The penthouse crowning Arc Toowong, the newest Brisbane development from prominent South East Queensland developer Spyre Group, will be one of the priciest ever developed in the Queensland capital.

Spyre are seeking $14.5 million for the luxury 700 sqm spread atop the striking riverfront project designed by bureau^proberts.

The developer will be shooting for back to back records with the Toowong penthouse, having earlier this year secured the biggest price for any Queensland apartment, both off the plan and established, at it's boutique Burleigh Heads project, Glasshouse.

Bureau^proberts, who also designed Glasshouse, were again tasked with creating a visually-unrepeatable development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112987 project_image_fid=201583]

The penthouse boasts&nbsp;100 metres of unobstructed river frontage across two floors, the largest river frontage for a multi-resident property in Brisbane. It comprises four bedrooms, including an expansive master which has&nbsp;180-degree views over the river and St Lucia, and a private ensuite with a separate wellness spa featuring a steam room and ice bath overlooking a tropical garden.

Spyre Group Design Director Kent Pinel said that every design choice of the two-level penthouse was curated to serve a distinctly Brisbane lifestyle for a discerning buyer who appreciates rarity, craftsmanship, and who seeks an enriching life.

“From the moment you enter, you quickly find there is little the apartment cannot do,” Pinel said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112987 project_image_fid=207942]

“Everything exists to elevate the residents’ level of living. You have the grand art gallery and open plan living space for the entertainer, the private studies for the work-from-home executive, the blank canvas gallery wall for the culturally curious, a 5-car private garage and basement recreation space, and a private spa for the wellness inclined individuals seeking to optimise their routine."

So far 90 per cent of the buyers have been downsizers from Brisbane's western suburbs.

"It’s a property for the locals” Pinel said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112987 project_image_fid=207939]

The most impressive feature of the penthouse is its private rooftop terrace, which offers 360-degree views over the Brisbane skyline, the river, Mt Coot-tha and St Lucia. It comes complete with a 20-metre pool, heated spa, private yoga green and an entertainer’s kitchen with subtropical landscaping wrapping the space.

The kitchen features tailored European appliances by V-Zug and an arbored island bench thermally moulded into a solid surface, a versatile man-made material.

“Arc is our opportunity to define the architectural difference in an emerging city that is truly subtropical, maybe the only one of its kind in the world, and the rooftop terrace is built to enrich this lifestyle,” Pinel added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112987 project_image_fid=201584]

“You can’t get the same architectural experience of the open rooftop, the river frontage, or the subtropical garden landscaping in places like Sydney, New York, even the Gold Coast, especially not for the price.

“Brisbane has the perfect subtropical climate for this lifestyle and we're pioneering to create a design standard unique to our river city.”

The 28 apartments, which start at around $3 million, are being marketed by YPM Group.&nbsp;

The sub-penthouse, the only other four-bedroom apartment in the development, has a $7.25 million price tag.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112987]

Spyre are seeking $14.5 million for the luxury 700 sqm spread atop the striking riverfront project designed by bureau^proberts

Joel Robinson

Brisbane's best penthouse? Spyre Group light up Toowong with ARC penthouse

The City of Melbourne is on track to record more than $2.5 billion in new development applications in 2022, as developers continue to invest heavily in the city’s growing property market.

Forecasts show the City of Melbourne is set to assess more than $1 billion of new developments in 2022. This is in addition to the more than $1.5 billion of state assessed development projects which have been proposed for the municipality so far this year.&nbsp;

Deputy Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece said there is little doubt that Melbourne remains the number one destination for new developments.&nbsp;

“It’s a testament to the resilience of Melbourne that the city has attracted more than $2.5 billion in new developments in a single year. After so much COVID disruption, it’s heartening to see developers continuing to invest heavily in the future of our city.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=201002]

“With residential occupancy levels now back to pre-Covid levels and a record number of new hospitality venues opening in the city it is no wonder that development applications have taken off.”

The last time the City of Melbourne assessed more than $1 billion in new development applications was prior to the pandemic in 2019.

More than 600 planning applications worth an estimated $800 million have come before the City of Melbourne so far in 2022, with 85 per cent of applications for brand new developments. The remaining 15 per cent cover amendments to existing permits.

Melbourne’s CBD remains the hottest property market with 200 new development applications - the majority covering new businesses and shop fit-outs.

“The buzz is back and 2023 is shaping up as a year of exciting possibilities for Melbourne,”&nbsp;Reece said.&nbsp;

Carlton sits second with more than 70 developments, primarily for residential properties or additions to heritage homes. Development applications have also increased in Kensington within the new Arden and Macaulay precincts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111979 project_image_fid=194085]

New development interest has continued to grow in West Melbourne since the gazettal of the City of Melbourne’s West Melbourne Structure Plan, including the $230 million development of the West Melbourne Waterfront Precinct.

Major state assessed developments for 2022 include a $750 million development over the Goods Shed in Docklands and a $264 million development at RMIT Village in North Melbourne.

For the first time, the latest data has also revealed the City of Melbourne suburbs which have made the most appeals against new developments.

Planning decisions in East Melbourne have attracted the most interest within the municipality, with more than double the number of appeals to VCAT compared to any other city neighbourhood.

The CBD has the second most appeals, while West Melbourne and Docklands have the fewest.

“It’s particularly exciting to see developments popping up in the city’s newest suburbs of Arden and Macaulay. The vision to transform West Melbourne into the next Fitzroy or Collingwood is also gathering momentum with some distinctive planning applications approved,” said Reece.&nbsp;

“As development interest continues to grow it’s never been more important for the City of Melbourne to prioritise high-quality design, architecture and amenities to ensure the best outcomes for everyone who lives, works, studies or visits our city.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1260 project_image_fid=177638]

Melbourne CBD development booms

The recently launched Mansard apartments in Kooyong offer prospective buyers an opportunity to buy into one of Melbourne’s most affluent areas.

Developer BonYan RE has recently launched Mansard, a collection of just 16 apartments on Toorak Road.

Renowned architecture firm Carr Design was given free reign when designing the project, and Carr Managing Director Chris McCue has produced something unseen in Australia before.

The project's name Mansard comes from the Mansard roof, which originated in France. The earliest known example of a mansard roof is credited to Pierre Lescot on part of the Louvre built around 1550.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136666 project_image_fid=207867]

A Mansard roof is a four-sided gambrel-style hip roof characterised by two slopes on each of its sides, with the lower slope at a steeper angle than the upper.

Chris McCue said Kooyong is a really beautiful part of Melbourne.

"There's a lot of celebrated building works in the precinct from the 1930s, and that's what people love about Kooyong," McCue said.

"That's what we certainly love and that's what we wanted to respond to."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136666 project_image_fid=207864]

Head of Jellis Craig Projects Stephen Bowtell, who is marketing the project alongside Pontem's Fil Gacesa, said there’s nothing like Mansard on the local market.

"Kooyong had less than 1,000 people living in the suburb at the recent census," Bowtell says.

"Mansard really is such a rare opportunity to buy a brand new apartment. There's less than 500 houses and apartments in the whole suburb. These opportunities don't come around often."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136666 project_image_fid=207852]

Bowtell says the design by Carr makes the apartments more like homes.

"There are 16 apartments divided into 3 separate buildings, Carr's thoughtful design has provided a maximum of only four apartments on each level, further adding to the projects boutique nature”

Bowtell expects the project will resonate with downsizers already within the Kooyong, Toorak belt, or those who are wanting to enter one of Melbourne's most exclusive areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136666 project_image_fid=207856]

There are a mix of two and three-bedroom apartments, starting from $1,495,000.

Each apartment features high-end V-Zug appliances and SubZero Fridges

Kooyong has a median house price of $3,585,000, only second to its neighbouring Toorak.

Mansard follows BonYan’s success in Glen Iris where they developed the luxury Oakden project. It set a suburb record in 2017 when an empty nester paid $3,617,000 to combine four two-bedroom apartments to create a 332 sqm unit on the ground floor.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136666]

The earliest known example of a mansard roof is credited to Pierre Lescot on part of the Louvre built around 1550.

Carr Design bring French architecture to Kooyong at Mansard apartments

When COVID reached Australia in early 2020 and the country was plunged into lockdown, the uncertainty of the economy had both buyers and developers wanting to see how the next few months, and even years, played out.

Not the diversified property developer WINIM, who used the time to reassess and refine their business strategy. The decision to turn unknown into opportunity is now paying them back in spades.

Justin Kuiters, who set up WINIM in 2011 alongside Josh Leahy after working together on Top Ryde, Australia's largest mixed-use project, said when the TV's were flashing red, they acted.

"We didn't believe the doomsday reports and acted, probably in the opposite direction" Kuiters, a former director at Multiplex, told Urban.

"We doubled down on sites, in a slightly more targeted area, deliberately staying clear of some of the larger scale, middle and outer ring areas and totally focusing on our key 10-15 suburbs.

"Now we have 12 projects either in market, at development application stage, or nearly ready to submit." Nine of the 12 projects are premium Lower North Shore residences.

<img alt="WINIM" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1bd90146-7be9-4240-9082-9e57563de124" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-16%20at%2011.46.36%20am.png?VersionId=a4sjErLHKmWFuf_bnJAO3IS36vTD1vfD" /> 
WINIM Joint Managing Directors, Justin Kuiters, left, and Josh Leahy, right

Kuiters says they identified a chronic undersupply of boutique, large apartments and mid-sized residential which target both the rightsizer and the downsizer. The majority of buyers are those who want to stay in the area that they've always called home, but there are many who are looking at the style of apartment WINIM develop as their best bet to move into the affluent North Shore.

"Once people live in the North Shore, rarely do they want to leave," Kuiters suggests.

"It was a case of developing residences that resonated with buyers who couldn't find something that suited both their lifestyle and budgets."

While securing sites over 2020 and 2021, WINIM were also seeing success selling their projects.

They now have just a few remaining townhouses at The Lawson Terraces, in one of the best spots in Naremburn, and also only a handful in the 16-townhouse Willoughby project, Tierra. The Lawson Terraces are expected to be completed in early 2023, and Tierra later in the year. They also sold out The Terraces in Willoughby last year.

WINIM are currently working on projects in Neutral Bay, Mosman, Cremorne, Gordon, Lane Cove and Kirribilli. Arguably the most striking is set to be their Cremorne project at 15 Allister Street.

The original building was constructed in 1913 and was designed by the prominent architect Clifford Finch, who later, alongside renowned architect John Burcham Clamp, designed Sydney's Tattersall Club and the heritage-listed Lawson House on Cumberland Street in the CBD. Renowned architecture firm Rothelowman will be retaining the facade, while adding a contemporary extension.

Kuiters says the company have worked on a number of adaptive re-use projects recently, a development approach which the local council's are favouring.

<img alt="WINIM Cremorne" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d3459446-c494-412b-8a76-773ef6eb1ae2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-18%20at%207.52.29%20am.png?VersionId=tqsfKytxyoe0ElsFmFIBu.MEXBFQG1zi" /> 
The Allister Street, Cremorne plans by Rothelowman

"We've secured a number of sites which aren't heritage-listed, but due to their striking street frontage, and unique character from a bygone era, just like council, we are wanting to come up with a clever and creative way of bringing these grand building's into the 21st century," Kuiters adds.

"The community and council are favouring adaptive reuse and architectural detailing that complements the street.

"They're more challenging, but you come out with a more bespoke, unique product, catering for two types of buyers, those who are keen on the historical features (cornicing, high ceilings, brickwork etc) , and those who want the more contemporary finishes."

While securing sites over 2020 and 2021, WINIM were also seeing success selling their projects

Why WINIM doubled down on the boutique North Shore market

Sydney Metro has continued to roll out how it envisions the development around and above the new Sydney Metro West line.

The state significant development, funded by the New South Wales Government, is Australia's largest public transport program. The NSW Government is investing $12.4 billion over next four years, including $3.2 billion in 2022-23 to support major construction.

The latest plans are for what is set to be built above the Sydney Olympic Park metro station, part of the precinct which has grown exponentially in recent years.

The proposed $585 million development will comprise of three new buildings, one commercial and retail tower and two residential towers, with retail and community space adjacent to Sydney Olympic Park metro station.

<img alt="Sydney Olympic Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7ed70885-df87-4251-ac12-8121b0dd0185" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-16%20at%209.10.43%20am.png?VersionId=zmk4WrxA4WmwtGhPPErXWkBtIBy76XwH" />

The commercial tower will be the smallest at 16 levels, not including the four-level podium, and will rise above the station. The smaller residential tower can hit 27 levels, and the largest 45 levels. The latter will have extensive views over Parramatta River towards the Blue Mountains from the higher levels.

Podium heights in the central precinct are limited to four levels through Sydney Olympic Park Authority (SOPA) Masterplan 2030 (Metro Interim Review).

The area in which the buildings are set to be developed has been identified as a "transitional zone", after Sydney Metro worked through a design and collaboration process with SOPA and other key stakeholders. There are now four zones, the high rise zone (45 levels), medium rise zone (20 and 30 levels), and low rise (8 levels).

No news on how many apartments will be on offer, but the documentation suggested the apartments will have smaller floor-plates to "provide prime apartments and allow for better sun access to ground floor plane."

<img alt="Sydney Olympic Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8439e53d-741f-4371-a1bf-a02a4b579bf4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-16%20at%209.09.58%20am.png?VersionId=XLTd5Bts3MgHEMAL_7Cx0Vr30w03YATS" />

Sydney Metro says the&nbsp;construction of Sydney Metro West represents an exciting opportunity to incorporate global best practice for placemaking and environmentally sustainable development, and to apply innovative thinking to create new city icons.

"The delivery of integrated station and precinct development enables Sydney Metro to be more than just a transport project, but also a defining city building opportunity that revitalises precincts and communities, helping to leave a lasting legacy and shaping Sydney for generations to come," the planning application documents read.

"The proposed development will create a great place-based outcome that successfully integrates transport infrastructure, open space, ground plane retail, commercial and residential land uses.

"The Sydney Olympic Park metro station will link new communities, support employment growth and diversity of housing supply.

"In addition, the proposed development will deliver community and social infrastructure with the inclusion of community facilities proposed within the Concept&nbsp;SSDA.

<img alt="Sydney Olympic Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="074f2c12-7191-4b71-acb8-fcc037316410" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-16%20at%209.10.35%20am.png?VersionId=UQ83iaoQrjhUfFMaCpnjTH44ll1vXnmA" />

"The Sydney Olympic Park metro station precinct acknowledges growth opportunities within Sydney Olympic Park and seeks to establish parameters to attract more businesses and residents in a well-connected location reducing reliance on private transport modes whilst continuing to ensure Sydney Olympic Park can operate and function as a world class event and sporting precinct."

In October works kicked off at the new Sydney Olympic Park Metro Station, one of nine underground railway stations on the future 24-kilometre Sydney Metro West line.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Premier Dominic Perrottet said the new Sydney Metro West line would provide a vital transport link to a growing Western Sydney and deliver world-class metro services to more communities.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
“Our Government is transforming the way that people move around Sydney, investing more than $76 billion in transport infrastructure across the state, including more than $16 billion in Western Sydney alone,” Perrottet said. 
&nbsp; 
“The centrepiece of this investment is Sydney Metro, the biggest public transport project in Australia. 
&nbsp; 
“Work is now underway to excavate 468,000 tonnes of rock and soil – the equivalent to 78 Olympic swimming pools – to make way for a state-of-the-art metro station at Sydney Olympic Park.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
“This new transport link will further reinforce Sydney Olympic Park’s status as a premier events, sporting, and entertainment precinct, supporting the transit of more than 10 million people who visit or stay each year.” 
&nbsp;

The state significant development, funded by the New South Wales, is Australia's largest public transport program



First look: Towers planned above new Sydney Olympic Park Metro Station

It's not just buyers who are lining up to head to up to the Gold Coast, it's developers too.

The Sydney-based builder developer Arena Property Group, who have a long history of developing across the whole of Sydney, have just kicked off their first project on the Coast, making the move north for the lifestyle on offer.

"It was a bit of a change of direction but ultimately what has led us, and so many people particularly over the last few years, is the relaxed lifestyle the Gold Coast offers," Arena Property Group says.

"It has all the beauty, and the beaches, without the density or the busyness of the city."

Arena kicked off their Gold Coast development journey in Currumbin which has development approval. They've recently launched it's second project, LANA, in the quiet southern Gold Coast pocket Bilinga, just north of Coolangatta.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135208]

The 23-apartment absolute beachfront project on Golden Four Drive, Bilinga's best street, was designed by BDA who were inspired by the pure beauty of Bilinga.

"The coastal palette of vertical and horizontal timber-look louvres and a render finish to match the beach beyond will provide an elegant and timeless boutique residential development," BDA note.

There are nine three-bedroom apartments in the seven-level building, and 14 two-bedroom apartments, which start from $1.15 million.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135208 project_image_fid=207629]

The building is crowned by an infinity edge rooftop pool, and a level nine communal space aimed at working from home or socialising on the resident's terrace.

Arena Property Group says that Bilinga offers a family-friendly area, at an equally affordable price point.

"If you go north or south, you're not getting much change out of $4 million if you're looking for a true beachfront apartment," the company note.

"While Kirra, Rainbow Bay are high demand areas, there's no apartments on the beach. That is something Bilinga has, which is rare for the Gold Coast. We're not developing anymore beachfront land, so anything fronting the sand will always be sought-after"

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135208 project_image_fid=207639]

Arena are hoping to get the go ahead for KORA, a collection of just seven apartments on Pacific Parade, facing Currumbin Beach.

The Arena team really wanted Currumbin to be the first spot the team developed in.

"We've always loved coming up for holidays to Currumbin.

"Gold Coast living is still very much preserved in Currumbin. Where other beach suburbs have become a bit of a concrete jungle, Currumbin has held onto what makes it special.

Arena knew the level of commitment to keeping the enclave that way, so he knew that there was going to be some resistance for a new development.

But there was a strong support from council for the project, which was designed by Plus Architecture to blend seamlessly into the current surrounds.

The town planning report suggested the&nbsp;architectural philosophy paid homage to the traditional ‘timber and tin’ beach shacks, evoking the relaxed sense of beachfront living, embracing high-quality, sub-tropical design which blends seamlessly into the beachside character of the site and its setting.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135208]

The 23-apartment absolute beachfront project on Golden Four Drive, Bilinga's best street, was designed by BDA who were inspired by the pure beauty of Bilinga.

Beachfront Bilinga apartment project LANA launches

Gold Coast-based QNY Group and veteran Melbourne-based developer Glenvill&nbsp;have received sign off for a boutique apartment project on one of the most revered spots in the whole of Broadbeach.

The first project in the joint venture has become more boutique since its initial plans were submitted to the Gold Coast City Council back in May.

Initially the plans for were 21 apartments across 24 levels at 21 Broadbeach Boulevard. Now there will be just 12 full floor apartments, and a two-level beach house, across 15 levels.

The location of the tower, almost on the corner of Armrick Avenue, which straddles the Broadbeach Bowls Club and Broadbeach Park, and Broadbeach Boulevard, means it can take in uninterrupted views of the beach, capturing a 240-360 degree view corridor from Surfers Paradise to Coolangatta, as well as the hinterland.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5e1c66d-5a24-44b1-a7e4-20d2f4733475" href="/new-apartments/21-broadbeach-boulevard-broadbeach"><img alt="Broadbeach" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-14%20at%203.53.10%20pm.png?VersionId=.GVWYQwHvuOY.FVkneNn_XRC0ur3DMRZ" /></a>

Designed by prominent architects Contreras Earl Architecture, each single floor residence consists of three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a study. Plus Architecture has designed the interiors and Urbis has been appointed as landscape architects to ensure the building enhances the look and feel of the leafy Broadbeach Boulevard corner.

QNY Group director Anthony Quinn says, through a collaborative design process, the project team was able to address council’s concerns regarding height, ultimately leading to an outstanding design outcome.

“Our team worked closely in consultation with council officers along with councillors to re-design the building to satisfy council’s initial concerns regarding height, and the result is an even more bespoke residential offering that lends itself to the exclusive position that is 21 Broadbeach Boulevard,” Quinn says.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a75f9bc-1367-4525-8c20-c4261aad18f6" href="/new-apartments/21-broadbeach-boulevard-broadbeach"><img alt="Broadbeach" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-14%20at%203.54.02%20pm.png?VersionId=zn22SxM.owU95cjpGpNFv6DyLUiQiQJK" /></a>

“There is nothing quite like this site on the Gold Coast given its direct access to the beach and the Gold Coast Oceanway, yet it is tucked away in a quiet, leafy cul-de-sac, uninterrupted view corridor that is only a short distance from the hustle and bustle of Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise.”

NPA Projects has been appointed to market the project, with the official sales launch set for early 2023 and construction scheduled to commence in July 2023.

Glenvill Developments has spent the last five decades on the forefront of Australian residential design delivering high end luxury residences across the country, including the billion-dollar master-planned YarraBend development which is currently underway.

Glenvill Developments CEO Len Warson says the project – Glenvill’s first multi-residential project on the Gold Coast - represents an opportunity never to be repeated in the city.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1e2e8f13-bc20-4120-b0eb-4abdfcecda5b" href="/new-apartments/21-broadbeach-boulevard-broadbeach"><img alt="Broadbeach" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-14%20at%203.53.39%20pm.png?VersionId=QKTMTAZgslVJviIdPSuy5xb6CTC171Bv" /></a>

“The incredibly rare and coveted location of this project has instigated an unprecedented number of expressions of interest already, even without people seeing the design,” Warson said.

“There is significant demand from locals seeking out an opportunity to upgrade, and interstate buyers seeking a safe, secure, and exclusive beachfront apartment offering in this great city.

“The design outcome following negotiations with council is a truly boutique residential offering on arguably the best site in Broadbeach.

“The site commands a stunning building, nothing short of a landmark and that’s exactly what we are creating. The building will be enduring and beautiful and something that both the residents and the local community can be proud of.”

The first project in the joint venture has become more boutique since its initial plans were submitted to the Gold Coast City Council back in May.

QNY Group and Glenvill get green light for revised Broadbeach tower

Development in Brisbane's Olympic Village precinct is continuing to gather steam.

The latest to enter is Descon Group Australia, who have paid over $70 million for a 7,880 sqm site next to the Brisbane River at Northshore Hamilton.

There's approval for a three-tower mixed-use precinct at 19 Hercules Street, which would see more than&nbsp;400 residential apartments created and a 4,500 sqm retail and dining precinct.

Descon Group Chairman Danny Isaac said the group’s development arm delivers a diversified income stream and a strong forward pipeline to complement its growing vertically integrated construction and engineering business.

He said the Hercules Street site was key to Northshore Hamilton’s redevelopment plans and on the doorstop of the 2032 Olympic Athletes Village.

“This site is located in the heart of the Games development and will be a fantastic addition to the Brisbane skyline,’’ Isaac said.

“The Queensland Government is 10 years into a 40-year master plan for this Priority Development Area, which is already attracting investments in infrastructure, transport, business and economic growth.

“Descon’s depth of experience, together with its strong balance sheet and ability to deliver projects, from complete engineering and building structures to the entire design and construct lifecycle, gives us a strong delivery advantage and we plan to commence construction early 2023.”

Danny Isaac said the project would be delivered in stages over the next four to five years. Wentworth Equities Director Simon Slavin and Sameh Ibrahim, who purchased the site eight years ago, said they were pleased to be handing the baton to Descon to deliver the project’s vision.

<img alt="Descon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb52f846-c56f-4887-b886-beca2996ed3b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-14%20at%201.34.47%20pm_0.png?VersionId=aM7Z8n.ofbHjGwKJfKo_2qY7A3VQcJ0X" /> 
Left to right; Pieter Zeeman (Descon QLD GM); Simon Slavin; Danny Isaac; Sameh Ibrahim

Slavin was instrumental in the design and development of the Homebush site for Sydney’s 2000 Olympic Games and has been involved in numerous legacy developments, including Wentworth Point.

“The highly experienced team at Descon are well equipped and have an ambitious plan to bring the project to fruition,” Slavin said. “It will be the jewel in the crown of Brisbane’s largest urban waterside renewal project. The momentum is certainly building for the 2023 Olympics.’’

The waterfront site is located beside Portside Wharf’s entertainment and commercial centre, with easy access to Kingsford Smith Drive and the airport, and only 6km from the Brisbane CBD.

There's approval for a three-tower mixed-use precinct at 19 Hercules Street, which would see more than 400 residential apartments created and a 4,500 sqm retail and dining precinct.

Descon secure Olympic Village site for three-tower development

Top Spring Australia have taken a huge step to becoming more environmentally friendly at their $500 million St Leonards apartment development, The Newlands.

They'll be offering a Tesla car share service for its 330-apartment community, in an attempt to reduce the need for private car ownershio.

The initiative is being driven by shared mobility company, Outbound. The Teslas will be located onsite full time with residents able to book and open the cars using the Outbound app.

The partnership also includes a number of electric bikes to use from Sydney headquartered company, Zoomo.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24509 project_image_fid=203623]

Outbound CEO Luke Rust says dedicated transport solutions for residential developments are the future.

“This is a huge step forward for a Sydney residential project and a huge win for those who’ll eventually be living at The Newlands,”Rust says.

“It’s about improving the amenity for residents and reducing the impact of the development on the environment.

“It’s amazing to see passionate and forward thinking developers like Top Spring Australia taking the lead in this space and accelerating access to sustainable transportation for residents. “Long term, residents won’t even need to own a car as there’ll always be at least one Tesla onsite, ready and waiting.

“Just imagine, you need to duck up the road to run an errand, you jump in one of the Teslas, in and out in just an hour or two and you don’t have to pay for fuel, registration or any other running costs.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24509 project_image_fid=203622]

The Newlands, which is slated for completion in mid-2025, is the first to be approved by Lane Cove Council following the rezoning of the St Leonard’s South Precinct.

Top Spring Australia Managing Director Sydney Ma says Outbound share their vision for&nbsp;sustainability, providing the best experience for residents of The Newlands.

Other private amenities at the development will include a “Green Spine” with communal lawn and children’s play area, resort style pool, dog wash facilities and health and wellness centre featuring an indoor gym, yoga area and infrared sauna. Construction on Stage 1 of The Newlands is expected to start in early 2023.

“This is Outbound’s first foray into residential developments and I expect the uptake to be enormous,” Rust adds.

“The writing’s on the wall when it comes to electric vehicles but owning one yourself is still very expensive.

“This way, you’ve got full access to a fleet of them without the big outlay to buy one in the first place. “Not to mention, the average car in Australia costs $17,000 a year to own and operate and is usually parked about 96% of the time."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=24509]

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The Newlands, which is slated for completion in mid-2025, is the first to be approved by Lane Cove Council following the rezoning of the St Leonard’s South Precinct

Top Spring make green commitment with Tesla car sharing at Newlands St Leonards apartments

Melbourne developer PB &amp; Co have revealed plans for their prime Sydney harbourfront development site they bought for $60 million over 18 months ago.

PB &amp; Co, led by founders Alex Bragilevsky and Michael Pesochinsky, have been working with Koichi Takada Architects to create what the architecture firm call a "highly sustainable and innovative luxury residential development on a once-in-a-generation site on the Sydney Harbour."

The massive 4,200 sqm block at 184b-190 Kurraba Road will essentially be carved up into quarters, and will home four different residential buildings.

Pesochinsky, who is the company's Executive Chairman and CEO, said&nbsp;PB &amp; Co is delighted to lodge plans for Kurraba Point.

"We are renowned for creating timeless residences and unforgettable experiences in the most prestigious streets of Melbourne, however after a robust search we secured Kurraba Point to launch our first Sydney development and plan for this to be the first of many,"&nbsp;Pesochinsky said.

"Kurraba Point will be another example of PB &amp; Co solidifying our place in luxury residential market whilst we strive to ensure sustainability is at our core. Kurraba Point will be one of the few developments in the area awarded a 6 Star Green Star."

There will be just six luxury apartments, four three-bed and two four-bed apartments, on the street side of the block. They've been tiered to overlook Shell Cove. Then closer to the water will be four dual occupancy residences.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kurraba Point" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bba8078d-53d6-431f-826b-ec8115def71b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-14%20at%2010.16.06%20am.png?VersionId=uawGF91aVh0CpDqVkJCVVug9KW0xeLuS" />

The two four-level apartment buildings will have a communal space on the lower ground level, opening to a terrace.

The three-bedroom apartments will start from 192 sqm and feature dedicated wine rooms, butler's pantry's, a multi-purpose room, and water-facing balconies.

The two four-bedroom apartments crown the top two floors in each building and are wrapped in extensive terraces on both levels.

The dual occupancy buildings sit behind the apartment buildings, on the land sloping down toward the water. They each have three bedrooms and a private rooftop with plunge pools and outdoor barbecue kitchens.

<img alt="Kurraba Point" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4009f843-a71c-4d6b-99c7-51ed9f04d7d8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-14%20at%2010.16.12%20am.png?VersionId=gdZUh5ZkWnzsf0CnQ05szsZTRQsZq3ir" />

Koichi Takada Architects say in the design verification statement submitted to the North Sydney Council that they have "designed a one-of-a-kind development with the highest sustainable outcomes."

"The overall vision is for a transformative project which embodies the idea of ‘regenerative luxury,’ inspiring a zero-carbon lifestyle for it’s residents," the design statement read.

"This project will lead the way in the luxury housing market and support the New South Wales state government objective to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

"The design features four sculptural, low-rise buildings which are contextually appropriate and respond to the local character of the area but also look towards future ways of living."

<img alt="Kurraba Point" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b57834d-7df7-4ef1-b290-d81d86e177ed" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-11-14%20at%2010.16.22%20am.png?VersionId=GVMcQnEcd5WAeu69N6782QZiPrD8walI" />

They note that the project is designed to be carbon neutral, not just in design, but also in operations.

"The building form makes use of passive design strategies and technology to respond to the unique environmental conditions on the harbour. All energy needed to power the buildings will be generated on-site through rooftop solar farms and an underground geothermal energy system which provides heat and generates electricity," the architecture firm stated.

"Rainwater will be collected for irrigation of planted areas and building management systems will control, monitor and maximise building performance. Integrated shading structures control solar access while maintaining views and privacy. Local, sustainable materials will undergo a full life cycle assessment and there will be adequate charging provisions for electric vehicles and bicycles, extending the sustainability benefits of the project far beyond the bounds of the site."

The development is PB &amp; Co's first venture in Sydney, having primarily focused on luxury projects in Melbourne's most affluent suburbs.

They have a solid pipeline in Bayside Brighton and Toorak, the latter the Point Piper of Sydney.

The massive 4,200 sqm block will essentially be carved up into quarters, and will home four different residential buildings

First look exclusive: PB & Co reveal Koichi Takada plans for "one-of-a-kind" Kurraba Point development

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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