<html><body>
Mining magnate Nathan Tinkler has denied a Fairfax Media report that he has bought a property in Singapore.
A spokesman told Property Observer that Tinkler had not bought in Singapore "as yet."
The Sydney Morning Herald had reported this week it understood Tinkler had secured a property in the Sentosa Cove precinct.
Its the luxury island where Gina Rinehart has reportedly secured two off the plan apartments.
There has been no confirmation of the Hancock purchases.
The director of Savills International Residential Sales in Singapore, Julian Sedgwick, has suggested that Mrs Rinehart's mooted purchase was being hotly discussed in Singapore's real-estate circles as, if confirmed, would set a new residential price record.
Marketed as Singapore's only beachfront condominium, the 41-unit Seven Palms Sentosa Cove development, is due to be completed next year.
Tinkler was previously based in <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/nathan-tinkler-sells-merewether-home-to-his-executive-troy-palmer-for-a-friendly-%E2%80%93-and-possibly-underpriced-%E2%80%93-%2428-million/2012061255087">Merewether</a>.
Tinkler, who built his fortune with three big coal deals, has an estimated $915 million wealth according to the latest BRW.
And according to the Forbes magazine, Tinkler ranks as Australia’s 26th-richest person, with a net worth of around $825 million in 2012.
"His principal place of residence would now be described as Singapore," his spokesman, Tim Allerton, told Fairfax Media in June.
 
 
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Nathan Tinkler yet to buy in Singapore 

<html><body>
The former coal baron Ric Stowe is still seeking to retain Devereux Farm, he told theWest.com.au in his first public utterance in more than two years.
The usually private Monaco-based businessman offered his view on how his Griffin Coal empire imploded in January 2010, leaving behind a trail of more than $2 billion in debt.
It forced him to give up the family's beloved unsold $70 million, 2700 hectare estate on the outskirts of Perth, Devereux Farm.
Stowe says it was a perfect storm of events in 2009, including production problems at his coal mine.
"It was a very wet year and we were running to the end of the Muja deposit and getting the Ewington deposit going," he says.
"Mining two locations stretched us a bit thin."
"We also had problems with Wesfarmers and mining the high wall between our mine and their Premier coal operations (now owned by Yancoal)."
When he needed to raise money to overcome the problems (and legacy expenses from building Bluewaters), the global financial crisis hit, and unlike the past decade he had trouble raising money via bond markets in the US.
"Some of our debt went to funds, including one called Clearwater," he told thewest.com.au.
"I think some of them saw us as a 'dripping roast'; a good buy."
"It was all quite a difficult time, but (in late 2009) we won up to $2 billion in refunding through one of the other bondholders. We had that in place but we needed bondholder approval and Clearwater had more than 50% of the bonds and wouldn't approve it."
"It was quite a surprising time for us. We had never experienced that type of institution. We were very much used to the old-school tie banking firm."
Stowe conceded his family had interests outside of Griffin, and that he is still surrounded by a group of advisers and well-paid lawyers.
Optimistically, he confirmed to <a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/business/a/-/news/14049997/perfect-storm-did-me-in-stowe/">theWest.com.au</a> he has been in talks to buy back Devereux Farm, which is in the hands of receivers.
In May last year the receivers PPB Advisory advised the selling agents Garland International to withdrawn the property from auction.
</body></html>

Ric Stowe still seeking to retain Devereux Farm

<html><body>
Non-residents and off-shore owners of Australian property who have been affected by the 2012 federal budget removal of the 50% capital gains tax (CGT) discount, are being advised by property valuation firms to obtain a timely market valuation. Brendon Hulcombe, the ceo of national independent property advisory Group Herron Todd White, said the new rule took effect after 7.30pm on 8 May 2012.
“While the discount is planned to be withdrawn from 8 May 2012, expatriates and offshore investors can still claim the CGT discount for capital gains accrued prior to this date, if the non-resident obtains a market valuation of assets as at 8 May 2012,” he says. “In order mitigate the rising costs of CGT for non-residents, we are providing recommendations to our international clients who own any type of real estate in Australia to urgently obtain a market valuation”, Hulcombe says. 
Mr Holcombe said that although the discount was currently available to all individuals and trustee taxpayers irrespective of residency it would largely impact non-resident individuals who hold interests in Australian real estate. 
</body></html>

Off-shore property investors urged to get valuations following 2012 federal budget CGT decision

<html><body>
<img src="/images/stories/2012/BlaineyNorth-CrownConservatory-01.gif" alt="BlaineyNorth-CrownConservatory-01" width="400" height="225">
Blainey North is the Sydney interior decorator of the moment, but her profile is higher in Melbourne.
She’s just scored the dream decorating design job of Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban’s 798 square metre <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/nicole-kidman-expands-her-milsons-point-penthouse/2012073055775">amalgamated penthouse</a> high above Lavender Bay, Title Tattle has gleaned.
And of course, she’s billionaire James Packer's preferred decorator.
The Age readers know of her given the recent re-opening of the Conservatory buffet restaurant at Crown. Its major refurbishment was by North's Sydney-based design group, which created an environment where customers can interact with the chefs cooking behind the buffet.
Crown invested millions in the makeover, which has served more than a million meals since 1997, according to Crown's executive general manager of food and beverage, Nicolas Kurban.
Adopting century-old techniques set in a modern context, guests feel they are in London, Shanghai or New York during an era when craftsmanship and materials were revered and buildings and interiors were designed to endure and built to last. At least that's the speel.
There are four distinct areas in the 190 seat Conservatory, including a small collection of tables assembled close to the antipasto, seafood, salad and cheese selections.
There are white marble floors, bespoke chandeliers, a distinctive woven timber ceiling, custom-made carpets, very generous chairs inspired by racing cars plus steel screening.
The restaurant is flanked with floor to ceiling mirrors, plus double-height windows overlooking the Yarra River.
There's a palette of green and stark white throughout.
In the open-plan kitchen custom-made spice jars hang on walls and hundreds of red mosaic tiles - inspired by Victorian fenestration - are used to theatrical effect.
She has also designed The Chairman's Villa at Crown. 
North was first spotted by the mainstream press when shortlisted in the 2005 The Interior Design Awards, but has since barely rated a mention in the Sydney newspaper columns other than when she married Russell Crowe’s personal assistant, Keith Rodger in mid-2011.
North is known to be a fan of art deco with a restrained colour palette, and the use of wood panelling and chrome accents.
Indeed her first home – sold in 2010 to model Lara Bingle at $882,000 – was in an art deco Darling Point apartment complex.
It was a renovated, one-bedroom unit with city and harbour views from most of its 65 square metre space, which North had secured for $700,000.
It featured elegant American oak parquetry flooring.
Her bespoke projects have included the 54 Park Street spa where Nicole Kidman is known to work out.
</body></html>

Blainey North, the chic Sydney interior decorator, takes the crown in Melbourne

<html><body>
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2012/07/55lavander]}

International actor Nicole Kidman has almost doubled the size of the Milson Point penthouse she occupies with singer Keith Urban – and vastly improves her Sydney Harbour Bridge views.
The 380 square metre 21st floor acquisition high above idyllic Lavender Bay was completed last week at an undeclared price.
Kidman has owned in the Latitude building at Milsons Point since paying about $6 million in 2009 for the neighbouring 418 square metre two-storey (pictured above) apartment.
The initial 21st-floor penthouse acquistion was bought from the Wizard founder Mark Bouris, whose family company bought it off the plan in 2005 for $4.75 million. It was a three bedroom apartment with 2.5 luxuriously appointed bathrooms. The master suite was contained within its own private wing, complete with a marble en suite, dressing area and terrace access.
The additional two bedrooms were upstairs along with an expansive family room.
Kidman has now enlisted the services of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/blainey-north-the-chic-sydney-interior-decorator-takes-the-crown-in-mebourne/2012073055777">Sydney-based interior decorator Blainey North</a>.
Her latest purchase which was not marketed publicly will enhance her southern views of Sydney Harbour. The new acquisition last sold at $4.95 million in 2006, with its latest sale not yet recorded by leading property data bases. Its been mooted that the sale may have been around $7 million.
It was sold by Matthew Dillon who has spent much of his time in the Schindellegi village overlooking Lake Zurich in Switzerland. 
Title Tattle understands the contract was signed in February this year by her longtime lawyer John Picone.
The purchases takes the couple's car parking and basement storage space to 99 sq m. The apartments are the Mirvac-converted 1960s Sharp office block.
Kidman sold her three-storey Darling Point house in 2009 for $12 million. She retains the Bunya Hill homestead estate in the Southern Highlands of NSW.
</body></html>

Nicole Kidman expands her Milsons Point penthouse

<html><body>
<img height="225" width="400" src="/images/stories/2012/albertcres.jpg" alt="albertcres">
The May 2012 auction of an Alfred Crescent, Fitzroy North (pictured above) terrace, Walkley was one of Melbourne’s biggest auctions of the year.
A massive crowd looked on as two buyers went head to head for almost an hour, until the hammer fell at $4.2 million.
On Saturday, the 1888 Victorian Italianate Boom Style property right next door, Mygunyah, (pictured below) was auctioned.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2012/07/alfredcres41]}
Although the houses facing Edinburgh Gardens were different, the block of land was a similar 740 square metres, noted Mark Armstrong of <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/">Property Tycoon</a>.
Bidding opened at $2.8 million.
The Nelson Alexander listing agency had indicated buyer interest was around $3 million to $3.4 million.
There were three – or one report said four – bidders, and after it was announced in the market at $3.5 million, it was sold for a soft $3.53 million.


The price is not disclosed by Nelson Alexander in the official REIV results, a futile exercise given almost every buyers agent in Melbourne was in attendance.
There were six registered bidders when Strathfield's priciest listing went to weekend auction, and no secrecy.
The auctioneer Bob Jury called it on the market at $2,170,000 before a crowd of about 40-plus attendees. The Newtown Road offering sold for $2.21 million through Georges Ellis &amp; Co Real Estate.
"Strathfield seems to be holding well. There isn't much on the market which is frustrating buyers; creating urgency not to miss out on auction day," selling agent Joseph Georges said.
"There's still plenty of buyers above $2 million looking for the right family home," he said.
There was a three-level modern <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/strathfield-sneaks-in-to-secure-highest-sale-in-the-top-10-rp-data-weekly-sales-list/2012072455709">Strathfield residence</a> that topped the prior week's sales at $2,525,000.
Sydney's overall result was 60.5%, according to Australian Property Monitors, compared with the revised 59.8% of the prior weekend. The provisional Saturday night rate had been 63.6%, so quite a revision.
It was 53% on the same weekend last July.
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria reported a clearance rate of 62% the same as the 62% last weekend and 57% the same weekend last year.
</body></html>

Fitzroy North tops sales, with Strathfield seizing Sydney's highest result for second consecutive weekend

<html><body>
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august16mcivor]}

The former luxury Cronin Island home of Gold Coast business identity Mark McIvor is back up for sale.
An <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/QLD/Surfers-Paradise/?adid=2009891075">August 26 auction </a>of the empty house has been scheduled by Coldwell Banker GC Property Group agent Alex Caraco.
It last sold in intriguing circumstances post auction when the Alex Popov-designed <a href="/news">Cronin Island Gold Coast home of McIvor and his wife, Stacey, sold to Fulton Transport boss Gary Fulton</a> company, Vitago Pty Ltd.
On settlement, Property Observer reported its official paperwork showed a $6.75 million sale price which stumped seasoned Gold Coast property experts, who'd imagined something closer to its $4.4 million September 2011 auction passed in highest offer.
The lenders on the purchase, the Commonwealth Bank, commenced Queensland Supreme Court proceedings against Fulton and Vitago in May.
The Commonwealth Bank lent Vitago $4.758 million in first-mortgage funding on the Cronin Island house.
Its court action sought possession of the property and repayment of the mortgage, plus interest.
 
</body></html>

Mark McIvor's former Cronin Island, Gold Coast property back up for auction

<html><body>
<img width="400" height="225" src="/images/stories/2012/haroldParkv2.gif" alt="haroldParkv2">
Mirvac has obtained planning approval for its $1.1 billion residential development at Harold Park, in the inner-Sydney suburb of Glebe, where already 180 sales have been secured in the project.
The approval was by the Central Sydney Planning Committee (CSPC) which gave the green light to the redevelopment of the former Harold Park paceway following nearly three years of planning studies and assessment.
<img width="402" height="222" src="/images/stories/2012/Harold_Park_render_08_2_bedroom-living_06_LR.jpg" alt="Harold_Park_render_08_2_bedroom-living_06_LR">
More than 180 of the 296 apartments and terraces in the first residential Precinct have been sold off-the-plan.
First home buyers have made up 30% of the off-the-plan buyers to date with an average age of 34 years.
"They're buying anything from a studio to a $1.5 million terrace," Mirvac's development apartments chief John Carfi says.
The developer is now looking forward to pushing ahead and delivering Harold Park, he says. 
<img width="401" height="334" src="/images/stories/2012/Harold_Park_terrace_interior_07_HR.jpg" alt="Harold_Park_terrace_interior_07_HR">
The announcement follows earlier approval from the City of Sydney in June for remediation, infrastructure and services diversions to the site.
“It is one of the most significant residential urban renewal projects in decades being strategically located close to the Sydney CBD, public transport, shopping villages, schools, universities and healthcare facilities.”
“There is no question that New South Wales has an urgent need for more housing,” said Mr Carfi.
<img width="402" height="235" src="/images/stories/2012/Harold_Park_St_1_render_06_3_bedroom-living-01_LR.jpg" alt="Harold_Park_St_1_render_06_3_bedroom-living-01_LR">
“We are in a position to provide a solution to that need, whilst establishing a benchmark for sustainable residential development.”
“Harold Park will open up a site that has been untouched for over 100 years,” said Mr Carfi.
"Our plans for this historic redevelopment include the dedication of over 35% of the 38,000 square metre site for the creation of parkland, allowing the City of Sydney to fulfil its vision of a continuous green belt linking the suburbs of Glebe, Annandale and Forest Lodge to the harbour foreshore," Carfi says.
Mirvac will also dedicate land to the City of Sydney for the development of affordable and seniors housing.
Mr Carfi says Harold Park aims to incorporate environmental and social sustainability initiatives.
Sustainability initiatives include 35% of the site being dedicated to public open space, new pedestrian and cycleway connections, water harvesting, stormwater filtration and retention, green roofs, the use of recyclable materials and energy efficient appliances.
"Harold Park will not only exceed the State Government’s Building Sustainability Index (BASIX) requirements by 25%, but open up a site that has been gated and locked away for over 100 years," he says.
He says Harold Park has the highest proportion of open space of any urban renewal development in the City of Sydney, and at 1.25:1, the lowest density.
"There is no question that New South Wales has an urgent need for more housing," says Carfi. "We are in a position to provide a solution to that need while establishing a new benchmark for sustainable residential development."
"It is one of the most significant residential urban renewal projects in decades being strategically located in close proximity to the Sydney CBD, public transport, schools, universities and healthcare facilities."
Since its marketing launch in November last year, over 180 apartments and terraces of the 296 in the first residential precinct have been sold off-the-plan, with the first stage expected to be completed in 2014.
</body></html>

Mirvac gets planning go-ahead on Harold Park, where 30% of sales have been to first home buyers

<html><body>
<img alt="Seven-Palms-Sentosa-Cove" src="/images/stories/2012/Seven-Palms-Sentosa-Cove.gif" height="225" width="400">
The mining tycoon Gina Rinehart has reportedly secured two luxury Singapore apartments – getaways rather than permanent abodes – with Singapore’s Business Times newspaper suggesting the purchases were in the Seven Palms Sentosa Cove condominium.
The 41 apartment complex, scheduled for completion this year, has been designed by the Perth-born architect Kerry Hill. It's an upmarket waterfront residential district with the apartments in the four-storey project facing either the Tanjong Golf Course at Sentosa Golf Club or Tanjong Beach.
The project – marketed as Singapore's only beachfront residence – was launched in 2009 with its off the plan sales setting record prices. Its due for completion next year.
<a href="https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/premium/top-stories/sentosa-condos-sold-aussie-buyer-57m">The newspaper</a> has reported an entity linked to Hancock Prospecting was paying about $S23.3 million for a third floor unit and $S33.9 million for one on the fourth level.
<img alt="784" src="/images/stories/2012/784.gif" height="225" width="400">
It suggests the island city state, which has low income taxes, is fast becoming a haven for wealthy investors, as it follows the east coast mining tycoon Nathan Tinkler making Singapore his clean environment home-base earlier this year.
Rinehart has previously praised Singapore's way of doing business, noting that Singapore welcomed investment, made real efforts to minimise red tape, enabled guest labour, had low taxes and low crime, and had no debt.
Hancock Prospecting and SC Global have declined to comment on the report.
Seven Palms is the project of SC Global, a luxury property developer founded in 1996 by former banker Simon Cheong. Forbes magazine reported Cheong, who grew up in Singapore, got his M.B.A. from George Washington University in the US and took his first job in investment banking in 1983.
In February, the AMFraser Securities stockmarket analysis on SC Global noted the sales rate of Seven Palms was at 24% sold. It forecast that luxurious residential sales would remain tepid, compounded by the government slapping an additional 10% buyer stamp duty on foreigners buying residential properties. SC Global, which was responsible for the The Marq on Paterson Hill, a boutique Singapore highrise, owns 50% of the middle market Australian builder, AVJennings.
</body></html>

Gina Rinehart splashes out in Singapore: Title Tattle

<html><body>
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august19block39]}

The Richmond cottage renovated by Polly and Waz on The Block 2011 has been leased at $975 a week.
It was the Cameron Street cottage that sold at $855,000 under the hammer to the buyer’s agent Frank Valentic at its televised August 2011 Block auction.
He recently tweeted that the Advantage Property Consulting agency’s property management team had achieved a “fantastic” for the landlord.
“We have just re-leased Polly and Wazza's property for our investor client for $975 per week. Fantastic 10% return including depreciation,” he tweeted.
His yield calculations are not the normal method as most landlords would not include depreciation outcomes within their immediate calculations.
This time last year he noted he’d achieved a rental of $995 per week fully furnished, which with around $40,000 in the building, chattel and furniture depreciation, he suggested reflected a 9.2% return in an unusual method of calculating yields.
Last year Valentic advised Property Observer that the 9.2% was its approximate gross rental yield after taking into account the estimated depreciation although its then $995 asking rent actually reflected a 6.05% typical gross yield.
The drop in rent from $995 to $975 was against the backdrop of the rental vacancy rate easing from 1.5% to 2% vacancy over the past year, he suggssted.
"Our owner was happy to bring back the rent as there are less corporate rentals going around with our shaky worldwide economy," he told Property Observer.
Valentic suggested the client investor planned to hold on to the property for five to seven years and anticipated good capital growth.
Two other cottages on <a href="/news">The Block</a> Richmond strip have been up for recent rent with new tenants being sought by the investors.
</body></html>

The Richmond cottage renovated by Polly and Waz on The Block 2011 has been leased at $975 a week

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]

For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

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

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

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

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

Jonathan Chancellor

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News