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Some $101 million in off the plan sales were secured at Penrith in western Sydney on the weekend.
The sales were in <a href="https://thorntoncentral.com.au/" target="_blank">the Thornton Central project</a> where a further 191 apartments were sold. 
Construction commenced last month on the DKo project.
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The $62.5 initial stage of Thornton went to the market in late 2014 with all 151 apartments set over four buildings selling out very quickly through Home and Land Direct, an independent boutique real estate agency that specialises in residential property development, land and home sales and new apartments in Western Sydney. 
The $101 million stage will be built over one five-storey and two nine-storey buildings.
"We had strong interest from first-home buyers as expected, because the pricing is below the stamp duty threshold and attracts the first-home buyers grant," First Point Projects' executive director Mark Hovey said.
The developer, First Points Projects and St Hilliers First Point are developing the Thornton project with a mid-2016 completion schedule. 
Thornton apartments start at $395,000 for a one-bedroom, from $495,000 for two bedrooms and around $640,000 plus for a three-bedroom unit.
The 500-plus apartment and 5,500 sqm commercial precinct adjacent to Penrith train station is the first multi-level residential apartment precinct to be built in the heart of Penrith.
The precinct is part of the wider Thornton community, masterplanned by UrbanGrowth NSW.
St Hilliers executive chairman, Tim Casey, said there was an increasing demand for quality residential developments throughout Western Sydney.
“An apartment precinct in the Penrith city centre is unprecedented. This is a game changer and reshapes how people will live.
“The proposed retail precinct with its cafés, restaurants, a gymnasium, a supermarket, hotel and medical centre will give residents inner city living at their doorstep.
“The new community of around 5,000 residents will have high quality residential, commercial and retail amenity adjacent to the train station with recreational features, a water canal, village green and other open spaces,” said Mr Casey.
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Penrith's Thornton Central secures further off the plan apartment sales

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The car space - Lot 83 at 106 Elizabeth Bay Road, Elizabeth Bay - sold at Ray White auction yesterday at $158,000.
Conveniently located on the entry level of the Riviera residential complex, it was a rare opportunity to purchase a car space within the highly coveted Elizabeth Bay 'Loop'.
Ray White agents Ian Campbell and Penny Timothy had four bidders <a href="https://raywhiteelizabethbay.com.au/nsw/elizabeth-bay/1335228/" target="_blank">on the open air 13.4 square metre space</a>.
It last sold back in November 2004 at $65,000, with bidding starting at $70,000 last night. 
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<div>Two of the bidders dropped out around $120,000.</div>
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<div>Car space sales the same street address included $85,000 in early 2008 and $100,000 in 2012.</div>
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The Loop, Elizabeth Bay sees $158,000 car space auction

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Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from auctions in Sydney for Saturday August 1. The clearance rate was 79%.
<a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" target="_blank">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.
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APM's Sydney auction results for August 1

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Potential investors looking to spend $500,000 in West Australia have plenty of options in the town of Esperance, with the possibility buying two homes in the suburb of Sinclair with change.
<a href="/news">Esperance</a>, located in the south east of Western Australia, is known for tourism, agriculture and fishing.
Castletown is another suburb with potential, according to the Herron Todd White July 2015 Month in Review, with a modern finished home available for under $500,000 returning $400 to $450 in rent per week.
The best return on investment for $500,000 may be found in Nulsen, with the possibility of netting three homes with a rental of $250 apiece per week on average.
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Property investment options abound in Esperance: HTW

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The majority of respondents to a recent survey believe rental rates will rise within the next 12 months, with most saying it will move less than 5%.
The CoreLogic RP Data Nine Rewards Consumer housing market sentiment survey found 51% of people surveyed expect rental rates to rise over the coming year, with 9% expecting a slide.
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According to the report rents are increasing at their slowest pace on record, with three capital cities recording falls in the last six months.
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Rents to climb?, albeit slowest on record: CoreLogic RP Data

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<div>These are the top variable investor loan rates available right now, including minimum loan amounts and maximum LVRs, according to banking comparison website Mozo.</div>
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Commonwealth Bank is applying a premium to its fixed rates for investors - 30bp for 1 and 4 years, 40bp for 2 and 3 years, and 10bp for 5 years. </div>
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Bankwest has capped LVR's at 80% for investors across most products. Rates are higher for investors on its 2 year fixed rate and the 3 year introductory rate on its Super Start Home Loan. </div>
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NAB is limiting the maximum LVR on investor loans to 90%. </div>
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St.George/BankSA/Bank of Melbourne has a discount on its Basic Home Loan of 34bp for owner occupiers and its 2 year fixed rates are 20bp lower for owner occupiers. </div>
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<div>2nd TIER LENDERS</div>
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ING Direct increased fixed rates for investors by 20bp and removed discounts for investors with larger loan amounts and lower LVR's on its Orange Advantage and Mortgage Simplifier variable rate loans. The interest only option is now only available on loans with LVR's less than 80%. </div>
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ME Bank now applies a premium for investor loans of 15bp to the variable rates on its Flexible Home Loan Member Package. </div>
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AMP has ceased accepting applications for investor loans and adjusted the rates and tier levels on its Professional Package. Variable rates now start at 4.12% for loans over $750,000. ANZ's Simplicity PLUS loan is no longer available for investors and there's a premium on the bank's fixed rates of 40bp for 1 and 4 years, 60bp for 2 and 3 years, and 30bp for 5 years. </div>
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Suncorp is charging a premium to investors on its variable Home Package Plus which varies depending on loan amount and LVR, and has imposed a maximum LVR for investors of 90%. For LVR's less than 80% the rate for owner occupiers borrowing more than $750,000 stayed at 4.15%, but increased by 9bp for owner occupiers borrowing less than that, while increasing by 29bp for investor loans under $750,000 and increasing by 24bp for investor loans over that amount. For LVR's 80 to 90% the rate was cut to 4.34% for all owner occupiers but for investors the rate stays at 4.49% for under $750,000 and 4.44% for more than that.</div>
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<div>NON-MAJOR LENDERS</div>
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Freedomlend has increased rates for investors by 10bp and capped LVR's at 80%. </div>
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Heritage Bank increased variable rates for investors by 30bp across most products and there's now a 10bp premium for its fixed rates. </div>
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Homestar increased rates for investors by 10bp and now has a maximum LVR of 85%. </div>
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<div>BUILDING SOCIETIES, CREDIT UNIONS &amp; MUTUALS</div>
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CUA has dropped the maximum LVR on its Fresh Start loan from 80% to 70% for investors, and launched two new products (Fresh Start Access and Fresh Start Basic) that are priced 30bp higher for investors. </div>
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Newcastle Permanent Building Society will lend up to 80% LVR for investor loans and applies a $550 application fee. </div>
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UBank will apply a 29bp premium to investor and interest only loans from 10th August.
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Westpac has capped LVR's for investor loans at 80%, and is charging an extra 15bp for investors during the 2 year introductory rate period on its Flexi First Option Home Loan.
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ANZ's Simplicity PLUS loan is no longer available for investors and there's a premium on the bank's fixed rates of 40bp for 1 and 4 years, 60bp for 2 and 3 years, and 30bp for 5 years.
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 FOR INFORMATION ON PROPERTY LOANS, RATES AND MORE, VISIT MOZO.COM.AU OR <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/forward-planning/tools/ebooks-and-webinars/42368-get-loan-savvy-expert-tips-for-a-first-time-investment-or-refinancing-loan-in-a-free-ebook" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> FOR THE FREE PROPERTY OBSERVER EBOOK, GET LOAN-SAVVY – TIPS FOR A FIRST TIME, INVESTMENT OR REFINANCING LOAN, WHICH HELPS YOU DECIDE ON A HOME LOAN THAT MEETS YOUR REQUIREMENTS.
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Top variable investor loan rates: Mozo

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Gold Coast property developers Wanda Ridong have opened a display site for potential investors in the beachfront Jewel residential and hotel development.
The site, named the Jewel Immersive Experience Centre, features fittings and interactive models of the proposed development for potential investors to get a feel of the apartments and style of the building.
Andrew Bampton, Jewel director of sales and marketing said the centre allows visitors to see, touch and absorb the Jewel construction and environment from the inside out.
“An interactive model of Jewel’s three stunning crystalline towers allows visitors to use the experience centre to explore each and every apartment in the development," Mr Bampton said.  
"You can examine the floor plans, call up artists impressions of the interiors, and even take in the view in each direction from each level. 
“While there are elements of a traditional sales centre, such as the fully equipped kitchens or bedrooms, this immersive experience is much more than simply a display showroom."
The Jewel development is built on 130 metres of Gold Coast beachfront and is expected to be completed in 2018 and will hopefully become Australia’s largest hotel and residential complex.
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Jewel's Gold Coast interactive display site opens

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Saturday was the horse's birthday. 
Our resident horse checked out six suitable equestrian property offerings.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-acreage+semi+rural-nsw-razorback-120081721" target="_blank">230 Donalds Range Road Razorback NSW 2571</a>
Offers Over $1,620,000, but recently under contract.
"With ten paddocks supported and enforced by post and rail fencing, I can roam around the 5.56 acre country estate with ease and comfort while you enjoy the amazing scenery of Razorback Mountain. I'm also able to settle in at the various stables available on site, complete with a round yard and vet crush. The property has everything I could need! And everything you need to!"
 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-acreage+semi+rural-nsw-tennyson-120116921" target="_blank">394 Tennyson Road Tennyson NSW 2754</a>
Guide over $1,250,000
"I'd love to hang up my saddle at the beautiful Tennyson estate. Immediately greeted by beautiful landscaped gardens and a tree lined driveway, 394 Tennyson Road holds the equestrian facilities that every horse dreams about. With quality fencing to make sure I feel secure, custom designed horse yards and paddocks to graze in and a wash bay to clean myself off, this is the ideal place to settle down and enjoy the sights and sounds of the country. It even has 6 separate horse walker facilities and a specialised swimming area for horses to train and exercise, an amazing inclusion for the thoroughbreds among us."
 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-lifestyle-nsw-berridale-7735703" target="_blank">Kosciuszko Road Berridale NSW 2628</a>
$287,000
"Only a short gallop away from the state of the art equestrian facility in the region "JE Resort", this 382 acre property has spectacular views that can be appreciated by both man and animal alike. This is the perfect Snowy Mountains getaway resort locale where I can graze to my heart's content and the natural layers of woodlands make me feel right at home. We can all go for a trail ride through the mountains, enjoying the beauty of rural NSW and also make use of the resort's lessons, clinics and indulgences."
 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-glengowrie-120092973" target="_blank">90A Morphett Road, Glengowrie SA 5044</a>
$1m - $1.1m
"The professional equestrian facility is part of South Australian racing royalty and it could be the perfect home for the  both of us. Metres away from the 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom residence is the state's finest training stables fully outfitted with both the necessities I need and the luxuries I desire. The well maintained complex comfortably holds up to 20 of us, complete with a feeding shed and silo, tack room and workshop. To top it off, the prime location is right by the Morphettville Racecourse , an institution for thoroughbred racing in SA and an instantly recognisable landmark in the racing community. This is the training property we need if we're serious about the racing game."
 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-other-qld-vale+view-7754645" target="_blank">44 Berry Road, Vale View QLD 4352</a>
At Auction
" 15.86 acres of pure equestrian delight. The new stable complex at the residence consists of 3 large housing areas to keep us content. Each stable holds individual passages to the day yards and an even larger day yard adjacent for some proper exercise. The stables also have a built in feed and tack room that doubles as a storage bay for the riding equipment and gear. The dressage arena was also professionally designed and constructed with a horse enthusiast in mind, emphasising the property was created for a professional rider and to make sure us horses were spoiled rotten! We can be the envy of your equestrian associates and it's perfect for regular personal use and event preparation and training."  
 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-lara-120060853" target="_blank">75 Minyip Road Lara Vic 3212</a>
$589,000-$619,000
"This lifestyle house is all about looking after all members of the family... including the ones on four legs. Well established for horses, the property houses eight paddocks, one of which is currently being used as a grass arena for us to stretch our legs comfortably. The machinery shed features 3 stables and plenty of room for our food and hay. It also has an extensive tack room for our equipment as well as a designated feeding area with power and water available for use. The property is a minutes drive from the Elcho equestrian centre and a very easy commute into the city, so we're essentially surrounded by the conveniences we'd both like!
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Equestrian properties that horses would neigh for

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Latest figures from HSBC's global research team expect the Reserve Bank to keep rates on hold next week in order to further stabilise growth and keep a lid on asset prices.
Recent moves by APRA to slow investor lending will begin to take effect in the next few months, according to Paul Bloxham, chief economist of HSBC, with concerns the benefits of cutting rates further could be outweighed by the costs. 
"The prudential regulator is now requiring banks to hold more capital and, to this end, has announced that mortgage risk weightings will be increased for the major banks from approximately 16% currently to at least 25% by 1 July 2016," Mr Bloxham said. 
"The banks are responding to the APRA’s increased scrutiny by toughening up requirements for investor mortgages. Actions taken so far have included lifting interest rates on investor loans, imposing limits onmaximum loan-to-value and increasing servicing requirements."
"We expect the cash rate to be held steady at 2.00% next week and for the RBA to repeat its emphasis on the need for the AUD to fall to assist the ongoing rebalancing of growth."
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RBA expected to hold rates: HSBC's Paul Bloxham

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GUEST OBSERVATION
A new study has shown that high frequency vibrations can cause bricks to self-assemble into a larger 3D object, a finding that may one day help do away with the need for factory assembly lines.
The findings, published today in the journal Scientific Reports, signal a key advancement in programmable self-assembly, which was previously thought to only be possible using one dimensional or two dimensional objects.
The research team, led by Dr Ido Bachelet from the Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials at Bar-Ilan University in Israel, used an algorithim from the Computational Geometry Algorithm Library (<a href="https://www.cgal.org/">CGAL</a>) as part of a design that allowed 18 tetrahedral bricks to self-assemble into a larger 3D cylinder.
“Assembly rules are encoded by topographic cues imprinted on brick faces while attraction between bricks is provided by embedded magnets,” the researchers said in their paper. “The bricks can then be mixed in a container and agitated, leading to properly assembled objects at high yields and zero errors.
“Improved designs inspired by our system could lead to successful implementation of self-assembly at the macro-scale, allowing rapid, on-demand fabrication of objects without the need for assembly lines.”
Natural self-assembly
The ability for life to self-assemble is something that continues to puzzle scientists: proteins, viruses, living cells and multi-cellular organisms are all examples of systems in which parts are bonded to each other through attraction to form a structure or pattern.
Hamza Bendemra, a Research Engineer at the Australian National University, who was not involved in the study, said the research of 3D printed assemblies is remarkable.
“The algorithm was inspired by the molecular assembly of the DNA,” he said. But he added that more research was needed to address challenges of time, space and safety for the model to be more efficient at forming and remaining together.
“In the study, a two-brick assembly took less than a minute to self-assemble. However, an 18-piece assembly required over two hours to perform the same feat."
“The components are subject to high vibrations and collide over and over again until they fit in the right combination. It would be a challenge to implement such a method with materials with low strength and poor impact tolerance without causing damage.”
The future of construction?
Bernard Meade, Head of Research Compute Services at the University of Melbourne, said that while the initial research is limited to building small objects, future demonstrations combining other techniques, such as embedded electronics, could make the rapid construction of larger devices viable.
“For example, ordering a smart phone with specific components, automatically assembled and shrink-wrapped with a protective coating, might take only a few minutes –- and no longer require thousands of phones to be pre-made. Perhaps furniture scale production might be possible in future – imagine flatpack IKEA – but I think it would be hard to get to something the size of a house.”
The next step in developing this study for construction and manufacturing industries is to use both magnetic forces and adhesives to ensure the assembly stays in place.
Bendemra agreed, saying that “the researchers did a great job at adding topographic cues to ensure a unique combination only would lead to the pieces locking in. Their footage clearly shows that pieces that collide in a non-desired formation detach until they lock-in as planned."
“The number of pieces involved in the assembly and the nature of the materials being used (including the magnet) in more complex assemblies could limit the use of such a method.”
Eliza Berlage is editor at The Conversation and can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/au/team" target="_blank">here.</a>
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Self-assembling house bricks now a reality

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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

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.

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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]

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