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Women’s fashion identity Amanda Morgan has sold her Walter Burley Griffin-designed home in Toorak for $1.81 million.
The property at <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.thehomepage.com.au/property/residential/16a-glyndebourne-avenue-toorak/637511?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=RealEstateNews+Tuesday+13+November+2012&amp;utm_content=RealEstateNews+Tuesday+13+November+2012+Version+A+CID_604a870d06001272bf917665c8b1700d&amp;utm_source=Email%20marketing%20software&amp;utm_term=The%20home%20will%20be%20auctioned%20at%201pm%20on%20Saturday%2024th%20November%20by%20R%20T%20Edgar%20Boroondara" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">16a Glyndebourne Avenue, Toorak</a>, is known as Salter house after Stanley Salter, who commissioned the property in 1922. It was featured in The Australian Home Beautiful in 1927.
It went to weekend auction<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.thehomepage.com.au/property/residential/16a-glyndebourne-avenue-toorak/637511?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=RealEstateNews+Tuesday+13+November+2012&amp;utm_content=RealEstateNews+Tuesday+13+November+2012+Version+A+CID_604a870d06001272bf917665c8b1700d&amp;utm_source=Email%20marketing%20software&amp;utm_term=The%20home%20will%20be%20auctioned%20at%201pm%20on%20Saturday%2024th%20November%20by%20R%20T%20Edgar%20Boroondara" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"> </a>through R T Edgar Boroondara agent Simon Derham who had a $1.7 million reserve. It last traded at $1,082,500 in 2006. It's now a three-bedroom, three-bathroom house with bluestone terraces with heated waterfall saltwater pool on its 642-square-metre block.
Melbourne recorded a clearance rate of 61% compared to 51% for the same time last year – with the REIV chief executive Enzo Raimondo suggesting the continued good results are "helping to build confidence and should provide the foundations of further improvements in the new year".
In Sydney, the city recorded a clearance rate of 59%, compared to 58% last week and 53% last year.
Salter House was being marketed as showing Walter Burley Griffin’s <a href="https://nla.gov.au/nla.pic-vn3919897" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">architectural simplicity </a>while incorporating many of his subtle innovations to take advantage of the home’s natural surroundings.
The heart of the project was arguably its internal courtyard, which architecture commentators described as a gesture adapted from his Prairie House experiments 20 years prior.
It comes with his “knitlock” brick method of construction, which has made his commissions known around the world.
Knitlock was patented in 1917, with a company headquartered at Griffin's Melbourne office formed to market it.
Walter Burley Griffin first settled in Sydney, forming a brief partnership with J Burcham Clamp, who had sought out a friendship with the Griffins in Chicago in about 1913.
However, the partnership was dissolved in 1915 when it became necessary for Griffin to move to Melbourne, as the Federal Capital Office, of which he was director, was in Melbourne.
Griffin rented an office on the seventh floor of 395 Collins Street.
His initial plans to build his patented knitlock construction met resistance from Malvern Council, which was slow to be convinced as to the suitability of the material for a home in the wealthy suburb of Toorak.
The council's procrastination delayed construction, so the Griffin Society records reveal instead the Griffins sold the land in Kooyong Road to William R. Paling, who in turn commissioned Griffin to design his two-storey house in knitlock.
The Palings' neighbour was a <a href="/news">Toorak </a>property investor who became one of Griffin's best Melbourne clients. Mary Williams commissioned the rental flats Langi at the corner of Toorak and Lansell roads, Toorak.
Griffin's design for Stanley Salter led to designs of knitlock houses for Stanley's brother, Foster Salter in <a href="/news">Brighton</a>, and his brother-in-law, Alfred Ewins in <a href="/news">Ballarat</a>, although neither was built.
Other knitlock houses were built in <a href="/news">Canterbury </a>(1921), <a href="/news">Black Rock</a> (1923), <a href="/news">Surrey Hills </a>(1923), <a href="/news">Heidelberg</a> (1924) and <a href="/news">Woodend </a>(1929).
Knitlock was based on cheap manufacture, lightness and compactness for minimising transport, and on standard units assembled without hand fitting, cutting, bedding or plastering for speedy erection.
Much of the renovation was undertaken by Barbara Hocking, who recollected on its listing once that Griffin's original cottage in the mid-196os was terribly dilapidated.
"In those days it was normal to just tear houses like that down," Hocking recollected.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Walter Burley Griffin's 1922 Salter House, Toorak, sells

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The prestige Bellevue Hill market continues its faltering price path with a $6.1 million sale – which reflects a 7.38% annual decrease in price.
It was the former French consular residence until the dress-circle four-bedroom, four-bathroom house sold in September 2010 for $7.24 million through Ray White Prestige agent Michael Finger.
The<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bellevue+hill-111970043" target="_blank"> 4 Ginagulla Road </a>property sat among the 1,700 properties listed for sale that year by the French government as it sought to reduce its debt burden after the global financial crisis.
It was bought in 1995 for $3.75 million.
The <a target="_blank" href="/news">Bellevue Hill</a> house  comes with alfresco entertaining within its 923-square-metre rear north-facing landholding.
It was sold this time around in a matrimonial matter through Michael Finger and Diane Wilson.
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Oh la la, le pauvre! Bellevue Hill prestige prices plummet

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Lesseys Garage, a 400-square-metre two-level East Sydney warehouse, is set to become a inner-city eaterie.
It sold at weekend auction for $3.6 million, with development approval for a restaurant at the Riley Street, Busby Lane and McCarthy Place location.
The approval was secured after costly Land &amp; Environment Court proceedings that followed its sale at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/lowy-family-makes-%241.3-million-in-woolloomooloo-garage-sale/2011100551824">$2,675,000 </a>in October last year by the Lowy family of Westfield fame. 
The Lowy family offloaded two Riley Street ydney semi-industrial premises in the shadow of their longstanding William Street, Sydney, headquarters last year.
They'd held the vehicle repair station properties since the 1970s.
The approved plans are to rebirth the garage as a 190-seat eaterie.
Bidding at the weekend auction opened at $3 million with around five interested parties, but two that were particularly serious. It sold to Bondi restauratuer Brody Peterson, owner of two of Bondi Road's dining establishments, The Flying Squirrel tapas bar and The Stuffed Beaver diner. After the weekend auction the auctioneer Damien Cooley tweeted: "On fire! Auctioneer <a href="https://twitter.com/damiencooley" dir="ltr" target="_blank"><s>@</s>damiencooley</a> sold 57 Riley St East Sydney for 3.6m Agents City Commercial, CBRE &amp; BresicWhitney."
It was marketed as "an incredible" opportunity to acquire a true warehouse building on the doorstep of Sydney’s CBD directly opposite the new Woolworths development.
"Offered with a valuable approval for food and beverage," the marketing said. 
Its 1934 construction to a E B Wilshire &amp; Hodges Architects-design was recorded in<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/17111454"> the SMH</a>. 
It was sold by commercial property agent Warren Duncan, who bought it in partnership with eastern suburbs property speculator Adam Davis, who'd briefly considered finding their own tenant, with hotelier Fraser Short among the mooted occupants.
Brody Peterson was attracted by the fact that all the development approvals were in place, including the primary service authorisation, which allows licensed restaurants to serve alcohol without a meal.
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Lesseys Garage, East Sydney sells to Bondi restauratuer Brody Peterson, owner of The Flying Squirrel and The Stuffed Beaver

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<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/knightsbridge.jpg">
The Queensland hotelier Robert Fraser-Scott has lost his prestige Sovereign Islands residence, which has been sold under instructions from Ernst &amp; Young for $3,065,000.
Listed through Ray White Surfers Paradise agent Shaun Kaddatz, the trophy property had its own website, <a href="https://www.2knightsbridgewest.com/" target="_blank">www.2KnightsbridgeWest.com</a>.
Last November Fraser-Scott thought he'd sold his mega-mansion, albeit also for less than half what it cost four years earlier.
It had sold under the hammer for $3.5 million last November, but the buyer has since lost the deposit after several extensions to secure finance.
Set on 2,369 square metres, Westley Manor had been bought from builders Rob Smith and wife Susan Chudley-Smith for $7.36 million in April 2007, just before the global financial crisis.
The Knightsbridge Parade West property has six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, a mooring able to take two 18-metre boats and two jet-skis, a 1,500-bottle wine cellar, drive-through underground parking for 12 vehicles and resort-style grounds.
The mansion also features a two-sided wall aquarium between the living and media rooms.
Its latest sale was last month through Ray White Surfers Paradise for $3,065,000, and the contract reportedly became unconditional last week.
The Fraser-Scotts hotel empire has been listed but most yet to be sold.
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Publican Robert Fraser-Scott's Sovereign Islands mansion sells at less than half price

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The Masterchef Australia warehouse cooking premises in Alexandria has been sold for $5.5 million.
The sale preceded the decision by Network Ten and Shine Australia to relocate their major television series to the Melbourne, arguably Australia's food capital, where the fifth season of the cooking reality show will be filmed at the Melbourne Showgrounds.
Interests associated with the Maribondo-Aspden family, which is Havaiana's Australian distributor for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.havaianasaustralia.com.au/001_Havaianas/pl.php?Operation=SetSessionVariable&amp;Variable%5Bwhatsnewfilter%5D=-1&amp;Variable%5Bviewallfilter%5D=-1">Havaiana thongs </a>, were the warehouse buyers. It's expected the business might open at the Doody Street showroom premises.
In the meantime a small 185-square-metre space with polished timber hardwood floors within the complex has been put up for lease through Mark Furneaux at Durrant Furneaux Mascot. No leasing price has been offered.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/masterchef.jpg">
The widely popular reality cooking challenge series had leased the 1925 warehouse since its 2009 inaugural season.
Masterchef’s producers were attracted to the building after its 2009 refurbishment, which reputedly set a new benchmark for the city fringe industrial suburb.
No expense had been spared to furnish it – especially its mezzanine perimeter overlooking a central, open-plan, light-filled ground floor area with polished timber floors and formal entry via twin doors.
The net lettable building with brick walls and high exposed timber ceilings totals about 1,500 square metres plus a private courtyard. The property also offers 20 car spaces.
The neighbouring warehouse at Alexandria has also been recently sold for $7.42 million to the Haikin family, owners of the Australian franchise of the Max Brenner chocolate shop, which has lodged plans for its workplace.
Colliers International Industrial recently noted in its first half 2012 South Sydney industrial report that vacancy levels continued to remain tight as tenant confidence slowly returned.
It noted lease transaction volumes continued to remain low due to a lack of space available for tenants to relocate or enter the market, with only 10 buildings over 4,000 square metres for lease in the South Sydney market – of which four were under negotiations.
Prime grade net face rents continue to range from $130 to $160 square metre per annum, while secondary grade rents average between $100 to $120 a square metre per annum.
Colliers International forecasts that face rents will begin to show signs of growth in the South Sydney industrial market over the course of 2012, as tenant confidence continues to increase and availability remains tight.
The sub-1,000-square-metre sales market within Sydney’s South has continued to record robust levels of sales transactions occur.
The majority of sales activity remains in the sub-$10 million price range, with owner-occupiers, private investor and those looking to purchase for their self managed super funds dominating transactions.
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Portion of Masterchef Alexandria warehouse space up for lease following $5.5 million sale

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Storage space is at a premium for many inner-city apartment dwellers.
So Rockwall Apartments, a residential building at <a target="_blank" href="/news">Potts Point</a>, looked at its basement garage for vacant spaces within the common property.
At a private auction restricted to people who owned apartments in the Mirvac-built high rise, the body corporate auctioned off seven storage spaces last month.
NSW Title records reveal buyers included David Jones boss Paul Zahra, who spent $28,000 on a two-square-metre basement storage space.
His upstairs apartment with car space cost $1.7 million in 2007.
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DJ's boss Paul Zahra spends $28,000 on two-square-metre Potts Point basement storage space 

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A Rye beach bathing box without power or water has sold for a record $275,000.
It was snapped up before its scheduled weekend auction. 
They might be a throwback to the 19th century, when the increasing popularity of sea bathing clashed with Victorian-era prudishness, but demand is still there for them.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/ryebathing.jpg">
The pre-summer sale betters the previous $170,000 <a target="_blank" href="/news">Rye </a>record, according to JP Dixon Portsea Sorrento agent Jenny Fink, who sold <a href="https://www.jpdixon.com.au/view.php?OID=4510601" target="_blank">122 Tyrone foreshore in Rye</a>.
"There is no power and no water. It is just a box and it is on the beach."
But she said<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/122-pt-nepean-road-rye/Property-Details-sold-residential-4510601" target="_blank"> the beach boxes </a>were bought by now elderly people who paid $4,000 for them and now "they just get handed down."
Victorians last year spent more than $5 million on beach boxes, according to a News Ltd report.
The tiny beach boxes dot Port Phillip Bay from Melbourne to the Mornington Peninsula. 
A Portsea box last year sold set a record $585,000.
A Brighton record was set 18 months ago when a new box sold for $260,000. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/brighton-bathing-box-market-buoyant/2011120652689" target="_blank">Bathing boxes existed in Brighton as far back as 1862</a>.
Those now on the market include one at <a target="_parent" href="/news">Rosebud </a>for $75,000, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Mt Eliza</a> for $65,000 and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Mornington </a>for $180,000-plus.
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Rye beach bathing box sells for $275,000

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Professor Roz Hansen, a leading urban planning advisor to the State Government, has said she's deeply troubled by growing disparities in the choices available to Melburnians by the fact of where they live.
"The amenity enjoyed by a resident of an established suburb like Hawthorn, six kilometres east of the CBD, or Clayton, some 19 kilometres southeast of the CBD, is quite different from that of a Melburnian putting up stumps in areas like Craigieburn, 26 kilometres north of the CBD, or Melton, 35 kilometres west of the CBD, or Cranbourne, 43 kilometres to the south-east."
Professor Hansen, chair of the Ministerial Advisory Committee for the Metropolitan Planning Strategy, made her remarks while delivering a keynote speech to the social welfare agency, the Brotherhood of St Laurence last night.
In the speech entitled "Two Melbournes", Professor Hansen also proposed charging property owners a Melbourne metropolitan levy that was tied to specific projects.

"In the past Melburnians paid a levy to fund the Melbourne Underground Loop and we continue to pay an annual parks charge to enhance, manage and maintain our world class network of major parks, trails, gardens and waterways," she said.

"A new payment would need to be charged annually to all property owners and the basis of the amount to be paid would need to be carefully determined to ensure fairness and equity. Such a levy would be tied to agreed projects and timelines for delivery of those projects in collaboration with local government and other relevant agencies."

"It might be a hard sell politically, but again it is about sharing the benefits and the responsibilities of implementing the strategy."


Professor nHansen said there was an increasing geographical divide in the mode of travel to school, to work, to local shops and community facilities between suburbs in various parts of Melbourne.
The divide also extended to educational options, ranging from child care and pre-school to primary, secondary and tertiary education.
"You can even see a gulf in the different flavour of lifestyles offered by real estate advertisements – be it so-called 'downtown' city living or suburban living.
"Disparities of place are also reflected in availability of jobs within a reasonable travel distance from homes located between suburbs and even the type of dwellings offered to match different needs and budgets.
"Long travel times from home to work are hurting productivity levels, the city’s environmental health and disrupting work and life balance.
"There is less time to spend with children, family and friends and long commutes – overwhelmingly by car in the urban growth-corridor suburbs – are contributing to problems of mortgage stress."
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Craigieburn and Cranbourne planning success requires a Melbourne metropolitan levy from all property owners:Professor Roz Hansen 

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Model Megan Gale hasn't been the regular attraction along Sydney's Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk for many years.
And now her <a target="_blank" href="/news">Tamarama </a>property is up for December 6 auction. Title Tattle gathers buyers have been told $2.95 million plus.
The Perth, Western Australian-born beauty paid $2.4 million home in 2003 after months of searching.
Megan Gale was mingling with the celebrity set at the 2003 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne when her mother, May, secured the Taramama hillside pad, which sold through McGrath agent Bethwyn Richards.
Gale had often said that when not travelling the world, she wanted to remain close to her beloved Bondi.
It's only been a rarely used bolthole – and often rented – especially since she made her mark as a model in Italy, but she always considered the place as her home.
She also sold her Ramsgate Avenue, <a href="/news">Bondi Beach</a>, apartment for $1,025,000 in 2007, having paid $600,000 in 2000.
But of course much of her time has also been spent in Melbourne, given her partners.
"Melbourne has become like a second home to me over the years," she once blogged.
She's currently a David Jones brand ambassador, the face of L'Oreal Paris, and also creative director of Isola by Megan Gale.
She's also been producer and host of Project Runway Australia
It's a beach house with <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-tamarama-112217767" target="_blank">stunning coastal panoramas</a>.
The renovated beach house comes with light-filled interiors and private spaces to relax and entertain.
Its elevated, dress-circle setting in a cul-de-sac adjoining quiet coastal reserve is footsteps to the beach.
It's for<a href="https://www.mybhr.com/627017/" target="_blank"> BHR </a>auction through Daniel Baran and Reece Coleman.
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Glamarama wanes as Megan Gale lists Tamarama house for December auction

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The comedian Julian Morrow, who has been on television screens recently in The Hamster Wheel on ABC1 and The Unbelievable Truth on Channel Seven, and his wife, Lisa Pryor, the former SMH property journalist now studying medicine at the University of Sydney, have secured $760,000 for their Camperdown apartment.
It had been listed through McGrath agents Peter Shield and Sarah Tanner priced at $775,000.
The two-bedroom two-bathroom second-floor Aquilon complex apartment cost $540,000 in 2005. During that time, its value has changed at an annual rate of 4.9%.
The 131-square-metre <a target="_blank" href="/news">Camperdown</a> apartment with covered balcony first traded at $520,000 in 2001 when sold by the developers Sterling Estates.
With two small children, the couple are reportedly looking to upsize.
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The Chaser's Julian Morrow and author Lisa Pryor collect $760,000 in Camperdown sale

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

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

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

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

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