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Chateau Martine, the Brighton property inspired by the Palace of Versailles, was passed in at $6.5?million at this week's private auction through Jock Langley of Abercromby’s.
Chateau Martine had attracted interest from buyers from China, Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan during its marketing campaign. There were two auction bidders.
The Martin Street, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Brighton</a>, property was built for Melbourne businessman Will van de Linden in 2008.
It's on the market “walk in, walk out”, with all furnishings included. Langley says the furnishings are worth $10 million.
The Louis XVI furniture was custom-made room by room from reproduction specialists in Valencia for the four-storey property on an 850-square metre-block close to the beach.
It is serviced by a lift.
“It’s been a home designed around a concept. It’s a unique museum piece, and there will be a right buyer for it,’’ Langley says.
Louis XVI furniture on page 2.


<hr class="system-pagebreak">
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2012/11/nov16martineinsid]}
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

No buyers above $6.5 million stick their necks out for Versailles-inspired Chateau Martine 

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The graceful Widcombe mansion in the picturesque Adelaide Hills township of Aldgate has been sold.
Its fetched $1.55 million having been initially listed in 2008 with $2.4 million hopes and more recently at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-aldgate-108509851" target="_blank">$1,695,000</a>.
The parcel of land cost $250,000 in 2000.
Its facade mimics the Palladian-style Widcombe Manor, reputedly Bath's finest Georgian residence. As with the grand country house for which it is named, Widcombe comes on a park-like setting, albeit scaled down to a 2.5 acres.
There's a perfect symmetry to its Georgian sash windows.
The family saw the Bath version in a  House &amp; Garden magazine.
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Widcombe at Aldgate in the Adelaide Hills finally sells 

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RP Data has ascertained the 20 local government areas across Australian with the highest proportion of homes sold for under $400,000.
Over the past year, almost half of all house and unit sales in Australia were transacted at prices less than $400,000,  RP Data research analyst Cameron Kusher says.
"The good news is that across most regions at least 30% of home sales over the past year have been at prices below $400,000, highlighting there remains opportunities for price sensitive purchasers.
"These opportunities, particularly in capital city and coastal markets, are more prevalent in the unit market or within the outer suburbs where property prices tend to be lower."
Throughout Australia, 48.3% of all homes sold were at prices below $400,000.
Within the combined capital cities, just 37.2% of all sales were at a price below $400,000.
"Clearly, it will be a stretch for buyers on a below average wage to enter into most capital city housing markets," Kusher notes.
"An option for a buyer in this particular group may be to choose to look outside the capitals and focus on more affordable options such as units or purchasing with a partner," Kusher says.
 
Proportion of homes sold for under $400,000
Region State Proportion of sales &lt;400K
Far West NSW 98.6%
Mallee VIC 96.6%
Wimmera VIC 95.8%
Upper Great Southern WA 94.5%
Northern NSW 94.0%
Central West QLD 93.9%
Murray Lands SA 93.6%
Ovens-Murray VIC 92.9%
Murray NSW 92.7%
South East SA 92.1%
Goulburn VIC 92.0%
Mersey-Lyell TAS 91.9%
Murrumbidgee NSW 91.8%
East Gippsland VIC 91.2%
North Western NSW 90.4%
Central West NSW 89.3%
Northern SA 88.6%
Eyre SA 88.6%
Northern TAS 87.7%
Central Highlands VIC 87.6%
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Go bush: The 20 municipalities with the highest number of under $400,000 buying prospects: RP Data

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Property developer Lend Lease has suffered a “first strike” against its remuneration report, with a 26% vote against its plan at today’s annual general meeting.
The company is among the first major companies to be hit with a strike this annual general meeting season.  As at last count 17 companies have received a strike over executive pay this shareholder season.
Company chairman David Crawford told the Sydney meeting the property group would rework executive incentive plans in the wake of accounting issues uncovered in the Abigroup construction business.
There will be a 10% reduction in the quantum of the short-term incentive award for the last financial year for chief executive Steve McCann and some other senior Lend Lease executives.
Crawford said that the business environment was expected to remain difficult over the coming year, with Lend Lease in a strong position.
“We have good visibility over earnings in the 2013 financial year and have continued to win new projects that will underpin future earnings growth,” he said.
“We are well on the way to delivering our target 15% return on equity over the medium term.”
“I am very pleased that, while in a tough environment and with challenges in some of our sectors, Lend Lease has stayed on course with its strategy and increased earnings for security holders,” said Crawford.
“Underpinning our strategy is a constant commitment to safety, sustainability and diversity."
He said over the year, the group had continued its stringent portfolio management to ensure it has the right mix of projects, sector and risk exposure as well as a disciplined capital allocation and return framework.
A “first strike” is registered when more than quarter of shareholders vote against a company’s remuneration report.
If is is repeated the following year, it can lead to a board spill.
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Property developer Lend Lease suffers a 'first strike' against its remuneration report

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The Palm Beach retreat of the late Lady (Sonia) McMahon has been sold for $2 million at its executors' auction. There were three registered bidders.
The three-bedroom, three-bathroom Ralston Road Palm Beach weekender had been in the Burton-Taylor family since bought for $29,575 in 1968.
The unrenovated brick-and-timber 1950s house was designed by architect John Suttor. The LJ Hooker estate agent <a target="_blank" href="https://palmbeach.ljhooker.com.au/2JEF6Z">David Edwards </a>was suggesting a $2.25 million plus price estimate pre-auction for the 1,350-square-metre property, which Lady McMahon had made available for her hairdresser's usage.
Lady McMahon, widow of the former prime minister Sir William McMahon, was 77 when she died in April 2010. The estate is being sold off by their children, the Hollywood actor Julian McMahon and his two sisters.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/julian-mcmahon-and-sisters-to-split-%24625-million-proceeds-from-lady-sonia-mcmahons-home-sale/2012070255376">The sibblings have sold two Bellevue Hill properties since May last year. </a>
The latest sale lifts the sales tally from $15.25 million to $17.25 million – equating to about $5.8 million for each child, albeit less costs, which include sizeable land tax charges.
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Lady Sonia McMahon's Palm Beach retreat sells 

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The NSW-based housing construction company Holmwood Builders, trading as Procorp, has gone into voluntary administration.
The Procorp group has 50-plus employees an estimated 500 creditors, with offices in Sydney, Newcastle, the NSW South Coast, Southern Highlands and Albury.
Procorp has offices in Narellan, Albury, Beresfield and Ulladulla with display homes located at Oran Park, Waterford County in Thornton (Hunter region), The Elms in Thurgoona (Albury region) and Renwick Estate, Mittagong (Southern Highlands).
Hall Chadwick is assessing Procorp's business affairs, with a meeting scheduled by accountant Domenic Calabretta for Friday, November 23.
The company had 90 homes under construction, with another 50 homes set for commencement.
Cashflow problems and weaker housing market were the fundamental catalysts, Calabretta told Ross Greenwood on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.2gb.com/audioplayer/5781">2GB Money Talk</a>.
The Procorp Group began operation as Procorp Property in Narellan in 1998, and for several years traded as a Professionals estate agency. It was founded by real estate agent Michael Everard, who teamed up with home builder Ian Tyson of Holmwood Builders in 2000.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/procorp.jpg">
Its marketing logo was “It’s Procorp’s No Hidden Surprises Guarantee. It means all you have to focus on, is moving in.”
It retains a property management division.
Calabretta has advised Procorp had home warranty insurance so those who had hired it to build homes could make a claim to insurer QBE. Those with homes under construction are being urged to get a quantity survoyors progress report.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s annual report on corporate insolvencies, released in September, found the construction industry had the single highest number of insolvencies nationwide, making up 22.1% of the 10,000 insolvencies plus across Australia in 2011-12.
It represented double the retail industry in second spot.
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NSW home builder Procorp goes into voluntary administration

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Rock legend Jimmy Barnes and his wife, Jane, have adjusted the asking price of their NSW Southern Highlands riverfront weekender, Riverbend.
The <a target="_blank" href="/news">Berrima </a>property hit the market in July last year with <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/jimmy-barnes-lists-highlands-weekender-on-eve-of-cold-chisel-tour/2011080251008" target="_blank">$2.5 million hopes</a>, but they recently revised their expectations to $2.25 million.
The Barneses, who live in a <a target="_blank" href="/news">Botany </a>warehouse compound, just don’t make enough use of the sandstone house on 2,758 square metres.
The Berrima house cost the Cold Chisel frontman $1.85 million in 2008.
Gwen Meredith, the scriptwriter for Australia's longest-running and much-loved radio serial Blue Hills, once owned the property on the Wingecarribee River, a retreat from her <a target="_blank" href="/news">Seaforth </a>home, Braybrook.
It is located in a quiet setting just a short stroll from the historic village.
Listing agent Drew Lindsay at <a href="https://www.drewlindsay.com.au/properties/DLRE-Riverbend" target="_blank">Drew Lindsay Bowral </a>describes it as three solid sandstone pavilions linked by long covered verandas that jut over the river.
It is most notably missing any recording studio, a feature in Barnes' current Botany property and his earlier Southern Highlands retreat. They had quit the highlands in 1994 when their <a target="_blank" href="/news">Mittagong</a> house was bought for $1.4 million by property developer and muso Andrew Richardson.
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Jimmy Barnes reduces Southern Highlands retreat asking price

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West Head House, designed and built by Peter Stutchbury in the Clareville bushland, has been listed for sale.
Designed 25 years ago over a two-year period, it's one of Stutchbury's earliest houses, and his home until its upcoming sale.
Peter Stutchbury has since designed houses around the world, most famously for the Japanese fashion designer Issey Miyake.
Stutchbury recently recalled it was in 1980 that 75 Hudson Parade, a vacant battleaxe block, was bought by the family who'd holidayed at <a target="_blank" href="/news">Clareville </a>from the early 1960s.
It was after graduating from Newcastle University that Stutchbury decided to live in the pristine bushland environment where koalas roamed in the adjacent spotted gum forest.
Its views overlook Pittwater toward Longnose Point and the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park.
With its small façade to the west minimising sun and wind load, the house was designed on return from an extended stay living in and studying the highland villages of Papua New Guinea.
"The house has a wonderful sense of the lightness of being," Stutchbury suggests about the house, which is a composite of timber and steel lightweight construction.
"The house is simply a conduit for healthy living, for anyone who seeks serenity this house promotes that quality," says the marketing material prepared by Marcus Lloyd-Jones at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.modernhouse.co/property/1204807-west-head-house">Modern House Estate Agents</a>.
It has been home to a family for over 23 years – the three children: Bronte, 21, Noah, 19, and Cleapatra, 12, all born and nurtured in and around the West Head House environment.
It's five bedrooms with its gross internal area of 213 square metres and an 111-square-metre gross external area. Its set on a 746-square-metre block with landscaping by Phoebe Pape.
It's been featured in numerous books including Peter Stutchbury: Of People and Places: Between the Bush and the Beach, Pesaro.
The family are hopeful of $1.5 million plus after which they will head to the oceanside of the Pittwater peninsula to build a new home. 
Photography: © Michael Nicholson
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West Head House, the Peter Stutchbury Clareville family retreat, listed

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The Radisson Resort Gold Coast will be rebranded Mercure Gold Coast Resort from December 18, making it Accor’s 200th Australian property.

The 308-room property which features conference facilities for up to 700 delegates, marks the French hotel firm’s sixth venture into the Gold Coast.
Accor also has Artique Surfers Paradise, Grand Mercure at Coolangatta, Soul's Sea Temple in Surfers Paradise and the Sofitel Broadbeach.
The Mercure Gold Coast Resort will join Accor's 30 other Australian properties accredited as providing "optimum service standards" to Chinese guests.
Accor was the first hotel group in Australia to introduce the standards to meet the expectations of Chinese travellers and its venues feature Chinese dishes on menus, and offer Chinese newspapers and television channels, and Chinese language welcome kits.
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Accor's Mercure Gold Coast will provide optimum service to Chinese guests

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This table shows the number of residential sales in Melbourne on an annual basis since 1974.
It also shows the proportion of those sold at auction using the Valuer-General and Real Estate Institute of Victoria data.
The median price is also displayed along with its annual variation.
<table style="width: 470px;" border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Year 
</td>
<td>Total metro sales* </td>
<td>% Auction sales**</td>
<td>Median house price** </td>
<td>Change in median %</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2011</td>
<td>
71,868
</td>
<td>
24
</td>
<td>$540,383</td>
<td>
1.7
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2010</td>
<td>
86,339
</td>
<td>
28
</td>
<td>$550,000</td>
<td>
18.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2009</td>
<td>
100,027
</td>
<td>
20
</td>
<td>$465,000</td>
<td>
7.4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2008</td>
<td>
84,880
</td>
<td>
21
</td>
<td>$433,000</td>
<td>
3.1
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2007</td>
<td>
109,857
</td>
<td>
24
</td>
<td>$420,000</td>
<td>
11.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2006</td>
<td>
87,217
</td>
<td>
20
</td>
<td>$377,500</td>
<td>
5.0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2005</td>
<td>
87,185
</td>
<td>
17
</td>
<td>$359,500</td>
<td>
-2.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2004</td>
<td>
81,015
</td>
<td>
16
</td>
<td>$368,000</td>
<td>
2.2
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2003</td>
<td>
93,311
</td>
<td>
24
</td>
<td>$360,000</td>
<td>
7.5
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2002</td>
<td>
97,286
</td>
<td>
26
</td>
<td>$335,000</td>
<td>
11.7
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2001</td>
<td>
105,544
</td>
<td>
26
</td>
<td>$300,000</td>
<td>
19.8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2000</td>
<td>
88,910
</td>
<td>
22
</td>
<td>$250,500</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1999</td>
<td>
88,920
</td>
<td>
27
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1998</td>
<td>
81,210
</td>
<td>
26
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1997</td>
<td>
86,702
</td>
<td>
23
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1996</td>
<td>
67,904
</td>
<td>
20
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1995</td>
<td>
62,517
</td>
<td>
18
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1994</td>
<td>
68,783
</td>
<td>
20
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1993</td>
<td>
63,085
</td>
<td>
19
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1992</td>
<td>
57,248
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1991</td>
<td>
53,922
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1990</td>
<td>
53,575
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1989</td>
<td>
60,211
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1988</td>
<td>
85,739
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1987</td>
<td>
70,347
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1986</td>
<td>
62,701
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1985</td>
<td>
72,308
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1984</td>
<td>
70,739
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1983</td>
<td>
63,275
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1982</td>
<td>
50,006
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1981</td>
<td>
57,610
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1980</td>
<td>
56,089
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1979</td>
<td>
48,890
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>NA</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1978</td>
<td>
45,913
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>NA</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1977</td>
<td>
48,864
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>NA</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1976</td>
<td>
59,502
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>NA</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1975</td>
<td>
57,991
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>NA</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1974</td>
<td>
47,278
</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
<td>NA</td>
<td>
NA
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4></h4>
 Source: Valuer-General and REIV data
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Melbourne's residential sales activity from 1974 to 2011

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

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

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

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

Jonathan Chancellor

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