett, Director of Big Projects.

“We wanted YSG Studio to capture the essence of Nobby’s, to design a building that embraces life, light and connection, while creating a genuine sense of place.”

There are only 39 apartments in The Frederick, including a striking beach house, just 100 metres from the booming Nobby Beach precinct.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5347]

Yasmine Ghoniem, Director of YSG Studio, says their vision&nbsp;for The Frederick "reinvents coastal living."

“Nobby’s has such an iconic energy, it’s one of those rare pockets of the Gold Coast where the community, the beach, and the streets all feel connected,” Ghoniem says.

"Responding to the neighbouring coastline, soothing curves add a relaxing regional overlay, while unique detailing really sets it apart. It’s a place that feels lived in from the moment you step inside.”

A standout feature of The Frederick is its rooftop terrace, an uncommon inclusion for a boutique, low-rise building, where amenity is typically concentrated at ground level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5360]

Positioned to capture panoramic views from the hinterland to the ocean, the rooftop has been designed as a series of intimate zones. It includes a pool, sauna, sun decks, workspaces and dedicated entertaining areas.

“The rooftop was conceived as a collection of spaces where residents can unwind and connect, an extension of the Nobby’s lifestyle,” Barrett says.

Architecture for the project was led by Plus Architecture, with landscape design by LDG.

SRQ Projects Director Nick Clydsdale, who is handling sales at The Frederick, says the majority of enquiry is coming from South East QLD and Victorian buyers who have been actively searching between Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach for some time.

"They’ve reviewed a number of projects, however this one has stood out for its design flair/ appeal,"&nbsp;Clydsdale says.

Site demolition is slated for this month, with construction commencing soon after. Big Projects is targeting a late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110588]

Big Projects taps Sydney’s YSG for first multi-residential project at The Frederick Mermaid Beach

Melbourne-based property developer ALTA Property has this week achieved planning approval for the adaptive re-use of a former commercial tower into a $200 million, 169-apartment project at 10 Queens Road, one of the last developable sites along the Albert Park Lake-fronting boulevard.&nbsp;

Set within one of Melbourne’s most sought-after precincts and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser and Partners</a>, the illustrious building will offer unparalleled views across Albert Park Lake, Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne CBD.&nbsp;

The mix of 1, 2 and 3-bedroom residences will be complemented by a ground-floor amenity featuring private dining, a lounge bar, gym and wellness spaces, co-working, outdoor communal gardens, and retail.&nbsp;

The 17-storey building is a masterclass in adaptive re-use, with the existing commercial building’s façade, shell and internal structure to be retained, before high-end residences are built from the ground up in a newly built Albert Park facing addition to the building.&nbsp;

Sitting atop the building will be two 320+sqm penthouses with private rooftop terraces, which are expected to be priced between $9 - $11 million.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa11211b-5581-43f9-940c-fc84d30a0e61" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/C_04.png?VersionId=Yhf5p_1EgGDu_zOIMFgvA8Ug8j3sTFQs" />

Architecturally, the building will feature a curved, geometric façade that celebrates and elevates the existing structure, with warm, muted tones which were selected to extend the materiality of the existing building rather than contrast it.&nbsp;

Interiors will bring together three metre high ceilings with waffle concrete in some spaces, natural timber, granite and Australian materials, culminating in crafted, generous and considered spaces that are defined by authenticity.&nbsp;

The adaptive re-use means that the Queens Road project will be a sustainability led, high-quality finished product, with a 62% saving in carbon emissions by re-using the existing structure rather than knocking it down and rebuilding.&nbsp;

ALTA Property was launched by Nigel Givoni in 2023, bringing over 25 years of experience in multi level residential delivery.&nbsp;

Melbourne’s property market growth is currently led by apartments. According to RPM VIC Apartments &amp; Townhomes Market Report (April 2026), units are outpacing houses, especially in the middle ring suburbs where median prices hit $757,500 – a four-year high that represents 2.9 percent growth quarter-on-quarter.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="647e13d7-b4bc-433a-9bc9-fe3c3dd4f2ec" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/V_06.png?VersionId=ou4NUCWUgA3NAy.6CQJlEdKX50j3dOk6" />

For ALTA Property Founder Nigel Givoni, this performance speaks to the confidence he has in the Melbourne market.&nbsp;

“Queens Road represents a rare opportunity to continue to shape our presence in the Melbourne market.,"&nbsp;Givoni says.

"With a considered project team and a premier site along one of the city’s most sought-after boulevards, we look forward to contributing to the fabric of this established address.

“Other Australian markets are getting a lot of attention, but I believe the depth of value in Melbourne is being overlooked. The fundamentals are strong, population growth is steady and, based on our preliminary conversations with a leading builder, construction costs are beginning to normalise, creating further opportunity."

Givoni says the project is a&nbsp;highly considered example of adaptive re-use, delivering quality, high-end residences, premium hotel-inspired amenities and an architecturally striking façade, all achieved without the need to remove the existing structure.

"We are really looking forward to the market’s response,” he said.&nbsp;

ALTA Property to deliver $200 million Queens Road apartment tower

Construction is set to begin at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/orchard-mews-glen-iris-18-scott-grove-glen-iris-vic-3146">Orchard Mews</a> in Glen Iris, with&nbsp;PC Whitehall &amp; Sons&nbsp;now appointed as the townhome development moves into its next phase.

The development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/montcoeur">MontCoeur</a>,&nbsp;located at 18 Scott Grove, is now around 30 per cent sold, with completion targeted for late-2027.

Orchard Mews comprises a curated collection of three- and four-bedroom customisable townhomes, positioned within one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>’ more tightly held residential streets. The low-density project has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, bringing together a team known for high-end residential projects across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366285]

The development is defined by its focus on flexible living and long-term usability. Each residence includes multiple living zones and a customisable multipurpose room, allowing buyers to tailor spaces to suit changing needs, whether as a home office, additional bedroom, wellness area or entertainment space.

Architecturally, the townhomes emphasise natural light and spatial volume, with dual-aspect layouts and double-height living areas incorporated into the design. Interiors feature natural stone benchtops, premium appliances, and a neutral material palette intended to support everyday functionality rather than statement-driven finishes.

All residences are all-electric and include private lifts and secure double garages, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainability and future-focused housing in Melbourne’s established suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366277]

Outdoor connections are also central to the offering, with a mix of private courtyards and terraces extending internal living spaces and integrating with the landscaped surrounds.

The Scott Grove address places Orchard Mews within close proximity to some of Melbourne’s key lifestyle and education amenities, including Scotch College, Sacré Cœur, Cabrini Hospital and the retail hub of Chadstone. Public transport access is also nearby, with trams and Gardiner Station providing connectivity to the CBD and surrounding suburbs.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150128]

Construction to commence at luxury Glen Iris townhome project, Orchard Mews

A rare new apartment development has been proposed on the fringe of St Ives Village.

Developer Newquest Property has lodged plans for a low-rise apartment project designed by well-regarded architecture firm Warren &amp; Mahoney, which is best known for its work in the multi-residential sector in Melbourne.

The building, proposed for a 1,916 sqm site on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-ives-residences-3-5-memorial-avenue-nsw-2075">Memorial Avenue</a> opposite St Ives Village Green, has been designed to blend into the surrounding natural environment.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c1c7437-2fba-4345-a6d7-05321714ad3e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.28.46%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=KrYyMaJvNqR7vbx0xbB3Ef8sJ6FuHpmn" />

“Drawing inspiration from the pale trunks and flowering canopies of the scribbly gums and blue gums prevalent in the area, a considered material palette was developed,” the architectural design report states.

“This palette references the established materiality of the suburb while elevating it through refined finishes to achieve a more luxurious architectural expression.”

Of the 33 apartments proposed, 21 will be three-bedroom residences. The remaining mix includes nine two-bedroom apartments, one one-bedroom apartment and two four-bedroom residences. The development will be supported by 62 car parking spaces and 33 secure bicycle spaces.

The proposal would replace two single-storey brick buildings currently on the site.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21422eaf-09a9-4439-9278-b9bd9daf22a1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.38.10%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=v.fXSgcUcEscvOZzqcjG5nk3gVqk_Amt" />

St Ives remains a relatively untapped market for new apartment development. North Shore developer WINIM has a number of projects in the area, while INCA is nearing completion of Ellis Residences.

More recently, Traders In Purple has lodged plans for one of the denser projects proposed in the suburb, a 75-apartment development on a 5,900 sqm site on Cowan Road.

NewQuest, a construction, design and development firm, has delivered over 24 projects across commercial, residential, industrial, and lad markets.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

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