Prominent Eastern Suburbs developer Eduard Litver is set to bring something to Double Bay it's never seen before.

Litver, who runs Capit.el Group and is best known for the redevelopment of the Bondi Pacific, has had Japanese architect Koichi Takada design a new mixed-use development in the heart of the suburb,&nbsp;just across the road from The Cosmopolitan Centre where Litver owns the retail component.

Takada's plans include two retail spaces at street level, as well as two food and beverage tenancies.

<img alt="Litver Double Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bca31464-adfe-4449-a085-75193cbc0098" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-20%20at%202.12.13%20pm.png?VersionId=jmP3kefQU116yu.fzaV6WHdG9skPoafg" />

Above will be parking, and then a level of commercial space.

The top two levels will be dedicated to just two two-level apartments. The downstairs will home the living, kitchen and dining area, with two terraces overlooking both Knox Street and Knox Lane.

Upstairs will be three ensuited bedrooms, with the master opening to a huge terrace, another overlooking Knox Street.

Litver has been patient with the project, his first site acquisition dating back to 2018 when he secured 31-37 Knox Street at auction for $12.5 million. A year later he spent $9.83 million on 27-29 Knox Street,

<img alt="Litver Double Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1a813a69-79ed-48b4-a6ed-b69f855397b9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-20%20at%202.12.48%20pm.png?VersionId=OoOAv8R91.OKHe2e9nRYUNUJSi6kMYYw" />

Litver has gone on record previously saying he wants to transform the Cosmopolitan Centre into a world-class venue, having paid $40 million for the retail in 2018.

The Urban Design Report submitted by AE Design Partnership says the design of the proposal has been developed through detailed site and analysis to ensure a contextually harmonious development

"The proposal will enhance the streetscape by redeveloping the existing outdated buildings into a contemporary built form with vertical and horizontal articulation accentuated by sculpted timber look aluminium framing, light timber look aluminium timber batten screens, glazing and upper-level planting," the report read.

Litver has been involved in a number of luxury developments across the Eastern Suburbs over the years. He was a part of the redevelopment of The Bondi Pacific, as well as The Bondi further down on Campbell Parade, and the QT Pacific Bondi Beach on Beach Road.

&nbsp;

<h2>27-37 Knox Street at a glance</h2>

• 178.1m2 of retail floor space and 126.9m2 food and beverage space on the ground floor

• 1,001.6m2 of commercial floor space across levels 1-3

• two large double-storey apartments on levels 4 and 5

• parking located in one basement level and on level 1 comprising:

• 21 car spaces

• 2 motorcycle spaces

• 18 bicycle spaces

Takada's plans include two retail spaces at street level, as well as two food and beverage tenancies.

Joel Robinson

First look: Double Bay's Knox Street to get facelift with Koichi Takada development

Broadbeach's dress circle Surf Parade is set for another high-end apartment tower, with a twist.

Plans have been filed by GPCR Pty Ltd, an entity linked to Panayiota Koukouvas, the co-founder and managing director of popular fashion boutique Sabo Skirt.

While the family's first foray into the development market, they already know a lot about Broadbeach. They have an outlet over in Pacific Fair.

Catering for the owner-occupier, the new tower at 158 Surf Parade, dubbed Sola, will have just 20 three-bedroom apartments across 22 levels.

<img alt="Sola Surf Parade" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8e7490e1-1d3d-49f6-a1fd-78d6256b4faf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-19%20at%209.58.19%20am.png?VersionId=U2g2EHm3TohMe1GH4rw1RZZ4qm39w2Qw" />

The design plans by Prospect Apartment Architecture was to blend the sea and the shore. The tower part of the development was inspired by "sea", the ocean, water, and waves, while the podium acts as "the shore", sand, rocks and vegetation.

"The proposal seeks to sympathetically respond to the existing urban context through it’s high quality architectural expression," Prospect's submission to the Gold Coast City Council suggested.

"The building is orientated towards the East to maximise views of the parkland and ocean, while limiting privacy and overlooking to the neighbouring buildings.

"The slender built form features a considered material palette, layered with screening and expressed slab edges."

<img alt="Sola Surf Parade" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7474e85c-77d5-448a-96ce-3604ad605c18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-19%20at%2010.05.11%20am.png?VersionId=WM_GWRHyi75N0y1up0IfWVlY9CJWQGW7" />

Each apartment in the project will span 200 sqm internally and have three bedrooms, a multi-purpose room, and a kitchen with a butler's pantry. The master suite will have it's own ensuite and walk in wardrobe.

The impressive podium level amenity starts with a full wellness zone, complete with mineral spa and ice pools, a gym, a steam room, and a sauna.

Located separately at the other end of the floor is a covered indoor/outdoor swimming pool and communal deck area.

<img alt="Sola Surf Parade" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f269c13c-bf41-4aff-b2f0-6fa5784df23c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-19%20at%209.58.24%20am.png?VersionId=Bo3jpUysyXSdGcf17Mtj2q.rUQnh4pyg" />

Always a sign that the tower will be delivered to the highest standard, the&nbsp;Kouzoukas family will be retaining a number of apartments for extended family to enjoy.

GV Property Group's Antonio Mercuri and Luke Reaby put the site together. There were six individual owners in the late 1970s building on the 640 sqm site.

Mercuri said Surf Parade and the surrounding streets are developers favourite part of Broadbeach.

"It offers a local beachside community vibe with the Bowls Club, Soccer club, Parklands and playgrounds along with multiple&nbsp;cafes all in the little pocket," Mercuri says.

"This Northern pocket provides a unique offering with open spaces, parklands and world class expansive views.&nbsp;The obvious and one of the best points of the views is that it is 'uninterrupted&nbsp;out to the ocean' plus in the evening&nbsp;you get to enjoy the glitz and glamour of the highrise lights around and up and down the coast."

Surf Parade has been a hotbed for local developers in the last six months.

A few doors down at 152 Surf Parade, Polites Property Group filed plans for a 21-unit tower just before Christmas. Mosaic are currently selling Marella at 146 Surf Parade, and Gallery Group have seen success at their owner-occupier tower Chalk. They're soon to launch Chalk's sister tower, North, to the market. Polycell are also set to start sales of their 170-apartment project Rochester in the coming months.

Bassar Constructions recently finished their Surf Parade project Infinity, which sold out before construction completion.

The project will be on the burgeoning Surf Parade, where the likes of Mosaic Property, Polycell, and Gallery Group are currently developing

First look: Sabo Skirt family file debut Gold Coast apartment tower on Broadbeach's best street

Allen Linz's Rebel Property Group and developer Braxton Capital, led by Andrew Donnelly, are teaming up again to deliver a striking block of apartments in Sydney's Inner West.

The duo have lodged plans for a 51-apartment building at 37-47 Farr Street, ideally located at the quiet end of Farr Street, while still being in touching distance of Marrickville's bustling foodie and brewery scene.

Donnelly says architecture firm PBD created a design that&nbsp;complemented the rich heritage of the area.

“We were fortunate to be given the opportunity to develop one of the first residential sites in the brand new Victoria Road Precinct,” Donnelly told Urban.

“Collaborating with award winning PBD Architects led to creating a design that mingled with a suite of contemporary, yet sympathetic design features. The result is a character-filled mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences in one of the most coveted residential locales in Sydney’s Inner West.”

Linz and Donnelly picked up the Farr Street site midway through last year, but managed to expand the project by securing the adjoining site just before Christmas.

Having already filed their development application for the apartments, they put together a plan for a pocket park for the community, with plans by Arcadia Landscaping featuring integrated seating, barbecues, an outdoor gym, yoga area, and a playground.

<img alt="Farr St Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32d635cf-2d96-4217-a536-5920cfc58cb5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-19%20at%202.56.29%20pm.png?VersionId=wiMSzxIlD0VO7TZJ_LneGHY6qLHQtusT" /> 
The pocket park at 37 Farr Street designed by Arcadia

"We're at the quiet end of Farr Street, so a small park to benefit both future residents of our project, as well as the local community, felt apt for the site," Donnelly says, adding that the aim is to deliver the same type of pocket parks that you'd see in Notting Hill or Kensington in London.

The Farr Street site is located within the Timber Yards Sub-Precinct of the Victoria Road Precinct&nbsp;which was recently rezoned by the Inner West Council. The park at 37 Farr Street will act as a true site link to Victoria Road which is envisaged to be a street full of a new food and beverage scene, as well as supermarkets and services.

Linz and Donnelly are doubling down on Marrickville, which Donnelly says they feel is an underutilized market for a very different type of product.

Across Victoria Road on Faversham Street, Rebel and Braxton, in partnership with prominent Sydney developer TOGA, are creating 34 industrial workspaces, 24 drive-up storage units, and retail space, located opposite TOGA's under construction Wicks Place residential project which will bring 272 apartments to the area when completed.

<img alt="Braxton" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="15f9578e-f85a-46e9-9170-ac1b4a0c9544" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-19%20at%203.06.55%20pm.png?VersionId=c0IWNk_XX_q9jOePt5LowcRZrri28vgF" /> 
The industrial space by Braxton, Rebel and TOGA

"We're introducing a high amenity workspace for locals to enjoy," Donnelly says, adding that while they are deemed "industrial units", really they are more commercial spaces for small businesses.

"It's very much about the decentralization of the office. A lot of people don't want to head into the city anymore, but nor do they want to work from their kitchen bench or even home office anymore. We're developing a bridge between the two, working closer to home but not from your home."

There's been uptake already from tradies, e-commerce companies, and architects in particular.

<img alt="Braxton" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dc32a710-1d26-4e1a-ad6b-1272efc0085c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-19%20at%203.03.50%20pm.png?VersionId=OmaaXv5YyEFr6oLiIeWPcAVeSb6Rrigs" />The industrial space by Braxton, Rebel and TOGA

Donnelly says Marrickville, as well as the likes of Alexandria and Five Dock, allow the opportunity to develop similar industrial/commercial developments within residential communities, and they'll continue to look to these markets for further development.

Braxton and Rebel recently further bolstered their 2023 pipeline, securing a site in Lane Cove where they are planning a townhouses project.

While developing everywhere from residential to industrial and commercial, Donnelly says Braxton's ethos to development is simple: deliver beautiful places for people to work or live.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134278]

“We were fortunate to be given the opportunity to develop one of the first residential sites in the brand new Victoria Road Precinct,” Donnelly told Urban

Exclusive: Braxton and Rebel Property Group lodge plans for boutique apartment building in Marrickville 

The COVID-19 pandemic and the impact it had on the off the plan apartment industry, namely the labour shortage and massive spike in construction costs, was navigated successfully by Canberra's leading developer Geocon.

Their Republic Precinct in Belconnen was the stand out, as the Nick Georgalis-led developer completed the $410 million project with a 98 per cent settlement rate of the 1267 apartments.

“Despite the challenges of the past few years, the vision of Republic has strongly connected with the community as an unrivalled urban lifestyle in the heart of Belconnen,” Geocon Managing Director Nick Georgalis says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6935 project_image_fid=94890]

“What we have accomplished in the past four and a half years has been an incredible achievement for Geocon and Canberra, as a pathway forward to an increase in modernised development."

The Precinct, which dates back to 2017 when the plans were developed, also includes a&nbsp;152-room hotel, 52 commercial tenancies, and 300 space public carpark. It now stands as ACT’s largest mixed-use precinct.

Five of Canberra’s tallest towers and Canberra's first glass towers, The Precinct used 80,000m3 of concrete, the equivalent to filling 35 Olympic- sized swimming pools, over 13,000 tonnes of reinforcement, the equivalent weight of 22 Airbus A380’s and more than 66,000m2 of façade, covering over 9 football fields.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6935 project_image_fid=94892]

“Utilising over 4,000 workers over the course of completion, Republic has been a massive project, one that we think is a huge step forward for the urbanisation of Belconnen,” says Geocon General Manager Damon Smith.

Geocon put together the same world-leading design team, Fender Katsalidis Architects and OCULUS, who created NewActon, to produce something really special.

Architect David Sutherland of Fender Katsalidis Architects said the presence of Republic would reinforce Lake Ginninderra as a recreational focus of Belconnen through the strengthening of linkages to its foreshores.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6935 project_image_fid=94891]

“Republic has been conceived as a further strengthening of the relationship of the city with the water," Sutherland said.

"In doing so the precinct will be an urban marker of this significant site at the confluence of the two arms of the lake.

"In its built form the composition of buildings is redolent of the unique topography of the locale - the hills and valleys, the sky and water."

Proving the achievement at Republic was not a one-off, the settlement success has been mirrored in Geocon’s Tuggeranong development, Aspen Village, with 96 per cent of properties achieving settlement.

The momentum from Republic and Aspen has seen Geocon’s next major precinct, WOVA, achieve 650 sales since launch, despite cautious market conditions.

&nbsp;

The Precinct, which dates back to 2017 when the plans were developed, is ACT’s largest mixed-use precinct

Geocon achieves impressive settlement rates in Belconnen residential project, Republic Precinct

As of January 16, property buyers in New South Wales who are seeking to spend under $1.5 million on their first home, can now opt to pay an annual land tax as opposed to the upfront cost of stamp duty.

The First Home Buyer Choice scheme, will also apply to those who&nbsp;signed a contract of purchase between 11 November 2022 and 15 January 2023. For this group, applications to choose the property tax can be made at any time between 16 January 2023 and 30 June 2023.

If settlement occurs on or before 15 January 2023, they will need to pay stamp duty, and then will be able to apply for a refund of the stamp duty from 16 January 2023.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29359 project_image_fid=207473]

If settlement occurs on or after 16 January 2023, and they have chosen property tax, they will not need to pay stamp duty.

For those who are purchasing land with the intention to build their first home, the price cap will be up to $800,000.

The aim of the scheme is to remove a significant barrier impacting first home buyers entering the property market.

Analysis by Canstar showed that the&nbsp;number of owner-occupier first home buyer loans is over 31.3 per cent down over the 12 months to November, after numbers retreated a further 5.5 per cent over the month.

For a $1.5 million purchase in New South Wales, buyers would be expected to pay $67,000 in stamp duty, which is in addition to a minimum 10 per cent deposit, a total of over $210,000 upfront with both costs before taking ownership of the property.

Annual property tax payments are based on the land value of the purchased property. The property tax rates for 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 will be $400,&nbsp;plus an additional cost of 0.3 per cent of land value.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112005 project_image_fid=191253]

Premier Dominic Perrottet said this choice will empower first home buyers as they head out to auctions and inspections over the weekend.

“Starting today, first home buyers will get a huge boost with a system that helps rather than hinders their journey to owning their first home,” Perrottet said.

“The opportunity starts now, with buyers able to choose the option that will suit their own financial circumstances and see them come out ahead in the long run.”

Treasurer Matt Kean said more than 6,000 first home buyers are estimated to choose the annual property fee each year.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6552 project_image_fid=202005]

“This is about giving home hunters the chance to decide what works best for them. It will give people greater flexibility as they approach one of the biggest investment decisions most will make in their lifetime,” Kean said.

“Home ownership builds economic security, financial independence, personal freedom and offers people a stake in our nation. This reform will bring thousands of people closer to that dream, sooner.”

The First Home Buyer Choice is a key component of the Government’s $2.8 billion Housing Package announced in the 2022-23 NSW Budget.

For more information visit the NSW Government website <a href="https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/services/housing-and-property/land-tax-property-tax-and-stamp-duty">here</a>.&nbsp;

Analysis by Canstar showed that the number of owner-occupier first home buyer loans is over 31.3 per cent down over the 12 months to November


Changes to NSW stamp duty explained: What it means for first home buyers

High-end developer Fortis have submitted plans for a new project in Melbourne's St Kilda.

Fortis, who operate in Sydney and Melbourne's most sought-after areas,&nbsp;is seeking to create 39 apartments at 61-73 Fitzroy Street, a 2,661 sqm amalgamated site secured last year.

Fortis said they've long been interested in St Kilda, and in particularly Fitzroy Street.

"St Kilda has a colourful history, character &amp; charm and a unique position within Melbourne – immediate proximity to the CBD, parks and unrivalled amenity, yet distinctly coastal featuring one of Australia’s most well-known beaches," Fortis Director Charles Mellick, who co-founded the company in 2016 alongside Patrick Keenan and Dan Gallen, told Urban.

"Fitzroy Street is one of Melbourne’s most historic grand boulevards which has admittedly seen better days, but here lies the challenge and opportunity to breathe new life into the precinct."

<img alt="Fitzroy Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="963e4f3e-d07a-479e-9b77-74810ab1440c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-17%20at%2011.54.50%20am.png?VersionId=BHfcEhyzkobBQ.hM0QYJMqK9KJ0THT8W" />

Fortis have had Woods Bagot design the Fitzroy Street project, which will also reinvigorate Fitzroy Street and benefit the local community.

Fortis called it a "precinct defining opportunity."

The site has a 65 metre street frontage, and a&nbsp;strategic location, at the mid-point of Fitzroy Street.

"Our proposal will be a catalyst for rejuvenation,"&nbsp;the documents submitted to Port Phillip Council noted.

"This opportunity is to redefine the local area and play a key part in the Fitzroy Street’s return to former grandeur.

"The extensive frontage to Fitzroy Street offers immense opportunity for activation in what is currently a run-down retail strip."

<img alt="Fortis Fitzroy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="80ba4998-4658-4262-9e53-7f143d1dcc2e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-17%20at%2011.55.25%20am.png?VersionId=zI3tE6UU.bCJeoq8lZ3l76HxxkJVGniA" />

There will be around 950 sqm of hand selected retailers, likely to be a providore, a bakery, or a signature food and beverage venture.

"[The retailers will cater] to the daily needs of surrounding residents, provide passive day and night activation and give everyone a compelling reason to visit Fitzroy Street."

The 39 apartments will be located above and behind the retail, focusing on "quality not quantity."

"Lucky future residents will enjoy refined common amenity on the ground floor, the retail experience, beachside living and everything St Kilda has to offer on their doorstep," the documents stated.

There will be just three one-bed apartments, 19 two-bedders, and 10 three-bedroom units.

<img alt="Fitzroy Street Fortis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a00b731-ad77-438d-ab96-315f761df527" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-17%20at%2011.54.58%20am.png?VersionId=bb.l8xq770FlLQQv3ppe3Ac9B14RKvQT" />

Two three-bedroom duplex penthouses will be on offer, as well as five three-bedroom penthouses.

The plans have 100 parking spaces, and 39 bike spaces.

Fortis say the existing architecture in St Kilda influenced the design of the project.

<img alt="Fitzroy Street Fortis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4ed034bd-450a-4d15-bf4c-ed629cabf5a5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-17%20at%2011.55.07%20am.png?VersionId=wyOTZj8XzOZNHqDUGuNSl1QL1dwITGbx" />

"Victorian Grandeur is a prevalent motif and its contribution to the character and charm of St Kilda is apparent through the use of refined fretwork and double columns," the design statement noted, citing&nbsp;St Kilda's Linden Gallery as an influence.

"This former grandeur has become a recognisable feature of current day St Kilda. Our proposal seeks to rejuvenate this charm through its façade articulation, balustrades and generous planter boxes. The intention is to add a further layer of contemporary charm and character to St Kilda."

Cobild Construction have already been appointed as the lead construction partner on the project, having already been appointed to 10 of Fortis' projects since teaming up together in 2018. Local landscape designer Florian Wild are in charge of the landscaping.

Fortis have had Woods Bagot design the Fitzroy Street project, which will also reinvigorate Fitzroy Street and benefit the local community




First look exclusive: Fortis lodge St Kilda precinct plans

The prolific Bondi Beach developers Eduard Litver and Allen Linz are back developing on the beachfront.

Litver, who runs Capit.el Group, and Linz, of Rebel Property Group, are teaming up with fellow eastern suburbs property developer Gil Baron to create a boutique project at 14-18 Campbell Parade, which runs all the way along the beach front.

The trio, under the development name Bondi Residence Pty Ltd, spent $15 million early last year on a commercial building at the south end of the beach opposite Notts Avenue, the exclusive street of Icebergs and some of Bondi's most expensive apartments. Currently the building is home to Bondi Beach Chemist and Kelp Hairdressing, and a handful of apartments.

The original building on the site was named the Cliff House Hotel, and was built around 1880. The Cliff House was demolished in the early 1920s and a new hotel (now Hotel Astra), was built by Jack Shaw around 1926. The remainder of the site was subdivided and sold, and the current building was constructed a few years later.

Litver, Linz and Baron are proposing the redevelopment of the block, creating seven apartments.&nbsp;

<img alt="Bondi Beach" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50423848-3fcf-46a5-a09c-3746b4cace3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-16%20at%201.24.03%20pm.png?VersionId=7c6f0I68Tuf5iKB_eJyTRQdlKvQ5tPZl" />

Brian Meyerson's MHNDU note in their design statement that the&nbsp;proposed development aims to contextually `fit in’ with both its immediate neighbours and the wider suburb.

"The proposed new building had been designed to retain the form and understanding of the Inter-war Flat Building when viewed from the public domain," the design statement submitted to Waverley Council read.

They state the different apartment types and sizes are deemed suitable for the desired character of the area, aiming to attract a range of owners from families and downsizers to young professionals.

There will be six two-bedroom apartments on offer, each occupying half a floor and spanning 86 sqm. The whole top level is crowned by a whole floor, three-bedroom apartment, complete with a fireplace and a full-width, ocean-facing terrace.

"The building is designed generous apartment sizes and internal dimensions to create usable, functional and highly saleable apartments of excellent quality", MHNDU added.

<img alt="Campbell Parade" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ddff0f18-9da9-4bd1-9b5a-b04e8e819043" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-16%20at%201.27.59%20pm.png?VersionId=LqNSXCzjkqlilSSEtb61CpyvUDVPtUoo" />

"The apartments facing Campbell Parade are furnished with generous private open spaces overlooking the street which will enjoy direct beach and water views and are considered highly amenable.

"As these apartments are generally East facing they will receive direct morning sunlight and the design aims to maximise this will full width sliding glazed doors to each apartment.

"Coupled with this are the enclosed bay windows which aim to be extensions of living rooms offering a truly inside/outside space and are designed to be habitable all throughout the year and even on cold, wet, windy days."

A focus on the design was to minimise energy use and maximise the efficient use of resources.

Each apartment has a 100 per cent rate of natural cross ventilation, while balcony projections help to control solar access and heat gain by limiting summer sun penetration&nbsp;whilst allowing the lower winter sun to penetrate deep in to the plan and private open spaces.

The ground floor is planned for a single retail tenancy.

Litver, Linz and Baron have all teamed up previously in Bondi. In&nbsp;2016 they spent $19.12 million on the former Bates milk bar at 124 Campbell Parade.

Litver and Linz are well known for their redevelopment of the Bondi Pacific building up the street.

<ul>
</ul>

Brian Meyerson's MHNDU said that the proposed development aims to contextually `fit in’ with both its immediate neighbours and the wider suburb


First look: New apartments set for Bondi Beach's Campbell Parade

The Miles Residences penthouse at Kirra Point will be the most elevated penthouse on the southern Gold Coast when it’s completed at the end of 2023.

The sprawling 760 sqm, split-level apartment tops Miles Residences, the residential component of regarded developer KTQ’s $380 million redevelopment of the Kirra Beach Hotel.

It crowns a further 114 apartments, which were all snapped up in just a couple of months in late 2020 when the striking project was launched.

But the penthouse was reserved for a little later in the marketing campaign, given it's uniqueness, but also to it’s $16.75 million price tag, which would make it the second most expensive off the plan apartment sale on the whole of the Gold Coast.

Exclusive selling agent of Miles Residences, Tim Keenan from the newly formed Keenan &amp; Byrne project marketing agency, says so far the penthouse has predominantly piqued the interest of Sydneysiders and locals.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575 project_image_fid=209121]

Apart from the obvious draws of the penthouse; it's rooftop pool, sweeping views, and prime location; Keenan says one of the most attractive propositions has been the rarity of what's on offer.

"It's an opportunity which will likely never again be repeated in this exclusive pocket," Keenan says, adding that the finishes and detailing of the penthouse are of a calibre he's never seen in an apartment before.

Some of the most impressive finishes and inclusions are in the kitchen and butler's bar, the heart of the home adjoining the main living area on the&nbsp;eastern wing of the first level.

The space is anchored by a 5m long, monolithic sculptural island bench and a full suite of Gaggenau appliances (nine in total), supported by sub zero refridgeration, wolf BBQ’s (one on each level) and Eurocave wine storage

There's a butler's pantry with full kitchen capabilities, as well as a separate bar area featuring a smaller version of the kitchen island bench and a serious wine storage zone.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575 project_image_fid=187457]

That's not the only kitchen in the huge penthouse.

Upstairs there’s a sprawling terrace with its own roofed kitchen and bar area complete with BBQ and pizza oven for entertaining family and friends.

That adjoins an outdoor dining area which is just steps to an elevated private pool and terrace which has sweeping views across Kirra and Snapper. Also on the upper level is an indoor multi purpose entertaining room and lounging space.

KTQ Development Director Jeremy Holmes says it will offer a view that is impossible to recreate.

"The penthouse is located on the north-east corner of the building, designed to take advantage of an incredible aspect with views of both the surf and the sweeping bays of the Southern Gold Coast.

"The best way to describe the view was as if someone walked down the street, stood in the perfect spot to look back at The Superbank, and decided to build an apartment there. That's how we know we're creating something that just won't be replicated."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575 project_image_fid=187456]

The first level of the penthouse comprises five bedrooms, each with their own ensuite and walk-in wardrobe.

The master retreat features the largest ensuite, with a curved feature bath, double vanity, and double shower, as well as a full walk-in wardrobe with dresser.

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575 project_image_fid=209217]

Four of the bedrooms are located off a second living or multi-purpose space, where there's also a study or kids playroom, a separate home office, and a separate indoor outdoor gym terrace.

The two levels of the apartment are connected by both an internal lift and a sweeping feature staircase through the void between the levels.

On top of the high level of finish of the penthouse, Keenan says what's also attracting buyers is the firm completion date, ready in time for the summer holidays 2023.

"A firm completion date for before next Christmas really fits the enquiry profile we're seeing, and ultimately the profile of the buyer we expect to see take the keys," Keenan says.

"Most of the interest has come from those&nbsp;who have previously holidayed on the Southern Gold Coast and have an affinity with the area, those who have done well in life, and want to live their dream for their kids, but at the highest level possible.

"They'll likely want to bring all of the extended family together, given the five large bedrooms, over holiday periods."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575 project_image_fid=138611]

The Kirra Point redevelopment will form the focal point of the Southern Gold Coast when fully completed in 2026.

The red hot South East Queensland market, from Burleigh to Coolangatta, will also benefit prospective buyers of the second stage of the Kirra Point redevelopment, which will be launched at the end of 2023, around the same time Miles Residences completes.

There's been a number of sell-outs across the Southern Gold Coast since the start of the pandemic, and when they're built, even more people are set to move to the area, Keenan says, noting that there will be even more holidaymakers in the area as hotels start to be developed.

"There are new cafes, restaurants, and hotels being built around the area ready for the influx of tourism and migration.

Holmes says Kirra Point, which will have 15 specialist shops, will be a highly curated retail and food and beverage experience that stays true to the region and what is has to offer.

Despite a wave of redevelopment over the southern Gold Coast in recent years, Keenan says the area remains true to what the Gold Coast lifestyle is all about.

"The draw of the Southern Gold Coast and the Miles Residences Penthouse is that you can see the glittering high-rises of Surfers and Broadbeach, but you're tucked away in a pocket that's the epitome of the relaxed Gold Coast beach lifestyle," Holmes added.

Architect Mark Damant from Little Boat Projects, who handled the designs of Miles Residences and the Kirra Point redevelopment when he was principal at Woods Bagot, has designed the next stage of Kirra Point, which includes a further 88 apartment in a 13-level tower, crowned by a rooftop pool and recreation area, as well as a separate luxury 92-room hotel in a six-level building fronting Marine Parade.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575 project_image_fid=138620]

KTQ Group have an enviable track record of producing the highest level of both residential and commercial developments. They developed and currently operate the go-to Byron Bay resort Elements of Byron, and they recently received approval for the Serēn project, bringing a level of luxury unseen in the Gold Coast market before.

Serēn, pronounced serene, will comprise an independent, luxury 60-room hotel, with some suites offering over 100 sqm of living space. The hotel will occupy levels three to six, then above is the hotel and the residences pool and recreation decks. Then above the level nine wellness level are the 60 residences, the smallest on offer spanning a huge 350 sqm and offering three-bedrooms and a multi-purpose room.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=27575]

Apart from the obvious draws of the penthouse; it's rooftop pool, sweeping views, and prime location; Keenan says one of the most attractive propositions has been the size, which in turn is reflected in the price

The Miles Residences Penthouse: The crowning jewel in the transformation of Kirra Point

Established Sydney-based developer ASF Group have begun to receive offers on the first limited release of their new beachfront Northcliffe project, AURA on the Beach.

Following on from their sold-out Hope Island masterplan The Peninsula, and their beachside tower The AU which is well on its way to achieving sold-out status, AURA sits in one of the best spots in the whole of the central Gold Coast.

AURA will see only 26 full-floor residences on offer, and a single multi-level penthouse, one of the largest on the Surfers Paradise beachfront.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9097 project_image_fid=209161]

ASF Group Marketing Director Daniel Fang says they have already received offers on most first-release apartments, with buyer interest ranging from sophisticated early birds to international sunseekers.

“AURA is a highly sought after offering of only 27 beachfront homes – there are only so many absolute beachfront residential opportunities, let alone at this calibre of design, finish and amenity," Fang says

Not only located on the dress circle Garfield Terrace, the 31-level tower sits on one of the only corner blocks on the exclusive street with the beach entry just steps from AURA's front door.

It's also located directly across the road from Northcliffe Surf Club, which means two things for buyers; the convenience of one of the most popular, recently renovated, surf clubs in town, and the sweeping views down to Coolangatta to the south that will never be built out.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9097 project_image_fid=209169]

AURA on the Beach has been designed by Brisbane-based Blight Rayner, led by its director and acclaimed architect Michael Rayner, to harness the strengths of its coastal location.

Each full-floor apartment will have four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and more than 10 metres of direct ocean frontage.

With an existing approval in place, ASF and Blight Rayner have sought to enhance the usability of AURA's outdoor spaces.

"We wanted to create an outdoor space that beckoned residents to use it. This gave rise to the fluid morphology of the balcony which shelters users from the elements whilst offering a depth ideal for relaxation, entertainment, and regular use." Fang says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9097 project_image_fid=209166]

"In addition to the ocean views that are part and parcel with the location, the Juliet balconies on AURA's western façade will offer a desirable vantage point to soak in sunset views of the Hinterland or cityscape."

ASF also expanded AURA's resident-only amenity offering which will include an ocean-view infinity pool, cabana, gym, and yoga room on the podium floor.&nbsp;

There will now be a rooftop alfresco entertainment area with views of the Gold Coast's cityscape and hinterland.

Only a handful of the full-floor apartments remain available in AURA's limited release.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=9097]

AURA will see only 26 full-floor residences on offer, and a single multi-level penthouse, one of the largest on the Surfers Paradise beachfront

AURA on the Beach full-floor residences at Northcliffe set for exclusive release

Full-floor apartment projects have been at a premium since COVID-19 drove both locals and interstate buyers to the Gold Coast, seeking the largest apartments on the market.

But for the last six months or so, there's been little to no projects which are catering for the demand which, local agents report, is still very high.

Enter Nineteen, the new luxury address in a unique pocket on the border of Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110953 project_image_fid=209067]

Local Gold Coast developer Amansi Projects, led by Ayrton Mansi who has&nbsp;a proven track record in successful developments and land acquisitions, has assembled a team of the industry's top consultants to deliver the ultimate coastal living experience in what is being billed as a one-of-a-kind development.

Mansi says residents will experience the best of&nbsp;both worlds at Nineteen.

"You're close enough to all the amenities of which Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise have to offer, without living in the busy city centre", Mansi says.&nbsp;

“The position and aspect of the site inspired the design direction, resulting in a very special, one-of-a-kind, project that would be very hard to replicate on any other site in the surrounding areas.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110953 project_image_fid=209173]

The sought-after corner site had been tightly held since the 1960s, and has long been admired by developers as having all of the attributes to deliver an unrepeatable apartment development.

The project will sit on an amalgamated 809 sqm block at 17-19 First Avenue, 200 metres to the beach. It's located on the corner of First Avenue and Surf Parade, where the likes of Vue Apartments, Infinity, and The Gallery Residences have been developed in recent years.

"The site provides the convenience of being just minutes away from the luxurious Langham hotel and other great amenities," Mansi added.

Each apartment will span 280 sqm of internal floor space, with the balcony taking the total to 300 sqm. They will have three ensuited bedrooms, a multi-purpose room, and a study. There's also two parking spaces per apartment. Prices start from just under $3 million, a price which is expected to increase as construction gets closer. Completion is slated for early 2025.

The apartments feature timber flooring, stone benchtops, brushed nickel tapware, feature lighting, V-Zug appliances and&nbsp;smart home automation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110953 project_image_fid=209073]

The customisable 527 sqm, two-level penthouse offers four bedrooms, two multi-purpose rooms, and its own private terrace with a sunken lounge with firepit and a swimming pool.

Mansi says the project was designed to meet the needs of the downsizing market from the surrounding local suburbs and interstate buyers looking for a luxurious, owner-occupier apartment with all the facilities and amenities to match.

Nineteen will have two levels of resident’s recreation and amenity, featuring a resort style pool and spa, a gymnasium, sauna and steam room and barbeque areas. Designed for modern living, residents will also have exclusive access to work-from-home suites and a boardroom, with a community lounge and library.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110953 project_image_fid=209075]

Andrew Erwin at NPA Projects, who are exclusively marketing the project, says the market needs a project like Nineteen.

"It's all about getting the size right in these instances, which Nineteen definitely has. To be offering 280 sqm in every apartment, and not be commanding beachfront prices which could be 30 or 40 per cent higher for the same product, is a huge advantage."

Due to the extensive work from home facilities, Erwin believes he'll be fielding enquiry from those who are still able to work remotely.

"The project talks to the gig economy," Erwin says.

"People can live, work and play in Broadbeach, and also do it within their own building. They're only ever likely to share the space with a handful of other residents at any one time. It almost becomes a private office.

Eastview Australia, which has delivered over $2 billion worth of innovative and sophisticated projects on the Gold Coast, has been appointed as the project and development manager.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110953]

Full-floor apartment projects have been at a premium since COVID-19 drove both locals and interstate buyers to the Gold Coast

Nineteen at Broadbeach to take advantage of lack of full-floor apartment stock on the Gold Coast

One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

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fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

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FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

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>

Joel Robinson

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