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Construction of the $21 million residential development Lunar, 28 km south of Sydney, is slated to begin mid 2017.
If will feature 64 apartments, a basement carpark and a communal landscaped garden.
Ben Pomroy from Rothelowman says that the design for the new development was derived as a response to these natural surroundings and a desire to optimise the apartments’ long-distance views.
“Lunar sits on one of the highest points in the Sutherland Shire, with views north to the CBD and Botany Bay, our scheme had to take advantage of these opportunities, whilst developing a design that addressed and was respectful to the public domain,” he said.
“Our desire was to create a building that embraces the shire’s outdoor lifestyle with apartments that have both front and back yards..
“A place where residents could embrace the views to the north and the east, whilst also giving opportunity for interaction with the street.”
“Capitalising on the area’s temperate climate, the breezeway elevates the traditional corridor to a space where residents can socialise with their neighbours in a pleasant open-air setting.
“Liveability was a significant consideration in the evolution of Lunar’s design and the breezeway supports that.
"We have strived to create a building with the greatest possible access to daylight and fostered natural ventilation that is created with the layouts.”
 
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mick.cee-iDmgDDAmu8

Unique breezeway design for Sydney's Lunar

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GUEST OBSERVER
The Andrews Government this week announced changes to long-term lease provisions, including a new long-term standard tenancy agreement for leases of more than five years.
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) said these changes are being undertaken in the midst of a major review of Victoria’s rental sector.
While the REIV generally supports the new provisions for long-term leases, the entire private rental sector is on the brink of significant change which will heavily affect landlords and other stakeholders.
The industry is working with Government on major reforms to the Residential Tenancies Act at present, and looks forward to continuing to do so.
Victoria’s population is growing by 100,000 new residents each year and the private rental sector needs to meet this need.
The review and the Government’s current options paper ‘Heading for Home’ will have a significant impact on the sector, affecting both property owners and tenants.
The REIV has undertaken a survey of landlords across Victoria with four in five planning to significantly increase rents if the proposals are adopted.
A further 17 percent of landlords have said that they will exit the sector if the changes proceed.
The reforms that are being proposed include:
<ul>
<li>Changes to notice provisions around ending a lease. Tenants are only required to provide 28 days’ notice of their intention to leave a property, while landlords may lose their right to terminate a lease altogether.</li>
<li>Removal of the landlord’s right to consent to, or refuse, pets.</li>
<li>Allowing tenants to make non-structural modifications to rental properties without landlord consent or permission. This may include repainting an entire property, concreting the backyard or reconfiguring built-in robes.</li>
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The changes will have an overall negative impact on the Victorian rental market, especially on those who can least afford it.
Gil King is chief executive officer, REIV, and can be contacted <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Proposals cloud positive moves from Andrews Government on affordable housing: REIV's Gil King

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Combined capital city auctions are predicted to fall this week after the record highs of February, according to CoreLogic.
CoreLogic report 2,558 auctions are slated for this week, down from 3,301 auctions last week.
"Auction activity is down week-on-week in Melbourne and Sydney, the two major auction markets, with 1,302 Melbourne homes set to go to auction, down from last week’s 1,635, and 858 auctions set to be held across Sydney, decreasing from last week’s 1,210," CoreLogic said.
"Across the smaller markets, volumes are set to decrease across the remaining capital cities.
"However, overall activity is set to be higher than what was seen over the corresponding week last year (2,304)."
 
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Capital city auctions this week: 
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Sydney: 858 
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Melbourne: 1,302 
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Brisbane: 141 
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Adelaide: 112 
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Perth: 35 
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 Canberra: 104 
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"South Yarra and St Kilda in Victoria are the two busiest suburbs for auctions across the nation this week, each with 21 residential homes set to go under the hammer, followed by Malvern East and Reservoir also in Vic both with 19 and Mosman in NSW with 17 auctions."
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Weekend auction levels down from February highs: CoreLogic

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GUEST OBSERVER
Australian housing finance approvals to owner occupiers edged up 0.4 percent in Dec, slightly softer than the 1 percent gain expected but with the detail mostly positive.
Nov’s 0.9 percent gain was tweaked up to 1.3 percent and the number of loans ex refi (“new loans”) posted a solid 2.4 percent gain to be up 0.9 percent/yr.
Construction-related loans were flat but loans for the purchase of newly built dwellings rose 3.2 percent to be up 11.9 percent/yr – the gain reflecting settlements on ‘off the plan’ purchases of apartments now being completed.
The value of housing finance approvals to investors dipped 1 percent in the month – a bit softer than might have been expected given the wider market’s strong finish to 2016 (centred on Sydney and Melbourne).
Despite the dip the value of loans to this segment is still up 20 percent on the lows in late 2015.
Overall, the numbers suggest more of the pick-up in momentum late in 2016 was from owner occupiers although the resurgence in investor activity still looks to be the prime mover.
 Details 
Owner–occupiers (no.)   0.4%mth, –4.4%yr
– ex-financing (no.)        2.4%mth, 0.9%yr
Construction of dwellings (no.)               –0.3%mth, –5.8%yr Purchase of newly built dwellings (no.)   3.2%mth, 11.9%yr     
Value of loans:
Owner-occupiers ($bn)   1.3%mth, –3.4%yr Investors ($bn)                 –1%mth, 19.9%yr Total ($bn)                         0.4%mth, 4.6%yr Total ex refi ($bn)             0.8%mth, 10.2%yr
Matthew Hassan is senior economist with <a href="https://www.westpac.com.au/">Westpac</a>.
 
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Owner occupier housing finance approvals up: Westpac's Matthew Hassan

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GUEST OBSERVER
The latest ABS housing approval data for NSW indicates a big drop over five months giving the new Housing Minister a big challenge.
The ABS trend data indicates that between July 2016 and December 2016 home approvals in NSW dropped by 24% and apartment approvals by 35 percent.
These figures will give the new Housing Minister, Anthony Roberts, a big challenge as he acquaints himself with his new portfolio.
The home approvals by trend for December 2016 were 4,950 compared to the July 2016 figure of 6,545. This is a drop of 1,595 or 24 percent over 5 months. 
Most of the drop was with apartment approvals which dropped from 4,133 in July 2016 to 2,668 in December 2016. This is a drop of 1,465 or 35%.
The trend graphs illustrate a steady drop over the last 5 months. It will be important that the new NSW Housing and Planning Minister brings in some new policies and improvements to the planning system to reverse the current trend.
It would appear that the Greater Sydney Commission (GSC) which began in February 2016 has not been able to influence housing approvals and that the confusion with local council amalgamations may have contributed to the slow down.
A number of Urban Taskforce members have reported difficulties in getting approvals from local councils and from the GSC’s planning panels even in areas where the state government has encouraged development.
The recent release of the District Plans by the GSC has added to uncertainty as they seem to restrict housing in a number of areas. The August rezoning review issued by the Government has also made it more difficult to submit planning proposals.
The big drop in housing approvals comes just as the new Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, has stated that housing supply is the key to housing affordability and appointed Anthony Roberts as Housing Minister to tackle the supply issue.
Minister Roberts is in an ideal position as both Housing and Planning Minister to take some strong action to ramp up housing supply in the state. He needs to look at the restrictive zoning in the District Plans that stops new housing in district and strategic centres and in out of date industrial areas in inner Sydney.
The Minister should also use the Greater Sydney Commission to fast track housing approvals for large projects over the value of $20 million. He should also look at setting up planning centres of excellence in each of the six Sydney districts to drive housing supply.
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In the current boom economic times, Sydney should be completing 40,000 new homes a year but the highest number to date has only been 31,000.
The Urban Taskforce is keen to work with Minister Roberts to develop fast track processes to lift housing supply. We are also keen to outline a plan to complete 4,000 new affordable homes a year for Sydney.
See below New monthly private sector home approvals NSW graph based on ABS figures: 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/03/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-03%20at%208.41.36%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/03/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-03%20at%208.41.36%20AM.png" alt="">
Chris Johnson is chief executive officer of property development industry group Urban Taskforce and can be contacted <a href="https://www.urbantaskforce.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=97&amp;Itemid=126#.Vdaart55dFI" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Housing Minister must act as approvals dropping fast: Chris Johnson

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GUEST OBSERVER
Premier Berejiklian’s new ministry must drive housing supply and ensure NSW retains its position as Australia’s leading state. 
The new ministry announced by NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian is an very talented and competent team, capable of ensuring the continued success of the high-performing NSW economy.
In particular, the appointment of the Hon. Anthony Roberts as Minister for Planning and Minister for Housing is an excellent choice. His past achievements and experience, including overhauling the ageing NSW strata system, make him very well placed to improve the lack- lustre performance of the NSW planning system.
The Urban Taskforce is keen to work with Minister Roberts on ways to drive more housing completions throughout NSW and in particular in the Sydney metropolitan area. We believe there are many aspects of the NSW planning system and the Draft District Plans for Sydney which prevent greatly hinder the supply of new housing. Given the current housing affordability crisis, changes must be made to address this problem.
Minister Roberts should look at restrictive land use zones and development controls that prevent adequate housing supply and onerous conditions of consent which lead to only 58 per cent of housing approvals become real houses or apartments. 
Other key issues include lengthy bureaucratic approval processes which create delays and blockages in the planning system and excessive levies and fees which drive up the cost of housing.
The Urban Taskforce and the property industry is keen to work collaboratively with the new Minister for Planning and Housing to help alleviate the housing affordability crisis and deliver positive outcomes for the people of NSW.
Chris Johnson is chief executive officer of property development industry group Urban Taskforce and can be contacted <a href="https://www.urbantaskforce.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=97&amp;Itemid=126#.Vdaart55dFI" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Minister Roberts must drive housing supply

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The median dwelling price in Melbourne is $566,000, up from $475,000 five years ago, according the December 2016 Housing Affordability Report from CoreLogic.
The median dwelling value across Melbourne now costs 7.1 times the median annual household income, according to CoreLogic. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/23/Screen%20Shot%202017-01-23%20at%201.45.41%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/01/23/Screen%20Shot%202017-01-23%20at%201.45.41%20PM.png" alt="">
Property Observer went searching around the median price in Melbourne and found this one bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-melbourne-120627881" target="_blank">168 Victoria Street, Melbourne</a> on the market with prices starting from $542,000.
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Median Melbourne dwelling price around $566,000: CoreLogic

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The median dwelling price in regional Victoria is $300,000, up from $273,001 five years ago, according the December 2016 Housing Affordability Report from CoreLogic.
The median dwelling value across regional NSW now costs 6.6 times the median annual household income, according to CoreLogic. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/23/Screen%20Shot%202017-01-23%20at%201.54.41%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/01/23/Screen%20Shot%202017-01-23%20at%201.54.41%20PM.png" alt="">
Property Observer found this single level two bedroom family home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-lifestyle-vic-enfield-7875154" target="_blank">80 Inglewood Drive Enfield</a> on the market for between $275,000 - $300,000. 
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Regional Victoria's median dwelling price hits $300,000: CoreLogic

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GUEST OBSERVER
Over the last few years, we’ve seen a massive shift in the way we work.
Thousands of Australians have abandoned the traditional 40-hour work week to work fewer hours or take on ad-hoc work, such as driving for Uber or doing odd jobs on Airtasker. 
But the way we measure the labour market has not kept up. We still rely on the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ labour force survey, a survey from the 1960s conducted according to international conventions that is no longer appropriate for today’s labour market.
Today’s economy – one of independent contractors, ad-hoc work, irregular and flexible hours – needs a new form of measurement. 
<h2>How the government measures the workforce</h2>
Every month the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) surveys about 0.32% of the civilian population aged over 15 years about their employment status.
In short, you’re counted as employed if you completed at least one hour of paid work in the week before the survey.
But this doesn’t sound quite right. Clearly, one hour of paid work per week doesn’t fit most people’s idea of employment.
In fact, over one million workers are counted as “underemployed”, meaning they would work more hours if they could. This raises the question of whether these people should really be considered “employed”. The answer depends on what policy question you are trying to address.
<h2>Is our unemployment rate right?</h2>
Let’s get right into how our unemployment rate is calculated.
If respondents haven’t done any paid work in the last week, they are asked two further questions – first, have they actively sought work in the last four weeks, and second, are they currently available to start work? They are only considered unemployed if they answer yes to both of these questions. Otherwise, they’re not counted as part of the labour force. 
This means full-time homemakers, carers, the ill and non-working retirees aren’t considered unemployed.
The labour force is the sum of the employed and the unemployed. The unemployment rate is the percentage of the labour force who are unemployed. 
Lastly, the participation rate is the percentage of the population aged 15 and older who are in the labour force. According to the latest ABS trend estimates, the participation rate stood at 64.5% in November, no change from October.
The participation rate has been consistently trending upwards over time for women and falling for men. This does not mean women are increasingly doing more work but that over time they have switched from unpaid to paid work. One of the main reasons for falling participation among men is that unskilled manual jobs for older men have been declining over several decades and many men have been reclassified as unemployed, disabled or retired. 
<h2>More issues with the survey</h2>
The Labour Force Survey only provides a measure of employment and not the number of jobs. For example, a person might work 20 hours per week at a supermarket and 10 hours per week as an Uber driver. Employment is always classified according to the “main job”, so the ABS deems them as one person employed part-time (working fewer than 35 hours) in the retail industry. 
If that person worked five more hours as an Uber driver the next week, they would be classified as full-time (35 hours) but the supermarket job would still determine the industry in which they are employed.
The crucial problem here is that there are two jobs being done, but the ABS employment estimate only counts one. So be wary of commentators and politicians making statements like “the economy gained/lost 10,000 jobs last month”! What jobs are they measuring?
The labour force survey also fails to make distinctions between different types of workers. About two million Australians work as independent contractors like construction workers or other business operators such as hairdressers working from home. However, in the figures they are not distinguished from regular employees.
Whereas it might be relatively easy for an employee to know if they did any paid work in the week before the survey, it might not be so obvious for a non-employee. For instance, an author might work 50 hours on their book one week and three hours the next. Most of their work is basic research rather than writing. They receive a royalty payment twice a year. How would they answer the question of whether they did any paid work in the last week?
For non-employees the question of whether they are prepared to start work and have been actively looking for work can also be complex. Someone doing consultancy work might not actively look for work because clients seek them out instead.
<h2>We need something new</h2>
The ABS has tried tackling some of these issues by conducting some different surveys, including the Characteristics of Employment Surveywhich presents information on all employed persons according to their status of employment. However, the framework classifies jobholders by their main job. That is, only the job in which they usually worked the most hours. This doesn’t capture many of the issues of concern in, say, the “sharing” or “gig” economy 
The ABS has also attempted to compare the number of filled jobs to the amount of employed people, using estimates in the labour force survey. This can reveal interesting information about the labour market. For instance, in February 2013 there were 11,628,300 employed people in Australia, but an estimated 12,287,200 filled jobs. That is, there were 658,900 more filled jobs than there were employed people. 
But even then, the estimates still use the conventional definition of a job. 
The ABS is still working on an Australian Labour Market Account, based on International Labor Organisation (ILO) methodology, which may address some of the issues discussed here. But this will still be based on traditional definitions of jobs, employment, and unemployment.
Our conventional employment measures are no longer equipped to inform us about important aspects of our labour force and a reliance on them could lead to inappropriate policy. We need labour force numbers than can capture the nuances of a modern economy.
Phil Lewis is professor of economics, University of Canberra and author for The Conversation. He can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/phil-lewis-8714" target="_blank">here</a>.
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We need to find new ways to measure the Australian labour force

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GUEST OBSERVER
As expected the Reserve Bank Board decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 1.50 percent.
With tomorrow’s prospect of a negative print for GDP growth in the September quarter, we were interested in whether that issue would be addressed in the Governor’s statement. To his credit he has done that by referring to “some slowing in the year ended growth rate is likely” but notes that growth is expected to pick up again in 2017.
In November the Bank released its forecasts that the economy would grow at close to potential in 2017 (forecast growth midpoint of 3 percent). It does not appear to have revised that view in this statement.
Indeed whereas in November the Governor’s statement recognised that commodity prices had risen, in December that increase is now assessed to “provide a boost to national income”.
The key policy sensitive areas of the labour market and housing are given the usual relatively extensive attention.
Overall, the assessment of the labour market appears to be a little less comfortable – the fall in the unemployment rate since December is qualified by “some measures of labour underutilisation are little changed.” Labour market indicators are still described as mixed with employment growth slowing but forward-looking indicators pointing to expansion in employment.
On the other hand, the commentary around housing is more upbeat. Conditions in the housing market are assessed to have strengthened with prices rising briskly in some markets. However, the statement does note that conditions vary considerably with prices falling in other markets.
Internationally, there is a hint of more confidence with “the outlook for inflation is more balanced than it has been for some time.” Most importantly, whereas the near term performance of China is better than expected a few months ago (our assessment), “medium-term risks to growth remain.”
Not surprisingly, the closing paragraph signals the ongoing neutral bias with: “the Board judged that holding the stance of policy unchanged at this meeting would be consistent with sustainable growth in the economy and achieving the inflation target over time.”
Conclusion
Following the rate cut in May this year Westpac forecast that there would be a follow up cut in August and then rates would remain on hold throughout the remainder of 2016 and all of 2017. That was despite market pricing favouring more than one follow up cut in 2017.
Today’s statement further supports our long held view and given ongoing difficulties in the labour market the prospect of rate hikes in 2017, despite some developments in market pricing, seems remote.
BILL EVANS is chief economist of <a href="https://www.westpac.com.au/" target="_blank">Westpac</a>
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Uncertainty remains around the labour, housing markets: Westpac's Bill Evans

Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

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Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

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Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

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Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Michael Crawford

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