It only took a soft launch for reputable Gold Coast developer Aniko Group to secure almost 50 per cent of their new Chevron Island apartment tower, Orama.

Aniko, led by George Mastrocostas, is only just putting the finishing touches to their onsite display suite at 12-16 Weemala Street, a large site which they acquired in 2021 through GV Property Group.

They were inundated with enquiry from locals, who have made up the bulk of the purchasers in the 102-apartment project since Aniko started its coming soon phase over the summer, Aniko Sales Director Peter Malady says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111898 project_image_fid=209597]

Prices have ranged from $895,000 through to the $3.15 million penthouse, which is expected to exchange next week to a local downsizer.

"Most of the buyers, as we expected, have come from either Chevron Island, or within a five kilometre radius," Malady said, adding that buyers have come from Surfers and Paradise, just the other side of the Chevron Island Bridge.

"Most of them are downsizing their family homes and are wanting a more maintenance free lifestyle in a village community."

Malady said their second largest buying demographic are lock up and leave holidaymakers from Sydney and Melbourne.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111898 project_image_fid=209595]

"There's wealthy clientele from all areas of Sydney and Melbourne who are securing two-bedroom apartments and will use it for themselves when they come and holiday, and will lock it up for the rest of the time."&nbsp;

Malady says Sydney purchasers have, for a long time, been more prevalent across their portfolio than those from Melbourne, however it's been more of an even split at Orama.

Orama was designed by Plus Architecture, who noted in their design statement that&nbsp;the design of the tower was inspired by the natural soft and subtle movements of the surrounding environment, the form dips and curves to mimic these graceful lines.

"This ultimately crafts a highly articulated building which not only takes these movements into consideration, but also captures the picturesque surrounds."

Crowning the project on level 21 is a 550 sqm rooftop which will feature&nbsp;a striking lap pool and spa.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111898 project_image_fid=209596]

Having nearly cleared the 50 per cent sold milestone, Aniko are well on track to kick off construction on time. They're targeting to start the build in Q4 2023.

As a builder developer, Aniko don't have the trials and tribulations of most developers across the Gold Coast, indeed across most of the country.

"We'll be pulling our building team from Athena Residences on Hope Island when that's finished and they'll start building Orama," Malady says.&nbsp;

"It's a rare, and and incredibly attractive proposition for buyers in today's off the plan property market. We don't need to find a builders and battle with cost increases, we just move from one of our own developments to the next. It's a great vote of confidence in the project that we have a 100 per cent completion rate on everything we've done."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=111898]

Prices have ranged from $895,000 through to the $3.15 million penthouse, which is expected to exchange next week to a local downsizer

Joel Robinson

Aniko approach 50% sold at Orama Chevron Island apartments

Property developer Orchard Piper has progressed its plans to develop a $120m mixed-use development in Melbourne’s most affluent streetscape, Toorak Village.

They've received planning permission for the consolidated land holdings at 109 Mathoura Road and 420-426 Toorak Road, which is set to offer just nine apartments and three levels of office space. Orchard Piper will relocate their HQ to the top floor.

Orchard Piper, led by Luke McKie and Rick Gronow, are expected to commence construction in a few months. The project received its permit with unanimous support from the City of Stonnington and no further appeals lodged by the community.

“We are very encouraged by Council’s positive response to the project and their interest in supporting high-quality architecture in the municipality," McKie says.

"This approval will transform a key corner of the Village and make a significant contribution to the streetscape, further driving the Villages’ ongoing resurgence,” says Orchard Piper Director.

The green light for the Toorak Village project marks Orchard Piper’s evolution toward more significant, mixed-use development, appointing internationally renowned Kerry Hill Architects (KHA), who are most known for their award-winning luxury hotel and resort portfolio which includes several Aman Resorts destinations in New Delhi, Tokyo, Kyoto and Shanghai. It will be KHA's first project in Victoria.

“Together with KHA, we are highly conscious of the impact the built form has on community and its enjoyment of streetscapes and surrounds," Mckie added.

"We take pride in our work and hope this quality addition to Toorak will be an asset for generations to enjoy."

Adding to Orchard Piper’s $1.1 billion portfolio, with $200 million of completed projects in the Stonnington locale alone, approved plans for the corner site will see a six-storey residential building complemented by high-end ground-floor retail and commercial offerings.

<img alt="Orchard Piper Toorak Village" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="47652e17-724f-406e-b36a-9ab5f6c73af4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-13%20at%208.20.38%20am.png?VersionId=P9wTi9cyta6BVjbJPkHEpJOB2nUxcgBs" /> 
Fronting 109 Mathoura Road, the residential building will offer just nine apartments, each with three bedrooms and a minimum of three side-by-side car spaces. There will be just two apartments per floor.

Separately at 420 Toorak Road will be three floors of premium offices, with a covered retail colonnade activating the street level allowing premium-grade strata office stock to be purchased within the Village for the first time in over two decades.

Already Orchard Piper has sold the whole floor, 400 sqm penthouse, for $12.5 million, to a Melbourne business identity.

“We have received keen interest from our established network in preparation for this project – so much so, that we have been working with the purchaser of the penthouse for a few years now," Orchard Piper Director Rick Gronow says.

"They realise how rare of an offering this project is, and wanted to make sure they secured one of Melbourne’s finest penthouses ahead of the market, based on their previous knowledge of the quality that Orchard Piper delivers.”

Marshall White's Marcus Chiminello, as well as Kay &amp; Burton's Andrew Sahhar, to conjunctionally sell the remaining apartments.

“We’re seeing the high-end prestige market continually performing in a strong manner which defies the general negative commentary created by increasing rate hikes," Chiminello says.

Inventory levels for quality properties are not keeping up with the pent-up demand for downsizers looking for bespoke, lock-up-and-leave apartments in and around Toorak Village,” says Chiminello.

“Stonnington Council is actively investing in the streetscape’s upgrade, and with younger generations coming through there is a lot of interest in securing a piece of the new Village.”

Orchard Piper’s Toorak Village project is one of its four current projects, part of its $800m pipeline scheduled for annual completion over the next five years.

Currently in its design phase, the developer’s subsequent offering for Toorak Village will see a continuation of the developer’s partnership with KHA for a $400m mixed-use development at the <a href="/news/vic/former-site-of-mercedes-benz-toorak-set-for-400-million-transformation">well-known Mercedes Benz Toorak site</a> located at 7-11A &amp; 17-19 Carters Avenue.

The Toorak Village project is set to officially launch to market in the coming months.

<a href="/news/vic/former-site-of-mercedes-benz-toorak-set-for-400-million-transformation">Read more:&nbsp;Former site of Mercedes-Benz Toorak set for $400 million transformation</a>

<a href="/news/vic/orchard-piper-and-carter-group-set-for-300-million-st-kilda-rd-hotel-and-apartments">Orchard Piper and Carter Group set for $300 million St Kilda Rd hotel and apartments</a> 
&nbsp;

Orchard Piper secure planning permit for Toorak Village development as penthouse sells for $12.5 million

Billionaire John Van Lieshout is putting down a marker on Brisbane's residential real estate market.

His development firm, Unison Projects, has just lodged plans for two very different apartment developments. One is for a boutique project on a recently acquired site in Herston, the other a striking Rothelowman-designed tower in the heart of West End.

The West End tower, dubbed Bank &amp; Mollison due to its prime 2,074 sqm amalgamated site straddling Mollison and Bank streets, sits next to Sekisui Australia's award-winning West Village.

Rothelowman, who also designed the towers in West Village, have taken into consideration the future towers in West Village when designing Banks &amp; Mollison.

They've cleverly staggered the three-structured tower. Its 18-level peak notions toward West Village, and descends toward Bank Street to the smaller 14 level and 10 level buildings.

<img alt="17 Mollison West End" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd29b0d3-e87b-45d8-9b7a-dbdb2c304e88" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-12%20at%202.35.42%20pm.png?VersionId=8pDLeHIBxP.wghDHiiIa8Wa4DF5gmOh1" />

"The tower is a clearly designed collection of distinct towerettes linked by a green lattice, entwined with landscape," Rothelowman wrote in their design statement submitted to the Brisbane City Council.

They said each&nbsp;facade of the building takes a different approach to capturing its natural assets, protecting from the harsh elements of the environment and ensuring privacy between their urban neighbours.

The apartments will sits atop an inverted podium which will home a tenancy which could suit retail,&nbsp;commercial, or community use. A separate food an drink outlet is also planned, along with a landscaped foyer entrance to the building and extensive work from home space for residents.

"The lowest level of apartments has been lifted to create a voluminous subtropical, light filled parkland for the public", Rothelowman added.

There's a gym on level 11, which spills onto an outdoor gym and wellness lawn, complete with a cold plunge and magnesium spa. Level 12 will home a lap pool and pool deck, and a lounge and dining space.

<img alt="17 Mollison West End" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="196f4fd8-c08e-4e68-be75-f0746ad291ba" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-12%20at%202.44.36%20pm.png?VersionId=vgXCGinDtQjstQCG0A4ZMakR8QRfy3yt" />

There will be 101 apartments in the development, designed to target the owner-occupier. The majority of units have three-bedrooms (76). There are 24 two-bedroom units, and a single four-bedroom penthouse.

Rothelowman said Bank and Mollison presents an opportunity to create place, place based on need, and a vision for the potential future of our subtropical city.

"It seeks to be aspirational and progressive in its attitude towards community, inclusivity and generosity whilst seeking influence from the rich, layered and diverse history of the suburb in which it is situated.

"The project examines the challenges of rapid transformation and urbanisation whilst seeking to maintain the “casual suburbaness” that typifies the culture of living in Brisbane."

Planning consultants Mewing said the proposal showcases a high quality architectural and landscape design outcome, which provides an exemplar subtropical design response that celebrates Brisbane’s climate and lifestyle.

"The design concept pursues a high quality architecturally designed and landscaped outcome over the site, to establish a public benefit for the locality, together with creating a very liveable and sub-tropical design exemplar.

<img alt="17 Mollison West End" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5c09fcb-cbbf-4875-8759-bfa639bde5a4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-12%20at%202.46.12%20pm.png?VersionId=0ep8wBi_x8jesl1A8IHbq.a_HAHs_7Cf" />

"The proposed development responds to and addresses the site and contextual characteristics, together with all relevant planning, design and technical provisions of the planning framework, to create a positive and suitably balanced development outcome."

Mewing said&nbsp;South Brisbane and West End have observed a notable gentrification and evolution over the recent decades, creating a weaving of old and new local stories.

They note however that many of the outcomes are done in isolation.

"There are, by comparison, some infill sites that provide the ability to reflect upon the evolution and stitch together the fabric that has evolved. The subject site at Mollison Street and Bank Street, West End is one of those valuable infill opportunities to be pursued."

Unison secured the 2074 sqm corner site in late 2021 for $7.4 million.

It was a big 2021 for Unison. They also spent&nbsp;$8.2 million on a 5,623 sqm site on Fleming Road in Herston and $9.4 million on a seven-lot amalgamation, some 1.3 hectares, in Labrador on the Gold Coast. In 2021 Unison also contracted from Stockland two adjoining 3,004 sqm sites in Birtinya which now have development applications.

Also in their pipeline is the <a href="/news/qld/newsteads-federal-boot-factory-apartment-development-plans-get-refresh">Newstead Federal Boot Factory</a>, which was bought for $5.7 million in 2020. Unison amended the Joe Adsett plans that came with the sale, calling on Ellivo Architects to amend the density down from 52 apartments to 41.

Unison now have a pipeline of over 430 apartments with an end value in excess of $450 million.

Earlier this week Unison lodge plans for their recently acquired Herston project, a boutique 38-apartment block designed by Ellivo Architects.

To read more about their Herston project, <a href="/news/qld/unison-secure-residential-development-site-in-brisbanes-herston">click here</a>.

Rothelowman, who also designed the towers in Sekisui's neighbouring West Village, have taken into consideration the future towers in West Village when designing Banks & Mollison.



First look: Billionaire's Unison Projects lodge plans for subtropical Rothelowman apartment tower in West End

Socially conscious developer Nightingale is set to create nearly 300 apartments in the heart of Brunswick, another project in which the affordability-first developer won't be seeking to make a profit.

Nightingale's latest project is across a massive 6,437 sqm site at 17-19 Hope Street, down the road from their successful Nightingale Village.

They're seeking to create five distinguishable buildings, with five different architects tasked with the designs of each.

Hayball,&nbsp;Neeson, Murcutt + Neille,&nbsp;Kennedy Nolan, WOWOWA, and LIAN are the architecture and design studios have put together plans for a building each. They will each have eight levels and between 53 and 58 apartments in each.

Across the project will be 36 studio apartments, 88 one-bed units, 144 two-bedroom apartments, and 14 three-bedders, as well as 219 sqm of street-level retail.

<img alt="Nightingale Building A" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="404a2227-b0be-4bc1-acce-3e9e63f56d51" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-12%20at%2011.35.40%20am.png?VersionId=YlcBkvBS7mZKPoAIhKXCBP3UNRzRLcqt" />Building A by&nbsp;Neeson Murcutt + Neille

Nightingale will be developing the apartments at cost,&nbsp;meaning it that the apartments will be sold for what it costs to procure, design, manage and construct.

Between 10 to 20 per cent of the project will be either affordable or social housing, with a further 20 per cent of the apartments only offered to key worker groups, such as carers, individuals who work in or support the arts and culture industry, or vulnerable members of the community.

Urban planner Hansen Partnership created the Planning Report which was submitted to the Merri-bek Council.

They said the plan aspires to the idea of the 20 Minute Neighbourhood,&nbsp;where most journeys people make, whether to the shops, work or development, do not exceed 20 minutes.

"To reach this aim, development is encouraged in well-serviced areas close to public transport options," the report stated.

<img alt="Nightingale Building C" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19adb024-a85d-4c1a-8944-c84c62772294" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-12%20at%2011.37.07%20am.png?VersionId=_rl1UhwhdN4w2leO7tzTGenyGdoZ.kI3" />Building C by WOWOWA

"Given the subject site is located on the edge of an activity centre, within walking distance of Anstey Station, it is an ideal location to accommodate medium density residential development."

There will be 15 car share pods to encourage a lifestyle without a car, and 464 bike spaces.

Each building will have an indoor community room for residents, as well as a rooftop garden and communal terrace with generous landscaping.

Nightingale will also create&nbsp;2,750 sqm of open space, which will include Linear Park.&nbsp;The northern entry to the park will be marked by a pavilion surrounded by indigenous species that are a calendar of sorts to the seven seasons of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung.

In addition to the park, the precinct also proposes a large open space in between the east and the west side of the buildings “the Courtyard” and another open space to the east of the buildings “the Backyard”.

<img alt="Nightingale 17-19 Hope Street Brunswick" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1a5996f7-8a40-4b32-8020-30b7985fa87f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-12%20at%201.31.00%20pm.png?VersionId=WngJI9BqwQ0_av_Gr8zxuxtkhx61Mj.." />All of the buildings proposed

&nbsp;

Hansen noted in the planning report that the&nbsp;character of the area has changed over the last few years, the largely industrial precinct giving way to a more mid-rise, residential form.

"The cul-de-sacs created by the Upfield Train line and the large industrial lots together have provided the ideal context for this transformation of Brunswick into a beacon of architecturally-conceived, pedestrian-focused mid-rise development," Hansen said.

"The success of not only single building mixed use developments, but also entire precincts, has shown that there is a significant desirability within the Brunswick, Merri-Bek and Melbourne communities to live in accessible, sustainable and communal developments."

Nightingale has had success in Brunswick before with the recently completed Nightingale Village. Banco Group's East Brunswick Village precinct is under construction, as is&nbsp; Assemble's 4 Ballarat Street.

Mirvac and Milieu will also be creating over 500 build-to-rent apartments at their Albert Fields project on the nearby Albert Street.

<h2>Fast Facts 17-19 Hope Street, Brunswick</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Address: 17-19 Hope Street, Brunswick, VIC</li>
	<li>Site area: 6,437 sqm</li>
	<li>282 dwellings</li>
	<li>36 studio apartments</li>
	<li>88 one bedroom apartments</li>
	<li>144 two bedroom apartments</li>
	<li>14 three-bedroom apartments</li>
	<li>Building A -&nbsp;Neeson Murcutt + Neille - 53 apartments</li>
	<li>Building B - Kennedy Nolan - 56 apartments</li>
	<li>Building C - WOWOWA - 58 apartments</li>
	<li>Bulding D - Hayball - 58 apartments</li>
	<li>Building E - LIAN - 57 apartments</li>
	<li>219 sqm of retail</li>
	<li>15 car share pods</li>
	<li>464 bike spaces</li>
	<li>2,750 sqm of open space</li>
</ul>

Nightingale's latest project is across a massive 6,437 sqm site at 17-19 Hope Street, down the road from their successful Nightingale Village

First look: Nightingale plan not-for-profit Brunswick apartment development

New Melbourne developer JMSN has lodged plans for its first residential apartment development in the heart of Fitzroy.

JMSN, led by Sam Jamieson, is seeking to develop a six-level building at 227 Napier Street, Fitzroy, a 394 sqm site which they acquired mid-last year.

The plans are for just 10 apartments, four two-bedroom units and six three-bedders, with internal living spaces ranging from around 120 sqm to the 205 sqm whole floor penthouse, which has has two living areas, two balconies, and a private roof terrace.

<a href="/architects/warren-and-mahoney">Warren &amp; Mahoney</a>, who are well known for their interpretation of designs with a heritage element, have handled the architecture, noting the project vision is supported by a high quality architectural design response that will see the development fit within its context - neighboured by highly praised and awarded multi-residential developments.

"JMSN is heavily influenced by European heritage architecture and global street culture - delivering a residential building that takes influence from the area’s hospitality and retail offering while also paying tribute to beautiful heritage homes and materiality," Warren &amp; Mahoney noted in the Urban Context Report submitted to the Yarra City Council.

To be alerted when 227 Napier Street hits sales, <a href="/new-apartments/ns227-fitzroy-227-napier-street-fitzroy">enquire here</a>.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ec9b9748-b543-433f-9967-369a581a3338" href="/new-apartments/ns227-fitzroy-227-napier-street-fitzroy"><img alt="227 Napier Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ec9b9748-b543-433f-9967-369a581a3338" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-11%20at%209.38.54%20am.png?VersionId=zLTt57Bx6cAbwu4.JTtQBPeY4E2mimsO" /></a>

"227 Napier Street is in the heart of Melbourne’s coolest suburb - Fitzroy - and is surrounded by other award-winning and highly revered multi-residential developments."

Milieu's 231 Napier Street and Whitlam Place are just a few doors down, as is Dealcorp's CF Row, designed by Woods Bagot.&nbsp;

"The development will be a good neighbour," the architecture firm suggested.

"A good neighbour to its context in that it respects the architecture that is already there; in that it reflects the historical development of the area; in that it seeks to provide cohesion between the buildings already on the block; and in that it provides high quality and higher density living option for Fitzroy residents. It is a building that you want to be in your community; it’s a good neighbour."

The project will feature a large light well, another nod to neighbouring buildings. The large void will create a large courtyard in the middle of the building to ensure apartments get good access to natural light.

"The building seeks to be timeless - built with natural materials and a formality that doesn’t date, as if it has always been there."

The building will sit less than 200 metres from tram stops for the 11 and 86 lines, while bicycle routes line Napier and Brunswick streets.

To be alerted when 227 Napier Street hits sales, <a href="/new-apartments/ns227-fitzroy-227-napier-street-fitzroy">enquire here</a>.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f1ce00e7-8cd3-4b9f-9329-72ed47aa46a3" href="/new-apartments/ns227-fitzroy-227-napier-street-fitzroy"><img alt="227 Napier Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f1ce00e7-8cd3-4b9f-9329-72ed47aa46a3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-11%20at%209.44.21%20am.png?VersionId=wL3HBJumHgWI0pnED7LDN1ta.RH_D0Cy" /></a>

There was a pre-application meeting held in October, with planning consultant Tract noting the comments in the meeting were&nbsp;overwhelmingly positive, particularly in regard to the high level of internal amenity afforded through generous voids and lights courts, and the considered response to massing and articulation of form in response to adjoining buildings.

"The development plans were subsequently refined with a focus on the interface of the building with Napier Street and as guided by consultant input in relation to ESD, waste, traffic, heritage, landscape, wind and acoustic considerations," Tract's planning report read.

When securing the site last year, Sam Jamieson said that "securing the A-grade site in a suppressed market, coupled with a market wide undersupply of apartment developments, gives them supreme confidence in this investment opportunity.

"You&nbsp;only have to look at the success of the neighbouring multi-award-winning developments to see the great results so far," Jamieson said. 
 
"We look forward to sharing the JMSN vision and executing a boutique residential apartment development that will align with the community and stand the test of time."

Fitzroy has been a popular spot for larger, owner-occupier focused apartments in recent years.

Veteran Melbourne developer Piccolo has just launched <a href="/new-apartments/a-piccolo-house-gore-st-fitzroy-385-gore-street-fitzroy">A Piccolo House</a> on Gore Street, while Pace, who are developing The Darley on Flemington Racecourse, will launch their heritage-focused Fabbrica later this year.

JMSN, led by Sam Jamieson, is seeking to develop a six-level building at 227 Napier Street, Fitzroy, a 394 sqm site which they acquired mid-last year

First look exclusive: JMSN file plans for first apartment development in Fitzroy

The Isle of Capri on the Gold Coast is set to see the first large scale residential project in the tightly held island in over three decades.

Local developer Monaco Property Group (MPG) has been given the green light to develop Capri, a gated community with just 48 two and three-level villas.

Designed by award-winning firm Plus Architecture, the 1.2 hectare masterplan will have a central residents lounge, BBQ pavilion, resort style swimming pool, relaxation and cabana areas, and lush tropical gardens.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139511 project_image_fid=213450]

Monaco Property Group Managing Director Jonathan Grasso says the project will bring a new level of luxury and inner city living to Isle of Capri.

“Capri includes five unique villa designs, with large open plan living, multipurpose rooms and villa options of three or four bedrooms," Grasso says.

“Capri will feature three storey residences on Elliott Street with private landscaped courtyard entries, two storey residences on Salerno Street with articulated courtyards, and a mixture of two storey residences opening into the communal area."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139511 project_image_fid=213457]

Landscape architecture firm LDG has designed a lush tropical oasis at the heart of the estate.

The sales display suite is on site, with kitchen and bathroom interiors and the luxury finishes of Gaggenau appliances, marble bench tops and European oak timber floors.

NPA Projects Director Andrew Erwin, who will handle the marketing of the project, says Capri offers buyers possibly the best new and most strategic inner city real estate on the Gold Coast.

“Isle of Capri is unparalleled with its level of connectivity, allowing simple and quick access to Southport and its private schools, Broadbeach and its dining, shopping and entertainment precinct, Bundall and the commercial centre and the HOTA arts precinct.

“Residents will be just a short walk to the vibrant Capri on Via Roma shopping and dining precinct, Surfers Paradise, and world-famous beaches. It ticks every conceivable box.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139511]

Monaco Property Group Managing Director Jonathan Grasso says the project will bring a new level of luxury and inner city living to Isle of Capri

Isle of Capri to get first large scale residential development in three decades

Sydney unit values continued their upward trajectory over March, posting the strongest gains of any capital city across the country.

Following the end of the downturn over February when values rose 0.3 per cent, March saw increasingly improved value rise, up one per cent. That made unit values flat over the quarter.

Annually unit values are down -8.7 per cent, to a new median of $776,780. Hosue values across Sydney also posted gains (1.5 per cent). Their median is now $1.23 million, down -13.3 per cent annually.

Colliers Director Ian Bennett says the price gaps shows how much room there is to grow in the apartment market.

"The traditional price gap between existing houses and apartments sits at around 40 per cent, with the number currently at around 70 per cent this year. At one point in 2022 it sat at 100 per cent, but there is still a very long way to go to get close to any normal levels.

"This in turn shows how much room there is to grow in the apartment market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21170 project_image_fid=210274]

"Our experience this year has shown the bottom of the market seemed to be at the end of 2022, with statistics revealing our three-bedroom stock increasing in value in the last 3 months by 14 per cent.

"The price growth achieved over the last three years increased dramatically, giving owners large equity within their homes. This made it less likely for owners to want to reduce pricing or sell at a loss, putting more pressure on the supply.

"People who purchased three years ago are still better off than they were even after the loss of the last 10 months by at least 15 per cent from when they purchased."

Ray White Projects Western Sydney Managing Director Mark Bernberg saw strong demand continue through March,&nbsp;consistent with the whole of the first quarter of 2023.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112005 project_image_fid=191253]

"Lead generation has been strong," Bernberg says, although says what isn't changing is buyers' appetite to buy.

"There’s no urgency in the market and people are still not sure what their borrowing capacity will be.

"The RBA needs to get the cash rate to the peak, and quickly, so buyers can have confidence in what they can spend and what their repayments will be."

Bernberg says Labor raising the stamp duty concessional rate to $800,000 was also a strong move for the market.

Across the country, values were up 0.6 per cent in March, the first rise since April 2022.

Dwelling values were higher across the four largest capital cities and most of the broad ‘rest-of-state’ regions, led by a 1.4 per cent gain in Sydney.&nbsp;The lift in housing values has been most evident across the upper quartile of Sydney’s housing market, CoreLogic note.

House values within the most expensive quarter of Sydney’s market were up two per cent in March and the upper quartile of the Sydney unit market was 1.4 per cent higher over the month.

“Sydney upper quartile house values fell by -17.4% from their peak in January 2022 to a recent low in January 2023, the largest drop from the market peak of any capital city market segment."

CoreLogic’s Research Director, Tim Lawless, put the rise down to a combination of low advertised stock levels, extremely tight rental conditions and additional demand from overseas migration.

“Although interest rates are high and there is an expectation the economy will slow through the year, it’s clear other factors are now placing upwards pressure on home prices,” Lawless said.

“Advertised supply has been below average since September last year, with capital city listing numbers ending March almost -20% below the previous five-year average. Purchasing activity has also fallen but not as much as available supply; capital city sales activity was estimated to be roughly -7% below the previous five-year average through the March quarter.

“With rental markets this tight, it’s likely we are seeing some spillover from renting into purchasing, although, with mortgage rates so high, not everyone who wants to buy will be able to qualify for a loan. Similarly, with net overseas migration at record levels and rising, there is a chance more permanent or long-term migrants who can afford to, will skip the rental phase and fast track a home purchase simply because they can’t find rental accommodation.”

<a href="/news/nsw/city-beat-sydney-unit-market-insights-for-february">Read more:&nbsp;City Beat: Sydney unit market insights for February</a>

Colliers Director Ian Bennett says the price gaps shows how much room there is to grow in the apartment market

City Beat: Sydney unit market insights for March

Residential cranes across Australia's capitals and major cities are still at near peak levels,&nbsp;Rider Levett Bucknell (RLB's) Q1 2023 Crane Index found.

The residential index representing the number of cranes on residential projects across the country has eased off very slightly from 172 index points to 171 index points. The results are similar to those recorded in the 2015-2017 property boom.

Over the last six months, 292 new cranes were added to new development sites, but 300 were removed from projects nearing completion. There are 835 cranes up across the country, a 3.8 per cent decrease from the 868 cranes in RLB's last edition of the report. The 835 cranes in the Q1 2023 report is still the second highest number of cranes seen since the inception of the RLB Crane Index in 2012.

<img alt="RLB Crane Index" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f73284eb-c266-4b5d-9663-32255f086672" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-11%20at%2010.17.24%20am.png?VersionId=GiuC9xZZuTCaDW1zSSI5DYMyGPEqszPQ" />The number of cranes across Australia. Image credit: RLB Crane Index Q1 2023

Domenic Schiafone, RLB’s Oceania Director of Research and Development said the continuing strong number of cranes observed correlates with the strong national activity numbers.

<h2>Large fall in crane numbers in Melbourne CBD, but residential cranes holds firm</h2>

Melbourne recorded a fall of eight per cent in the Q1 2023 RLB Crane Index.

Across Melbourne, a total of 84 new cranes were added to projects, and 101 cranes removed, representing a net loss of 17 cranes across the region, bringing the current number of cranes to 189, down from 206 recorded in the previous edition.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4522 project_image_fid=208465]

There were two less cranes for residential projects across Melbourne compared to the Q3 2022 Crane Index. Approval values grew over the 2022 calendar year, up 1.5 per cent.

"The apartments sub-sector saw total approvals grow by 42.8 per cent to $6.1 billion, although still below CY 2017 peaks,"&nbsp;Schiafone noted in the report.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173913]

The report found that inner-city remains the region with the highest prevalence of cranes, accounting for 44 per cent of all of Melbourne’s cranes.

Residential cranes in Melbourne account for 53 per cent of crane activity.

To read more about Melbourne crane activity, click here.

<h2>Sydney still the main driver of crane count, but residential tapers off</h2>

Sydney continues to be the main driver of the crane count. Of the 836 cranes sighted across Australia, 365 were in Sydney.

But the residential pipeline in Sydney is shrinking. Approvals for houses were up 2.3 per ent, but apartment approvals were down by 23.1 per cent.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108896 project_image_fid=180669]

The residential sector saw a total of 78 cranes removed and 65 new cranes added, bringing the overall number of cranes in the sector down to 246 cranes.

Inner Sydney (CBD &amp; Surrounds) saw the addition of only 18 cranes, against the removal of 27 cranes. This brings the total number of cranes down to 89 cranes. Losses were almost entirely attributed to the residential sector, which recorded a net decrease of 13 cranes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9302 project_image_fid=188219]

Sydney's crane activity is still the second highest on record.

To read more about Sydney's crane activity, click here.

<h2>South East Queensland reaches a new high</h2>

The crane count in Brisbane declined slightly during Q1 2023, down by five cranes from 35 to 30.

The residential sector continues to be the largest in Brisbane, accounting for 39 per cent of all cranes (30 of 77 cranes), slightly lower than the 43 per cent share recorded in the previous count.

Schiafone says it is interesting to note that that the current 39 percent share that the residential sector maintains in Brisbane is significantly lower than both Melbourne and Sydney, where residential cranes account for 53 per cent and 67 per cent of each city respectively.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112020 project_image_fid=198798]

While Brisbane recorded a net loss in overall crane numbers, the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast have performed stronger, bringing the total number of cranes across South East Queensland to a new high of 153 cranes.

Queensland should see a strong pipeline of activity over the next few years, with approval values for 2022 growing 6.2 per cent compared to 2021.

To read more about the South East Queensland crane activity, click here.

Over the last six months, 292 new cranes were added to new development sites, but 300 were removed from projects nearing completion

Residential crane count across Australia still near peak: RLB Crane Index Q1 2023

The Melbourne unit market saw positive growth over March, as both city-wide and national values look to have bottomed.

Values of units, which incorporates both apartments and townhouses, rose by 0.4 per cent across the capital, according to the latest CoreLogic Home Value Index (HVI).

It followed a pattern of softening declines. January saw values contract -1.1 per cent, before a <a href="/news/vic/city-beat-melbourne-unit-market-insights-for-february">much stronger February of just -0.2 per cent</a>.&nbsp;

Values are now just -0.9 per cent down year to date, and -5.5 per cent annually, considerably better off than the housing market over the last 12 months which declined -10.5 per cent. The Melbourne housing market is too on the recovery, posting 0.6 per cent gains over March.

Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson says the March quarter stats&nbsp;are good news, and appear to be showing that the market has either bottomed out or is very close to it.

"There is no doubt that the prices have been protected by record low stock levels but, the lack of new property in the pipeline suggests that rents will continue to increase and demand will be boosted as immigration continues to build and prices of new property will have to increase to support constructions costs," Thompson says.

"The alternative is that new property is simply not delivered which will further inflate the value of the property that exists as the supply and demand balance tips."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5495 project_image_fid=190763]

Scott Jessop, Sales and Marketing Director Sunkin, who are preparing to launch their 1000-dwelling masterplan in Highett, says the market is boiling up to be a perfect storm.

"When you mix the supply issues with the plight in the construction industry, and the forecasted growth in the immigration, there’s simply not enough housing," Jessop says.

"We’re still around three to four years behind getting back to a sustainable amount of properties being delivered every year.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31946 project_image_fid=211061]

"VIC has probably been one of the most undersupplied states in the whole country since 2017 when the Labor Government made the stamp duty changes and foreign tax policies. They didn’t listen to every expert, forecaster, developer, and now we have a chronic shortage in housing. If the RBA pause rates then look out.

"I’m very bullish about the Melbourne property market as a whole.”

CoreLogic's HVI showed that Melbourne dwelling values (which incorporates both houses and units), are the closest to pre-COVID levels compared to all of the other capital cities.

Across the country, values were up 0.6 per cent in March, the first rise since April 2022.

Dwelling values were higher across the four largest capital cities and most of the broad ‘rest-of-state’ regions, led by a 1.4 per cent gain in Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=210127]

CoreLogic’s Research Director, Tim Lawless, put the rise down to a combination of low advertised stock levels, extremely tight rental conditions and additional demand from overseas migration.

“Although interest rates are high and there is an expectation the economy will slow through the year, it’s clear other factors are now placing upwards pressure on home prices,” Lawless said.

“Advertised supply has been below average since September last year, with capital city listing numbers ending March almost -20% below the previous five-year average. Purchasing activity has also fallen but not as much as available supply; capital city sales activity was estimated to be roughly -7% below the previous five-year average through the March quarter.

“With rental markets this tight, it’s likely we are seeing some spillover from renting into purchasing, although, with mortgage rates so high, not everyone who wants to buy will be able to qualify for a loan. Similarly, with net overseas migration at record levels and rising, there is a chance more permanent or long-term migrants who can afford to, will skip the rental phase and fast track a home purchase simply because they can’t find rental accommodation.”

<a href="/news/vic/city-beat-melbourne-unit-market-insights-for-february">Read more:&nbsp;City Beat: Melbourne unit market insights for February</a>

Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson says the March quarter stats are good news, and appear to be showing that the market has either bottomed out or is very close to it

City Beat: Melbourne unit market insights for March

The RBA halted their aggressive cash rate increases at the April meeting, opting to not hike rates for an 11th consecutive time.

They left the cash rate unchanged at 3.6 per cent.

Below is the RBA statement by RBA Governor Philip Lowe.

At its meeting today, the Board decided to leave the cash rate target unchanged at 3.60&nbsp;per&nbsp;cent and the interest rate on Exchange Settlement balances unchanged at 3.50&nbsp;per&nbsp;cent.

This decision follows a cumulative increase in interest rates of 3½&nbsp;percentage points since May last year. The Board recognises that monetary policy operates with a lag and that the full effect of this substantial increase in interest rates is yet to be felt. The Board took the decision to hold interest rates steady this month to provide additional time to assess the impact of the increase in interest rates to date and the economic outlook.

Global inflation remains very high. In headline terms it is moderating, although services price inflation remains high in many economies. The outlook for the global economy remains subdued, with below-average growth expected this year and next. The recent banking system problems in the United States and Switzerland have resulted in volatility in financial markets and a reassessment of the outlook for global interest rates. These problems are also expected to lead to tighter financial conditions, which would be an additional headwind for the global economy.

The Australian banking system is strong, well capitalised and highly liquid. It is well placed to provide the credit that the economy needs.

A range of information, including the monthly CPI indicator, suggests that inflation has peaked in Australia. Goods price inflation is expected to moderate over the months ahead due to global developments and softer demand in Australia. Meanwhile, rents are increasing at the fastest rate in some years, with vacancy rates low in many parts of the country. The prices of utilities are also rising quickly. The central forecast is for inflation to decline this year and next, to around 3&nbsp;per&nbsp;cent in mid-2025. Medium-term inflation expectations remain well anchored, and it is important that this remains the case.

Growth in the Australian economy has slowed, with growth over the next couple of years expected to be below trend. There is further evidence that the combination of higher interest rates, cost-of-living pressures and a decline in housing prices is leading to a substantial slowing in household spending. While some households have substantial savings buffers, others are experiencing a painful squeeze on their finances.

The labour market remains very tight. The unemployment rate is at a near 50-year low and underemployment is also low. Many firms continue to experience difficulty hiring workers, although some report an easing in labour shortages and the number of vacancies has declined a little. As economic growth slows, unemployment is expected to increase.

Wages growth is continuing to increase in response to the tight labour market and higher inflation. At the aggregate level, wages growth is still consistent with the inflation target, provided that productivity growth picks up. The Board remains alert to the risk of a prices-wages spiral, given the limited spare capacity in the economy and the historically low rate of unemployment. Accordingly, it will continue to pay close attention to both the evolution of labour costs and the price-setting behaviour of firms.

The Board’s priority is to return inflation to target. High inflation makes life difficult for people and damages the functioning of the economy. And if high inflation were to become entrenched in people’s expectations, it would be very costly to reduce later, involving even higher interest rates and a larger rise in unemployment. The Board is seeking to return inflation to the&nbsp;2–3&nbsp;per&nbsp;cent target range while keeping the economy on an even keel, but the path to achieving a soft landing remains a narrow one.

The Board expects that some further tightening of monetary policy may well be needed to ensure that inflation returns to target. The decision to hold interest rates steady this month provides the Board with more time to assess the state of the economy and the outlook, in an environment of considerable uncertainty. In assessing when and how much further interest rates need to increase, the Board will be paying close attention to developments in the global economy, trends in household spending and the outlook for inflation and the labour market. The Board remains resolute in its determination to return inflation to target and will do what is necessary to achieve that.

The RBA halted their aggressive cash rate increases at the April meeting, opting to not hike rates for an 11th consecutive time.

RBA holds official cash rate at April meeting

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292863]

It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]

The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
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First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<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/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

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Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

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Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

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A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

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Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

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Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Joel Robinson

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