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<p>Penhallow, the prestige 1950s Castlecrag residence has been listed with $15 million plus hopes for the first time in 28 years.</p>
<p>It comes with water views from the two houses set on 4400 square metres of landscaped gardens.</p>
<p>{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may9castlecragone]}</p>
<p>It has been listed through Mark O'Brien of Richardson &amp; Wrench Castlecrag inconjunction with Bob Guth of BradfieldCleary Double Bay.</p>
<p>It was built by David Blacklock, the Slazenger sports equipment company managing director, in 1953 to a design by architect John Brogan. The Blacklock family were responsible for much of the suburb's post-war subdivision re-development.</p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/2013/05/castlecragmay9one1.jpg" alt="castlecragmay9one1" width="470" height="310"></p>
<p>Its subsequent 28-year ownership by Richard and Joan Crebbin saw the 1960s installation of Marion Best Hall furnishings into the home including, according to the NSW Historic Houses Trust, a circular Marengo striped wool shag rug. <a href="https://museum.collection.hht.net.au/search.do;jsessionid=644DB1B9CBD48CAEDE11CE7F586EA0B6?db=object&amp;page=211&amp;collection=0&amp;view=detail" target="_blank">The accompanying images show details of the front and back of the rug</a>.</p>
<p>Richard Crebbin headed Marrickville Holdings whose brands included Miracle margarine, Mother’s Choice flour and Eta peanut butter.</p>
<p>The Crebbins were among Marion Hall Best's most important clients throughout the 1960s and 1970s as she refurnished Penhallow with expensive international imports on more than one occasion.</p>
<p>{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/05/may9castlecragtwo]}</p>
<p>The Crebbins acted as patrons to artists, craftspeople, and to Best herself.</p>
<p>The Crebbin's had a collection of Australian art that included paintings by Sir William Dobell, Sir Sidney Nolan and Charles Blackman along with sculptures by Robert Klippel, Gerald Lewers and <a href="https://robingibson.net/artists/clement-meadmore" target="_blank">Clement Meadmore</a>. In 1966 the <em>Sydney Morning Herald</em> reported his chauffeur drove him to work each day in a 1962 maroon Cadillac with the number plate RC 900.</p>
<p>The Linden Way grounds come with tennis court and swimming pool.</p>
<p>The vendors Sandra and Paul Salteri, who is the chairman of Tenix Ltd secured the house in 1985 for $1 million.</p>
<p>Title Tattle seems to recall its name, Penhallow stems from a Cornwall hamlet.</p>
<p><em>Images courtesy of <a href="https://www.nuancephotography.com.au" target="_blank">Nuance Photography</a>.</em></p>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Penhallow, the prestige Castlecrag residence listed by the Salteri family with $15 million plus hopes

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<p>Moebius House, the Sydney eastern suburbs coastal home, has been listed for sale.  Its owner-architect, Tony Owen practices liquid architecture design - projects parametrically designed using 3D software.</p>
<p>The Dover Heights home's name derives from the geometrical term, Moebius Strip, a surface with only one side and only one boundary component. With views of the CBD, Opera House, Bridge and Sydney Harbour, the curvaceous passive solar design has been recognised as setting a benchmark in environmental innovation.</p>
<p>Its had international focus when Lady Gaga was interviewed at the home by the US internet gossip columnist Perez Hilton.</p>
<p>The listing agents Andrew Hennessy and Michael Pallier of Sydney Sotheby's International Realty will be seeking offers above $4.5 million for the four bedroom, three level house which was completed in 2007.</p>
<p>The 525 square metre block had cost $1.97 million in 2007.</p>
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Tony Owen's Moebius House, Dover Heights listed for sale

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<p>A one-bedroom apartment in Ascot Vale was recorded as the cheapest auction sale in Victoria over the last weekend, selling for $245,000, according to Australian Property Monitors (APM).</p>
<p>Located at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-ascot+vale-113554255">5/230 Ascot Vale Road</a>, the apartment (pictured below) sold at auction on May 4 through Jim Michaels of Barry Plant Moonee Valley.</p>
<p><img alt="ascotvalemay9one" height="345" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/ascotvalemay9one.jpg"></p>
<p>The unit was listed for rent in October last year with a $240 weekly asking rent, according to RP Data records.</p>
<p>Based on this figure, the price reflected a rental yield of 5.09%, slightly higher than the average rental yield for units in Ascot Vale which currently stands at 4.4%.</p>
<p>The unit had a $145 weekly asking rent in 2005. The asking rent for the unit was $250 a week in 2010.</p>
<p>According to the <a target="_blank" href="/news">latest report by RP Data</a>, the median sale price for units in Ascot Vale is $410,000, down 13% on last year. The average discount required to sell a unit is 10.5%, while private treaty sales average 84 days on market. </p>
<p>Other one-bedroom apartments for sale in Ascot Vale include: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-ascot+vale-113233403">4/242 Union Road</a> (pictured below), listed for $340,000 by Weda Property Essendon.</p>
<p><img alt="ascotvalemay9two" height="351" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/ascotvalemay9two.jpg"></p>
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Ascot Vale $245,000 unit sale reflecting 5.09% yield was last weekend's cheapest Victorian auction

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<p style="text-align: left;">New South Wales leads Australian states for the most number of bankruptcies in the March 2013 quarter, according to information released by the Insolvency and Trustee Service Australia.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Provisional personal insolvency activity March quarter 2013</strong></p>
<table style="width: 470px;" class="listing" border="0">
<colgroup>
<col width="64">
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col width="99">
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col span="3" width="120">
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<th width="64">State/territory</th>
<th width="99">Bankrtupcies (Parts IV and XI)</th>
<th width="120">Debt agreements (Part IX)</th>
<th width="120">Personal insolvency agreements (Part X)</th>
<th width="120">Total personal insolvency activity</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NSW</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">1,553</div>
</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">852</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">20</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">2,425</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ACT</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">59</div>
</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">35</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">0</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">94</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VIC</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">934</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">423</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">17</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">1,374</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QLD</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">1,411</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">672</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">10</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">2,093</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SA</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">332</div>
</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">119</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">3</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">454</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NT</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">23</div>
</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">26</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">0</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">49</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WA</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">322</div>
</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">189</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">13</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">524</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TAS</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">140</div>
</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">60</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">1</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">201</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Total</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">4,774</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">2,376</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">64</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">7,214</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align: left;">Note 1: All the above figures refer to personal administrations under the Bankruptcy Act only (and not corporate insolvency).</p>
<em>Click to enlarge</em>
<p><a title="Click to enlarge" href="/images/stories/2013/05/bankruptciesmay1one.gif" rel="shadowbox"><img src="/images/stories/2013/05/bankruptciesmay1onethumb.gif"></a></p>
<p><em>Source: <a href="https://www.itsa.gov.au" target="_blank">Insolvency and Trustee Service Australia</a></em></p>
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NSW tops bankruptcies across Australia in the 2013 March quarter: Chart of the week

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<p>A former milk bar-cum-renovated three-bedroom abode on the border of Prahran and Windsor sold at weekend auction for $1,135,000.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/former-milk-bar-cum-renovated-prahran-residence-to-go-under-the-hammer/2013043060732" target="_blank">It had been listed with a price guide of $940,000 to $1.05 million</a>. Bidding started at $1 million and at around $1.1 million, the Lewisham Road property was called as on the market.</p>
<p>It was interior designer Phillip Chester who purchased the property in 2001 and transformed the property into a livable residence over the next decade with inspiration drawn from Europe.</p>
<p>The home, that features French doors to a north-facing courtyard, archways and rustic tiling, had fantastic finishes, its selling agent Andrew James of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://m.hockingstuart.com.au/buying/property/5365379" target="_blank">Hocking Stuart Real Estate Armadale said.</a></p>
<p>The 186-square-metre property also includes a self-contained home office with a kitchenette and ensuites.</p>
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Former Prahran milk bar residence sells for $1.135 million

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<p>Forget the silly Sydney Morning Herald speculation of Ricky Martin being its mystery buyer.</p>
<p>The Forbes Rich Lister, the Chinese millionaire Qiu Yafu, who headed the Cubbie Station cotton acquistion, has been pinpointed as the buyer of the Sydney waterfront property, known as the Bang &amp; Olufsen house which sold for around $34 million last month.</p>
<p>Qiu Yafu - who Property Observer gathers is known by the name, Jerry - is the chairman of global textiles group Shandong Ruyi. He ranked 356 on The Forbes 400 Richest Chinese in 2007, but no mentions subsequent. He is an engineer from Shandong and a senior Communist Party member. Qiu Yafu is a self-made man who frst joined the textile company when it was previously a government managed woollen mill at the age of 17. He rose through the ranks to the head of the company at 39. He was a deputy of Tenth National People's Congress which held plenary sessions between 2003 and 2007.</p>
<p>The Australian Financial Review rural reporter says he bought the Point Piper house after spotting it during an Australia Day cruise with friends.</p>
<p>Yafu headed the syndicate that purchased the Queensland Cubbie Station cotton property for $232 million last year.</p>
<p>The CS Agriculture consortium backed by Shandong Ruyi, has the Japanese trading giant Itochu and wool trader the Lempriere group, as partners on the 93,000 hectare property acquistion.</p>
<p>Meanwhile the first significant-investor visa has been granted to a Chinese toy manufacturer and his family.</p>
<p>It follows a four-month assessment of the application.</p>
<p>He made a $5 million investment in Victoria state bonds.</p>
<p>Australia's significant investor visa has attracted applications that could translate into inbound investment of $850 million.</p>
<p>"Clearly, the whole thing has been targeted at China so far," Bill Fuggle, Sydney-based head of financial services Baker &amp; McKenzie told the Wall Street Journal Asia edition.</p>
<p>The Immigration minister Brendan O'Connor announced the first applicants success last week some six months after the scheme to encourage migrants with a successful business backgrounds was unveiled.</p>
<p>Applicants can invest the $5 million in commonwealth, state or territory bonds, managed funds or Australian companies.</p>
<p>"Significant investors bring with them their skills in business, their links to international markets and additional capital for investment," Mr O'Connor said in a statement.</p>
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Cubbie Station's Chinese millionaire Qiu Yafu secures Point Piper's Bang & Olufsen house as Victoria nabs the first significant-investor visa from China

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<p align="left">ING Direct will lower the interest rate on its variable mortgages by 0.25%, effective Friday 17 May 2013.</p>
<p>It suggested while the RBA cash rate May decision was "one element" considered, the bank’s funding position was the driver of the decision.</p>
<p>Its Mortgage Simplifier loan will be 5.47% pa.</p>
<p>ING Direct is the fifth largest home lender in the country with $38 billion in mortgages..</p>
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ING pass on the full 25 basis points - as funding position improves

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<p>Surfing legend Tom Carroll’s Newport property sold under the weekend hammer for $2.2 million, after bidding started at $1.8 million.</p>
<p>It sold to mid NSW north coast buyers.</p>
<p>Champion surfer Tom Carroll listed his hillside Newport property <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/champion-surfer-tom-carroll-lists-newport-abode/2013042160461">expecting to secure about $2 million </a>at its auction through Lachlan Elder of LJ Hooker <a target="_blank" href="/news">Mona Vale</a>.</p>
<p>"If a home could be referred to as "sexy" this would be the one," <a target="_blank" href="https://monavale.ljhooker.com.au/1089F6K">his marketing says</a>. </p>
<div class="thumbnails">
<div class="thumbnail">
<div class="thumbnail-bg">Carroll bought the Hillside Road property for $350,000 in 1988 when he was competing on the world professional surfing circuit where he won two world surfing titles (1983 and 1984) and three Pipe Masters (1987, 1990 and 1991) in Hawaii.</div>
</div>
</div>
<p>In 1999 Carroll and his wife Lisa rebuilt the five bedroom, three level home on Sydney's northern beaches with sheets of glass, curved walls, high ceilings and polished timber on its 920-square-metre block.</p>
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Surfing legend Tom Carroll sells his Newport property to $2.2 million mid-NSW north coast buyers

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<p>The veteran technology investor Neill Miller has sold his Rose Bay mansion for a rumoured $30 million.</p>
<p>Its the third sale in Sydney at $30 million or above so far this year.</p>
There was no public marketing of the contemporary Rose Bay abode built on the harbourfront reserve location at the base of the steep cul-de-sac sandwiched between the Kambala and Kincoppal-Rose Bay schools. The land was bought for $7.75 million in 2002 along with a $3 million acquistion in 2005 of a portion hived off from Sacred Heart convent land holdings.
<p>Their dress circle virtual property is close to the $15 million sale recorded last year when the Anne Lewis harbourfront house (pictured) sold for $15 million through Ken Jacobs of Christie's International inconjunction with Andrew Livingston of  McGrath.  </p>
<p><img height="370" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/rosebaymay6one.jpg" alt="rosebaymay6one"></p>
<p>While not out of the woods yet, Sydney's prestige property market has made an emphatic start to the year with the Point Piper harbourfront Altona selling for more than $50 million after six years on the market.</p>
<p>And there was also the recent $33 million sale of the Point Piper waterfront mansion nicknamed the Bang and Olufsen house.</p>
<p>Both mansions have been sold to Chinese buyers.</p>
<p>Neill Miller and his wife, Katherine, aren't moving far, having bought elsewhere on the Rose Bay foreshore.</p>
<p>The latest unconfirmed deal is reputed to have been notched up through Michael Pallier, the principal of the newly opened Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty.</p>
<p>The drums were beating about the mooted sale on<a target="_blank" href="/news"> twitter </a>over the weekend.</p>
<p>Miller moved to Sydney in the early 1980s, having started an IT database system in a garden shed in South Africa with his first cousin Derek Miller.</p>
<p>Since November 2010 Miller has been involved in Energy &amp; Carbon Intelligence System, an enterprise software solution that streamlines for businesses the capture, reporting and management of environmental data such as energy, fuel, water and carbon emissions.</p>
<p>The retired IT entrepreneur Neill Miller sold a prized oceanfront North Bondi Beach residential building site for $14 million in early 2011 to Michael Darling, the chairman of Caledonia Investments and scion of the pastoral and mining family, and his wife, Manuela Darling-Gansser.</p>
<p>The somewhat neglected five-storey apartment block is being transformed into a luxury condominium compound for the family who will be exiting establishment Bellevue Hill. The Darlings meanwhile live in a 1935 Hardy Wilson-designed colonial Georgian revival residence which they bought in 1991 from the merchant banker James Yonge for $8.2 million.</p>
<p>Set on the rock shelf known as Mermaid Rocks on the ocean shore at North Bondi, the building which comprises 10 apartments that Miller consolidated at a cost of $14 million between 2006 and 2008, is being  rebuilt to a design by Nick Tobias of Tobias Architects.</p>
<p>The Art Deco 1930s Ramsgate Avenue block was marketed as the only privately owned apartment building with direct ocean access on the Ben Buckler peninsula through <a target="_blank" href="https://www.105ramsgate.com.au/" title="105 Ramsgrange">Martin Maskin at Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay in conjunction with Mary Anne Cronin at Raine &amp; Horne Bondi Beach</a>.</p>
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Rose Bay secures third Sydney Harbour sale at $30 million or higher this year

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<p>Rugby House, the grand Victorian-era Malvern mansion of wine distributor Stan Gyles, sold on the weekend after being passed in at auction at $2.36 million.</p>
<p>It had been listed with expectations of $2.3 million, with its post-auction sale price undisclosed.</p>
<p>Stan Gyles, who distributes New Zealand's Central Otago fine wines, bought Rugby House 22 years ago, with wife Mary, who are now downsizing to South Melbourne.</p>
<p>The five bedroom 1896 house on Wattletree Road, opposite Cabrini Hospital, features a wine cellar capable of holding 2000 bottles.</p>
<p>It comes with a meals area in a 1995 conservatory-style extension.</p>
<div>
<p>It was listed  through <a target="_blank" href="https://kayburton.com.au/property/190-wattletree-road-malvern">Mark Williams and Gowan Stubbings </a>of Kay &amp; Burton.</p>
<p>Rugby House last sold in 1991 for $425,000.</p>
</div>
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Rugby House, the 1890s Malvern house sells

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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_" /></p>

<p>The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>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.</p>


Joel Robinson

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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]</p>

<p>For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.</p>

<p>"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."</p>

<p>"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."</p>

<p>More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.</p>

<p>"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]</p>


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

<p><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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p data-end="1160" data-start="703">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.</p>

<p data-end="1394" data-start="1162">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.</p>

<p data-end="1767" data-start="1396">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.</p>

<p data-end="1936" data-start="1769">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.</p>

<p data-end="2070" data-start="1938">"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.</p>

<p data-end="2230" data-start="2072">"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."</p>

<p data-end="2397" data-start="2232">Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.</p>

<p data-end="2600" data-start="2399">"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.</p>

<p data-end="2805" data-start="2602">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.</p>

<p data-end="2942" data-start="2807">Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.</p>

<p data-end="3078" data-start="2944">"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.</p>


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

<p><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.</p>

<p>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.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240]<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<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.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
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.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566]<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.</p>

<p>"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."</p>

<p>Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."</p>

<p>"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.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"<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."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564]<br />
&nbsp;<br />
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.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"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.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"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."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195]<br />
&nbsp;<br />
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.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
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.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]</p>


Jonathan Chancellor

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