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The top of Crown's winning design for its proposed 60-storey Barangaroo South casino development comes with 75 luxury apartments.
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They have been billed as serviced apartments, but property players have suggested, when sold the top one could come with $40 million plus price hopes. The utimate penthouse would sit atop in the winning design by the British-based firm Wilkinson Eyre Architects which one Property Observer reader has suggested has a design reminiscent of a old-fashion vacuum cleaner, ie the Hoover dial-a-matic.
Wilkinson Eyre’s director Paul Baker has indicated the design emanates from "three petal forms, which twist and rise together."
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/vacuummay20one.jpg" alt="vacuummay20one" width="160" height="443">
The CBRE chairman Justin Brown has told Fairfax Media he anticipated any super penthouse to fetch "above $40 million."
Crown's executive vice-president for strategy and development, Todd Nisbet, said the apartments were "vital" to defray the $1.2 billion plus development cost.
Previously it was envisaged the project was marketed as Sydney’s first six star hotel with 350 hotel rooms and what was described as "75 serviced apartments."
There will also be meeting/ballroom facilities; high-quality restaurants; spa, pool and amenity deck; and VIP gaming facilities with a required capital expenditure by Crown Limited of approximately $1 billion.
Todd Nisbet has previously worked as executive vice president – project director for Wynn Design and Development, a development subsidiary of Wynn Resorts Limited.
Research undertaken for the Tourism Ministers’ Investment and Regulatory Reform Working Group (IRRWG) has found that the cost of building a 350 room five star hotel in Sydney was 40% higher than the cost of building a comparable size residential apartment complex. It was found that the rate of return for a hotel is less than one fifth (18%) of that from the similar sized residential apartment complex.
Crown has secured a two year exclusive dealing arrangement with Lend Lease in relation to a waterfront site at Barangaroo South, and awaits gaming licence and State Government development authorisations before it can proceed with its proposal.
British-based firm Wilkinson Eyre Architects beaten two American challengers in the competition to build the “postcard” building which would rise to the 235 metres –?somewhat higher than the current 170 metre approval limit?so needing approval from the NSW state planning department.
Crown intends exploring the option of having other parties co-invest in the project.
Mr Packer, speaking at this week's The Australian Financial Review Bespoke luxury conference held in the Sydney Opera House, suggests his “icon” could join the Opera House as a postcard destination.
“As much as we love to advertise the Kimberley or Kakadu, people don’t actually go there in large numbers. In terms of tourism, people want man-made attractions,” Mr Packer said.
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Crown's $40 million Barangaroo serviced apartment - atop James Packer's "Hoover vacuum cleaner-shaped" highrise casino

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The hotelier Peter De Angelis has sold his Balmain East harbourfront for a record near $9 million.
It was sold through Matthew Hayson of Cobden &amp; Hayson.
It cost $4.8 million in 2003 with its renovation undertaken in 2008.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ch.com.au/selling/NSW/Inner-West/Balmain-East/House/1P4998">The Simmons Street maritime villa is a 12 metre wide home on a 686 square metre block of land</a>.
It dates back to 1883. Its refurbishment made much use of materials including Himalayan stone, Red Iron Bark timber and concrete to create its contemporary setting.
It comes with a red iron bark finished boatshed with mechanical slipway for a 30 foot boat, tiered gardens and a mosaic-tiled pool and spa.
The suburb's previous highest sale was $5.675 million of an 1847 sandstone Darling Street villa on a non-waterfront 986 square metres. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-balmain-east-nsw-2041/155070">Darling Villa had a contemporary design incorporating the original sandstone residence </a>undertaken by the Morris family. It had been bought for $2.56 million and the underwent a $1.66 million restoration by Arc Architects.
The street's previous highest sale was $5.5 million in April 2012 when Kenilworth was sold through Danny Cobden of Cobden &amp; Hayson.
The heritage-listed freestanding Victorian Italianate sat on an unusually large 817 square metre block with point blank Harbour Bridge views from its Simmons Street vantage point.
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Balmain East trophy home sale

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It was certainly a drama packed week on the property front - more so in the court rooms than the auction rooms and television screens.
The least histrionics actually came from reality television stars, Dan and Dani<a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/DaniandDan"> </a>who've bought a Melbourne house with their $448,000 The Block South Melbourne and $220,000 The Block Allstars Bondi proceeds.
One that needs little work, albiet presumably without foreman Keith and a television crew being omnipresent.
Dan and Dani (pictured below), who were last spotted looking around the Melbourne suburb of Kingsville, merely <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/DaniandDan">tweeted</a> their acquisition without fanfare.
<img height="420" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/dananddanimay17one.jpg" alt="dananddanimay17one">
Since appearing on The Block, both Dani and Dan have been bitten by the renovating bug and have set up their own design blog, the <a target="_blank" href="https://thehome-journal.com/">Home Journal</a>, as well as The Red Door Project, a renovation, property development and interior design business.
There certainly weren't any tweets from the international film star Toni Collette about her recent property journey. (And she actually scrapped her short sojourn on twitter in April finding it a distraction from life.)
But rather emails that emerged in the NSW Supreme Court case with Toni Collette trying to minimise the $830,000 plus damages bill for not proceeding with a hefty $6.3 million Paddington terrace (pictured below) purchase which was then sold at a reduced price.
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She apparently wasn't pleased to be the "poster child for the fabricated state of the housing market" when details of her desired Bronte departure for Paddington were made public in the media.
She claimed her McGrath estate agent had "enticed" her and her musician husband David Galafassi into listing Bronte with $4 million hopes but then had the price quoted as $3.5 million when it hit the media.
Margie Blok, the then SMH Title Deeds columnist, first advised in November 2011 that the entertainment industry couple's circa 1885 weatherboard cottage at Bronte had been listed for auction "with price hopes of about $3.5 million – despite the couple paying $4.4 million for it in 2009." It was accompanied by the understated heading At Bronte where Blok politely noted the "current market conditions" and also that "Collette and Galafassi are prepared to cop a loss."
Title Tattle subsequently <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/toni-collette-set-to-cop-%24900000-loss-as-bronte-cottage-renovation-plans-shelved/2011110752228">wrote on Property Observer</a> with the blunter headline, Toni Collette set to cop $900,000 loss as Bronte cottage renovation plans shelved.
Annette Sharp's Sydney Confidential in The Daily Telegraph then broke the story that the entertainment couple were off to Paddington as the reason behind seeking to sell Bronte.
It seems it all upset Collette who emailed another McGrath agent that  "she (the agent) broke all kinds of confidentiality agreements. You know that I am an extremely private person and am never one to get in bed with the media."
Ofcourse Title Tattle recalls her Paddington purchase was not only pricey - but on the wrong side of Paddington too given the all important Oxford Street southern and psychology divide.
Collette sought the shift as her rebuilding quotes on their Bronte home "blew out by millions."
And of course who really knows the cost of renovation?
Certainly not one of contestant couples on Channel 7's new House Rules program.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may10houserules]}
One couple estimated their cement bill as set to come in at $10,000, but it worked out as $600 or something like that.
Watching the cement flooring dry wasn't rivetting television which is why the series ended up with weakening ratings.
It launched at <a target="_blank" href="/news">803 ,000 </a>and end up Thursday night at 687,000.
Their big rival, Channel 9's The Block Sky High has interestingly showed no shyness on its price expectations for the whole floor auctions of their South Melbourne apartments.
They typically keep such things, and most journalists, tightly under wraps until best suits, so Title Tattle was intrigued to hear host Scott Cam say they were "million plus partments."
And then it was noted given houses fetch $5 million in the vicinity they will be seeking as loftier prices as possible.
Meeting sky high expectations will be a huge ask as the local agents tell Title Tattle they sense a big challenge. Its not prestigous St Kilda Road.
They will need five high-flying Porche driving entreprenuers or maybe retirees who don't mind a stroll to the Clarendon Street shops.
 
 
  
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Drama on the residential property front although Dan and Dani quietly spend their proceeds

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A vast waterfront mansion at Drummoyne, which went to weekend auction away from the media gaze, was passed in at $9 million.
Expected to set a suburb record price of more than $8 million, the property has since slipped off the website.
<img height="310" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/wrightspointmay17one.jpg" alt="wrightspointmay17one">
With its prominent north-facing position on Wrights Point, the three-level residence wasn't hard to miss.
It was built by the Arnaout family on a block which traded for $6 million in 2007.
No doubting its palatial proportions - and built appararently with no expense spared - it comes with five spacious bedrooms including a private main bedroom wing.
There were also formal and casual living and dining areas.
The state-of-the-art kitchen was marketed as a chef’s delight with an expansive island bench, breakfast bar seating and high end Miele appliances.
There was also a gym with sauna plus pool, and four-car garaging, wine cellar and guest apartment, even a rooftop terrace with a lift.
It was marketed through Adrian Sereni and Warwick Williams of Warwick Williams Real Estate.
"This property is no longer available," says the Warwick Williams website. It is understood the agency is still trying to secure a sale with the interested parties who turned up to the auction.
The property has a level lawns that lead to the Drummoyne Steps and then to direct harbour access.
The Arnaout family are best known for the Iris Group hotel ventures including the Hunters Hill Hotel some two decades ago which were then built a portfolio of pubs valued at $350 million.
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Wrights Point, Drummoyne passed in at $9 million, but now no longer marketed

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Sydney has been named Australia’s most walkable city by US-based Walk Score in its first ranking of Most Walkable Australian Cities and Suburbs.
Walk Score’s ranking of the top 10 largest Australian cities includes:
1. Sydney (Walk Score: 63) 2. Melbourne (Walk Score: 57) 3. Adelaide (Walk Score: 54) 4. Brisbane (Walk Score: 51) 5. Perth (Walk Score: 50) 6. Newcastle (Walk Score: 49) 7. Wollongong (Walk Score: 48) 8. Gold Coast (Walk Score: 48) 9. Central Coast (Walk Score: 41) 10. Canberra (Walk Score: 40)
<a href="https://www.walkscore.com/rankings/australia" target="_blank">The complete list of ranked cities and their suburbs </a>is available at walkscore.
“There are more than 50 walker’s paradise suburbs in Australia, 31 of which are in Sydney alone,” said Walk Score CEO Josh Herst.
“Australia’s most walkable cities and suburbs make it easier for residents to leave their cars at home more often which is great for your wallet, health, environmental impact, and quality of life.”
Walk Score’s walkability ranking is the only international, quantitative rating of neighbourhood walkability. Cities and suburbs are rated on a scale of 0-100, with locations receiving a score of 90-100 deemed a “Walkers’ Paradise.”
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<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/walkability-will-become-more-important-as-cities-become-denser-michael-yardney/2013051661402?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=observers">Walk Score</a> delivers more than 9 million scores for apartment and home addresses per day across a network of more than 15,000 real estate sites.
According to independent research conducted by CEOs for Cities, one point of Walk Score adds up to US$3,000 to home values.
Australians can find their Walk Score by entering an address at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.walkscore.com.">https://www.walkscore.com.</a>
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All tracks lead to Sydney saleability: Walk Score rankings

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Hoping for $4.5 million plus, event planner David Grant secured a highly impressive $5.9 million when his Castlecrag house went to auction this week.
For Title Tattle it clearly ranked as the most prestigious auction prize of the week amid reduced Sydney listings - and some 12 bidders were there registered in the hope of securing the superbly designed home by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.randw.com.au/836376/">architect Alex Popov</a> which was listed through Richardson &amp; Wrench Castlecrag agent Mark O'Brien.
But after the $4.7 million opening bid, just the six bidding parties actually got to bid on the house with large garden with a 12-metre heated swimming pool. It comes with a handmade Zinc roof and extensive Blackbutt timber flooring.
It was announced on the market by Richardson &amp; Wrench auctioneer Peter Baldwin at around $5.05 million.
It has views stretching north and east across Middle Harbour.
The house was custum built for the Grant family who after paying $1.75 million in 1999 with wife Lisa, lived in the now-demoilished home so they could study the light, the breezes, the views and the season.
Its kitchen comes with a Viking professional stove (with twin ovens), and stainless-steel benchtops.
There's a home office.
Its main bedroom suite comes with a sitting area, dressing room, en suite and view deck.
Downstairs are a large rumpus room, four double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a study, a huge laundry, a storeroom.
And check out the quirky teenager's retreat and its graffiti decor.
Now with many international clients, Grant has been the creative director behind major Sydney social events including his senior role during the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
In 1987, David Grant established David Grant Special Events after a career on the production side of theatre and television, then in advertising and journalism. DGSE has undertaken some 3,500 events later.
David Grant has appeared in numerous television series including The Block.
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David Grant secures $5.9 million Castlecrag sale at ultimate auction event

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A Potts Point penthouse has sold at auction for a building record price - $1,645,000 through Laing Real Estate agents Vicki Laing and Simon Polito.
Atop Byron Hall, at the corner of Macleay and Hughes streets, the two bedroom apartment last traded some 31 years ago.
The highrise building was designed by architect Claud Hamilton and built during the late 1920s. Hamilton designed other circa-1920s buildings in the hood including Regents Court in Springfield Avenue.
<a target="_blank" href="https://laing.com.au/834294/">The 140-square-metre penthouse</a>, one of two apartments on the building’s top floor that also holds the building's clothes line, has a north-east aspect. There are views from the Opera House to The Heads.
In need of an interior upgrade, it has two bedrooms, a kitchen, bathroom and interconnected living and dining areas which flow to a sunroom and terrace.
It has been the home of Mrs Erna Keith, a well-known Potts Point identity who’d worked as a bar maid at The Chevron Hotel’s Silver Spade Room during its 1960s heyday.
Upgraded during recent years, the landmark building is a company title Beaux Arts building with a timber panelled foyer with a terrazzo floor.
As so often happens within company title blocks, its been bought by residents who will upgrade within the block.
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Byron Hall, Potts Point penthouse sells at auction for record price

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An older style warehouse complex of multi-unit buildings currently let as five separate tenancies and with two street frontages in Huntingdale will be offered for sale by auction by Crabtrees Real Estate on site on June 13.
It is expected to attract offers in the high $800,000 range.
The property known as 26 Stafford Street (and 25 Hume Street at the rear) currently generates an income of $68,250 net.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/huntingdalemay15one.jpg" width="470" height="351" alt="huntingdalemay15one">
The property has a site area of 1,156 square metre and a building area of 656 sqm and is zoned Industrial 1.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/huntingdalemay15two.jpg" width="470" height="314" alt="huntingdalemay15two">
The Crabtrees listing agent Matthew Marenko says that the property holds appeal as a commercial property investment.
"I believe an investor would recognise the potential to add value to the property in future” Mr Marenko says.
On the same day another industrial 1 zoned property with occupancy, refurbishment or development potential at 6-8 Hume Street has also been listed for auction through Crabtrees Real Estate.
The 1200 square metre property is offered with vacant possession.
Crabtrees selling agent Steven Salopek notes price expectations are around $700,000.
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Huntingdale industrial offering at $800,000-plus

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The absence of complimentary stamp duty concessions is likely to be a stumbling block for Wayne Swan's budget initiative of assisting age pensioners to downsize their homes.
The new pilot scheme follows the Panel for Positive Ageing having identified housing as one of the major challenges of an ageing population.
The age pension assets test doesn't measure the value of a family home, but after it is sold the cash proceeds can trigger a reduced pension eligibility.
"We will trial a new measure at $112.4 million in funding to assist senior Australians to downsize to a home more suitable to their needs without reducing their age pension," Mr Swan said.
From 1 July 2014, senior Australian homeowners who have owned their family home for at least 25 years and who decide to downsize will have the option to invest surplus funds (up to $200,000) in an account.
Its been suggested there will be 30,000 seniors able to sell up and have their home proceeds protected from the age pension means test if they place the bulk of their sale proceeds into a special bank account.
The three year trial will commence on July 1, 2014 where senior Australian homeowners who downsize when buying another home will have <big>an option to invest</big> at least 80 per cent of surplus funds remaining (up to a cap of $200,000) <big>in a special account</big>. The funds invested in the account would be exempt from the age pension means test for up to 10 years. The scheme would only be available to Australians over age pension age who have owned their home for at least 25 years.
Only the ACT provides expressed incentives when it comes to downsizing.
Pensioners living in the ACT could act as a litmus test in the trial, because the ACT exempts older people from paying stamp duty, pensioner groups have noted.
NSW flirted with a scheme for seniors, but was underwhelmed by the result, so that it didn't get extended beyond July 2012.
The funds invested in the account and earned interest, will be exempt from the age pension means test for up to 10 years.
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The age pension is the largest item of expenditure in the Federal Budget each year.
The means-tested pension commencing at age 65 for males and (currently) 64 for females but is set to be adjusted to age 67 over the next decade.
As at March 2012, the full age pension was $695.30 a fortnight for a single person and $1,048.20 a fortnight for a married couple. There was also a pension supplement for singles of $60.20 a fortnight ($90.80 for couples). The assets test is updated several times annually.
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The means testing that is applied to the pension consists of an income test and an asset test. The payment received is the lower amount determined by the two tests. The family home is exempt from the assets test.
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Currently a single homeowner with assessable income less than $152 per fortnight, and assets outside the family home of less than $192,500, is entitled to receive the full pension of $695 per fortnight plus a pension supplement of $60.20 per fortnight.
Every dollar of income above the income test threshold reduces the pension entitled by 50 cents per fortnight, and every $1000 of assets above the asset test threshold reduces the amount of pension by $1.50 per fortnight.
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A recent Rice Warner actuaries reports noted a partial pension was payable for home owning couples with earnings up to close to $2,500 per fortnight and with over $1,000,000 in non-housing assets.
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"For example, a couple who are homeowners with non-housing assessable assets of $750,000 and assessable income of $45,000, are eligible for a considerable part age pension payment of over $10,000 per annum, and those with even higher income and $1 million in non-housing assets are still eligible for a partial pension," it noted.
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"Apart from the overly generous exemptions for home ownership, the means testing provisions generally ensure that those who are relatively well off do not receive a full age pension.
"However, means-testing has become a complex and inconsistent system,' it added.
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ACT public servant mandarins most likely to benefit from federal budget downsizers scheme as stamp duty the major hurdle for seniors in other states

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The 2013 Federal Budget has a $112 million pilot to assist age pensioners to downsize their homes.
It will provide a means test exemption of up to $200,000 for ten years.
The new pilot sceheme follows the Panel for Positive Ageing having identified housing as one of the major challenges of an ageing population.
The age pension assets test doesn't measure the value of a family home, but after it is sold the cash proceeds can trigger a reduced pension eligibility.
"We will trial a new measure at $112.4 million in funding to assist senior Australians to downsize to a home more suitable to their needs without reducing their age pension," Mr Swan said.
From 1 July 2014, senior Australian homeowners who have owned their family home for at least 25 years and who decide to downsize will have the option to invest surplus funds (up to $200,000) in an account.
News Ltd papers indicated the Families Minister Jenny Macklin suggested there will be 30,000 seniors able to sell up and have their home proceeds protected from the age pension means test if they place the bulk of their sale proceeds into a special bank account.
Property Observer understands that those moving into residential aged care will not be eligible.
The funds invested in the account and earned interest, will be exempt from the age pension means test for up to 10 years.
The three year trial will commence on July 1, 2014 where senior Australian homeowners who downsize when buying another home will have <big>an option to invest</big> at least 80 per cent of surplus funds remaining (up to a cap of $200,000) <big>in a special account</big>. The funds invested in the account would be exempt from the age pension means test for up to 10 years. The scheme would only be available to Australians over age pension age who have owned their home for at least 25 years.
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The age pension is the largest item of expenditure in the Federal Budget each year.
The means-tested pension commencing at age 65 for males and (currently) 64 for females but is set to be adjusted to age 67 over the next decade.
As at March 2012, the full age pension was $695.30 a fortnight for a single person and $1,048.20 a fortnight for a married couple. There was also a pension supplement for singles of $60.20 a fortnight ($90.80 for couples). The assets test is updated several times annually.
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The means testing that is applied to the pension consists of an income test and an asset test. The payment received is the lower amount determined by the two tests. The family home is exempt from the assets test.
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Currently a single homeowner with assessable income less than $152 per fortnight, and assets outside the family home of less than $192,500, is entitled to receive the full pension of $695 per fortnight plus a pension supplement of $60.20 per fortnight.
Every dollar of income above the income test threshold reduces the pension entitled by 50 cents per fortnight, and every $1000 of assets above the asset test threshold reduces the amount of pension by $1.50 per fortnight.
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A recent Rice Warner actuaries reports noted a partial pension was payable for home owning couples with earnings up to close to $2,500 per fortnight and with over $1,000,000 in non-housing assets.
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"For example, a couple who are homeowners with non-housing assessable assets of $750,000 and assessable income of $45,000, are eligible for a considerable part age pension payment of over $10,000 per annum, and those with even higher income and $1 million in non-housing assets are still eligible for a partial pension," it noted.
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"Apart from the overly generous exemptions for home ownership, the means testing provisions generally ensure that those who are relatively well off do not receive a full age pension.
"However, means-testing has become a complex and inconsistent system,' it added.
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Federal Budget's trial program encourages downsizing to smaller homes without affecting aged pensions

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 <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

<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."

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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.

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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.

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Jonathan Chancellor

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