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The former Bellevue Hill matrimonial home of the late transport tycoon Sir Peter Abeles was sold for $15,501,000  when offered at its invitation only onsite auction tonight.
Listed with $11 million-plus hopes, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/cranbrook-school-secures-the-%24155-million-bellevue-hill-former-home-of-sir-peter-abeles-cranbrook/2013052261595?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=news">the property presented a rare opportunity</a> as it last sold 45 years ago. The underbidders let it go after their $15.5 million offer.
There was on onsite crowd of just shy of 20 who made their way through the drizzle and up the crown land driveway into Sundorne, the well-hidden Tudor style six-bedroom Victoria Road mansion.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may23abelesauction]}
The opening bid was $8 million. It was announced on the market at around $11.5 million from whence it was just a two bidder contest. The 6.30 pm auction was a drawn out affair with Title Tattle only securing the result as attendees departed the home at 7.01 pm. The underbidder had sought to make contact, but was thwarted, with related parties who couldn't get to the auction, but presumably had the cash.
"Champion effort," <a href="https://twitter.com/Andrew__Cooley" target="_blank">the auctioneer</a> was told by a colleague after the timewarp auction.
"Beyond our expectations," was the post-auction comment from the only attendees of Chinese descent.
Although not advertised as a private auction, a list of names signalled those allowed inside the home, and those who turned up and faced the locked door, as in Property Observer's case. At least three desirous attendees were turned away, along with leading Sydney estate agents. 
It had been home to Sir Peter and his first wife, the arts patron Claire Dan during the period when Sir Peter was cementing his place in Australia’s corporate life.
The two-storey home has interior furniture and fittings installed by Peter and Claire (pictured below). With ashtrays on every table, and wood-panelled walls it solicited comparisons with the 1960s-styled series Mad Men.
<img alt="abeles5" src="/images/stories/2013/04/abeles5.jpg" width="400" height="600">
One can almost image Sir Peter playing poker with his regular guests who included the Premier, Sir Robert Askin.
The inspectees can even spot a lamp stand fashioned in the likeness of former ACTU boss and Prime Minister Bob Hawke that stands close to the large leather writing desk in the library that overlooks the water.
Sir Peter bought Sundorne from the well-connected establishment Simpson lawyer family in 1958 through his company P.A. Holdings Pty Ltd for about £60,000.
<img alt="abeles1two" src="/images/stories/2013/04/abeles1two.jpg" width="470" height="348">
The couple had emigrated from Hungary in 1949 with little money in the post-war exodus from Europe.
The couple divorced a decade after purchasing Sundorne with Ms Dan retaining a life tenancy of the home set along the property’s very long and very private tree-lined drive. Ms Dan divorced Peter in 1968 after learning that his frequent absences from the marital home were because he was living with the then Katalin Frank, also known as Fischer, at the Wentworth Hotel. Sir Peter was knighted in 1972.
<img alt="abeles3two" src="/images/stories/2013/04/abeles3two.jpg" width="470" height="352">
The 2550sq m site has a full-size flood-lit tennis court and in-ground pool with district and harbour views reaching from the city skyline and bridge to Manly in the north. After a long battle with cancer Sir Peter, who relocated to Vaucluse in 1970 paying $450,000 for Villa Igiea, died in June 1999 aged 75. As Sir Peter lay unconscious just hours before his death, Bob Hawke paid a visit to the Vaucluse home to bid his friend of 30 years a final farewell.
Ms Dan passed away last October.
<img alt="abeles2two" src="/images/stories/2013/04/abeles2two.jpg" width="470" height="630">
The property is across the road from the Cranbrook School on the corner of Victoria Road and Rose Bay Avenue, which was known as Gallipoli Avenue until 1926.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/abelesmapmay23three.jpg" width="470" height="302" alt="abelesmapmay23three">
Sundorne, at 23 Victoria Road, Bellevue Hill, was auctioned through Daniel Baran and Reece Coleman at <a href="https://twitter.com/AgencyforLife" target="_blank">BHR Estate Agents</a> in conjunction with Sydney Sotheby's International agents Michael Pallier and Matt Ratcliffe.
The contents of the home including furniture and exceptional items from Claire Dan’s couture wardrobe will be auctioned by Andrew Shapiro of Shapiro Auctions on Sunday June 23.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Sir Peter Abeles' former Bellevue Hill mansion fetches $15,501,000

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At Mount Eliza, property developer Greg Farmer is selling his historic estate, Hendra with $8 million hopes after close to two decades ownership.
Set on 1.7 hectares over three lots, the property features a four-bedroom Old English-style house designed by the Melbourne architect Harry Norris.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/hendramay24one.jpg" alt="hendramay24one" width="470" height="312">
With its rare, almost medieval high-pitched terracotta shingled roof it has been listed through Michelle Skoglund at Aqua Real Estate Mount Eliza and Ian Jackson Kay &amp; Burton Brighton.
Shaped like a boomerang, the single-storey house dates back to its design for Sir Edgar and Dame Mabel Coles by Norris who made something of a speciality of working for the rich and famous, having also designed Burnham Beeches for the Nicholas family.
It was once part of the estate of more than 27 hectares built up by Sir Edgar Coles, one of the five famous Coles brothers, the knights Sir George (G.J.), Sir Arthur, Sir Edgar, Sir Kenneth and Sir Norman, from the family retailing firm.
The Williams Road house was designed for extravagant entertaining and family living with staff quarters, a walled swimming pool and large reception rooms.
Offers are due May 28.
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Hendra, the former Coles retailing family Mt Eliza trophy home listing

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As James Packer reaches for the sky with his ambitious Sydney casino highrise proposal, his fortunes are also very much on the way up.
His wealth has been estimated by the forthcoming BRW Rich 200 list at $6 billion.
It's a $790 million jump on last year, Property Observer understands, from his $5.21 billion estimate in the 2012 BRW Rich 200 list.
It was 2006 when James Packer took his late father Kerry's spot at the top of the Rich List.
At $7.1 billion, the then pre-GFC fortune was almost $2 billion clear of shopping centre magnate Frank Lowy, who retained second position on the list with $5.4 billion.
"Where Kerry liked to play in casinos, James likes to own them," the then BRW Rich 200 list editor suggested.
Meanwhile James Packer's latest casino property play could see his highrise become the tallest residential block in Sydney.
It has been estimated that the winning 60-storey Wilkinson Eyre design (pictured below) for Crown Sydney at 250 metres high would give James Packer the tallest habitable building in Sydney.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may3barangaroothree]}
Its proposed 75 serviced apartments would be located in the top third of the yet to be approved building.
Cashed-up east Asians would be the most likely buyers with managing director of residential at Colliers, Peter Chittenden, told the Weekend Financial Review.
“They like big, tall buildings," Peter Chittenden said.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/trophy-homes/crown-s-%2440-million-barangaroo-serviced-apartment-atop-james-packer-s-hoover-vacuum-cleaner-shaped-highrise-casino-proposal/2013051761450">There's been talk of the penthouse coming with a $40 million likely asking price.</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/wilkinson-eyre-design-wins-packer-s-crown-sydney-barangaroo-tower-competition/2013051561390?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=newsouthwales">Packer’s tower</a> would exceed Sydney’s tallest office building, the 244-metre Chifley Tower, and also the tallest Sydney residential building, Meriton’s 230-metre World Tower.
Sydney Tower, at 309 metres, would remain Sydney's tallest structure.
There is also a proposal by the Chinese developer, <a target="_blank" href="/news">the Greenland Group for the Sydney Water Board site </a>with an approved tower height of 240 metres that would just pip Meriton Apartments’ 230?-metre World Tower.
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Seeking 60 storeys, James Packer rises to $6 billion fortune on 2013 BRW Rich 200 list

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The futuristic Apollo Gate, the Sutherland Shire's latest waterfront listing, has been snappily sold for $3.2 million through Steve Day at McGrath Estate Agents Cronulla.
It's the one nicknamed the Cronulla spaceship house, a reputation that dates back to its completion in the 1970s with its Reuben Lane design.
It has changed hands just the once in the past four decades - at $185,000 in 1978 when sold by the Breen family who owned the Metropolitan Sand Company at Cronulla.
It was bought by Evan Cardiacos, who was in the rug and floor covering trade, until his 2008 death.
The six-bedroom house ranks unquestionably among the shire's most iconic waterfront homes.
"Apollo Gate is a unique architectural masterpiece with spectacular views over Port Hacking to Bundeena and Jibbon Beach," <a href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-cronulla-nsw-2230/178472/?searchID=28632096" target="_blank">Steve Day says</a>.
He issued 11 contracts over the four week marketing campaign for the house at 4-6 Cowra Place.
The buyer is a builder who plans a renovation to live in the home when when finished with his family.
With direct access to Salmon Haul Bay, Lane's bold design was motivated by spiritual and architectural links to Mediterranean villages with whitewashed buildings clinging to the coastlines.
It featured in NSW Builder magazine, the official journal of the Master Builders' Association, in May 1975 (pictured below). It was built by CH &amp; CR Ellis with spiralling western red cedar ceiling.
<img alt="cronullamay3one" src="/images/stories/2013/05/cronullamay3one.jpg" width="470" height="391">
<img alt="cronullamay3two" src="/images/stories/2013/05/cronullamay3two.jpg" width="470" height="323">
<img alt="cronullamay3three" src="/images/stories/2013/05/cronullamay3three.jpg" width="470" height="343">
 
Reuben Lane, who died last year, was inspired by the work of his mentor Oscar Niemeyer, the architect of Brasilia. 
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Cronulla's spaceship: trophy home sale

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Australia's 10 top performing real estate agents have been revealed at the AREC conference on the Gold Coast today.
The annual ranking, partnered by RP Data and industry publication, <a href="https://www.rebonline.com.au/" target="_blank">Real Estate Business</a>, rated 100 agents across several criteria including sales volumes, sales numbers and average sale prices.
James Tostevin of Marshall White &amp; Co in Melbourne took out first place with the 18 year veteran securing 144 sales during 2012, with a total volume exceeding $203 million.
His colleague Marcus Chiminello was in second place at $181 million.
McGrath Estate Agents dominated the top 10 list with five entrants, the top being Wayne Vaughan at $115 million in sales just ahead of Adrian Bo's $113 million.
New South Wales agents dominated the top 10 list with six salesmen.
The Top 10 are:
1. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.marshallwhite.com.au/team/james-tostevin/">James Tostevin (Marshall White, Stonnington)</a>
2. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.marshallwhite.com.au/team/marcus-chiminello/">Marcus Chiminello (Marshall White, Boroondara)</a>
3. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/agent/Wayne-Vaughan/177">Wayne Vaughan (McGrath, Epping)</a>
4. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/agent/Adrian-Bo/265">Adrian Bo (McGrath, Coogee)</a>
5. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.abelmcgrath.com/agent.aspx?aid=2918">Adrian Abel (Abel McGrath, Floreat)</a>
6. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/agent/John-Paranchi/297">John Paranchi (McGrath, Gladesville)</a>
7. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.capornyoung.com.au/index.cfm?pageCall=staffMember&amp;staffID=36395">Richard Young (Capon Young,Claremont)</a>
8. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/agent/David-Choy/689">David Choy (McGrath, Castle Hill)</a>
9. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.randw.com.au/real-estate-agent-6178/">Jason Boon (Richardson Wrench, Potts Point)</a>
10. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/agent/Peter-Chauncy/277">Peter Chauncy (McGrath, Naremburn)</a>
Almost 300 agents entered their results for ranking this year. Applicants must nominate themselves and provide details of their sales in the last 12 months.
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Marshall White & Co head Australia's top 10 leading estate agents while McGrath dominates

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There's a $545,000 mortgage repayment prize at stake as House Rules airs its first renovation points judging program tonight.
Its the Perth renovation of the newlyweds Jemma Blenkinsop, who runs a spray-tan business and builder, Ben Van Ryt.
They were first-home buyers in late 2011, but with the Perth property market the way it is, they couldn't afford to renovate their 1950s Melville home. 
Its the first featured renovation among the six contestant couples.
Property Observer previously noted the house cost $555,000.
The couple revealed their mortgage size during the first week's programs as $545,000.
The remaining couples have yet to reveal the size of their potential mortgage prize.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may10houserules]}
The Channel 7 series prize is the payment of the winning couple's entire mortgage.
House Rules premiered last week competing for audience against the Channel 9 perennial, The Block.
The Block Sky High's first room reveal last night rated a 1.524 million audience, the top non-news and current affairs ratings for Sunday night.
The new state-versus-state renovation series, from the makers of My Kitchen Rules, aims to deliver true home renovations.
The contestant couples have put their entire home on the line promising an emotional return to their new homes after the seven-day renovation.
The teams have to work independently on their own zone within each house but they also have to work as a team to ensure each room complements the other when it's completed.
The six teams competing are: <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802165/michelle-steve-nsw/" rel="nofollow"></a>
<a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802165/michelle-steve-nsw/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Michelle &amp; Steve</a> (Collaroy Plateau, New South Wales) <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802279/nick-chris-vic/" rel="nofollow"></a>
<a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802347/amy-sean-qld/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">Amy &amp; Sean</a>(Queensland)
<a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802523/carly-leighton-sa/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Carly &amp; Leighton</a> (Warradale, South Australia) <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802965/jemma-ben-wa/" rel="nofollow"></a>
<a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802965/jemma-ben-wa/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Jemma &amp; Ben</a> (Melville, Western Australia)
<a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16803037/jane-plinio-tas/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Jane &amp; Plinio</a> (New Town, Tasmania)
<a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802279/nick-chris-vic/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Nick and Chris</a> (Northern Suburbs, Victoria)
Each of the House Rules teams hand over the keys to their homes and allow their competitors free reign to transform their house, so the host Johanna Griggs expects lots of passion and pride in the way teams tackle the renovations.
"It's a bunch of likeable Australians with amazing back stories," Griggs said.
Apparently the teams have longed to be able to renovate, but not been able to accomplish it until now because of large mortgages.
The Tasmanian couple paid $355,000 in 2010 for a house initially listed at $380,000-plus.
The so-called Sydney battlers Steve and Michelle Ball who live at Collaroy Plateau on the northern beaches paid $650,000 for their house in March 2012. 
The South Australian couple paid $450,000 for the house which had been listed with $485,000 hopes in May 2012.
Johanna Griggs, the presenter of Better Homes and Gardens, is herself a keen home renovator, currently building her fourth home with husband, builder Todd Huggins.
“I’ve been in this industry for 20 years now and this is the first time I’ve had a go at this style of show.
"Because we are dealing with people’s own homes, I’m expecting the stakes to be high, the competition to be tough and the results incredible.
Chester Drife is the House Rules building supervisor.
House Rules airs Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 7.30 pm on Seven.
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House Rules judging with $545,000 Perth mortgage repayment reward possibility on the line

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The Australian dollar's fall below parity against the US currency will be welcome relief for expatriates thinking of buying back home.
It's still a bit soon, but they will certainly be taking a closer look at residential property following the recent decline in the dollar.
Even with access to very cheap interest rate opportunities overseas, the high dollar stopped many executives and white-collar professionals taking the time to search out for their likely new home during the summer of 2012/2013.
When the dollar was high, Rismark joint managing director Ben Skilbeck noted the high Australian dollar had also made local housing more expensive for expatriates, particularly at the luxury home end of the market.
An anticipated rush home by expatriates after job losses in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, didn't eventuate into an acquisitive trend after the global financial crisis.
Mosman agent Robert Simeon from Richardson &amp; Wrench told Property Observer when compared to pre-global financial crisis Australian expats activity in property markets had been "few and far between."
"Obviously any value declines with the AUD$ would make Australian residences a lot more appealing although there is not enough anecdotal evidence that expats find our real estate as appealing as previous sales activity would indicate," Robert Simeon said.
He said the Chinese market was now the dominant players in his market demographic so a declining AUD$ will not be a market salvation for our expat markets more particularly at the top end.
"When Australia's commercial and investment banks are doing well our top - end property markets respond accordingly," he said.
Last May when the dollar briefly fell to 98 cents, it was noted the fall was possibly not enough to encourage expat Australians to invest back in the local residential property market, according to Greville Pabst, chief executive of property valuers and consultants WBP Property Group.
Pabst noted a falling Aussie dollar was positive news for expatriates, with the improved conversion rate giving them “greater buying power”.
However, he suggested the Australian dollar needed to "deteriorate to or below 90 cents against the US dollar before we expect to see an influx of expatriate buyers."
“A fall of 10¢ in the dollar (AUD) equates to a saving of $53,500 for expats based on the purchase of a property at Melbourne’s current median house price of $535,000.
"This is a great incentive in anyone’s eyes," he said in May 2012. 
At noon today (Monday, May 20) the currency was trading at 97.66 US cents, having fallen more than five US cents between May 9 and May 17.
It reached parity with the US dollar in November 2010 and rose to a 29-year high of $1.108 on July 27 2011 before retreating.
Download our free eBook on <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-20-top-tips-for-australian-expats-thinking-of-buying-homes-this-summer" target="_blank">20 top tips for Australian expats thinking of buying back home this summer</a>.
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Weakening Australian dollar set to see expats return to Australian property purchasing

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A sale price in excess of $4.5 million was tipped for a grand Prahran mansion when it went to weekend auction. 
Its RT Edgar agents Jeremy Fox and Andrew Smith sold the early Victorian house for a reported $4.69?million after auction.
It's tipped by The Australian Financial Review that the former Carlton AFL club captain Dr Andrew McKay may have bought the house after it was passed in at auction at $4.62 million. The opening bid was $4.3 million. 
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/propertytycoonmay17one.jpg" width="470" height="351" alt="propertytycoonmay17one"> 
The James Buyer Advocates report noted there were just the two bidders.
The next priciest sale was at Wimba Avenue, Kew where three bidders competed on the house that fetched $4,105,000.
There were several prestige auctions without bidders including a Were Street Brighton house passed in on a $6.18 million vendor bid and a Montalto Avenue Toorak offering passed in on a $5.3 million vendor bid.

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No property blues for Prahran prestige as weekend auction yields $4.69 million top weekend sale

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Interior designer Darren Palmer, the judge on The Block, has listed his Potts Point investment apartment with $550,000 hopes through Anthony Birdsall of Laing Real Estate for June 5 auction.
The Gladstone, Queensland-born Palmer bought the <a href="https://laing.com.au/872238/" target="_blank">fifth floor art deco Cahors apartment</a> in 2007 for $360,000.
Its since been renovated with the removal of two walls, installing nib walls and a new kitchen and new bathroom. It had been <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.thehomepage.com.au/property/rental/58117-macleay-street-potts-point/260463" target="_blank">available for rent</a>.
The 1938 building has 72 units above its pale-blue-tiled entrance and opulent foyer designed by Joseland &amp; Gilling.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may20palmerone]}
The common area has Opera House and Harbour Bridge views.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may20palmertwo]}
Of course Title Tattle, being a casual reader of the Wentworth Courier, is simultaneously aware than Darren Palmer is also selling his Bondi Beach abode at June 4 auction with $900,000 plus hopes.
There's even a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTcfO_HxJRI" target="_blank">YouTube video</a> where Darren Palmer takes viewers through the chic contemporary Hastings Parade beach haven in Bondi Beach which is on the market through Sean Jacobson at LJ Levi.
Channelling classic Hamptons influences, <a href="https://www.ljlevi.com.au/855190/" target="_blank">it has been rebuilt from a shell apparently with a soothing coastal palette and carefully selected finishes reflecting its seaside surrounds</a>.
Its set on half of the top floor of an art deco block of four with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. There are windows on three sides.
Palmer, according to the Wentworth Courier, lives there with his partner, who Title Tattle notes owns the property, along with their son, and two dogs and a cat.
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The Block's interior designer judge Darren Palmer lists Potts Point and Bondi Beach apartments: Title Tattle

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The Garden House in Melbourne has beaten 11 other finalists to claim the best residential development award at the 2013 Property Council of Australia/Rider Levett Bucknall Innovation and Excellence Awards.
The Garden House (pictured below) comprises 46 luxury apartments and three terraces with views of the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may20gardenhouse]}
Designed by Woods Bagot and developed by Piccolo Developments, the judges noted its innovative design overcame a number of challenges - including the imposition of a heritage overlay which restricted the height of the development.
PCA chief executive Peter Verwer said the development set a new benchmark for inner-city living.
"With light-filled, luxurious spaces, and parklands and the city on its doorstep, Piccolo has demonstrated that downsizing can mean more amenity, not less," he said.
Its award follows other awards including the prestigious President’s Award at the Urban Development Institute of Australia’s National Awards and the Victorian chapter of the UDIA’s Medium-Density Development Award.
The collaboration between Piccolo Developments, architect Woods Bagot and interior designer Hecker Guthrie produced a $50 million, 49-residence project that sold out within two weeks of its launch late 2011 for between $500,000 and $5 million per unit.
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Residential design credit for The Garden House in Melbourne at PCA awards

ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.

The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.

They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for 79-81 Victoria Parade, replacing an existing commercial building with 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

The scheme by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>, has been planned around a series of publicly accessible spaces. A landscaped pedestrian laneway would cut diagonally through the site from Victoria Parade, connecting two new public plazas lined with retail tenancies and creating a finer-grain pedestrian network through the block.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."

The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.

Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" />

The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.

"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."

The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.

Joel Robinson

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.

Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.

The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" />

Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.

As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."

Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" />

The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.

As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.

Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" />

The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.

Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.

Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.

Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage

Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

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Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

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The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

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For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.

Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.

Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.

<img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" />

The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.

The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.

At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.

Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.

Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Jonathan Chancellor

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