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If it's not property the world's wealthy investors  look for assets that satisfy both head and heart, the Knight Frank Wealth Report report noted.
<a href="https://www.knightfrank.com/wealthreport" target="_blank">Across Asia, a net balance of 19% of HNWIs spent more last year on luxury goods than in 2011</a>.
James Lawson, head of industry analyst Ledbury Research, says this was reflected in the number of new luxury store and boutique openings around the world.
The firm’s research shows that Asia-Pacific’s share of the world’s leading luxury brand outlets increased from 39% in 2009 to 44% in 2012, while North America’s fell from 30% to 24%.
Europe’s quota remained relatively stable, but this was “not due to European consumers, but to tourists and their passion for shopping in the luxury capitals of Milan, Paris, and London,” says Mr Lawson.
Australia’s luxury market has also benefitted from the trend, with an increase in spending by tourists from China and other regional hotspots like Indonesia and Malaysia, according to Melinda O’Rourke, managing director of Sydney-based luxury consultancy MO Luxury.
However, Ms O’Rourke says Australians still account for 65% of luxury purchases, and relying too heavily on overseas wallets is a risky strategy.
“The industry here learned a hard lesson after the Japanese economy stagnated.”
When asked to select the most collected passion investments, respondents in all regions of the world chose fine art.
The next most-collected asset overall was watches with the average Chinese super-rich male owning six luxury timepieces, according to Hurun.
Wine was the third most popular passion investment, scoring highly in all areas bar the Middle East.
Jewellery and classic cars complete our global top five.
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If its not property, the rich spend it on art, watches, wine, jewellery and classic cars: Knight Frank Wealth Report  

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Peter Perini, from Corinthian Industries, Australia's largest door maker and manufacturer, and his wife, Rosslyn, have relisted their Neutral Bay residence, Keynsham.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-neutral+bay-107728811" target="_blank">The 1921 Arts and Crafts house</a> sits on a reduced 1,300 square metres overlooking the harbour.
The restored Shellcove Road house has three bedrooms including a whole-floor main suite. There’s also a billiard room.
Its Ray White LNS agent Kingsley Yates wants buyers with $7 million plus.
It had $8 million-plus hopes in March last year.
Its been refurbished by Ridley Smith of NBRS Architects to maximise its bay views.
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Neutral Bay residence, Keynsham, relisted with $7m hopes

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The prime London housing markets have benefited from an estimated £23 billion of bonus money from the financial and insurance services sector over the past ten years, according to Savills.
Bonus money also added a further £14 billion invested in London's prime commuter markets, Savills says.
Over half of the influx was generated by "traditional City bonuses."
But Savills noted the influence of the annual cash injection had declined since 2008, reflecting a shift in earning power from large City corporate to the West End financiers.  
Financial and business service sector buyers typically account for some 50% of buyers in prime central London and are prominent in some outer London prime markets, most notably south west London, the report noted.
"We estimate that some £3 billion bonus money was injected into prime London and South East markets in 2012, with traditional bank bonuses accounting for just under a third," it said.
Savills has previously acknowledged that bonuses insulated London from the harshness of the continued property downturn. In early 2011 Savills suggested the London financial services sector total £7 billion bonus - some 45% less than the 2007 bonus pot - would curtail any falls in prime London to a marginal 1.0% fall compared to an anticipated 3.0% fall for the UK as a whole.
Financial and business service sector buyer share of prime central and SW London residential markets
<table style="width: 470px;" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="187">
Prime Central London
</td>
<td width="85">
Under £1m
</td>
<td width="85">
£1m -  £2m
</td>
<td width="85">
£2m - £3m
</td>
<td width="85">
£3m - £5m
</td>
<td width="85">
£5m+
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="187">
Financial, Business &amp; Professional Services
</td>
<td width="85">
58%
</td>
<td width="85">
50%
</td>
<td width="85">
53%
</td>
<td width="85">
61%
</td>
<td width="85">
52%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<table style="width: 470px;" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="187">
South West London
</td>
<td width="85">
Under £500k
</td>
<td width="85">
£500k - £1m
</td>
<td width="85">
£1m - £2m
</td>
<td width="85">
£2m+
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="187">
Financial, Business &amp; Professional Services
</td>
<td width="85">
42%
</td>
<td width="85">
45%
</td>
<td width="85">
62%
</td>
<td width="85">
62%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
“Bonuses from the financial sector were a key driver of house price growth across the prime markets of London in the run up to the credit crunch and price movements were closely linked to payouts,” says Lucian Cook, director of Savills residential research.
“Since then, the prime domestic markets have adjusted to much lower bonus levels, with price growth more dependent on the recycling of existing wealth in the banker and broker belt and the trickle down effect from overseas buying activity in central London.
“A capping of bonuses means there won’t be the significant injections of cash to fuel future seasonal spikes or larger booms, but an increase in salary to compensate for a loss of future bonuses is expected to underpin prices - particularly as it is likely to be easier to get mortgage finance on these salaries as opposed to uncertain bonus payments,” he said.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2013/mar/03/savills-bonus-delay-tax">Last weekend Savills was in the news</a> itself on the issue of bonuses after giving its top staff the opportunity to defer bonuses until the start of the next tax year to avoid the soon-to-be-abolished 50% top rate of tax.
Executives at the firm, some of whom earn more than £1m a year, could delay taking bonuses until the lower 45p rate is in place.
The top rate of income tax will be cut from 50% to 45% from 6 April. The top rate is levied on incomes of more than £150,000. The Guardian also reported in January that London-based insurer Aon was <a href="https://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2013/jan/20/aon-defer-bonus-avoid-50-income-tax?INTCMP=SRCH" target="_blank">helping 250 of its best-paid staff avoid the 50% rate</a> by deferring bonus payouts.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/03/londonmarch6.jpg" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/03/londonmarch6thumb.jpg"></a>
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London's prime housing markets bouyed by £23 billion of executive bonuses over the past decade

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A one-bedroom cottage in Camperdown has been listed on the market with a year's supply of ice cream for the lucky buyer, given the Dairy Bell Ice Cream factory is situated just across the road. 

True Property Erskineville agent Braden Walters said he decided to embrace the home's industrial setting rather than ignore its proximity. He secured prominance on social media plataforms after his marketing initiative.
The property, at 28 Eton St, Camperdown (pictured below), hits the market last month with a $650,000 plus price guide for its <a href="https://www.trueproperty.com.au/765793/" target="_blank">March 16 auction </a>- and the offer of 52 vouchers for two litre tubs.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/icecreammarch5one.jpg" width="470" height="262" alt="icecreammarch5one">
Buyers can select banana split, mint, mango or chocolate.
"I might have to throw in a gym membership too, though, because I don't want to be seen to support obesity,'' he jokingly told The Daily Telegraph.
Initially sceptical about living across the road from a factory, its vendor Kim Wilson says the factory shop outlet has become a focal point for the community.
Its vendor Kim Wilson says her family visits the factory shop "easily four times a week'' to get a fix of ice cream.
"We'd chat to our neighbours having an ice cream out front. It's as important as a good cafe or pub,'' she told the Telegraph.
"The prices are really cheap and the staff really friendly, especially on a hot day all our neighbours would be out there."
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Ice cream giveaway with Camperdown cottage offering

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Australand Property Group has advised shareholders that several parties had expressed an interest in acquiring all or a portion of the diversified trust.
Its statement to the stock exchanget said “several parties have expressed an interest in either the whole or parts of the Australand business."
CapitaLand’s new chief executive, Lim Miing Yan had previously said its Australian holding would be placed in a new business unit as part of a wider company restructure by the Singaporean real estate giant, CapitaLand, which controls 59% of Australand given the company seeks instead to focus on its China and Singapore businesses.
"Australand is making certain information available to selected parties in order to determine whether any such proposal can be developed.”
"As previously indicated, there is no guarantee that any proposal will be forthcoming.”
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Several parties seek Australand Property Group stake

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Set amid lush green valleys of the Byron Bay hinterland, Coorabella, the magical 125-year-old home on 23 hectares at Coorabell, has been listed for sale at $7.5 million.
For the past 17 years Coorabella has been home to <a href="https://www.uniqueestates.com.au/Homes/Detail.aspx?id=ue150&amp;wlid=35e38e74-3b68-4c35-95af-d6f423a37ee1" target="_blank">jewellery designer Giovanni D’Ercole</a> with an obvious heightened sense of theatre and aesthetic. Often featured in Australian and international magazines including Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire and Country Style, Coorabella is now listed through Nicolette van Wijngaarden at Unique Estates Australia.
It has three bedrooms and three bathrooms - along with a separate library wing which can be used as staff quarters for those with a full-time nanny/personal assistant.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-byron+bay-408865627" target="_blank">Its often rented at $2500 a week</a>. All rooms throughout the house, including each of the bedrooms, feature views of the surrounding countryside along with huge wraparound verandahs.
Large sliding glass doors open up onto the verandah from both the kitchen and dining rooms. Soaring ceilings with pressed-tin finishes and leadlight window feature throughout the house which is filled with old-world antiques and special hand-picked pieces from the owner’s travels around the world.
Its dramatically set swimming pool overlooks the valley within a gardenias and jasmine scented garden. A whimsical tipi featuring timber floorboards has been erected for use for as meditation, yoga or pilates space.
The property has primary production status. There is Wilson Creek frontage.
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Coorabella, the Byron Bay jewel listed by Love & Hatred's Giovanni D'Ercole

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Its been billed as Brisbane's slowest moving housing market by Louis Christopher at SQM, and possibly Australia's slowest selling postcode. 
"It clearly stands out from the rest when measuring properties that have spent the most time on the market," Christopher told Property Observer.
The top 10 ranked properties from postcode 4184 – which takes in Russell Island, Macleay Island and Lamb Island just off the coast of Brisbane – have each spent more than 3½ years on the market.
Some of these properties were already on the market when SQM Research began to monitor this back in 2009.
SQM Research attributes the long listings to the fact that postcode 4184 is a holiday region or retirement destination.
"Properties in the area are often used as second homes or investments," Louis Christoper said.
SQM Research says during an economic recession, the first assets to be liquidated are investment properties or holiday homes, and this appears to have been the case with the homes from postcode 4184.
Agents told SQM Research that there was also a great deal of vacant land for sale in the postcode, where individuals may have bought cheaply in the hope of later building - perhaps for retirement or leisure - but as a result of financial hardship have since attempted to sell off.
 
1
<div><a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb&amp;id=d9a6b72f35&amp;e=0aab96dc54">55 Bangalow, Russell Island, 4184</a></div>
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Days on the market: 1,418</div>
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Initial asking price: $485,000 Current asking price: $450,000 Reduction: 7%</div>
 
2
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-macleay+island-105093554">47 Coondooroopa Drive, Macleay Island, 4184</a>
Days on the market: 1418 Initial asking price: $680,000 Current asking price: $629,000 Reduction: 8%
 
3
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.us5.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb&amp;id=c3b661bc15&amp;e=0aab96dc54">59 Coondooroopa Drive, Macleay Island, 4184</a>
Days on the market: 1418 Initial asking price: $1,200,000 Current asking price: $989,000 Reduction: 18%
 
4
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.us5.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb&amp;id=4df0d79eeb&amp;e=0aab96dc54">4 Shelly Cres, Lamb Island, 4184</a>
Days on the market: 1418 Initial asking price: $280,000 Current asking price: $245,000 Reduction: 13%
 
5
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb&amp;id=b5f1924eac&amp;e=0aab96dc54">162 High Central, Macleay Island, 4184</a>
Days on market: 1418 Initial asking price: $298,500 Current asking price: $298,500 Reduction: 0%
 
6
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb&amp;id=20e2218f59&amp;e=0aab96dc54">1 Wilga, Russell Island, 4184</a>
Days on the market: 1418 Initial asking price: $239,000 Current asking price: $207,000 Reduction: 13%
 
7
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb&amp;id=a1fba8cf51&amp;e=0aab96dc54">25 Benowa Road, Macleay Island, 4184</a>
Days on the market: 1418 Initial asking price: $640,000 Current asking price: $590,000 Reduction: 8%
 
8
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb&amp;id=8bdda6c426&amp;e=0aab96dc54">11-13 Pacific Street, Lamb Island, 4184</a>
Days on the market: 1411 Initial asking price: $965,000 Current asking price: $785,000 Reduction: 19%
 
9
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.us5.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb&amp;id=9e445e7660&amp;e=0aab96dc54">55 Laurel, Russell Island, 4184</a>
Days on the market: 1371 Initial asking price: $298,000 Current asking price: $298,000 Reduction: 0%
 
10
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.us5.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb&amp;id=e3a25ea377&amp;e=0aab96dc54">61 Francis St, Macleay Island, 4184</a>
Days on market: 1318 Initial asking price: $235,000 Current asking price: $215,000 Reduction: 9%
 
SQM Research also offers a list of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/top100bargains.php" title="SQM Research">Top 100 Biggest Bargains in Australia </a>for sale.
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Postcode 4184 dominates Brisbane's days on market standings: SQM

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A five-bedroom, four-bathroom home in Brighton has sold at auction for $6.2 million.
The home, on 1467 square metres across two titles, attracted just the two bidders. Its auctioneer Leigh Hallamore started the auction of the Victoria Street offering by accepting a $4.9 million offer according to the James Buyer Advocates attendee Kristen Hatt.
<img alt="brightonmarch5one" src="/images/stories/2013/03/brightonmarch5one.jpg" width="470" height="313">
Then followed a $5 million second bid.
Announced as on the market around $5.8 million, bidding slowed at $6,000,000 with the second bidder offering another $20,000.
<img alt="brightonmarch5two" src="/images/stories/2013/03/brightonmarch5two.jpg" width="470" height="313">
Then followed another $180,000 taking the sale price to $6.2 million through <a href="https://www.buxton.com.au/?page=why_us&amp;title=Why%20us" target="_blank">Buxton agent Brian Devlin</a>. It had been listed unsuccessfully in early 2012. The expansive family/informal dining and living room had sliding glass walls opening out to Japanese-inspired gardens with tennis court, pool and entertaining area. The last acquistion cost $1.51 million in 2003. It came with parking for five cars.
<img alt="brightonmarch5three" src="/images/stories/2013/03/brightonmarch5three.jpg" width="470" height="313"> 
Below is a list of the ten most expensive sales in Australian capital cities in the past week, as recorded by RP Data.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/26_victoria_street_brighton_vic_3186/10024489" target="_blank">26 Victoria Street, Brighton, VIC, 3186</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by Buxton Real Estate Brighton for $6.2 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/778_orrong_road_toorak_vic_3142/13587970" target="_blank">778 Orrong Road, Toorak, VIC, 3142</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by Marshall White Real Estate Armadale for $3.615 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/4_lachlan_avenue_sylvania_waters_nsw_2224/6645593" target="_blank">4 Lachlan Avenue, Sylvania Waters, NSW, 2224</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by Ray White Sylvania Waters for $3.47 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/53_shirley_road_roseville_nsw_2069/5961523" target="_blank">53 Shirley Road, Roseville, NSW, 2069</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by McConnell Bourn Estate Agents Lindfield for $3.415 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/4_cooper_street_paddington_nsw_2021/5263895" target="_blank">4 Cooper Street, Paddington, NSW, 2021</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by GoodyerDonnelley Real Estate Woollahra for $3.23 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/1173_barrenjoey_road_palm_beach_nsw_2108/5301608" target="_blank">1173 Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach, NSW, 2108</a>, three-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by McGrath Estate Agents for $3.2 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/47_york_street_st_kilda_west_vic_3182/13287147" target="_blank">47 York Street, St Kilda West, VIC, 3182</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by Marshall White Real Estate Armadale for $3.13 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/4_glenbrook_avenue_malvern_east_vic_3145/11591950" target="_blank">4 Glenbrook Avenue, Malvern East, VIC, 3145</a>, six-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by RT Edgar Booroondara for $2.97 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/126_bellevue_road_bellevue_hill_nsw_2023/1367147" target="_blank">126 Bellevue Road, Bellevue Hill, NSW, 2023</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on February 26 by Real Estate Redefined Double Bay for $2.755 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/14_liguria_street_south_coogee_nsw_2034/6255697" target="_blank">14 Liguria Street, South Coogee, NSW, 2034</a>, four-bedroom house, sold on February 27 by Black Lifestyle Property Randwick for $2.65 million
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Brighton's $6.2 million offer tops the week's sales 

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The $2.5 billion Investa Office Fund, in partnership with the Investa Commercial Property Fund, has spent $462 million to buy Leighton's development at 567 Collins Street, Melbourne.
It is expected the deal on the 55,000-square-metre office tower will deliver a 6.7% cash-on-cash yield on its mid-2015 completion.
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The office will be the largest PCA premium grade tower constructed in Melbourne in the last 25 years.
Located between Spencer and King Streets, Leighton Properties recently announced a major new lease to Leighton Contractors in the 26 level tower. Leighton Contractors will establish its Victorian head office across 12,700 sqm of the campus component of the building.
They will join leading law firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth, which signed a lease in late 2012 for 8,800 sqm of the building’s skyrise.
Peter Menegazzo, the Investa group executive and fund manager of ICPF, said Leighton had done a wonderful job in designing a very high quality office building.
It is understood that with the tower almost 50% leased there has been an income guarantee given over any vacant space until mid-2019.
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</div>
</div>
The deal was brokered by CBRE’s Rick Butler and Mark Coster, with Jones Lang LaSalle’s James Kaufman and Simon Storry.
It's the biggest central business district property deal since the CFS Retail consortium bought the Myer store for $605 million in 2007.
Another blockbuster office sale in the works has been a 50% stake in 8 Exhibition Street, which The Australian Financial Review reports was struck at $160.05 million on a firm 6.5% cap rate.
GPT’s blue-chip unlisted office fund is acquiring a 50% stake in the $320 million Ernst &amp; Young tower in Melbourne from its owner, Cbus Property.
The 45,000-square-metre office tower rises from the historic five-storey Herald &amp; Weekly Times building, which Cbus redeveloped in 2005.
The AFR says the deal was brokered by Sydney-based Savills agent Ian Hetherington, with contracts exchanged over the weekend.
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Investa buys 567 Collins Street for $462 million and CBUS sells on Exhibition Street

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Fashion designer Alannah Hill’s South Yarra terrace sold for $4.365 million under the weekend auction hammer.
The Marshall White agent Marcus Chiminello said the property sold for $150,000 above the reserve price.
There were five bidders for Risby, the chic 1880s Victorian residence that sits within the Domain precinct across from Fawkner Park.
The three-bedroom, two-bathroom 1887 Victorian home had been expected to fetch $4 million-plus, before Hill's intended bayside move.
The two-storey house with retained period features has double garaging and a pool.
It cost a reported $4.31 million in late 2009 when sold by Virginia Monahan, who imports fine cashmere from Scotland to make into sweaters, and her husband Brad.
Ms Hill renovated after she bought the three-bedroom, two-bathroom 1887 Victorian home in late 2009.
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Alannah Hill secures $4.3 million in South Yarra

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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

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

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

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

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

Jonathan Chancellor

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