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Mulpha Australia has released 15 private villas for sale on the Whitsundays Hayman Island, where Mulpha own the InterContinental Hayman Island Resort.

The luxury self-contained villas have three ensuited bedrooms, a fully appointed kitchen and dual living areas with balconies, opening to a private swimming pool.

The villas will also be designed to minimise carbon footprints with energy efficient fittings and solar electricity.

Construction of the architecturally designed villas is being fully managed by Mulpha and construction of the first villas is expected to commence in March 2021.

<img alt="" height="807" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hayman_1.jpg" width="1200">

Hayman Estates is limited to a total of 21 residences in a gated enclave with six residences having been completed in prior years.

Owners will have the option for private exclusive use or the option of adding their property to the luxury hotel pool for domestic and international guests seeking a private retreat with all resort services. 

<img alt="" height="899" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hayman_intercontinental.jpg" width="1200">

Mulpha general manager of sales and development John Hughes says once the villas are sold, there will be no further similar villas included within the Hayman Island masterplan being surrounded by World Heritage National Park.

“It’s your own slice of paradise set in one of the most sought-after leisure destinations in the World. This is privacy at its best or simply a luxurious resort living at its best”, Hughes says.

<img alt="" height="798" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hayman_2.jpg" width="1200">

“These competitively priced villas offer exceptional design quality, value, and the ultimate in tropical elegance.

“The Whitsundays region and the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef offers an unmatched lifestyle with direct airline access to the major Australian east coast capital cities making it ideal for people to use as either a residential base or a holiday investment property."
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Joel Robinson

Mulpha Australia release exclusive villas on Hayman Island

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The consumer price index (CPI) beat its market expectation over the quarter and rose 0.9 per cent, according to figures released by the ABS.

Over the 12 months to December, CPI rose 0.9 per cent. The RBA have indicated that they want CPI between two to three per cent for a steady period before lifting interest rates, among other key metrics such as unemployment.

Commsec's Craig James says inflation is likely to remain below, or near the bottom, of the Reserve Bank’s 2-3 per cent target band for most of 2021.

"As a result the Reserve Bank has committed to not increasing the cash rate for three years."

The December quarter inflation rise follows a 0.7 per cent increase in the September quarter and a 0.3 per cent fall in the June quarter.

Michelle Marquardt, head of prices statistics at the ABS, said the December quarter CPI was primarily impacted by an increase in tobacco excise and the introduction, continuation and conclusion of a number of government schemes, including childcare fee subsidies and home building grants.

Prices rose in the purchase of new dwellings (0.7 per cent) following increased demand. 

"The rise in demand for new dwellings is reflected in higher building approvals for houses and a record value for housing loan commitments in November," Marquardt said.

"The December quarter rise of 0.7 per cent in the purchase price of new dwellings would have been higher, but was partially offset by the Federal government's $25,000 HomeBuilder grant, and similar $20,000 grants by the Western Australian (WA) and Tasmanian state governments."

Westpac's Justin Smirk did suggest holding back the rise in the CPI is the WA $600 Household Electricity Credit, as well as the Federal Government Homebuilder Grants supplemented in WA and Tasmania by state grants.

Westpac had been forecasting a 0.7 per cent lift in the CPI which would have held the annual rate steady at 0.7 per cent.

 

 
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CPI outperforms market expectation, up 0.9%

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Laing+Simmons Corporation has been purchased by a partnership comprising members of the company’s head office team.

The likes of managing director Leanne Pilkington, who is also the president of the Real Estate Institute of NSW, and some of the network’s highest-profile and longest-serving principals including D’Leanne Lewis, Ray Fayad and Nicholas Efrossynis, are part of the buying syndicate.

The New South Wales-based boutique real estate franchise, which has a total of 43 offices in metro and regional NSW, was bought from the Dexar Group for an undisclosed sum.

Leanne Pilkington said the purchase by members of the network demonstrates the value and belief in the brand.

“The purchase of Laing+Simmons by network members highlights the confidence we have in the business and the potential for growth we see in the future.

"When the opportunity to acquire Laing+Simmons arose, the demand among franchisees was strong and the offer was fully subscribed quickly, demonstrating the belief in the brand,” Ms Pilkington said. 

“Laing+Simmons has been a fixture in the New South Wales real estate landscape since 1967. We recognise the industry is undergoing rapid evolution, which means franchising needs to evolve as well.

“No-one is better placed to understand the needs of today’s business owners than agency principals, who operate at the coal face every day.

“The new shareholding group is very diverse, in relation to age, location and of course gender. This will ensure a holistic direction is set for the business which welcomes and benefits a broader demographic of network partners and their teams.

“This diversity will underpin our future growth as we look to grow the Laing+Simmons network in select metropolitan and regional locations in 2021 and beyond.

“This internal acquisition means we have skin in the game. We believe so strongly in the brand that we acquired it. Our future partners and office principals can be confident in our commitment to support them and the growth of their business with a view to helping them create a long-term asset for the future.

“The ambitions of ownership, our existing franchisees and those we welcome in the future are completely aligned. This provides us a solid platform for future growth,” she said.
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The New South Wales-based boutique real estate franchise, which has a total of 43 offices in metro and regional NSW, was bought from the Dexar Group for an undisclosed sum.



Laing + Simmons bought by their top network members

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UBank, a subsidiary of NAB, has announced the new lowest fixed rate in Australia – 1.75 per cent for three years.

But customers will have to be quick, with the rate set to expire in a little over a month.

The three-year fixed rate is 0.13 per cent below the next lowest fixed rate and 1.34 per cent lower than the average existing owner-occupier rate of 3.09 per cent (RBA data).

UBank has also cut its other fixed rates by up to 0.35 per cent for new customers.

There are now 53 lenders offering at least one fixed or variable rate under 2 per cent on over 120 different home loans, according to RateCity.com.au data.

RateCity.com.au research director Sally Tindall said while the RBA was set to keep rates on hold, competition between lenders was still driving home loan rates down.

“Lenders have been offering home loan rates under 2 per cent since June last year, yet thousands of existing mortgage holders seem content with the idea of paying a rate starting with a ‘3’,” she said.

<img alt="" height="459" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cheaper_fixed_rates_urban.jpg" width="1200"> Source: RateCity.com.au

“UBank’s decision to offer a market-leading rate for just over a month is designed to get people to act.

“Putting an expiry date on this deal could help combat complacency among mortgage holders.

“Mortgage holders suffering from inertia are likely to be getting fleeced,” she said.

“Fixed rates are typically less flexible than variable ones, so if you want access to an offset account and unlimited repayments, you might look at splitting your loan or consider a variable rate loan,” she said.
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UBank, a subsidiary of NAB, has announced the new lowest fixed rate in Australia – 1.75 per cent for three years.

UBank announce Australia's lowest fixed rate home loan

Brisbane-based developer Pikos Group has secured approval for Skye Apartments, its $200 million luxury apartment project at Kangaroo Point.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059]

Skye Apartments have been designed by the local architecture firm Arkhefield who drew inspiration from the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel in Singapore, having its own 1,000 sqm Sky Deck featuring a residents&#39; pool deck,&nbsp;a rooftop bar and a restaurant.

There will be just 68 apartments across three towers of up to&nbsp;13 levels on the corner of River Terrace and Main Street. Each building will have just two apartments per floor, with balconies along the River Terrace frontage offering city views.

There will be six penthouses, each with their own private roof terrace. On the ground level of the development there will be a gym, a sub-tropical garden and a separate cafe for the public.

<img alt="" height="672" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/pikos_8_river_terrace_2.jpg" width="1200" />

Brisbane developer Pedro Pikos says the project is aimed at the booming owner-occupier market seeking inner-city living by offering spacious apartments with luxurious interiors and superior finishes.

&ldquo;We have delivered refinements that we believe creates a unique residential offering for the city by combining boutique premium apartment lifestyle with world-class amenities that you&rsquo;d expect in a five-star resort.

&ldquo;The Sky Lounge is the jewel in the crown of this design that will set this development apart for residents and as a Brisbane destination in its own right.&nbsp;

&ldquo;We have delivered refinements that we believe creates a unique residential offering for the city by combining boutique premium apartment lifestyle with world-class amenities that you&rsquo;d expect in a five-star resort.

<img alt="" height="675" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/pikos_8_river_terrace_3.jpg" width="1200" />

&ldquo;Not only will each apartment provide residents superb views of the city, the design is crafted to suit today&rsquo;s modern lifestyle.

&ldquo;Everything is at your fingertips if you choose, or you can remain at home to enjoy the benefits of supreme privacy, a beautiful outlook and unparalleled amenities.&rdquo;

Access to the city and all it has to offer will be enhanced by a new pedestrian bridge proposed to link Kangaroo Point and the Botanic Gardens.

The 2,330&nbsp;sqm site was set to become a Banyan Tree residential community before Pikos Group bought it from the international hotels group.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6257]

The Pikos development will provide four levels of basement car parking, as well as&nbsp;a port-cochere drop-off point for the public and residents to use.

Pikos has a workbook in Southeast Queensland of $1.3 billion, with a large portfolio in Kangaroo Point which is it believes is shaping up as Brisbane&rsquo;s hotspot.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

There will be just 68 apartments across three towers of up to 13 levels on the corner of River Terrace and Main Street.


Pikos Group secure approval for $200 million Kangaroo Point project Skye Apartments

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The off the plan buyer of a sub-penthouse in Sydney’s Loftus Lane development has scored a big resale as the project nears completion.

The sub-penthouse A603 in the luxury project near Sydney Harbour sold for $5.4 million, having been snapped up at the sales launch back in mid-2017 for $4.975 million direct from the developer AMP Capital.

Ayre Real Estate director Craig Donohue sold the apartment to a Northern Beaches local who had been looking for a Sydney CBD base for around 12 months.

<a href="/buildings/quay-quarter-18-loftus-street-sydney"><img alt="" height="889" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/8_loftus_lane_circular_2.jpg" width="1200"></a>

Donohue said the buyer was shown a few apartments in established and other new developments in the CBD but Loftus Lane's location was a stand out.

"He also loved the fact that this property had a substantial and very usable outdoor space and was really impressed with the design of the building", Donohue said.

Due to settle in April, 8 Loftus Lane has been designed by Studio Bright and will comprise 106 apartments across three Art Deco-style buildings.

<a href="/buildings/quay-quarter-18-loftus-street-sydney"><img alt="" height="730" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/8_loftus_2.jpg" width="1200"></a>

Loftus Lane is part of Quay Quarter Sydney, the dynamic new neighbourhood and major redevelopment of two complete city blocks up near Circular Quay.

When the apartments hit the market in mid-2017, they all sold out within two hours of the launch.

Donohue says there is strong buyer demand for luxury apartments in the CBD.

“The Sydney CBD landscape is changing from a business district to a luxury world class lifestyle hub”, Donohue says.

“As the new developments come closer to completion, buyer can not only see what the final product looks like, but also plan to take occupancy this year which is generating lots of excitement”.
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Ayre Real Estate director Craig Donohue, who sold the apartment, says there is strong buyer demand for luxury apartments in the CBD.

Off the plan buyer success in Sydney’s Loftus Lane development

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Surfing royalty Mick Fanning has listed a Coolangatta apartment block he’s renovated since buying 14 years ago.

Fanning, who stepped away from professional surfing in 2018 having won three world championships over his near two decade professional career, paid $3.1 million for the tired 1980s brick block in 2007.

<img alt="" height="875" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/fanning_coolangatta_2.jpg" width="1200">

Now the Boundary Street building has a coastal white facade and each of the units and granny flats have been renovated.

There are two three bedroom apartments, one on the ground level and one on the second level.

Each unit has its own granny flat at the rear of the 505 sqm block. There's a blank canvas back yard and two garages.

<img alt="" height="890" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/fanning_coolangatta_3.jpg" width="1200">

LJ Hooker Palm Beach agents David Lonie and Mishy Canning suggest the building can provide four incomes streams, around $770 to $800 a week for each apartment and $470 to $500 a week for the two granny flats.

Lonie and Canning have a February 7 auction on site at the block which is footsteps to Snapper Rocks. They advise there is potential for separate sales of the apartments.

Fanning will retain a foothold on the street. He owns the block of four two doors down, which he bought for $1.2 million in 2006, and the block next door to that, secured in 2005 for $1.39 million.

<h2>Coolangatta's newest developments</h2>

<h2><a href="/buildings/miles-kirra-beach-hotel-101-musgrave-street-coolangatta">Miles Residences Kirra Point</a></h2>

Address: Corner Miles Street and Marine Paradise, Kirra QLD 4225 
Prices from: $545,000

<a href="/buildings/miles-kirra-beach-hotel-101-musgrave-street-coolangatta"><img alt="" height="900" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/kirra_point_miles_residences_pool.jpg" width="1600"></a>

Miles Residences at Kirra Point, the luxury redevelopment of the Kirra Beach Hotel by KTQ Group, is Coolangatta's most impressive new developments. Already nearly 50 per cent of the 118 apartments have sold since their launch in December.

Designed by Woods Bagot, the project, which includes a pub and pavilion, is set to be completed in early 2023.

<a href="/buildings/maya-kirra-beach-1-coyne-street-coolangatta">Maya Kirra Beach </a>

Address: 1 Coyne Street, Coolangatta QLD 4225 
Prices from: $1.93 million

<a href="/buildings/maya-kirra-beach-1-coyne-street-coolangatta"><img alt="" height="711" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/maya_kirra_beach.jpg" width="1200"></a>

Only a few residences remain in the top end Maya Kirra Beach block of just 15 three and four bedroom residences. The building, developed by Spyre Group and completed in September 2020, only has four bedroom apartments left starting at $1.93 million.
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Surfing royalty Mick Fanning has listed a Coolangatta apartment block he’s renovated since buying 14 years ago.



Surf legend Mick Fanning lists Coolangatta apartment block

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A return of investors to the market, coupled with a lack of listings, is tipped to increase property prices throughout Australia in 2021. 
CoreLogic research director Tim Lawless predicts property price increases of between 7 per cent and 10 per cent in 2021, with the smaller capital cities tipped to benefit the most. 
Mr Lawless said Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth were most likely to experience the strongest price growth this year. 
He said Sydney and Melbourne property price growth is not expected to be at the same level and it would be more concentrated in the suburban housing market rather than the inner-city apartment market. 
Mr Lawless said a lack of listings would continue to drive the property market within the next few months. 
“While listings started to lift at the end of 2020, they are still 21 per cent lower than at the same time the previous year,” he said. 
“I think it will remain subdued throughout January and maybe into February. My guess is demand will continue to outweigh supply and that will be one of the recipes for higher prices. Investors will become more active in 2021.” 
His predictions are backed by a national survey done on behalf of Custodian which found 19 per cent of people who already owned an investment property planned to buy in 2021, while 6 per cent of respondents had decided they would buy their first investment property in 2021. 
It found 22 per cent of investors had put off buying an investment property in 2020 because of COVID. 
Mr Lawless said while 2020 had been a volatile year it was more in relation to transaction numbers rather than a drop in property prices. 
“The number of properties selling nationally fell 40 per cent in April, but they did start to lift in the second half of 2020,” he said. 
“Dwelling values were pretty resilient, there were fewer buyers and also fewer sellers. 
“Peak to trough values fell only about two per cent nationally and bounced back quite quickly.”

John Fitzgerald, the chief executive of Custodian, said many people had over-estimated how significantly COVID was going to impact the economy. 
“If the COVID pandemic has shown us anything it is that property can be a safe investment, but you need to be careful about what type of property you invest in,” Mr Fitzgerald said. 
“We recommend investment in land because it appreciates in value. Of course, many investors need to build something on that land to help them pay down their loan, that’s why we recommend building a new house in areas of high population growth and with significant amenity and jobs nodes nearby.” 
Investor numbers were at record lows with only about 24 per cent of mortgage demand coming from investors when normally it would account for a third of loans. 
Mr Lawless said investors were motivated by positive cash flow and growing capital gains and that was why smaller cities such as Adelaide and Brisbane would be the focus of demand this year. 
They were more affordable than Sydney and Melbourne and had not experienced the downwards pressure from weakening rental markets that Melbourne and Sydney had. 
“We will see buyer numbers remaining very high because of low interest rates and confidence, providing we continue to keep COVID under control. What we don’t know is how much stock will be added to market. My guess is it will be not much different from second half of 2020,” Mr Lawless said.
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CoreLogic research director Tim Lawless predicts property price increases of between 7 per cent and 10 per cent in 2021

Return of investors and lack of listings tipped to drive property prices in 2021

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Sydney's harbourfront Rose Bay is set to get a new boutique beachfront apartment development.

Plans have been lodged for a small project of three apartments at 5 Collins Avenue, on the beach and facing the Sydney Harbour.

The $3.43 million plans will see the current 1910's Federation Arts &amp; Crafts mansion demolished.

The property belongs to Kate Champion, the wife of the Laser Clinics founder Alistair Champion. It last sold for $18 million in 2019.

<img alt="" height="881" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/champion_rose_bay.jpg" width="1200">

The MHNDUnion designs (pictured top and below) have two two bedroom apartments on the ground level, one with its living area opening to a private swimming pool, and the adjoining apartment with its own garden terrace.

Unit one, with the garden, spans 93 sqm internally and next door with the pool has 108 sqm of living space.

<img alt="" height="813" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/5_collins_rose_bay_2.jpg" width="1200">

Upstairs is the 214 sqm, full floor penthouse. It will have three bedrooms, including one master suite with walk in wardrobe, a TV room, a study and four bathrooms.

Each apartment is designed with the open plan kitchen, living and dining area oriented to face the harbour.

The Champions are based in the luxury Woollahra mansion Ilicus which they bought for $13 million in 2017.
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Rose Bay to get new beachfront apartment development

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Ascot House - the first stage of Mirvac's Ascot Green community fronting Eagle Farm Racecourse in Brisbane - has sold-out, with buyers now rushing to secure the final apartments in sister building, Tulloch House.

The 90 apartments in the completed Ascot House, which features a rooftop terrace with views across 50 hectares of green space and Brisbane city, achieved prices ranging from $460,000 to over $3 million, and were predominantly purchased by local downsizers.

Neighbouring <a href="/buildings/ascot-green-by-mirvac-tulloch-house-61-st-leger-way-ascot-4007">Tulloch House</a> (pictured below), which has 84 one, two and three bedroom apartments, is under construction, with more than 70 per cent already sold and remaining apartments priced from $490,000.

Mirvac head of residential Stuart Penklis said the sell-out of Ascot House and continued strong sales at Tulloch House were a show of demand for a 'green change.'

<a href="/buildings/ascot-green-by-mirvac-tulloch-house-61-st-leger-way-ascot-4007"><img alt="" height="744" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/tulloch_house_mirvac.jpg" width="1200"></a>

"Many of our purchasers say they have chosen Ascot Green because it's like living alongside extensive parkland, with restaurants, cafes and shops within walking distance," he said.

"They enjoy the green open space and peace and quiet in a convenient location, and they love the vibrancy and excitement of the precinct coming alive on race days, with a front row seat to all the action from our rooftop terrace and track-facing pool deck.

"These exclusive resident amenities are just a small part of what residents will have at their doorstep as Brisbane Racing Club's $1.2 billion redevelopment of the racecourse precinct is realised, with additional retail and dining, retirement living, aged care, commercial offices and medical services to be delivered over the coming years.

"We've had a steady run of sales throughout 2020, with a lot of downsizers viewing the changes the year brought as an opportunity to rethink their lifestyle, with a view towards lower maintenance living.

"There’s also been strong interest from upgraders, with many recognising the relative affordability of an apartment at Ascot Green when considering the median home price in Ascot is over $1 million.

"The fact Ascot House is complete and ready to move in to was another bonus, with buyers pleased to be able to inspect and immediately move in to their new apartment, while Tulloch House purchasers have been reassured by the quality of the design and build."

The final apartment in Ascot House was secured by Jan Goakes, who also owns Sa Vida Shoes on neighbouring high street, Racecourse Road.

Ms Goakes said when she was looking to downsize from her Hamilton home, her clients suggested she visit Ascot Green, just a short stroll from her store. 

She was immediately impressed with the quality of the apartments which were 'unlike anything else in the area.'

"I found out about Ascot Green from a couple of my clients who had great things to say about the community, so I decided to go and have a look for myself and it ticked all my boxes," she said.

"I was absolutely impressed with the quality of the build and when I found my apartment, I just fell in love with it and decided it was the one for me. The moment I walked in, I knew it was unique.

"It’s large, there is lots of natural light, you look out onto green spaces and there’s a beautiful breeze facing north.

"I really don’t think you would find anything like it anywhere else."

Ms Goakes said she was pleased to be staying close to her store, in a convenient, tight-knit neighbourhood.

"One of the reasons I’ve loved living in Hamilton and am now moving to Ascot is the convenience - you can walk to so many places, so it’s just a great lifestyle," she said.

" I do know a lot of people who live in the area and just love being part of the community. It’s a fabulous place to work and to live. You have a sense of pride and companionship."
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Mirvac head of residential Stuart Penklis said the sell-out of Ascot House and continued strong sales at Tulloch House were a show of demand for a 'green change.'

Mirvac's Ascot House near Eagle Farm Racecourse sells out

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/smith-by-valli-collingwood-224-228-smith-street-collingwood-vic-3066">Smith Collingwood</a> is a new boutique apartment development bringing a refined, design-led approach to one of Melbourne’s most established inner-city neighbourhoods.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pandolfini-architects">Pandolfini Architects</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/lisa-buxton-interiors">Lisa Buxton</a>, Smith by Valli sits on iconic Smith Street and comprises just 22 residences tailored toward owner-occupiers seeking a more considered style of apartment living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140747 project_image_fid=367540]

The design of Smith focuses on a north-facing orientation across all residences, a relatively uncommon feature in dense inner-Melbourne settings. Each apartment has been planned to maximise natural light and outlook, alongside a material palette defined by warm tones, custom joinery, and a full suite of Gaggenau appliances.

The development comprises a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with pricing currently ranging from just under $1 million to around $4.85 million for the premium penthouse-level residences, reflecting growing demand for luxury owner-occupier product in Melbourne’s inner urban market.

Residents will also have access to a private rooftop garden designed as an elevated retreat above the city, &nbsp;featuring curated landscaping, veggie boxes, intimate seating areas and spaces for relaxed gatherings. Sustainability has also been integrated into the project through a 7-star energy rating and two secure bicycle facilities for every residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140747 project_image_fid=367529]

Smith by Valli sits in the heart of one of Melbourne’s most established retail and hospitality strips, within walking distance of venues such as Falco Bakery, Carnation Canteen and Alimentari, alongside parks and everyday services. With a Walk Score of 99, the location reinforces the project’s positioning toward buyers prioritising walkability and access over car dependency.

With only a limited number of residences, Smith reflects growing demand for smaller, highly curated apartment developments that prioritise design quality, liveability, and connection to neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140747]

Smith by Valli delivers a refined collection of luxury residences to Melbourne’s inner north

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a>’s 640 Bourke Street stands as a testament to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a>’s ability to bridge its storied past with a bold vision for the future.&nbsp;

Rising above the heritage-listed Eliza Tinsley building, the development reflects a broader shift toward adaptive reuse in the city, where historical assets are retained and reinterpreted as part of new residential development.

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> incorporates the Eliza Tinsley building as its foundation, housing a grand gallery and lobby space that serve as both a functional and symbolic centrepiece. The heritage façade informs the tower’s design, creating a connection between Melbourne’s past and its contemporary skyline.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365684]

Above this historic base, the 68-storey tower will deliver just over 600 residences, a notable reduction from earlier schemes, reflecting a deliberate move toward larger-format apartments and a stronger owner-occupier focus.

Unlike traditional CBD developments that prioritised investor stock, 640 Bourke Street has been repositioned to respond to changing buyer expectations.

"The discussion was all around making 640 Bourke Street the best residence to live in, to be much more focused on the people in the building rather than people looking at the building," Marsland explained.&nbsp;

This shift is evident in the development’s interiors, which emphasise practical luxury with spacious layouts, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.&nbsp;

“What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Lauren Sheldon, Far East Consortium’s Director of Sales and Marketing, said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365687]

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang added, "We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."&nbsp;

Amenities spanning more than 3,000 sqm across multiple levels further reinforce this focus on resident experience. These include a pool, gym, co-working areas, and a range of hospitality-inspired spaces such as a whisky lounge, library, and private dining rooms, many drawing reference from traditional bathhouses and Melbourne’s laneway culture.

"We wanted to make both the pool and the gym area to be absolutely destinational, and when you traverse across to these spaces, there is a gentle familiarity to the beautiful notions of the hammams and the Roman baths, a gentle nod to history," Chang noted.

At street level, the project contributes to the ongoing transformation of the western CBD, with upgrades to Langs Lane and the introduction of retail, hospitality, and gallery spaces designed to activate the precinct and strengthen its connection to the surrounding city fabric.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

The location places residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, and the Docklands waterfront, positioning the development within a rapidly evolving inner-city neighbourhood.

"We believe it's the best site left in the city of Melbourne," Craig Williams, Executive Director at Far East Consortium, said.&nbsp;

640 Bourke Street is Far East Consortium’s 14th building in Melbourne’s western CBD.

"A very elegant designed building. It's going to be a Melbourne statement for many, many years to come."

One-bedroom apartments are priced from around $640,000, with 640 Bourke Street targeting completion in 2029.

Renders shown are Artist's Impressions correct as of May 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Heritage-led design anchors Far East Consortium’s 640 Bourke St, Melbourne

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

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

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

Sydney’s YSG Studio makes Gold Coast multi-residential debut with BIG Projects at The Frederick

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

Joel Robinson

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