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The Chenchow Little-designed Palm Beach house, known as 'The Hill House" given its Bynya Road locale, has been listed for sale.
The Stewart family have listed it through LJ Hooker Palm Beach agent Peter Robinson. More than $3 million is expected.
Designed with mid-20th century and industrial influences, Chenchow Little finished the four-bedroom house late last year.
It is currently featured in Belle Magazine.
It comes with a central corridor that falls away from the front door, arriving at a double-height reception room. Its main living/dining area features floor-to-ceiling glass with bush views.  Its modern, minimalist, galley kitchen comes with spotted gum cabinets.
It comes with a spectacular freestanding swimming pool.
The 715-square-metre vacant block cost $950,000 in early 2009 through LJ Hooker Mona Vale agent Josephine Cowling.
Tony Chenchow and Stephanie Little have worked together for 18 years. Little graduated from the University of NSW in 1994; Chenchow in 1993.</body></html>

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Chenchow Little-designed Hill House Palm Beach listed

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Inveran, aka Delmar, the grand Victorian mansion built for the pioneering pastoralist Chisholm family in 1884, has been sold for a bullish $3.8 million, with six registered bidders at the recent auction.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/ashfield1.jpg" width="470">
It was auctioned through <a target="_blank" href="https://www.gerberproperties.com.au/Property-Details.php?p=3226029">Gerber Properties agent Arthur Paschalidis. </a>
It was built with its design incorporating a surgery and a waiting room with its own entrance given Dr Edwin Chisholm's occupation. The original maid's quarters is the sixth bedroom which features its own lower level sitting room.
Edwin died in 1921 and his widow in 1926 when it was left to their daughter, Mrs Guy Delmar. The property stayed in the family until the mid-1960s and in 1966 the house was bought by Trinity Grammar School, which has its campus and playing fields on the other side of Victoria Street.
In 1987 the school sold the property to the Ryan family. Its current vendors further restored the house as a private residence on its 2,245-square-metre block.
It was sold through <a href="https://www.gerberproperties.com.au/Property-Details.php?p=3226029">Gerber Properties agent Arthur Paschalidis  </a> in conjunction with <a href="https://www.gerberproperties.com.au/Property-Details.php?p=3226029">Harris Tripp First National </a> having been listed with $3 million-plus hopes.
It last traded for $1.61 million in 1998.
The highest previous known house price in Ashfield was just over $2 million.
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Inveran, aka Delmar, the pioneering Chisholm family's inner-west Ashfield mansion, fetches $3.8 million record

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Dwelling approvals recorded a 17.3% drop in July to be down 10.5% for the year, according to the ABS.
While the monthly fall was spectacular and larger than the median consensus forecast of a 5% decline, Westpac suggested it was not outside the realm of expectations, with several forecasters anticipating a double-digit decline.
For the record, Westpac was forecasting a 10% drop. "The main reason for the downbeat expectations was the surge in approvals in May (+27.8%) that was largely sustained into June (–1%mth) and led by the extremely volatile units segment which includes high rise developments that can see very lumpy moves due  the size of projects," Westpac suggested.
"Moreover state government policy changes had clearly encouraged many developers to bring forward projects into the first half of the year in order to qualify for purchaser incentives," Westpac added. High-rise approvals nearly trebled between March and June, but in July high-rise approvals slumped 70% to be below their March level.
"While that sort of volatility makes underlying trends very difficult to discern there were some positives in the July detail," Westpac acknowledged.
The Housing Industry Association noted a weaker than expected update on new home building with HIA chief economist Dr Harley Dale saying the 40% drop in approvals for "other dwellings" in July 2012 was "uncomfortably large."
"There is therefore still no sign of a widespread recovery in new housing, and in its own right today’s approvals update takes us in the wrong direction," says Dale.
Dale added all three new housing updates available to date for July signal a further deterioration in new housing into 2012-13.
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Dwelling approvals record a 17.3% drop in July: ABS 

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Lend Lease secured a 2012 financial year net profit of $501.4 million, which was marginally up on last year.
It was within the $485 million to $505 million July guidance range given by the group.
Its group chief executive officer, Steve McCann, says Lend Lease delivered operating profit growth above market consensus earnings.
"Financial year 2012 has been a very successful year for Lend Lease," he says.
"Lend Lease has repositioned the portfolio to generate 64% of earnings from the Australian region, achieved some significant milestones in our A$20 billion urban regeneration development pipeline, secured a A$15.3 billion construction workbook and grown funds under management to A$12.3 billion," he says.
Weak consumer sentiment continued to impact the residential market in Australia, resulting in lower enquiry levels, longer conversion times and lower trading levels, he notes.
It impacted inventory values on certain projects by A$27.7 million after tax in the second half of the financial year.
Lend Lease's results noted the number of residential land lots settled had decreased by 10% from the previous year to 2,059 units, principally as a result of fewer settlements in Victoria and South Australia, reflecting current market conditions and a number of projects approaching completion.
The total number of residential land lot pre-sales decreased by 5% from the previous year to 1,369 units.
Its average price per residential land lot increased by 3% from $216,300 to $223,600, reflecting a change in the product mix compared with the previous year.
Residential built-form unit settlements increased by 351 to 523, primarily due to practical completion being reached at Convesso and Serrata at Victoria Harbour, along with Silk and Antias at Jacksons Landing.
The average price per residential built-form unit decreased by 12% to $1,051,000, reflecting the higher number of high value apartments at Sugar Dock and St Patricks settled in the prior year.
The current year includes a high proportion of mid-market apartments settled at Serrata and Antias.
The overall Australian after-tax profit increased by $148.5 million to $429.9 million, largely because of the higher profit from construction, which included a full-year contribution from infrastructure businesses like Abigroup that was acquired in early 2011.
The figure was helped by tax deductions for the retirement business, the sale of the New Zealand retail portfolio to a new Lend Lease fund, and the sale of Lend Lease interest in the South Australian New Schools public private partnership.
The profit from the Asian operations was up strongly but profit in Europe and the Americas fell sharply.
The final dividend will be 22¢, unfranked, and ahead of last year’s 15¢. Total dividend for the year to 38¢.
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Lower enquiry levels, longer conversion times and lower trading levels: Lend Lease's residential experience

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Grapes are more than just the sweet snacks in the fruit bowl. The Australian grape growing industry is highly dependent on the downstream winemaking industry, with about 89% of production heading that way.
The remaining output is sold as table grapes or dried grapes (e.g. sultanas). The industry is highly volatile due to significant uncertainty surrounding future conditions and its dependence on external variables.
The main issues affecting the industry are water availability and rainfall, activity in the downstream markets and wine producers' use of wine grape contracts. In the five years through 2012-13, industry revenue is expected to decrease by an annualised 11.7% to total $1.06 billion.
The industry is dependent on downstream wine exports, which contribute over 38% of revenue to wine manufacturers each year. The value of the Australian dollar has therefore played a prominent role in the past five years.
Since the global economic downturn, the rapid rise in the value of the Australian dollar has meant that demand for Australian wines has decreased on the global market. This has caused difficulties for wine manufacturers and growers alike.
Moreover, weaker demand for wine in significant export markets such as the United States and the United Kingdom is affecting Australian growers, in the form of lower prices received. As a result, industry revenue is expected to increase by only 2.3% in 2012-13.
The industry has wavered between conditions of over and under supply due to a number of factors, though largely influenced by the huge number of growers and the onset of drought-ridden growing conditions.
Recently, high levels of production caused a glut of wine grapes and put downward pressure on prices. Prices in some spot markets are still below production costs, resulting in some growers making large losses.
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/08/ibisaug30.jpg">
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/08/ibisaug301.jpg">
The combined effect of volatile production levels and changes in downstream wine manufacturing demand is expected to cause industry revenue to decline by an annualised 1.8% over the five years through 2017-18, to a total of $967.5 million.
 
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Grape varieties can be broadly categorised as red or white. Furthermore, there are three main uses for grapes: winemaking, drying and eating fresh. Grapes for winemaking dominate the industry.
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/08/ibisaug302.jpg">
Red grape varieties account for about 46.6% of the total grape crop, made up of 43.7% wine grapes, 0.5% drying grapes and 2.4% table grapes. There are a number of different varieties of red wine grapes, including shiraz (accounting for 18% of the total grape crop), cabernet sauvignon (12%) and merlot (5.9%). Other prominent red wine grape varieties include pinot noir, ruby cabernet, petit verdot and grenache.
White grape varieties account for 53.4% of the total crop. Again, most grapes grown are wine grape varieties, accounting for 45.9% of the total crop. White drying grapes account for 4.8% of the total crop, while white table grapes account for 2.7%. Prominent white wine varieties include chardonnay (23.9% of total crop), semillon (4.9%), colombard (3.7%) and muscat gordo blanco (2.8%). Sultana grapes account for 6.1% of the total crop, and are used predominantly as drying grapes but also as winemaking and table grapes.
Changes in the relative proportions of red and white grapes in the total crop reflect changes in both planted hectares and yield per hectare. From 2006 to 2007, the area of bearing vines made up of white varieties increased marginally from 40.6% to 41%, with a corresponding decrease in the bearing area of red varieties.
Over the same period, average yields of white varieties dropped from 14.9 tonnes per hectare to 12.1 tonnes per hectare, while average yields of red varieties dropped from 10.9 tonnes per hectare to 7.4 tonnes per hectare. The more prominent drop in red grape yields combined with a decrease in bearing hectares produced a significant fall in red grapes as a proportion of the overall crop.
<h3>Industry outlook</h3>
Climatic conditions and continued mismatches between demand and supply will affect the performance of the industry in the next five years. Increased demand, along with more balanced supply and demand conditions, will support industry performance over the next five years.
However, it will not be enough to offset the difficult growing conditions, which will primarily drive the projected decline in revenue. Revenue is estimated to decline by an annualised 1.8% over the next five years to reach $967.5 million by 2017-18.
As the global economy shows signs of recovery, demand for wine is expected to strengthen gradually. The limitation will likely be international competition. The abundant supply of wine from many markets around the world is forcing many of these markets to increase their proportion of bulk wine shipments. This will put downward pressure on prices per unit in both domestic and international markets.
If Australian winemakers keep their prices competitive then grape growers' ability to increase their price margin is very limited. Some growers and winemakers are expected to benefit from establishing a strong brand name or niche segment, wherein higher prices can be achieved.
Karen Dobie is general manager of <a href="https://www.ibisworld.com.au/" target="_blank">IBISWorld Australia</a>
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php" target="_self">SmartCompany.</a>
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Profits withering on the vine for Australian grape growers

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The 1880s Bramber, a grand but now contemporary Brighton mansion, has been listed for September 15 auction.
Bramber is a substantial double-storey four-bedroom Italianate brick residence with an asymmetrical double-fronted composition. It now sits on a 460-square-metre block, having had two townhouses constructed in its rear grounds about a decade ago.
Its Marshall White listing agent Kate Strickland says it has been owned by the same family for the past four decades.  There's already been strong buyer interest in the low $2 millions after its first weekend inspection.  
"Bramber's revival is outstanding – a historic light-filled home transformed into a contemporary masterpiece," Stricklan suggests.
It was built in its Black Street Middle Brighton location for the politician Thomas Turner a'Beckett.
The Australian Dictionary of Biography says à Beckett came from London to Australia around 1850 to visit his two brothers, who had emigrated to Sydney and then decided to settle in Victoria.
He later wrote: "No better opportunity will ever be afforded to a man who is prepared to stick to his work."
He soon built up a prosperous private practice as a solicitor sought by savings banks, by the London and Liverpool Fire Insurance Co., and as chairman of the Melbourne and Hobson's Bay Railway Co., a position he held for more than 20 years.
<a href="https://www.marshallwhite.com.au/?pagecall=property&amp;propertyID=2136654" target="_blank">Bramber</a> dates from after he retired from active public life in 1878.
With his wife, Eliza, nee Stuckey, they settled in Brighton, where à Beckett was a keen gardener belonging to the local horticultural society.
He died at Brighton in 1892, leaving his estate to his surviving children and his second wife Laura Jane, née Stuckey, a second cousin of Eliza.
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Bramber, the 1880s à Beckett family home, listed

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The Balwyn home of the Health Services Union national secretary Kathy Jackson has been listed for September 22 auction.
Jackson, who was caught up in the Craig Thomson matter as the union whistleblower, has the four-bedroom house listed with reported $1.8 million hopes through Fletchers agents Jeremy Desmier and Daiman Kane.
It comes with the heated pool and sauna that came to public attention earlier this year after neighbours complained of the noisy pool pump. 
Boroondara City Council's complaint was under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act about a ''noisy pool pump'' causing an unreasonable noise.
Council was seeking she move the pool plant away from the property boundary within an acoustically treated and lined enclosure.
The tree-lined property is being marketed as a "developer's dream", given it's a 1,452-square-metre block.
The four-bedroom house comes with three bathrooms. The house sits on part of the holding, easily allowing some land to be sold or redeveloped.
It was transferred into Jackson's full ownership by her former husband, Peter Jackson, in March 2010.
It last traded at $1.15 million in 2004.
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Health Services Union secretary Kathy Jackson's Balwyn home – presumably without the infamous pool pump – listed for auction

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Mortgagees have listed a grand Mt Eliza home for September 9 auction.
It last sold for $3.92 million in 2008.
The luxurious 95-square (883-square-metre) Pelican Place beachfront home was constructed in the late 1990s by builder Ahmad Jamshidi, who bought the holding for $245,000 in 1995 and secured $1.7 million in 2001.
It came with $6 million hopes in 2010 when inspected by  Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness as a potential Australian base for them given Furness’s mother lives in Mt Eliza.
Its most recent asking price was $3.6 million plus.
The Mediterranean-style residence has seven bedroom suites along with steam rooms and sauna (pictured below).
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/pelicansteam.jpg">
Its grand marble entrance is flanked by formal reception rooms.
There is a large kitchen ideal for entertaining, a family room, study, swimming pool, a mod-grass tennis court and parking for four vehicles.
"This sophisticated seven bedroom residence is carefully designed with the best craftsmanship to please the most discerning buyer including floor and panel heating, air-conditioning, ducted vacuum system, lashings of marble, imported customised chandeliers, a grand entry foyer that looks past an enormous sweeping staircase to the pool and wide balconies that feature 180 degree bay views," says its listing agent, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mount+eliza-111282695" target="_parent">Michelle Skoglun at Aqua Real Estate</a>.
Its set on 2,380 square metres behind security electronic wrought-iron gates.
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Grand Mt Eliza home passed up by Hugh Jackman listed for auction

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There are between 238 and 1,759 suburbs across Australia where it's potentially cheaper to buy than rent, according to RP Data research.
Queensland and NSW dominate the comprehensive list, as do regions over capital city suburbs.
It's the outcome of home values being 5.9% lower than their previous highs and rental rates having continued to increase across most regions of the country.
"With capital city dwelling values almost 6% lower than when they peaked back in October 2010, discounted variable mortgage rates 100 basis points lower from their 2011 peak and fixed mortgage rates 160 basis points lower, many renters and prospective home buyers are likely to be doing their sums to work out whether it is better for them to pay a mortgage or pay a landlord," Tim Lawless, RP Data national research director, says.
Lawless notes that lower interest rates will not only further improve home loan affordability but also potentially attract more buyers into the housing market.
"For those that are renting, any further cuts to mortgage rates will make the cost of a mortgage more affordable and will further improve the relative comparison between the cost of buying and the cost of renting," he says.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/rpaug294.gif">
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/rpaug296.gif">
For the full list of all suburbs, <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/buyorrent" target="_blank">visit RP Data's website.</a>
The analysis looks at the results across four scenarios, specifically: 1. Servicing a principal and interest loan on a variable mortgage rate; 2. Servicing an interest only loan on a variable mortgage rate; 3. Servicing a principal and interest loan on a three year fixed mortgage rate; and 4. Servicing an interest only loan on a three year fixed mortgage rate
Lawless says the benefit of using these different scenarios is that it highlights to potential purchasers the different options that are available when contemplating purchasing a property and taking on a mortgage.
"It also highlights the differences in results when choosing different types of loan products."
The report concluded that it is currently cheaper to buy than rent: 1. Servicing a principal and interest loan on a variable mortgage rate in 238 suburbs; 2. Servicing an interest-only loan on a variable mortgage rate in 1,320 suburbs; 3. Servicing a principal and interest loan on a three year fixed mortgage rate in 328 suburbs; and 4. Servicing an interest-only loan on a three year fixed mortgage rate in 1,759 suburbs.
RP Data stressed it was important to note that interest only loans may not be appropriate for all borrowers because of the risks associated with the non?repayment of the loan principal during the interest only period.
The analysis included seven key assumptions: 1. A loan to value ratio (LVR) of 90% which means that the purchaser is borrowing 90% of the value of the home (i.e. they have a 10% deposit). 2. A variable mortgage rate of 6.15% per annum. 3. A three year fixed mortgage rate of 5.9% per annum. 4. The loan period is 30 years. 5. The repayment schedule is monthly. 6. The principal is calculated based on the suburb's median house and unit value as at June 2012. 7. Rental costs are based on the median weekly advertised rental rate across the suburb over the past 12 months to June 2012
Lawless also notes the analysis did not provide consideration for costs associated with either home ownership or renting such as: 1. Maintenance 2. Council rates 3. Electricity 4. Water and sewerage 5. Land tax 6. Body corporate levies 7. Stamp duty 8. Legal and conveyancing fees
For the full list of all suburbs, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/buyorrent">visit RP Data's website.</a>
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Queensland and NSW dominate the RP Data suburb locations where it is cheaper to buy than rent

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The dispute between Grocon and the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) in Melbourne is clear evidence that industrial relations law is failing, according to Wilhelm Harnisch, the Master Builders Australia chief executive.
"The bullying tactics displayed by the CFMEU vindicates the building industry's call for the return of the Australian Building and Construction Commission and dedicated industry-specific laws which target unlawful and intimidatory conduct," he says.
"Currently, the Fair Work Building and Construction agency has not been able to intervene because it possesses severely weakened powers.
"The regulator should not be stopped from acting where an employer has already initiated proceedings, a constraint which dogs the current agency," Harnisch says.
The Myer Lonsdale Street construction site dispute is against the backdrop of significant changes in building industry regulations, both in Victoria and nationwide as the Gillard government softened the tougher Howard government laws that building workers had faced since 2005, while the Baillieu government has introduced rules modelled on the Howard regime.
Daniel Grollo, the Grocon chief, is in Sydney today, with suggestions rife the conflict might escalate up the east coast.
In July the MBA noted research that Australia had been better off by $6.3 billion each year given the industrial relations reforms that were in place since October 2005 until June this year.
“Although there are weaker laws in place, they should be enforced,” Mr Harnisch said.
 
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Fair Work dogged by constraints in Grollo construction disputation: MBA 

ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.

The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.

They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."

The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.

Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" />

The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.

"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."

The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.

Joel Robinson

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

An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.

Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.

The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" />

Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.

As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."

Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" />

The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.

As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.

Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" />

The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.

Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.

Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.

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

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

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

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

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

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&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.

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&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."

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&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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