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A not-quite-knockdown five-bedroom Mona Vale beachfront house has been sold for $3.28 million.
The sale of the 808-square-metre Surfview Road holding was at Raine &amp; Horne auction where it was announced on the market at $3,225,000. Its selling agents Glenn Lee and Rebecca Lee noted that, with six registered bidders, the vendor had met the market.
It is understood to have been sold to a family who will use the property as a holiday home.
There had been $5 million hopes for it went to initial auction in October 2010 by H. Lindsay Thompson, a retired professor who was president of the AMA from 1982 to 1985, who bought the beachfront three decades ago.
<img src="/images/stories/monavaleaeria.jpg">
Just a few doors along,<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/max-delmege-s-sydney-northern-beaches-property-finally-gets-over-the-line/2011102652087" target="_blank"> the resort-like Mona Vale beachfront residence of the veteran property developer Max Delmege and his wife, Narelle, sold earlier this month for a reputed $3.5 million</a>. Peninsula rumours suggest it may have been a tad less, but there’s no confirmation from the selling agents.
It was on its third mortgagee auction marketing campaign.
The house had been listed with $7 million-plus hopes on the same weekend in October 2010.
The two-level house sit on an 870-square-metre block which is surrounded by two apartment blocks.
Delmege, who bought the holding for $750,000 in 1994, rebuilt the house in 2009, after which he noted it secured a $9 million valuation.
Delmege's holding is surrounded by two apartment blocks, unlike the Thompson property, which has three delightful tall pines overlooking its grounds. 
The Thompson listing reflected $4,059 per square metre, compared with the Delmege sale at $4,022 per square metre.
There are no available guides to the Delmege construction costs, but estimates were around $1.4 million.
The Thompson listing represented a 34% discount on initial hopes in October last year.
The Delmege listing represented a 50% discount on initial hopes and a 60% discount on 2009 valuation.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Land prices find their footing on Mona Vale beachfront

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Buoyed by an impressive 17% jump in annualised Westfield London retail sales – and a record 1 million weekly visits –international shopping centre owner Westfield Group has confirmed its earnings forecast for the year to December.
Noting its global portfolio was performing strongly and sales of its non-core US malls were progressing, it has reaffirmed its forecast for a distribution per security of 48.4¢ and operational segment earnings of 74.6¢ per security.
Shares in the company have dropped nearly 20% this year, compared with a fall of 10% in the benchmark S&amp;P/ASX 200 index as Westfield works its way through the challenging international retailing environment.
But Westfield notes demand for space remains solid especially in Australia, with a number of global retailers looking to tap into the market, although it recorded just 1.1% growth in specialty retail sales.
Occupancy remains above 99.5% in its Australian centres.
"Our job right now is not only to release the existing centres but to make space," Westfield co-chief executive officer Steven Lowy told a conference call for analysts and media as reported on Reuters.
With the non-core asset sale listings in the United States, Westfield said it was in negotiations with four to five parties to sell its US non-core shopping centre assets. There was 5.9% retail sales growth in its US stores.
"I do think the environment is in a position at the moment where those assets can get funded," noted Peter Lowy, another chief executive officer for Westfield.
"There is a quite a lot of money sitting around in bank balance sheets waiting to be deployed."
While some of Westfield’s peers have started share buybacks in hopes to lift their share prices, Peter Lowy says it's unlikely that Westfield would follow suit.
"Our preference as a company to invest in our products and increase the business, and increase return on equity by developing and growing the business," he adds.
“This was an exciting and active quarter for Westfield, with the immensely successful opening of our Stratford City project adjacent to the site of the London 2012 Olympics, together with concluding the £1.75 billion joint venture of the centre,” the Westfield press release noted.
“We are very proud of what we have achieved at Stratford City.
“This world-class shopping centre was delivered on time, on budget and over 95% leased at opening.
“More than 6.5 million customer visits have occurred in the eight weeks since opening, including over 1 million visits in the centre’s first week, a record for our company.” 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/westfield-stratford-city-what-the-million-saw/2011110852259" target="_blank">The million Westfield customers encountered quite a sight.</a>
The group was also active in investing capital into high return opportunities during the quarter.
“Importantly, we announced the expansion of our business franchise into new markets including Brazil and the acquisition of a strategic development site in Milan, which we believe is the best major retail development site in continental Europe,” Steven Lowy says.
During the quarter, WDC reached an in-principle agreement on the US$1.3 billion joint venture of the retail premises at the World Trade Center in New York.
WDC also recently announced the sale of a half share interest in Cairns Central, Queensland for $261 million at a cap rate of 5.2%, representing a $35 million, or 16%, premium to book value.
It was the huge new Westfield mall in Stratford that smashed all records in its first week by attracting more than 1 million shoppers.
More than 6.5 million people have visited the Westfield Stratford City shopping centre in east London since it opened on September 13.
 
 
 
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One million weekly London shoppers buoy Westfield

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British fashion label Paul Smith will be opening its first stand-alone store in Australia in mid-2012 on Collins Street, Melbourne.
It will be located at the Paris end in Investa Property Group's heritage-listed building at 120 Collins Street.
Paul Smith already has shops around the world including London, Paris, Milan, New York, San Francisco, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, the Philippines, Korea, Kuwait, U.A.E.  – and more than 200 throughout Japan.
The 250-square-metre flagship Collins Street store lease was negotiated by CBRE and Savills.
The luxury fashion precinct already includes international luxury brands Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Gucci, Ermenegildo Zegna and Chanel.
"They join Joe Black the Tailor and Alistair Trung at the building, and we're confident that the store will have a real wow factor upon opening mid next year," says Claire Clark, general manager of 120 Collins Street.
Retail turnover in the Melbourne CBD had outperformed all other high street shopping strips in Victoria, she adds.
"Paul Smith’s business is an exciting addition to the precinct’s pre-eminent fashion credentials, and continues the tradition of prestigious fashion houses and boutiques that have set up shop here over the years,” says Michael Di Carlo from Savills.
CBRE agent Max Cookes suggests the deal is “testament to the strength of the retail market.”
Paul Smith offers 14 different collections including Paul Smith, PS by Paul Smith, Paul Smith Jeans, Paul Smith London, R.Newbold (Japan only), Paul Smith Accessories, Paul Smith Shoes, Paul Smith Fragrance and Paul Smith Watches.
The shops typically reflect the character of the designer and chairman, coming with an extensive selection of clothing, jewellery, books, art, antiques and other products.
 
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Fashion label Paul Smith to open first Australian store on Collins Street, Melbourne

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First-home buyers have emerged from hibernation becoming a dominant segment of the housing finance enquiry market, according to mortgage broker Loan Market.
First-time buyer enquiry levels were at their highest in almost two years after activity plummeted following the cessation of the federal government boost in 2009 and a sequence of interest rate rises during 2010.
The segment, who seem poised to spend, represented 51% of loan enquiries to Loan Market during October, according to Loan Market chief operating officer Dean Rushton.
“We’re finally starting to see signs of optimism and more confidence from that segment of the market. And predicted further rate cuts from the RBA would help to build that confidence,” Rushton says.
Tasmania had the highest number of enquiries followed by Queensland, Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
“After a few years of hibernation, first-home buyers are back and are now the dominant section of the market for enquiry,” Rushton says.
Rushton notes the end of stamp duty concessions for first-home buyers in New South Wales from the end of 2011 year has boosted activity in that state.
“The softer real estate market is another encouragement for first-time buyers if they are in a position to be active in the market,” he adds.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/one-in-10-buyers-choosing-to-rent-to-invest/2011070750728" target="_blank">One in 10 first-time buyers are choosing to make their first real estate purchase an investment property</a>. 
For advice on buying your first investment property, download our free e-book.
 
 
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First-home buyer lending enquiries at two-year high: Loan Market

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november8collette]}
Actor Toni Collette and her musician husband, David Galafassi, have snapped up a $6 million Paddington property.
It’s the double-fronted Paddington offering of Nick and Susie Kelly, the founders and owners of Industrie clothing.
It was snapped at an undisclosed price – but understood to be slightly more than $6 million.
Designed by architect Anthony Gill and completed in 2009, the five-bedroom, four-bathroom house on a 360-square-metre block sold well ahead of its October 14 closing date for expressions of interest.
The sale price through McGrath agent Ben Collier last month was a record for the southern side of Oxford Street, Paddington.
Consisting of two classic Victorian terraces combined into a palatial single residence, the contemporary tri-level family retreat had been reinvented to embrace light flooded indoor/outdoor living.
The two terraces cost $2.15 million in 2003 and $1.865 million in 2005.
The five-bedroom house will replace their hillside house at Bronte, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/toni-collette-set-to-cop-%24900000-loss-as-bronte-cottage-renovation-plans-shelved/2011110752228" target="_blank">on which the renovation rebuild costings defied property logic and has prompted its listing</a>.
The 1885 weatherboard Bronte cottage cost $4.4 million in mid-2009. They’ve since obtaining rebuilding approval, but have opted not to proceed given the rebuild construction tender quotes are understood to have tallied about $4 million. 
Given the current top-end market conditions aren’t resplendent with sunshine, its McGrath Estate Agents listing agent Bethwyn Richards has given public estimates she expects the property to sell for about $3.5 million and that Collette and Galafassi are prepared to cop a $900,000 loss.
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Actor Toni Collette and muso David Galafassi fall for the charms of contemporary inner-city Paddington

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<img src="/images/stories/village1.jpg">
A picturesque village that dates back to the Domesday Book has been listed for sale. Askham Richard has been put up for sale by its landlord through Jasper Feilding, head of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.carterjonas.co.uk/properties-for-sale/yorkshire/MAY110047?search=farmsAndEstates">Carter Jonas's London country department</a>.
<img src="/images/stories/village2.jpg">
It has been instructed to sell all of the farms and residential properties that make up the North Yorkshire estate, complete with shooting rights to its 324 hectares. It’s priced at £6.5 million.
<img src="/images/stories/village3.jpg">
It comes with two let farms, 22 hectares of woodland and 14 let residential properties with a current gross rental income of £155,000 a year, comprising £99,900 in residential rents and £51,800 in agricultural rents. The 324-hectare estate was built up in the late 19th century by Sir Andrew Fairbairn, a Liberal MP who died in 1901. 
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English village put up for sale

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Scott Pape, the financial adviser, broadcaster and author of The Barefoot Investor, has explained why he is keeping his home loan variable despite the fact that the banks are currently offering lower fixed rates. He says he envisages 2012 will be the time to “tart yourself around to the banks” to get a better deal next year.
“One reason is that having the security of locking in your rate comes at a cost: (usually) fixed repayments, and a hefty break fee if you want to walk.
“Banks behave in their own best interests,” he told subscribers to <a href="https://www.barefootinvestor.com/" target="_blank">his website</a>.
“A smarter strategy may be to wait and watch what happens with the unfolding debt crisis.
“We could see official interest rates come down, and cautious consumers continue to slow their borrowing (building approvals dropped 13.9% in September), causing banks to scramble for our business next year,” Pape wrote.
“That’s when I’ll be looking to lock in my rate.”
Pape, whose early days were as an investment adviser with EL&amp;C Baillieu, says until then he will make extra repayments: the quarter per cent cut this week translates into an (average) $50 a month cut, or $41,000 saved in interest over the life of a loan.
Pape recently noted that since Wayne Swan banned exit fees, the banks had found another way to stop their customers from switching to get a better deal.
“Fixed-rate deals give them that power.”
But he noted there’d be a $600 establishment fee at the start, “and if interest rates drop lower than your fixed rate they will slug you with a ‘break fee’ representing the difference between the two rates, multiplied by the length of time left on your fixed contract – which can add up to thousands of dollars.”
“If you’re really struggling, locking in your rates can give you the security of fixed repayments, but for everyone else it’s too much of a gamble.”
 
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Scott Pape, the barefoot investor, suggests staying variable

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Some 58% of Australians feel confident the economy will remain strong and stable over the coming year, believing Australia will fare better than the US and Europe, according to the latest CUA survey.
It noted any uncertainty Australians had towards the property market was only short term, with 58% feeling positive about it improving over the next five years.
Just 18% anticipate property prices will be below current levels in five years’ time.
Some 33% of those surveyed were intending to take out a loan over the next year, with half intending to do so to purchase either an investment or residential property.
The survey found that 63% of those looking at buying an investment property over the next year were totally new to the market.
Andrew Hadley, group general manager of strategy and marketing at CUA, suggests the findings provide a welcome contrast to the gloomy commentary that has been dominating recent headlines.
“The past few years have certainly been challenging economically and, while global economic uncertainty prevails, the continued strength and resilience of the Australian economy and financial system appears to be helping fuel a renewed sense of confidence and optimism among the Australian public.
“Undoubtedly, the recent cash rate cut announced by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will help to further drive this sentiment,” Hadley adds.
“As a nation we have been shoring up our savings and been cautious about making any major purchases and this has been particularly noticeable in the property market.
“It’s therefore encouraging to see that CUA’s Borrowing and Investment Intentions Survey highlights a positive attitude towards our property market over the medium term.”
Following the RBA’s latest rates announcement, CUA has cut 25 basis points off its standard variable home loan, pushing it to 6.97%.
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Strong new investment buying intent as most Australians think property will be pricier in five years: CUA

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november8trincomalee]}
Trincomalee, an 1890s stone and timber house on 4,300 square metres at Lovett Bay, Pittwater, has been listed for sale with price hopes of more than $3 million. It was owned for many decades by the Foy retailing family.
On Rocky Point between Elvina and Lovett bays, Trincomalee was once often visited by Juanita Nielsen, the Kings Cross newspaper proprietor who disappeared in the 1970s during the fight to save Victoria Street, Potts Point. It’s been listed for sale by the Macorison family through Mary Rowley of Belle Property Mona Vale-Bayview.
It last traded when the Macorisons paid $135,000 in 1978 to the executors of the estate of the late Neil Smith, the father of Juanita Nielsen. It comes with a self-contained cottage, studio, boatshed, jetty, sandy beach and rock pool, all in a pristine bushland setting.
In the 1880s the area was a prolific orchard of figs, lemons, oranges, grapes and olives. Pittwater was popular with Sydney's early retailers.
Maritana, another 1920s Pittwater retreat at Elvina Bay, was built using jarrah, kauri and spotted gum by the Gibsons of retailers Foy &amp; Gibson. Set on about a 240-square-metre holding with 52-metre waterfront, boatshed, jetty and beach, the Vogue Living-featured residence traded in 1992 at $1 million when bought by recruitment executive Chris Aston James and his wife, Angela, from furniture maker Antony Loneragan and his wife, Elaine, who engaged local architect Dermer Bennett after it was traded at $324,000 in 1983.
It was built 1891 by the Stefani family. As one member was a pianist it came with elevated music room. It was bought by the Mark Foy family in 1926, who changed its name from the Red House to Trincomalee – meaning a view from three points – after they holidayed in Ceylon.
 
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Juanita Nielsen's former Pittwater holiday home, with Foy retailing links, listed for sale

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november7raeburn]}
Descendants of the pioneer Chisholm family have listed South Raeburn, their 632-hectare NSW farm.
The Breadalbane property has had the single family ownership since colonial settlement.
The Chisholm family opened up the Goulburn district and once commanded a grazing run that extended over 100,000 acres (about 40,470 hectares). Their family ownership commenced with the original selection at Kippilaw at Goulburn in the 1830s when James Chisholm and his wife, Elizabeth, moved to the Goulburn district, taking up a grant of 1,280 acres (518 hectares) given to her as a marriage portion from Governor Ralph Darling , a custom begun by Governor Lachlan Macquarie for settlers on their marriage.
Carrying a 6,500 dry sheep equivalent producing prime lambs, wool and beef, and with a history of growing high-yielding cereals, canola and forage crops, South Raeburn has been listed for December 15 auction through Tronn Alstergren of Tronn Alstergren Real Estate inc onjunction with  Col Medway from Landmark Copeland Medway.
It is located 20 minutes from Goulburn,  40 minutes to Canberra and two hours 15 minutes to Sydney.
The agents sold North Raeburn last year for $2.4 million, also on behalf of Chisholm family descendants. It too was an original land grant and had been in the Chisholm family since the early 1800s. The 770-hectare North Raeburn was reluctantly offered by descendants of James Chisholm only to finalise family succession plans. It was bought by the Newby family.
The historic Goulburn district homestead Kippilaw, set on 160 hectares, has only had the three owners. Until 1989 it was owned by the descendants of James and Eizabeth Chisholm. In 1989 it was bought from James Triggs, who had inherited it from the last of the Chisholms, Tom Chisholm.
Chris Meares, of Meares &amp; Associates, secured $2.6 million  in 1997 for the colonial mansion that dates back to the 1830s when James and Elizabeth Chisholm took up a 1,280 acre (517 hectare) grant.
Kippilaw was named by Elizabeth after her birthplace in Scotland, Kippilaw, near Melrose Abbey. Its meaning comes from “Kippi” which is Pictish for "little" and "law" which is Saxon for "hill".
Set at the end of an avenue of oak trees, the house looks over Italian-style gardens and the Wollondilly River.
The property also features a seven-bedroom shearers' quarters, a two-bedroom schoolhouse, a two-bedroom guest cottage and a 20-pew private church, St James, which contains a cairn built of stones said to include some from the cave that sheltered Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745.
At the back of the Kippilaw property is an 1840s coach house that could hold four coaches.
Mary Durack, in her seminal Australian pioneering history Kings in Grass Castles, devotes pages to the generosity of the Chisholms at Kippilaw.
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Chisholm descendants list Goulburn district property after 180 years of family ownership

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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

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The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

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For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

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As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

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Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

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

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

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

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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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