<html><body>
The $100 million Somerset Park development in Andergrove Mackay has unveiled the estate’s first display home, ‘Stratum’ home – one of nine architecturally designed homes available to build.
<img src="/images/stories/2014/01/10/F1.jpg" width="400" height="242" alt="F1">
The new display home will showcase just one of the house and land package designs available in the new master planned residential estate.
The home has been constructed by Bloomer Constructions and styled by local Mackay interior design business L’Amour Home Furnitute and Homewares.
The ‘Stratum’ design comprises of four bedrooms and two living areas and comes with a 3-bedroom option.
“We are thrilled to be unveiling our first ever display home for Somerset Park, which showcases one of our premier designs in a four bedroom configuration,” says TOTAL Property Group managing director and Somerset marketing manager Adrian Parsons.
<img src="/images/stories/2014/01/10/F2.jpg" width="400" height="266" alt="F2">
“The display home opening is ideally timed with the release of the development’s stage two. This is so prospective buyers can visually experience and get a feel for the type of housing available at the estate.
“The spaciousness, layout and quality of the display home is sure to attract major interest, especially for prospective buyers looking to purchase a three, four or five bedroom house and land package in stage two.
“We have also chosen the Stratum design, as it is ideal for families, but still showcases the high level of quality and contemporary design carried throughout all housing options,” says Parsons.
Stage two launched last month, following the sell out of stage one.
“The development really is appealing to the likes of owner occupiers and investors, for its ideal positioning, quality product and great value.
“Stage one has sold out and stage two is now selling as a result of the development meeting market demand. We expect that the added benefit of being able to explore the housing options first hand, will only further this interest and uptake,” says Parsons.
The display home is located on lot 104.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:ntrotman@propertyobserver.com.au">ntrotman@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
</body></html>

ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

Somerset Park estate unveils first architecturally designed display home

<html><body>
Residential building approvals were down 1.5% during the month of November, but recovery it still underway, according to the Housing Institute of Australia.
The number of detached house approvals in November increased by 5.7%, - the highest level since during the stimulus mid-2010 – but multi unit approvals fell 8.8%.
South Australia led the way as the strongest state, with building approvals up 23.2%, followed by New South Wales up 14.5% and Queensland up 8.3%.
“Overall, the level of building approvals is high and the latest update indicates that activity in the market continues along a rising trend,” says HIA Senior Economist Shane Garrett.
Victoria recorded the largest drop, declining 17.5% during November, followed by Tasmania down 10.4% and the Australian Capital Territory down 9.0%.
A slight increase of 0.5% was recorded in Northern Territory.
“The persistence of strong regional disparities means that the recovery cannot yet be seen as broad- based.
“Despite strong increases in New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland, a sharp decline occurred in Victoria during November and the Tasmanian market continues to be plagued by declining activity.
“It is vital that strong levels of home building continue so as to ensure that housing needs are met across all regions. This is all the more important in the context of the chronic housing underbuild over the past decade,” says Garrett.
Garrett says policy reform in the areas of residential land availability and building regulation must continue as a matter of urgency.
“Strong levels of home building will be very supportive to wider economic growth, something particularly pertinent at this time,” says Garrett.
Total dwelling approvals totaled almost 174,000 over the past year.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
</body></html>

Building approvals down but recovery still happening: HIA

<html><body>
Two office buildings have come down in West End Brisbane to make way for Pointcorp’s $105 million Vida riverfront development, with construction to commence in the coming weeks.
The development is currently 97% sold and has recorded $94 million in sales since launching to the public mid-2013.
"This is the first step in the construction process and means the project will soon become a reality," says Pointcorp director Chris Vitale.
"We are excited to be preparing to get out of the ground, just six months after Vida was launched to the market.
"The response to the project has just been phenomenal, with more than 74 per cent of the apartments sold within a fortnight of its release,” says Vitale.
A selection of apartments remain priced from $800,000, including two- and three-bedroom apartments and a five-bedroom, four-bathroom penthouse priced from $3 million.
Property Observer <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/brisbane-west-end-vida-development-95-sold-including-89-million-in-penthouse-sales/2013110466039">reported</a> in November that three penthouses had sold off-the-plan, totaling $8.9 million.
“We identified the demand, and lack of supply, for apartments close to the city centre that were designed for the owner-occupier market and released Vida to fill this void.
"The apartments are larger than the average on offer in Brisbane and include top shelf fittings and finishes.
“The final apartments are all in fantastic locations within the development, with either absolute Brisbane River views or suburban vistas,” says Vitale.
Vida will feature 144 apartments across two 12 level buildings and a ground floor retail precinct with four tenancies.
Designed by Cottee Parker, Vida’s exterior will feature a four-metre high green wall and fig leaf screen and residents will have access to a rooftop pool and gymnasium.
Apartments will feature exposed concrete ceilings, track lighting and American oak timber flooring.
A call was put out almost immediately for tenders to build the project, following strong buyer demand.
The development will take around 18 months to complete with purchasers expected to move in mid-2015.
The median apartment price in <a target="_blank" href="/news">West End</a> is $213,750, a 21.1% decline since last year.
news@propertyobserver.com.au
</body></html>

Office buildings come down to make way for West End Vida development

<html><body>
The $330 million Albion Mill Village in Brisbane’s inner north still remains on track following the fire in late November, which destroyed the heritage listed brick flour mill.
Developed by FKP Property Group, the first stage of the development – The Hudson – has recorded $38 million in sales and is currently 50% sold.
The Hudson comprises of 140 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments plus skyhomes.
The development was in partnership with Jan Powers Farmers Market, with the farmers market to be held on the heritage site on the second and fourth Sunday of every month, but following the fire, the market has had to relocate.
“The fire was a major shock to us; the heritage listed nature of the building and the history of the site is one we as developers hold very close to the essence of the masterplan,” says Aveo Group’s Gary Kordic, executive general manager developments Queensland.
“It is a history we have worked to celebrate in the masterplan, and this will continue.
“The demolition of the Albion Flour Mill is not something that we wanted to see, however, due to the damaged occurred as a result of the heat generated from the fire, the building lost its structural integrity,” says Kordic.
Kordic says stage one remains on track, with construction due to commence this year.
“The Albion Mill development appeals to discerning buyers – it is a once-in-a-lifetime development, paying homage to the history of the site and transforming it through innovative design into one of the city’s most contemporary multi-use urban developments, a flagship for modern living with stunning fitout and penthouse level finishes,” says Kordic.
A limited number of three-bedroom apartments were released following buyer demand, priced from $389,000.
In <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/albion-mill-village-development-secures-%2422-million-sky-home-sale/2013082063382">August last year</a>, the development secured a $2.2 million sky home sale on the 12th floor.
Remaining apartments are priced from $399,000 for a one-bedder and $455,000 for a two-bedroom apartment.
<a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
</body></html>

Brisbane's Albion Mill Village remains on track following flour mill fire

<html><body>
The Australian Industry Group/Housing Industry Association dropped 4.2 points in the month of December to 50.8 but is still indicating growth and is ahead of the average for the year of 43.9
According to the Australian Performance of Construction Index, house building remained the strongest performer at 63.5 and apartment building increased to 56.
“The Australian PCI effectively ‘paused for breath’ in December, easing its rate of growth after a strong march forward over the previous several months,” says Housing Industry Association chief economist Harley Dale.
“The key is that the index remained in expansionary territory,” says Dale.
Dale says detached housing still accounts for over 60% of new home building and has a substantial reach into Australia’s manufacturing sector.
“The on-going strength in apartment and house building sub-indices is pleasing to observe,” says Dale.
New orders, activity and deliveries from suppliers were all lower in December, recording 54.3, 50.7 and 48.3 respectively.
“In line with the easing of the mining investment boom, engineering construction was weaker in December and with further falls in store; the time is ripe for a much more decisive focus on building new and upgrading existing transport infrastructure,” says Australian Industry Group director public policy Peter Burn..
“Commercial construction, while only just in positive territory in December, is showing signs that the extended recession in this sector may be drawing to a close,” says Burn.
Employment tightened in the sector after two consecutive month of growth to 48.1.
“Low interest rates are clearly having their long-awaited impact and the continued growth of new orders means that builders – and the manufacturing and service industries that are linked to the commercial and residential construction sectors - can look forward to 2014 with a greater degree of confidence than prevailed only a few months ago,” says Burn.
The main constraints on house building activity continue to be tight credit conditions and a lack of public sector building activity.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:ntrotman@propertyobserver.com.au">ntrotman@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
</body></html>

Construction slowing down but still ahead of yearly average: Australia PCI

<html><body>
The first significant apartment development to be built on the Capricorn Coast in five years is nearing completion, with finishing touches to wrap up by the end of the month.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2014/01/09/oshen]}
The $35 million Oshen development in Yeppoon will feature 61 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments across five levels, including penthouses.
Developed by Concept Living Properties, Oshen is the first project to deliver one-bedroom apartments on the Capricorn Coast.
“The construction team has done a great job in overcoming the problems of wet weather to deliver this project on time,” says CLP director Sandy Murdoch
“It means buyers can look forward to taking ownership of their apartments in January,” says Murdoch.
Sales have totaled more than $27 million with 10 one- and two-bedroom apartments remaining priced from $339,000 and ranging in size from 55 square metres to 234 square metres.
Oshen will feature conference facilities, a swimming pool and a barbeque area.
“These new facilities position the Capricorn Coast well to tap into the corporate market as well as the leisure market,” says Capricorn Enterprise chief executive Mary Carroll.
“It will go some way in meeting the needs of our growing population and heralds the addition of a sophisticated new accommodation option for both leisure and business travellers,” says Capricorn Enterprise chairman Graham Scott.
Scott says the development is crucial for the Capricorn Coast tourism industry and it will be a catalyst for further tourism-oriented development in the area.
The median unit price in <a href="/news">Yeppoon</a> is $290,000, a 5.7% decrease in the past year, according to RP Data.
<a href="mailto:ntrotman@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">ntrotman@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
</body></html>

First Capricorn Coast development in five years nearing completion

<html><body>
Some 30 waterfront lots have been released in the Sovereign Point precinct in the Martha Cove marina development on Safety Beach.
Sovereign Point offers the only waterfront blocks available in the development, with lots ranging in size from 697 square metres to 920 square metres and boast a harbour frontage of up to 22.5 metres with a berth title.
Lots are priced from $499,000, with house and land packages ranging from $899,000 up to $1.45 million for a three-, four- or five-bedroom home.
Nine out of the 30 lots have sold since the November release.
“Sovereign Point gives people a rare opportunity to build their dream architecturally designed home in a masterplanned waterfront community with parks, cycle paths and walkways,” says chairman of partners at PPB Advisory Ian Carson.
Martha Cove is the only site on the peninsula where boats don’t have to leave the water to refuel, and offers 24-hour onsite security with patrols on land and water.
The 94-hectare residential marina development offers house and land packages and will consist of around 1,100 residential dwellings upon completion.
Martha Cove will also include 750 marina berths, a commercial precinct and aged care facility.
A new approach was taken for the $650 million development back in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/alliance-forms-for-mornington-peninsula-s-%24650m-martha-cove-development/2013100265429">October</a>, with an alliance forming between three stakeholders – development company Three Pillars and receivers and managers KordaMentha and PPB Advisory.
Broken into three precincts, PPB Advisory will develop Sovereign Point, KordaMentha will look after Hidden Harbour and Three Pillars will develop Harbourside.
</body></html>

Waterfront blocks released in Martha Cove development

<html><body>
The first eight rental dwellings under the Country Liberals Governments Real Housing for Growth head-lease initiative are now ready for rent in Tennant Creek.
The properties will be available for $231 per week, 30% below market rent rates.
The government will lease privately owned dwellings for a 10-year period and the owner/investor is guaranteed 52 weeks market rent per year.
The government will then rent the dwelling to eligible key workers at 30% below market rate.
“This project is an excellent example of how the Country Liberals Government is working with the private sector to increase the supply of affordable housing with an aim to deliver 2000 new homes across the Territory over the next four years,” says Minister for Housing Matt Conlan.
“Labor took their eye off the ball when it came to land release and as a result housing prices all over the Territory sky rocketed.
“The Country Liberals are acting quickly to ensure Territory workers aren’t squeezed out by the high cost of rents caused by the former Labor government’s failed policies.
“We want workers and their families to be able to stay in towns like Tennant Creek and enjoy our unique lifestyle,” says Conlan.
“That’s why we’ve committed $3.8 million in 2013-14 to support the initiatives under Real Housing for Growth plan, including the head-lease initiative which will help keep key workers such as mechanics, shop workers, hairdressers, health workers, hospitality workers and apprentices in the NT.
Conlan says the rent saving will make a real difference in the lives of Tennant Creek residents and young families struggling with the cost of rent.
Head-Lease Agreements have already been issued for three sites, including one development at Coolalinga and two developments in Tennant Creek and negotiations are being finalised with other shortlisted developers to build up to 500 homes on privately owned sites and on government land by early 2015.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
</body></html>

First affordable rental dwellings in Tennant Creek now available

<html><body>
The First Home Owners Construction Grant in Queenlsand isn’t black and white, with first home owners looking to substantially renovate a property - as opposed to building one from scratch - still eligible.
“Many young people don’t understand that a ‘new home’ doesn’t necessarily mean something that has just recently been built or is in the process of being built; substantial renovations are also eligible for the FHOCG,” says Lachlan Walker of Place Advisory.
The FHOCG is a $15,000 grant provided by the Government to Australian citizens purchasing their first home, which must be valued at under $750,000.
The terms indicate that the place of residence must be a new property and must not have previously been occupied or sold as a place of residence.
Walker says substantial renovations are when all or most of the structural and/or non structural components of a building are removed or replaced.
According to the Queensland Government website, a substantial renovation involves any structure building work such as replacing or altering foundations, floors, supporting walls, brick and roofs.
Non structural building work includes repairing electrical wiring, replacing or altering non supporting walls and plumbing and plastering or rendering walls.
“I believe that substantial renovation gives people many more options,” says Walker.
“They can buy into an area that they like far more easily, and have the option of a self-renovation job, or they can purchase a property that has recently been substantially renovated, just as long as it has not been previously occupied or sold as a place of residence,” says Walker.
Cosmetic work, such as painting or sanding floors, does not count as substantial renovation.
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
</body></html>

First Home Owner Construction Grant not black and white

<html><body>
Demand for fixed rate home loans were strong in December - soaring to 33.06% - a similar level achieved back in March 2008, according to Mortgage Choice.
Fixed rate loans were significantly higher last month than the 30.56% recorded in November.
"Despite the fact that we saw several lenders raise the interest on their fixed rate products over the past few months, this type of product remains very popular with borrowers," says Jessica Darnbrough of Mortgage Choice.
"Borrowers are increasingly flocking to the safety of fixed rate home loans as they seek to provide themselves with certainty around their mortgage repayments.
"In the current economic environment and with the Reserve Bank keeping its cards close to its chest, it is not surprising to see so many borrowers opting for the safety and security of a fixed rate home loan,” says Darnbrough.
Fixed rate loans increased in every state except New South Wales, which recorded a 0.58% drop.
Queensland recorded the biggest increase, with fixed rate loans accounting for more than 44% of all home loans in December.
However, variable rate home loans are still the most popular amongst borrowers, accounting for 66.94% of all loans in December.
<a target="_blank" href="https://mce_host/news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au </a>
</body></html>

Fixed rate loans increase as more buyers seek certainty: Mortage Choice

Melbourne developer Spacious Group has completed Voyage Altona, one of the closest new apartment developments to Altona Beach.

Off the plan purchasers have started moving into the 49-apartment project on Pier Street, with the remaining move-in-ready one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments starting from just over $500,000.

Display apartments have now been fitted out, allowing prospective buyers to inspect the completed residences by appointment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=372638]

The completed apartments feature open-plan living and dining areas which extend onto private balconies and terraces, while full-height glazing maximises natural light throughout the interiors.&nbsp;

Hybrid timber-look flooring, stone benchtops, Miele appliances, porcelain-tiled bathrooms and generous storage feature throughout the building which also features landscaped communal areas, expansive shared terraces, lift access and secure on-grade parking.

Drawing inspiration from its bayside setting, Voyage adopts a restrained palette of warm neutral tones and textured finishes. Many of the apartments take advantage of views across Port Phillip Bay, while the indoor-outdoor living spaces have been designed to make the most of the coastal outlook.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=3286]

Voyage was developed to address what Spacious Group identified as an undersupply of higher-quality apartment product in Altona, with a focus on owner-occupiers looking to remain within the bayside community.

"Voyage responds to very strong local buyer demand for quality, owner-occupier-focused product," says Barry Plant Projects Director Jarrod Farey, who has handled sales since the project's launch.

"The project delivers an elevated lifestyle proposition, with its design and quality of finish far exceeding anything previously produced in the area, as well as its proximity to Pier Street Village and the beach."

The majority of purchasers have been local downsizers and owner-occupiers looking to stay within the Altona community but who previously had limited opportunities to buy a brand-new apartment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112195]

Joel Robinson

Spacious Group completes Voyage Altona in Altona's beachside precinct

Homecorp has secured approval for a $360 million apartment development at Budds Beach, paving the way for one of the Gold Coast's most amenity-rich residential projects to launch later this year.

Gold Coast City Council has approved Lýon Residences, a 32-level tower that will deliver 178 two and three-bedroom apartments across a prominent corner site at 8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue.

The approval comes as developers continue to invest in premium lifestyle-driven apartment projects on the Gold Coast, where owner occupiers are increasingly prioritising amenity as much as apartment size and location.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/l-on-residences-25-27-oak-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Lýon Residences</a> has been designed around a resort-style wellness offering, headlined by a Moroccan-inspired spa precinct featuring treatment rooms, a Nordic sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a soaking pool and a residents-only juice bar.

The rooftop will include a heated infinity pool and spa, residents' lounge with private kitchen and bar, gymnasium, yoga and Pilates studio, outdoor entertaining areas and barbecue facilities overlooking the Surfers Paradise skyline.

<img alt="Lyon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d3e29af-8793-486e-a684-52cef862241f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-15%20at%204.32.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ayG2zpLf3SS6Zy8XmKDcQods4kVWb0gm" />

Homecorp Founder and CEO Ron Bakir said Budds Beach provided the ideal location for the company's latest luxury apartment project.

"Budds Beach represents one of the most unique and sought-after pockets of the Gold Coast, and Lýon Residences has been designed to reflect that sense of rarity and refinement," Bakir said.

The project arrives as wellness continues to become a defining feature of new residential developments both in Australia and internationally.

The latest Global Wellness Institute figures show wellness real estate remains the fastest-growing segment of the global wellness economy and is forecast to exceed $1.8 trillion by 2030. Australia continues to rank among the world's 15 largest wellness real estate markets, with developers increasingly integrating health, recreation and community facilities into apartment projects.

Queensland is also experiencing strong population growth, with the Gold Coast continuing to outperform many other Australian cities as demand for new housing remains elevated ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Bakir said the project had been designed to respond to that shift in buyer expectations.

"Strong population growth and sustained demand across the Gold Coast continue to highlight the need for well-designed new housing supply. Lýon Residences responds directly to this demand while setting a new benchmark for residential living," he said.

Each apartment has been designed to maximise views across the coastline, the Nerang River and the Gold Coast hinterland.

Located just minutes from Surfers Paradise beach and the Broadwater, the development also offers easy access to the light rail network, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads.

Early site works are underway, with construction expected to commence later this year.

Homecorp approved for Budds Beach apartment tower, Lýon Residences

New apartment developments with uninterrupted, north-facing views over Perth's Swan River are exceptionally rare.

Recognising just how limited those opportunities are, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a>, one of Perth's most respected builder-developers, targeted <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/applecross-wa-6153">Applecross</a>, assembling an unrepeatable 6,342 sqm riverfront site on the corner of Moreau Mews and Canning Beach Road to create one of Perth's only new north-facing apartment developments directly overlooking the Swan River.

Today, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/riviere-residences-applecross-59-canning-beach-road-applecross-wa-6153">Rivière Residences</a> offers buyers a unique opportunity to choose between completed residences ready to move into now and off-the-plan homes in the final stage, Rivière West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3823]

Across the completed East and Central buildings, residents are already enjoying the development's luxury amenity, while two of the precinct's hospitality venues are now open.

The completed component of the development gives buyers the advantage of experiencing the finished product firsthand, including its uninterrupted river views, while still having the opportunity to secure a residence in the final stage.

"People are wowed by the view and the quality of the apartments,"&nbsp;Edge Visionary Living Sales Executive, Holly McSweeney, says.

"They're looking for the convenience of lock-and-leave living, but they're not looking to downsize on quality."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3826]

The rarity of the development hasn't been lost on prospective buyers, McSweeney says.

For McSweeney, it all comes back to a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate.

"Location, location, location," she says. "We are nestled right on the front of the Swan River. You can never get built out, so wherever you are in Rivière Residences, you've got views of the river forever."

The unique waterfront position has resonated particularly strongly with local downsizers. McSweeney says many buyers are long-time Applecross residents looking to transition from large family homes into a luxury apartment without sacrificing space, quality or the lifestyle they've enjoyed for decades.

<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/N_FowNW0wu8?si=vb25XFq1wZ-iufAW" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

A major focus for Edge in recent years has been resident amenity. Across its apartment portfolio, from beachfront developments in Scarborough to luxury towers in South Perth, the developer has increasingly invested in the spaces beyond the apartment itself.

The strategy has largely been shaped by downsizer demand. Many buyers are moving from large family homes with swimming pools and established gardens. While they're looking to leave the maintenance behind, they don't want to compromise on lifestyle.

At Rivière, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hillam-architects">Hillam Architects</a> designed the resident facilities as an extension of each apartment. A 25-metre heated swimming pool takes advantage of the north-facing river outlook, complemented by a large gym, sauna and steam rooms, private dining spaces, residents' lounges, a cinema, games room, and dedicated wine and whisky rooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=372542]

The waterfront location has also proved to be a major drawcard. Residents are within walking distance of the Raffles Hotel, South of Perth Yacht Club, the Heathcote Cultural Precinct and the cafés, restaurants and boutiques along Ardross Street.

Beyond the location and amenity, McSweeney says many buyers take confidence from Edge's fully integrated development model.

Having delivered apartments across Perth for decades, Edge now designs, develops and constructs its projects in-house, giving the company greater control over quality, delivery and the finished product.

"What I love is when people walk through their apartment for the first time and say, 'This is better than what we imagined,'" McSweeney says. "We hear that all the time."

Completed apartments in the East and Central buildings are now available to inspect by appointment, while Rivière West, the final stage of the precinct, is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=28384]

North-facing Swan River views drive demand at Rivière Residences in Applecross

Nearly 60 per cent of apartments at McNab Group's $220 million The Tannery development in Brisbane's West End have sold ahead of the project's public launch, including a suburb-record $2.57 million sale for a two-bedroom apartment.

The early sales campaign has secured buyers for 50 of the project's 87 apartments, highlighting continued demand for larger owner-occupier apartments that combine generous floorplans with premium lifestyle amenities in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374768]

McNab Group Executive Chairman Michael McNab said selling more than half the project before launch reflected changing buyer expectations.

"Selling more than half the project before public sales open tells us buyers are actively seeking apartments that offer something genuinely different," McNab said.

"Today's buyers are looking beyond four walls. They want homes that genuinely enhance the way they live, with spaces that support health, connection and everyday wellbeing."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374767]

A key point of difference for the project is the adaptive reuse of the heritage-listed Dixon's Tannery building, which will become The Retreat, a residents-only wellness precinct rather than being redeveloped into additional apartments.

The Retreat will feature a sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a commercial-grade gym, Pilates studio, cinema, library, co-working spaces and private dining room. Rooftop amenities will include a swimming pool, landscaped gardens, outdoor entertaining areas and dog-friendly spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374760]

Designed by Cottee Parker Architects with interiors by Tom Mark Henry and landscape architecture by Aspect Studios, The Tannery comprises 87 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 11 levels overlooking the Brisbane River.

Cottee Parker principal Dee Passenger said preserving the original tannery building had been central to the project's design.

"The easy option would have been to maximise the site's development potential with additional apartments. Instead, McNab has chosen to preserve the original tannery as a shared wellness retreat, ensuring this important piece of Brisbane's history remains at the heart of the community."

Passenger said sustainability also played a key role in the design, with materials from the original industrial site salvaged and repurposed throughout the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374761]

Motiv CEO Carly Cottam said buyers had responded strongly to the combination of larger apartments, wellness facilities and the West End lifestyle.

"We are seeing more buyers looking for homes in the sky that provide the space and functionality of a traditional home, while benefiting from the convenience and lifestyle that apartment living brings," Cottam said.

She said purchasers included both owner occupiers and investors, with demand coming from local buyers as well as interstate purchasers.

Coinciding with the public launch, McNab also announced a partnership with Queensland Ballet, whose neighbouring Thomas Dixon Centre shares historical ties with the original Dixon family.

Located on a 4,465 sqm site at 439 Montague Road, The Tannery overlooks the Brisbane River and is around 10 minutes from the CBD.

Construction is underway, with completion expected in the second half of 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143337]

More than half of residences sold before public sales as McNab announces significant partnership with Queensland Ballet

McNab's The Tannery nears 60 per cent sold before public release, sets two-bedroom West End record

Iwan Sunito's vision for a landmark mixed-use precinct in Sydney's Inner West has taken a major step forward, with approval granted for the $1.9 billion Five Dock development first unveiled earlier this year.

The approved scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/one-global-capital">One Global Capital</a> will deliver an 80,500 sqm mixed-use precinct comprising 840 apartments, integrated hotel accommodation, commercial and retail space, alongside publicly accessible open space designed to create a new destination for the growing suburb.

"This is a significant milestone for One Global Capital and for the future of housing delivery in Sydney," Sunito said.

"The Housing Delivery Authority was established to identify major housing projects capable of delivering meaningful supply more efficiently, and we are delighted that Spencer Street has been recognised as one of those projects.”

He said the declaration reflected the rapid progress achieved since acquiring control of the site.

"In less than seven months we have progressed from taking control of the site to securing entry into one of the NSW Government's most important planning pathways. It reflects the experience of our team, the strength of our consultant group led by Urbis, and our long-term commitment to delivering transformational projects that contribute to Sydney's future."

When the project was revealed earlier this year, Sunito described the opportunity as one of the strongest development sites he had worked on.

"I probably hadn't appreciated the uniqueness of the site until more recently when putting together the concept plans," Sunito said.

"The proximity to the water, and the golf course opposite, is unlike any other part of Parramatta Road. We have a unique position and view corridors over the water that makes this one of the best sites I've worked on."

The development has evolved since its initial announcement, with the approved plans increasing the residential component from the originally proposed 750 apartments to 840 homes while retaining the project's focus on creating an integrated neighbourhood rather than a standalone residential development.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/a-city-within-a-city-iwan-sunito-flags-1-5-billion-mixed-use-precinct-in-five-dock">"A city within a city": Iwan Sunito flags $1.5 billion mixed-use precinct in Five Dock</a>

The precinct will combine apartments with hotel accommodation, commercial workplaces, retail offerings and public spaces, creating a mixed-use environment intended to serve both residents and the broader Five Dock community. The proposal also continues the collaboration between One Global Capital and internationally recognised architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/koichi-takada-architects">Koichi Takada</a>, whose previous work with Sunito includes Infinity, Arc and Skye North Sydney.

Takada previously said the design was driven by a philosophy of integrating nature into the built environment.

"The concept for this development is born from our design approach to naturalising architecture," Takada said.

"The public realm benefits from biophilic design that integrates generous landscaping, and the development is optimised for natural daylight, airflow and water views to foster wellbeing, sustainability and spaces that foster community interaction."

Sunito has consistently described the project as a "city within a city", with a strong emphasis on creating a destination that extends beyond housing.

"We want to create a development that's not only to be seen, but to be experienced by the whole local community," he said.

The approval comes as Five Dock continues its transformation ahead of the opening of the Sydney Metro West line, with the new Five Dock station set to significantly improve connections between the Inner West, Parramatta and the Sydney CBD.&nbsp;

The precinct will also benefit from its proximity to the Parramatta Road corridor, nearby waterfront parklands and established retail and dining offerings that have made Five Dock one of Sydney's most tightly held Inner West suburbs.

Nicola Trotman

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News